Skip to main content
Friends enjoying apres ski at Showdown

Two Day Ski Getaway: Montana's Local Gems

Total Distance

160 miles

Recommended Length

2 Days

Experiences

Skiing and Snowboarding Skiing and Snowboarding
Food and Beverage Food and Beverage
Hidden Gems Hidden Gems

Trip Details

Showdown Montana > Bear Paw Ski Bowl

Discover where Montanans hit the slopes. These hometown ski areas offer a taste of true winter life in Big Sky Country. After your time on skis, enjoy fun dining, cozy lodging and unique Montana experiences in our friendly mountain towns. 

Day 1

Ski Showdown Montana

Head deep into the woods of the Little Belt Mountains and make your way to Showdown Montana. There’s no artificial snow here—the real stuff is one of Showdown’s hallmarks, along with affordable prices ($30 lift tickets on Thursdays), the hot cocoa at King’s Hill Grille up top and the cheese fries at the base lodge. After your runs, get a jump on the next day's travels and drive the 90 minutes to Fort Benton, halfway between Showdown and Bear Paw. For dinner, try a farm-to-table meal at Union Grille or barbecue at The Public House. Stay at the historic Grand Union Hotel in Fort Benton or at the O’Haire Inn in Great Falls, a classic motor lodge with mid-century flair and the famed Sip n’ Dip Lounge, which features tiki drinks and a mermaid tank behind the bar.

Day 2

Ski Bear Paw Ski Bowl

Open Saturday and Sunday 

Pop into local favorite Wake Cup Coffee House for breakfast in Fort Benton and then drive the rest of the way (another 90 minutes) to Bear Paw. With one double lift, one rope tow, 900 feet of vertical and 20-some runs, skiing Bear Paw truly is like stepping back in time to what skiing was 50 years ago, in the best possible way. Bear Paw is located inside Rocky Boy’s Reservation, home of the Chippewa Cree, and it’s one of just two U.S. ski areas that operate on tribal land. Off the slopes, get an immersive glimpse into the past of the resilient small town of Havre on the historic underground tour “Havre Beneath the Streets.” Afterward, sit down to a steakhouse dinner at Bow & Marrow or opt for a more casual though no less delicious bite from Nalivka’s Original Pizza Kitchen, a Fort Benton staple since 1957 (takeout or delivery only).
 

Tips for Winter Driving

 

  • Allow extra time to get to your destination.
  • Check the road conditions where you’ll be traveling. 
  • Ensure that your vehicle is prepared for winter conditions (check wipers, headlights, brake lights, batteries and tires).
  • Clear windows, mirrors and lights of snow and ice.
  • Buckle up.
  • Maintain a safe distance behind other vehicles.
  • Drive at speeds appropriate for conditions.
  • Expect ice on bridges and shaded spots.
  • Carry emergency supplies (water, food, blankets, warm clothing, flashlights).

Visit the Montana Department of Transportation website for more advice on winter road travel. 

Road Reports

Come Visit Montana This Winter

Winter Defined: Discover each of Montana's ski areas and winter road trip inspiration. From epic resorts to family-owned hills, find your ultimate ski trip and get ready for unforgetable experiences. 

Download the Full Guide