5 Fun Winter Day Trips From Belgrade, Montana
Craving a winter adventure? You’re in luck: Belgrade sits right in the middle of some seriously epic cold weather fun! And in this blog post, we’re spilling the beans on the best winter day trips from Belgrade, Montana.
From zipping by bison on a snowmobile in Yellowstone National Park to relaxing in one of the many hot springs in the area, there’s plenty to keep you (and your family) entertained all season long. So what are you waiting for? Grab a thermos of coffee–and hot cocoa for the kids–and hit the road to discover some of the most amazing winter destinations Southwest Montana has to offer!
Note: If you want to try any winter activities listed below (like cross country skiing), you can rent gear from Chalet Sports or Roundhouse Sports in Bozeman. Or, book a guided trip (like ice climbing in Hyalite or backcountry skiing in Big Sky) with Montana Alpine Guides.
1. Hyalite Reservoir
If you’re looking for an epic outdoor winter activity–with scenery that’s just as epic–look no further than Hyalite Reservoir! At just under an hour away, Hyalite offers a pretty big payoff with so much to do.
The canyon is world-renowned for ice climbing, with its large number of accessible frozen waterfalls. Hike to the frozen Palisade Falls, cross country ski the Moser Loop, cut down a Christmas tree (just make sure you get a permit from the forest service first), or go ice fishing on the vast reservoir.
Driving Distance from Prescott Ranch: 53 minutes (30 miles) to the reservoir entrance, 60 minutes (32 miles) to the Palisade Falls trailhead
2. Yellowstone National Park: North Entrance
Yellowstone is practically empty in the winter, so it’s a great time to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds. The North Entrance (conveniently the closest to Prescott Ranch) that goes through the charming small town, Gardiner, is the only one still open in the winter to personal vehicles. Plus, the drive through Paradise Valley is beautiful!
Keep in mind that park amenities, like bathrooms, shops, and restaurants, may be limited in the winter season. However, the plus side of this aspect means less crowds — in fact, you may only see a few other cars, especially when you drive further into the park! This is such a contrast to the summer months, when the park is inundated with tourists.
Here are some things to do in winter in Yellowstone:
- Walk the boardwalk to see the famous Mammoth Hot Springs
- Drive through Lamar Valley, which is known for wildlife sightings
- Stroll or snowshoe the short trail to Trout Lake
- See the adorable town of Cooke City
- Cross country ski one of the many accessible trails
The sun sets early in Montana in the winter, so plan to stop for dinner and activities on your way back! Grab dinner at the Wonderland Cafe, then soak in Yellowstone Hot Springs or Chico Hot Springs, and end your night with a drink at the Old Saloon.
Driving Distance from Prescott Ranch: 1 hour, 33 minutes (91 miles)
3. West Yellowstone
Head to West Yellowstone for a true winter experience. The town itself is adorable, and Yellowstone Beer Company, the local brewery, is worth a visit. Check out the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center to see rescued and rehabilitated animals. It’s an AZA accredited Not-for-Profit, wildlife park and educational facility which also has a museum on the property.
If you’re ready for some outdoor excitement, head to the Rendevous Ski Trails, and try out cross country skiing. Just picture gliding under snow-covered trees, the snow on groomed trails glittering in the sunlight. It’s an activity guaranteed to entertain all ages! In addition, families should check out Kids N’ Snow, a program that organizes outdoor experiences children will love, like ice fishing or snowshoeing.
While Yellowstone’s West Entrance is closed to personal vehicles, you can still visit by reserving a tour. Book a guided snowmobile or snowcoach tour, and prepare for a true snowy adventure!
Driving Distance from Prescott Ranch: 1 hour, 43 minutes (91 miles)
4. Bannack State Park
Most people don’t realize Bannack State Park is open all year-round, and in our opinion, the winter is one of the best times of year to visit. During the colder months, it’s extra eerie and deserted, and you might even have it all to yourself.
Bannack State Park is unique as they allow you to walk through almost every one of the 50+ buildings in the park, even notable ones like the hotel and saloon. You’ll feel like you’re truly stepping back in time wandering the streets of Montana’s first territorial capital and the site of the state’s first major gold discovery.
You can also skate on the outdoor rink, which they maintain from sometime in January to March. And if you don’t have skates, you’re in luck: they offer free loaners to visitors!
If you feel like a soak before heading home, stop by Jackson Hot Springs, just 30 minutes away from Bannack. You can also grab something to eat at their restaurant!
Driving Distance from Prescott Ranch: 2 hours, 12 minutes (130 miles)
5. Philipsburg + Discovery Ski Area
Philipsburg is an adorable small town, with historic buildings full of western charm lining Broadway Street. The drive over is gorgeous, and takes you through the historic town of Anaconda, along the Pintler Veterans Memorial Scenic Highway, and by the massive Georgetown Lake.
Head to the nearby mom-and-pop ski hill, Discovery Ski Area, and spend the day zipping down the slopes. Don’t leave without trying one of their famous chocolate chip cookies; just trust us on this one!
When you’re back in Philipsburg, stop by The Sweet Palace, a legendary (and huge!) candy shop with an old-fashioned feel. Browse the Montana Gems of Philipsburg shop, which sells jewelry often made with gems from Montana and Idaho. You can even purchase a bag of gravel from a local mine and sift through it – who knows, you may even find some sapphires of your own!
Afterwards, grab dinner at Bunkhouse Whiskey (a distillery with amazing food), or the Silver Mill Restaurant (a kid-friendly steakhouse). Afterwards, have a well-deserved beer at Philipsburg Brewing Company (and yep, it’s family friendly too!).
Driving Distance from Prescott Ranch: 2 hours, 13 minutes (127 miles)
