Winter Nordic Trails

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY CROSSCUT MOUNTAIN SPORTS CENTER

Tucked within Bozeman’s mountains and meadows are a plethora of winter trails waiting for you and your family to explore. From skate skiing to snowshoeing, there really is something for everyone in our community in the wintertime.

Skate Skiing

Wide trails and groomed corduroy beckon, and these trails can be the perfect place to sneak in an hour of exercise or spend a day out with the whole family. Head to Crosscut Mountain Sports Center for a scenic ski in Bridger Canyon that offers both challenging skate loops and family-friendly trails for all types of winter recreation. Closer to town, find your way to Sourdough Canyon or the Highland Glen trail system, which are both skate-groomed thanks to Bridger Ski Foundation and their voluntary trail pass program that funds this incredible work.

Classic Skiing

Hyalite Canyon might just be one of the best-kept Nordic skiing secrets. You’ll find classic skiing options stretching from Moser up to Hyalite Creek that are stunningly beautiful, and many parking and access points throughout the system. Bring a child-carrying backpack or ski trailer for the little ones and plan a short loop from one of the many trailheads for an unmatched winter family experience. Within Bridger Canyon, both Crosscut and Bracket Creek offer classic skiing—the latter being ungroomed but regularly travelled and great for wider classic skis or snowshoes.

Snowshoeing

One of the most accessible winter sports is snowshoeing. Strap on a set and head out to walk on snow just about anywhere you like. The thrill of snowshoeing is getting out into a snowy forest and experiencing the fresh air with your loved ones while you float atop the snowpack. From Hyalite and Bear Canyon to the extensive “Narrow Gauge” trail system at Crosscut, you can find so many places to have a simple and exceptional experience with your family while enjoying this age-old sport.

Get the Gear

There are a number of businesses in Bozeman that sell or rent Nordic skis and snowshoes. Rental packages are available directly at Crosscut Mountain Sports Center, making for an easy experience with direct access to the trail system from the Nordic Center. In town, there are rentals at both Round House and Chalet Sports. It is always best to call ahead— skiing is popular in a place like Bozeman and availability can change quickly. In addition to rentals, you can buy used gear at Second Wind Sports; new gear at the many ski shops throughout town.

No matter where or how you get out with your family this winter, the beauty of a snow-filled forest and glistening mountain scenery is unmatched and, as luck would have it, one of the things that the Bozeman area has in abundance. If you are fortunate enough to live here or spend time here, getting out on these winter trails is a must, and the memories and experiences will be well worth it for you and your family.