10 Ways to Enjoy Winter — No Snow Gear Needed

The days are getting noticeably longer up here in the North (roughly two minutes per day), as we head toward those long summer nights. But even so, we’ve still got some winter under our belts, and for those who are not inclined toward outside winter activities, there’s plenty of interesting indoor winter activities across Montana’s Yellowstone Country. As they say, “not a skier, not a problem!”

The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone is home to grizzly, gray wolves, river otters, birds of prey and ground squirrels who cannot survive by themselves in the winter. These bears do not hibernate, so no matter the time of year, you can observe and learn about these animals up close and personal.

For those who like to move, there are two indoor pickleball clubs: The Picklr, located between Four Corners and Belgrade, and Bozeman Classic Pickleball Club in the historic brewery district in Bozeman. (There are also two great breweries nearby, Mountains Walking and Bozeman Brewing, in case you need a cold one after your game!) Also in Bozeman, the Winter Farmers’ Market is every Saturday at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds.

The Shane Center in Livingston hosts a free film series on the second Thursday of the month, January through May, and again in September and November Enjoy independent features, documentaries, local films and special features. (No ticket or reservation required!)

Explore your creative side with a ceramics class at the Red Lodge Clay Center. They offer introductory clay classes, family classes and 10-week adult classes. The center also has a fantastic gallery featuring local and regional artists, ceramics for sale and residency programs for those who want to delve in and focus on their work.

If you’re in Big Sky, don’t miss the tram ride to the top of Lone Peak. (Yes, it is technically an outdoor activity, but thanks to the new Explorer Gondola, you don’t have to ski or snowboard, and you are enclosed almost the whole time! From the glass observation deck, Kircliff, you’ll have views of Montana, Wyoming and Idaho, encompassing Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park.

Trivia nights are a big thing here in YC, and you’ll find them in local pubs across the region. It’s a great way to meet the residents, and a ton of fun to boot!



At Greycliff Mill, just outside of Big Timber, you can learn to weave or tool leather and take your craft home with you. Plus, they have an actual cheese cave where they make their own cheese, and I mean, who doesn’t want to take some fresh cheese home? They’ve also started offering classes in cheesemaking, gardening, knitting, spinning and felting!

Of course, exploring the museums in our region is always an interesting option.  The artifacts, knowledgeable staff and exhibits that explain how Montana was shaped are fascinating!

And for those who still want to get outside and explore, visit our website for more things to do!