Cross-Country Skiing at Lone Mountain Ranch

Cross-country skiers can buy daily passes for the trail network at Lone Mountain Ranch (406/995-4644 or 800/514-4644, www.lmranch.com, $20 adults, $15 seniors, children 12 and under free).

The nearly 50 miles (80 km) of trails are groomed for both traditional and skate skiing and cross a variety of terrain with some good views of the Gallatin Valley. The grooming here is exceptionally good, and the snow quality is usually very good, making for smooth, relatively fast skiing.

Unless you’re visiting on a holiday or on a beautiful weekend day, it’s not supercrowded and, even though you’re usually not far from the lodge, it feels like a true wilderness.

Lessons and naturalist-guided tours into Yellowstone National Park are also offered. Cross-country skiing is usually possible from early December through mid-April.

Other Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing Areas

Cross-country skiers can also head to the Spanish Creek Cabin on the edge of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness Area, about 10 miles north of Big Sky. It’s rented out December 1–April 30 for $30 per night. Call the Bozeman Ranger Station (406/522-2520) for reservations.

Rent snowshoes from the Lone Mountain Ranch or Grizzly Outfitters (Meadow Village, 406/995-2939) and head for Moose Tracks, a dedicated snowshoe trail starting at the base of Andesite and Lone Mountains. Find the snowshoe trail behind the Mountain Village near the base of the Swift Current Express lift.