Grab the Cross-Country Skis for this Trail in Montana that’s 100% Worth Braving the Cold

I love when Montana transforms into a winter wonderland. The snow-covered landscape is beautiful and certainly worth heading outside and admiring. While there are many outdoor activities to enjoy during the winter, we love to strap on snowshoes or cross-country skis and hit the trails. One of our favorite winter trails is the Blacktail Mountain Trail in the Flathead National Forest. This loop is approximately 7 miles long and can be steep, but it’s a destination that is 100 percent worth braving the cold.

If you are up for a winter adventure, there is nothing quite like the Blacktail Mountain Trail. You’ll find the trailhead west of Flathead Lake, and off Blacktrail Road (which eventually turns into Forest Service Road #917). At the trailhead, you’ll find a large parking area and toilets. Keep in mind there is another access point further up the road, at the intersection of Forest Road #2990. This is a much smaller parking area but is where you can access some upper trails in the area as well.

During the warmer months of the year, the Blacktail Mountain Trail doesn’t seem like much of a hike — it’s technically a road. It’s a great place for trail running and biking. But, in the winter, this trail becomes the perfect place to strap on your cross-country skis and explore.

In total, the Blacktail Mountain Trail forms a large 7.4-mile loop. It’s a fabulous winter day trip destination and you’ll feel miles away from the worries of life as you explore wooded forests with branches weighed down by the heavy snow.

What makes this area even more unique is the North Shore Nordic Club grooms the trail every day between December and March. This ensures that no matter what day you visit, you are going to have a wonderful, winter experience.

Motorized equipment, as well as snow bikes and fat bikes, are not allowed on the trail in the winter months. You also cannot walk on the trail without snowshoes. If you do not wish to tackle the entire 7.4-mile loop, consider one of the shorter trail options in the area. Many of these trails are also groomed by the North Shore Nordic Club. Make sure to download the club’s map for more information.

But no matter how far you choose to go, take your time. Bundle up with the proper gear (I love these winter socks), take breaks as needed, and simply admire the wintry landscape that surrounds you. Winter in Montana is stunning and you can enjoy it all while on the Blacktail Mountain Trail. There’s no doubt this is one winter adventure that is 100 percent worth braving the cold.

Have you ever tackled this winter hike in Montana? What are some of your favorite things to do in the winter in the Treasure State? Let me know! I’d love to add it to my bucket list this year. And if you want even more information on the Blacktail Mountain Trail or other winter hikes in Montana, make sure to visit AllTrails.