State Trails and National Forest Lands
State Trails Program
Montana has over 4,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails that are maintained by local clubs and Chambers of Commerce using grant money provided by Montana State Parks, a division of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP). Snowmobile gas tax refund, decal fees, and the Resident Trail Pass provide funding for trail grooming.National Forest Land
Many acres of national forest land in Montana are open for unrestricted winter travel. In some areas, these routes are shared by skiers, hikers on snowshoes, fat tire bikes, motorized snow bikes, and snowmobilers. Check with the U.S. Forest Service, the local ranger, or the ski area manager for specific restrictions.
- Follow these suggestions for safe operation.
- Get a trail map of the national forest before you go.
- Operate your snowmobile at minimum speed when you are near skiers or snowshoers. Accelerate only after you are well beyond those on foot.
- Wait until skiers and snowshoers have moved over to yield the right-of-way before you pass them, unless the track is wide enough for you to pass them safely.
- Check with the U.S. Forest Service, the local ranger, or the ski area manager for specific restrictions. For example:
- Snowmobiles usually are not allowed on developed ski areas.
- Ski touring and snowshoeing may be restricted or regulated.