Miles of Nordic Ski Trails

While the downhill skiing in Montana’s Yellowstone Country is exceptional, we also boast some stellar Nordic ski trails. Originating as a means of transportation over snow-covered terrain, Nordic skiing quickly gained popularity as a recreational activity. Today, the sport is enjoyed by millions as a great way to recreate during the winter and is easier to pick up than downhill skiing. It’s a lifelong sport that can be learned at any age.

West Yellowstone

Rendezvous Ski Trails

35 km groomed trails

In West Yellowstone, the season is already off to a great start, and the trails at Rendezvous Ski Trails are being groomed. The USFS Moonlight Ski and Snowshoe events kick off December 13, where under a full moon, skiers and snowshoers head a mile out to a roaring bonfire for hot cocoa and s'mores. Other events dates are Jan. 10 and Feb. 7, 6 pm-9 pm.

On January 11, 2025, they are hosting a Free Ski Day and Try-It Biathlon for anyone interested in exploring either or both sports!

February 15, don't miss Taste of the Trails, a 5 km tour with four strategically placed food stations.

Big Sky

Lone Mountain Ranch

85 km groomed trails

Lone Mountain Ranch, in Big Sky, is another favorite. 85 kilometers of groomed trails wind through the forests with breathtaking views of Lone Mountain. They also offer a sleigh-ride dinner at their historic North Fork Cabin. The warm glow of oil lamps, the smell of prime rib slow roasting over a centuries-old stove, and cowboy singer-songwriters create a scene straight from a greeting card. (Book early, reservations fill up fast!)

The ranch also offers group instruction for all skill levels, offering a hands-on approach to mastering both classic and skate skiing in a stunning alpine setting.

Bozeman

Crosscut Mountain Sports Center

45 km groomed trails

At the base of the Bridger Mountains outside of Bozeman, Crosscut Mountain Sports Center has 45 km of groomed trails, plus fat biking, snowshoeing and Dog Days — where you can bring your four-legged friend to join you for a run on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, beginning at 3 pm.

Their community calendar is bustling. If you're just starting out, their January Ski Series focuses on beginners, and the February series caters to more intermediate skiers. Feb. 8, they are hosting an Adult Biathlon Clinic for those interested in trying their hand at this two-skill sport!

Yellowstone National Park

150 miles of groomed, ungroomed and skier-tracked trails

Of course, Yellowstone National Park has a trove of Nordic ski trails of varying distances and skill levels. Shuttle services are available, but if you stay at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge, you can ski right from your front door! (The Lodge and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel also have free ice skating.)

Winter is also a great time for wildlife watching, particularly for wolves, when their coats are easier to see against the backdrop of white snow.

Silver Gate and Cooke City

Miles and miles of groomed and ungroomed backcountry trails and roads

Just outside the Northeast Entrance to Yellowstone, Silver Gate and Cooke City, there are exceptional backcountry Nordic ski trails, some groomed, but all with miles of terrain that you may find you have all to yourself! It's also one of the most quintessential areas of the region, tucked up literally at the end of the road.

It's also a backcountry downhill skier, snowboarder, and snowmobilers haven, so keep in mind, the trails are shared by all!

Red Lodge

Red Lodge Nordic Center

15 km groomed trails

The Red Lodge Nordic Center is gearing up for another great season, and grooming will begin with a bit more snowfall. The trail system can accommodate all abilities, and Red Lodge might be one of my favorite winter haunts. There’s exceptional dining, quaint lodging and a cozy mountain feel that you don’t find just anywhere.

Feb. 15, they host the Cross Culinary adventure where participants glide along the trails enjoying culinary delights by some of Red Lodge's finest chefs.