Winter in southwestern Montana is a special time filled with great opportunity for outdoor fun. Whether you’re looking to ski, hit the hot springs, or spend time with your pup – it’s all here for the taking. Knoff Group Real Estate has put together a list of some of our favorite ‘off the beaten path’ winter spots in the area.
Hot Springs
Not much beats a warm soak on a cold winter day and Bozeman and the surrounding areas have a great variety of hot springs to visit.
Chico Hot Springs is located in Pray, about a 1-hour drive from Bozeman and 40 minutes from Yellowstone National Park. Founded in 1900 as a place for miners to relax after their work day, Chico features historic buildings, a variety of accommodations, and an award winning restaurant – soaking opportunities include two-open aired natural mineral hot springs pools. https://www.chicohotsprings.com/


Dog Activities
Winter weather can be a challenge for dogs but Bozeman offers some amazing dog-friendly winter activities – sure to keep you and your pup exercised and happy!


XC Skiing
Nordic skiing is a popular winter activity in Bozeman with a good selection of natural and groomed trails.
Bear Canyon Trail is located southeast of Bozeman between Mount Ellis and Chestnut Mountain. It’s a popular ungroomed cross-country trail with the first 4 miles gaining little elevation. Beyond that, the trail steepens and various forks lead in a myriad of directions.
Crosscut Mountain Sports Center is located in Bridger Canyon just up the road from Bridger Bowl. With over 45km of groomed cross-country and narrow-gauge trails – Crosscut offers everything from classic XC and skate skiing, snowshoeing, and even fat biking. https://www.crosscutmt.org/

Wildhorse/Lick Creek trail. This trail sits fairly low in Hyalite Canyon and is great for meadow skiing or snowshoeing. It hooks into a popular trail network with options for all ability levels. One route allows you to turn right at the 4-way and ski to the Upper Wildhorse 4-way. From there, take a left on Trail 455 and head toward the ridge between Hyalite and Bozeman Creek. It’s a narrow, beautiful trail.
Lower Wildhorse trail. This trail is a great option for beginner to intermediate skiers. It is about 4 miles, with an elevation gain of 400 feet. It’s a winding loop trail with beautiful scenery, and if you keep trekking up, there’s a great overlook near Hood Creek.

Ice Skating
The City of Bozeman maintains two outdoor skating rinks. They’re free to the public and are kept up with a Zamboni – keeping the ice clean and smooth. No set dates for the season as it’s weather dependent.


Ice Fishing
Ice fishing is a great winter activity. And, luckily for you, there are several ice fishing spots just a quick drive from downtown Bozeman.
Hyalite Reservoir is a short drive up Hyalite Canyon and is the perfect spot for winter activities. The reservoir is a great spot for anglers to set up for ice fishing. Make sure you get out there early, as it often fills up fast!
Other Fun Winter Activities


Have you ever been cosmic tubing? Now you can, with Yellowstone Alliance Adventures (YAA). Dates are offered through February 22nd – most are on a waitlist. Don’t miss sledding down the hill in bright colors – the event also includes free hot cocoa! S’mores are available for purchase. https://yaacamp.org/winter-2024-tubing-events-ticket-tailor/