Sled the Burn: Snowmobiling in Southwest Montana

Southwest Montana offers a winter adventure for everyone, whether you are looking for a cozy night in or an outdoor expedition, Southwest Montana has what you are looking for! As the snow continues to fall, we can’t help but plan our next winter excursion. With opportunities to soak in natural hot springs, take advantage of the local ski hills, enjoy the backcountry with snowshoes, cross country skis, or snowmobiles, there are countless combinations for a perfect weekend or winter holiday in the region.

This time, we are headed up to the Blackfoot valley to enjoy some sledding.

This summer (2017), Montana was hit hard with wildfires, burning over 1 million acres in total. Although devastating, fires are a natural process that lead to the rejuvenation of the forest. Sometimes, this rejuvenation can take a significant amount of time, even years, and progress may seem slow. But this year, the fires have opened up an added benefit as winter rolls in – hundreds of acres of new snowmobile area.

Montana draws outdoor enthusiasts year-round; and this year, we have the opportunity to Sled the Burn.

Lincoln, Ovando, and Seeley Lake are preparing for an epic winter with thousands of acres of once densely forested land, now open to snowmobiling due to the Rice Ridge and Alice Creek wildfires this past summer.

Ovando

Winter in Ovando offers miles of groomed snowmobile trails, cross-country skiing, and snow shoeing. This small town is the epitome of Montana hospitality, and you will find all the amenities you are looking for, as well as good conversation with the locals. Don’t miss Ovando – the little jewel in the heart of the Treasure State.

Blackfoot Inn: Located in the historical downtown of Ovando, Montana. Blackfoot Commercial Co has been around since 1897. It as many features, includes Convenient Store, old fashion scoop ice cream, espresso bar, propane, gas station and a tire shop.
Trixi’s Antler Saloon: Trixi’s always has a warm, friendly and inviting atmosphere! When you hear someone say Ovando, your first thought, is Trixi’s! You can’t miss it, the big red bar at the top of the hill overlooking the cozy town of Ovando with views of the Bob Marshall and Scapegoat Wilderness.
Stray Bullet: The Stay Bullet is housed in a 100 year old building with a high false front. The name derives from a bullet lodged in the wall from a gun fight in the late 1800s. The restaurant is a breakfast, soup and sandwich shop that seats 50.

Lincoln

Lincoln offers a network of 250 miles of snowmobile trails. Nine of these trails leave directly from town, allowing sledders to ride through a smaller network, connect to the larger network in the area and come back into town all without repeating a single trail. Additionally, Lincoln is both the start and finish of Montana’s annual Race to the Sky, a dog sled race that is the perfect spectator event!

Leeper’s Motel: Leepers Ponderosa Motel is a charming family-owned motel with an excellent reputation for friendly service and consistent cleanliness. We are located slightly off of Highway 200 in three acres of old-growth ponderosa pine dating back hundreds of years.
Lincoln Pit Stop: A classic burger joint off Highway 200, settled at the east entrance of Lincoln. Stop in for counter service and some of the best burgers and milkshakes around!
Wheel Inn Tavern: Family owned and operated since 1989, the Wheel Inn is home of  “The Famous Wheelburger,” and is Lincoln’s sports headquarters. This is the perfect place for a delicious meal after a long day in the snow!

Seeley Lake

Seeley Lake is a mecca for snowmobilers, dog sledders and cross-country skiers. The area offers groomed trails and miles of backcountry terrain totaling over 350 miles of trails that cross over the Swan and Mission Mountain valleys.

Double Arrow Lodge: The Double Arrow Lodge provides deluxe lodging, cozy cabins and lodge rooms, conference and retreat facilities, exceptional food and beverage service, an indoor pool, Jacuzzi, and access to year-round activities.
Lindey’s Prime Steak House: Lindeys is known as “The place for steak since 1958,” serving up mouthwatering steaks and cocktails to the weary traveler.
Moose River Bar & Grill: Classic pub food with an amazing view. This is a great spot for lunch or dinner while you are in Seeley. With a friendly atmosphere and a great selection of food and brews, you won’t be disappointed.

The Blackfoot  boasts 300 inches of snow annually and offers over 600 miles of groomed snowmobile trails with terrain for all skill levels. Keep safety top of mind, know the conditions, become familiar with the regulations of the area, and join us this winter for a fresh and exciting way to explore Montana!