With the holidays behind us, getting outside and exercising might be the best bet to get back in shape in the new year.
Luckily for local residents, the nearby Flathead National Forest provides plenty of space for winter activities and exploration.
With access points all across the valley and surrounding area, the national forest is the perfect place to take out those new snowshoes you found under the Christmas tree or lace up some cross-country skis.
If you want to move a little faster, there are also 157 miles of designated snowmobile trails and thousands of acres of open play areas in the forest. Maps of where snowmobiling is permitted are available at each Ranger District Office.
As for snowshoeing, the forest is open to exploration on frozen lakes, snow-covered trails and closed roads.
For the most up-to-date information, check out the Flathead National Forest’s website at www.fs.usda.gov or call your local ranger station.
How to Get There
Access to the Flathead National Forest is available at dozens of locations across the Flathead Valley and surrounding area.