Winter Sports
XC Skiing/Snowshoeing
Cross Country Skiing
The Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest provides a multitude of groomed and ungroomed cross country ski routes.
Trail Etiquette:
- It is each skier’s duty to ski responsibly, under control, and with consideration for others.
- Be courteous - You may encounter skiers of different abilities along the trails.
- Ski under control; be able to stop at any time.
- Pass on the left if overtaking a slower skier, giving audible signals when passing.
- Don’t block the trail.
- Travel the right direction on one-way trails.
- On two-way trails be watchful for oncoming skiers, particularly on uphill and downhill sections or where visibility is limited.
In order to keep the groomed surfaces in good condition for skiing, no snowshoes, dogs, dog sleds, or other forms of over-the-snow transportation are allowed.
Snowshoeing
The Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest provides many areas for all skill levels for snowshoeing both on and off trail. Snowshoeing is a fun and inexpensive way to view wildlife and enjoy some winter recreation.
Showshoe Etiquette:
- Snowshoeing is not allowed on groomed ski trails.
- Always walk adjacent to ski trails to protect them for cross country skiers.
- Wear highly visible clothing and be aware of snowmobilers. They cannot hear you, so yield to them.
- Be courteous of all other users on your route.
Maps available:
Search for Winter Sports Opportunities
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Big Belt Mountains
The Big Belt Mountains are an island range primarily in Broadwater, Lewis and Clark, and Meagher counties with small portions in Gallatin and Cascade counties. The geographic area includes the…
Calf Creek Cabin
Calf Creek Cabin was recently renovated and offers a prime location for fishing, hiking and horseback riding. Running water is not included, but the nearby creek provides fresh water. A hitching rack…
Castle Mountain Range
The Castle Mountains are located east of White Sulphur Springs, Montana. The highest peak is Elk Peak reaching a height of 8,589 feet. The Castles are a prime hunting location in the fall, and they…
Continental Divide
This geographic area is the scenic backdrop and primary recreational resource for Montana’s capital city, Helena. It also includes the smaller communities of Austin, Rimini, and Unionville.…
Crystal Lake Cabin
Crystal Lake Cabin is located in the Big Snowy Mountains of Central Montana approximately 20 miles south of Lewistown. It provides the opportunity to rent a large one-room cabin which accommodates…
Cummings Cabin
The Cummings Rental Cabin is located approximately 8.5 miles east of Lincoln, Montana. The facility provides a rustic overnight opportunity in association with a variety of recreation activities.
Dry Wolf Cabin
The cabin is basically a one room facility and sleeps five (5). The cabin is not handicapped accessible but the nearby toilet is accessible. The access road is a graveled road and once snow comes…
Elkhorn Mountains
The Elkhorns Geographic Area encompasses the Elkhorn Mountains in Broadwater and Jefferson counties and includes the small mining town of Elkhorn. The nearest population center is Helena, Montana.…
Granite Butte Lookout
While renting the Lookout, visitors can literally walk out onto the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail and enjoy a variety of day hike opportunities in the summer and cross-country skiing…
Highwood Mountain Range
The Highwoods Geographic Area is the smallest of the geographic areas within the plan area and encompasses the Highwood Mountains. This isolated island range is located within Cascade, Chouteau, and…