Winter Sports

Winter is a splendid time to explore and enjoy the diversity of the Bitterroot National Forest. You will find opportunities for everything from snowmobiling and snowshoeing to downhill and cross-country skiing.

Skiing/Snowboarding

Whether you are looking for well-groomed beginner or intermediate runs or the steep and deep of a double-black diamond run our national forests offer ski areas that provide a skiing or snowboarding experience that is just right for you. National Forests host 122 ski areas across the country, including iconic resorts like Vail, Snowbird, and Mammoth, but there are plenty of quieter areas too for visitors that want to avoid the crowds.

Be sure to check out Lost Trail Ski Area which is a privately owned ski area near Sula, Montana, operating under permit on national forest lands. It sits on top of the Continental Divide on Highway 93 where Montana and Idaho meet. With over 300 inches of snow annually, Lost Trail consistently enjoys the greatest snow depth of any Montana ski resort and offers opportunities for both alpine skiers and snowboard enthusiasts!

Before heading out, always be sure to check with the local ranger district or avalanche.org for avalanche danger in the area.

Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling continues to increase in popularity as more people discover the enjoyment of motorized winter recreation. The fabulous winter scenery of the Bitterroot National Forest is accessible to people of all ages who enjoy the pleasure of snowmobile travel. Please remember that snowmobiling is not allowed in any designated Wilderness Areas. The Forest travel plan designates 2,246 miles of forest roads and trails open to motorized use. It also permits motorized over-snow use (snowmobiles) on 543,840 acres, approximately one-third of the Forest. These areas are designated on a Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) and Over-Snow Vehicle Use Map (OSVUM) now available free of charge at all Bitterroot National Forest offices. The maps identify which areas are open to motorized use, the types of vehicles allowed and any seasonal restrictions that apply.

The Bitterroot Ridge Runners Snowmobile Club grooms the snowmobile trails up Skalkaho, Skalkaho-Rye Creek road, and Lost Horse road. For more information about area snowmobile clubs visit https://www.snowmobilemt.org/.

Registration

Snowmobiles must be registered with the appropriate state agency.

Equipment

All sleds must have a headlight, a red rear light, a windshield free from jagged edges, and a fully functional brake.

Stay on trails

Snowmobilers must stay on designated trails and avoid closed areas.

Responsible recreation

Follow the principles of "Tread Lightly!" to ensure responsible recreation and minimize environmental impact.

Before heading out, always be sure to check with the local ranger district or avalanche.org for avalanche danger in the area.

XC Skiing/Snowshoeing

If the crowds at ski resorts aren’t for you, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing can be a great way to enjoy the solitude of National Forests in winter. Chief Joseph Pass Cross Country Ski Trails are located off of Hwy 43 on Chief Joseph Pass on the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. These trails are maintained by volunteers from the Bitterroot Cross Country Ski Club. The ski club grooms 24 kilometers of cross country trails for classic and skate skiing. For more information or snow conditions visit www.bitterrootxcskiclub.net.

Como Trails Cross Country Ski Area offers about 20 miles of trail located on roads 550, 550A, and 13201 out of the boat ramp parking lot at Como Lake. The multi-use Como Ski Trails are groomed by the Bitterroot Cross Country Ski Club in the winter.

Before heading out, always be sure to check with the local ranger district or avalanche.org for avalanche danger in the area.