Southwest Montana Snow Day!
In Montana, summer turns to winter in the blink of an eye, winter starts before fall and ends after spring has begun. It is for this reason that Montana is packed with winter enthusiasts who take every available opportunity to go downhill skiing and snowboarding, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, snowmobiling, and more!
Growing up in Montana, we dreamed of having a snow day – I mean, imagine the possibilities of a full day off of school! Granted, what kid isn’t looking for a way to get out of a little class?
But after 13 years in school, plus four years of university, this dream never came true. And I have to tell you, it was not for a lack of effort on mother nature’s side. We would have -30°F temperatures without wind chill, our county would be under emergency travel only warnings, buses were unable to run, the town was covered in black ice, students were stuck in their own driveways due to drifting snow, we would receive a foot and a half of fresh powder overnight – and still, school was not cancelled.
Now, if the day does come that we are lucky enough to have a true snow day in Southwest Montana, we have compiled a list of 11 ways to spend your once in a life time Snow Day. Or more realistically, 11 ways to spend your self-proclaimed snow day in the region.
1. Downhill Skiing!
Southwest Montana offers 3 downhill skiing areas, Maverick Mountain, Great Divide, and Discovery Ski Area. A self-proclaimed snow day on the slopes is the perfect way to enjoy the powder.
2. Ice Fishing
Any avid fisherman will tell you that Southwest Montana is a fisherman’s paradise – fall, winter, spring, or summer.
3. Movies & Board Games at Home
If we have the privilege of a true “snow day,” the weather may actually be bad enough to keep us inside – but a day of board games and movies is sure to please 🙂 If you need to pick up a new game or puzzle, check out some of the toy stores across Southwest Montana: Lasso the Moon, Red Shed, Keystone Drug & Gifts, and others!
4. Hot Springs Adventure
Who doesn’t love warming up in a natural hot springs on a cold day? Count me in! Southwest Montana has five hot springs to choose from!
5. Build a Snow Fort
With a foot of fresh powder and no obligations for the day, why not build a snow fort … maybe even an igloo?
6. Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-Country skiing is a quiet sport that allows you to explore the region in a unique way. You are able to reach places that could not be traversed by car or foot and there are hundreds of miles of trail across Southwest Montana.
7. Snowmobiling
There are literally thousands of miles of groomed snowmobile trails through Southwest Montana and many more acres in national forests are accessible as well.
8. Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a great winter activity for any age! The trails that are open for hiking during the summer months are great places to explore Montana’s winter wonderland.
9. Visit a Museum or Art Gallery
From western history to modern art and old cars to science geared toward kids, you can learn about it all at a museum in Southwest Montana!
10. Stop by a Brewery
Check out what’s brewing across the Southwest Montana region! With 10 breweries, you are sure to find something you love.
11. Explore Main Street
Each of Southwest Montana’s communities have a charming and unique main street that is always available for exploration!
How would you spend a snow day in Southwest Montana?
