There's something remarkably thrilling about whipping past snow-dusted trees and frozen lakes at high speeds. Powering through winter in Montana is easy, with miles of steep climbs and flat trails, and acres of backcountry playgrounds, as well as logging and forest service roads (closed by winter's snowfall)—a paradise for sledders.
Our endless—and stunning—winter terrain can be explored by sled with or without a guide. See below for more information on where and how to sled Western Montana, and consider a snowmobile tour with Acton Rentals, Rich Ranch, Swan Mountain Outfitters or Whitefish Marine.
Avalanche safety should always be top of mind when you're headed into the deep stuff. Carry avalanche safety gear, know the red flags of an unstable snowpack, check the avalanche forecast, and get educated in avalanche safety.
For inspiration, visit Glaciers to Geysers.
We highly recommend using the onX Offroad app to discover nearby snowmobile trails, plan and track your trips, and get home safely. The Offroad app provides real-time GPS positioning even in areas without cell service, plus everything you need to know—from landowner details, to trail open dates, to weather and avalanche forecasts. Take advantage of the onX free-trial offer.
There are two permit requirements for residents of Montana: Snowmobiles must be registered with the state of Montana, and a $20 Snowmobile Trail Pass—valid for two seasons (July 1 through June 30)—must be displayed on all machines. Trail passes are available seasonally from October to April online.
The Montana legislature passed a law that requires snowmobilers visiting Montana to pay a fee to support the grooming of snowmobile trails. A visitor who plans to ride his/her snowmobile in Montana must purchase a non-resident temporary snowmobile use permit for $35 per machine. Permits will be available December 1 from FWP license agents, some snowmobile equipment retail businesses, hotels and motels and other business serving snowmobilers. The best advice to snowmobilers planning a snowmobile vacation is to complete the application online at the Montana State Parks website. For more information, visit the Montana State Parks web page or call Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks at 406.444.3753.
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