DAY ONE
The Izaak Walton Inn
Start your journey at the historic Izaak Walton Inn in Essex. Located between Glacier National Park and the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, the Izaak Walton Inn is a quiet winter oasis that offers 33 kilometers of on-site groomed cross-country and skate skiing trails. The inn also offers guided excursions in Glacier National Park. After a day in Montana’s mountains, unwind with dinner and local beer at the Dining Car in the Izaak Walton Inn.
Overnight at the Izaak Walton Inn.
DAY TWO
The Going-to-the-Sun Road
Today will take you to the snow-covered Going-to-the-Sun Road. During the winter, most of the road is closed to vehicular travel as snowfall creates a sanctuary for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The road is plowed from the west entrance to Lake McDonald Lodge and snow lovers can access the road just past the lodge.
Overnight options include The Belton Chalet cottages and Historic Tamarack Lodge & Cabins.
DAY THREE
The North Fork + Columbia Falls
Start your day with breakfast in Columbia Falls before venturing to the North Fork and the electricity-free town of Polebridge. The North Fork Road will likely have some snow on it, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to travel the road and take in the views of this wild corner of Montana. Once in Polebridge, stop into the Polebridge Mercantile for baked goods and sandwiches. If you want to do some hiking, be sure to bring your snowshoes for a heart-pumping walk along the Camas Road before returning to Columbia Falls and relaxing your muscles with a massage at Meadow Lake Resort.
Lodging options include Meadow Lake Golf & Ski Resort and North Forty Resort.
If you go...
- For a guided winter tour in Glacier National Park, book a trip with Glacier Adventure Guides. Their experienced team of guides can tailor trips to your needs and ensure you have a memorable time discovering Glacier National Park.
- Take advantage of the free snowshoe tours offered by the National Park Service on Saturdays and Sundays from January – March.
- After a day in the park, unwind with a delicious dinner at the Belton Chalet in West Glacier. The Belton is open for dinner on Fridays and Saturday nights, and brunch on Sundays during the winter months.
