Snowmobiling in the Upper Big Hole Valley

Snowmobiling is a popular sport in the winter months in the Big Hole. The local snowmobile club in conjunction with the State of Montana grooms several miles of trails in mid winter.

Grooming is conducted on: Forest Roads 1203 and 1137 in Placer Tie and Johnson Creek drainages, Forest Roads 13, 183, and 92 to Twin Lake Campground, Forest Roads 945, 624, in the Ruby Creek drainage to Gibbons Pass, and a small portion of Forest Roads 31 and 32 in the Steel Creek area.

Snowmobilers be advised and come prepared; the temperatures can be very cold, the powder can be difficult to negotiate, and avalanche hazards can be extreme in the high country . There are some areas closed to snowmobiling such as big game winter ranges on the Pioneers and some high country areas on the west side of the valley. For detailed information and maps we recommend you contact the Wisdom Ranger District of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest 406-689-3243.

Big Hole National Battlefield

Big Hole National Battlefield is the site of unimaginable tragedy as well as a sacred site to the Nez Perce people. The events of August 9 & 10, 1877 will long be remembered by the world and it is our duty to tell the story of what happened here.

On August 9, 1877 gun shots shattered a chilly dawn on a sleeping camp of Nez Perce. By the time the smoke cleared on August 10, almost 90 Nez Perce were dead along with 31 soldiers and volunteers. Big Hole National Battlefield was created to honor all who were there.

The 655 acre park has a visitor center with fully accessible exhibits, a 26 minute film and a place to get out of the weather and still see the park. We have four trails that radiate out of the lower parking lot to go to various parts of the park. Trail guides are available at the trail heads for $1.00.

In the summer plan on spending two hours in the park.

Bannack State Park

Bannack was founded in 1862 when John White discovered gold on Grasshopper Creek. As news of the gold strike spread many prospectors and businessmen rushed to Bannack hoping to strike it rich. In 1864, Bannack was named as the first Territorial Capital of Montana. Remaining in Bannack for only a short time, the Capital moved on to Virginia City.

In 1863 gold had been discovered near Virginia City and at that time many prospectors left Bannack in hopes of finding the mother lode in Virginia City. However, some people stayed in Bannack and explored the use of further mining techniques.

From the late 1860's to the 1930's, Bannack continued as a mining town with a fluctuating population. By the 1950's gold workings had dwindled and most folks had moved on. At that point the State of Montana declared Bannack a State Park.

In the summer plan on spending two hours in the park.

Today, over sixty structures remain standing, most of which can be explored. People from all over visit this renowned ghost town to discover their heritage.

The Montana State Parks governs the townsite and surrounding area of Bannack.

Lost Trail Powder Mountain

When you visit us at Lost Trail Powder Mountain you will enjoy the beauty and uncrowded slopes of the Rocky Mountains’ hidden jewel.  Experience affordable family skiing from the top of the Continental Divide.  We have unbelievable powder at unbelievably low prices.

We are an excellent family facility that has been helping folks enjoy themselves for over 76 years.  We’re looking forward to meeting you. Come enjoy our local secret.  Lost Trail Powder Mountain is open for fun and adventure 4 days a week (Thursday – Sunday) beginning in December.  Our early season snowfall determines our opening date. Keep checking in for further information.

Year Opened: 1938

Elevation: Summit 8,200 ft – Lodge 7,000 ft – Base 6,400 ft

Vertical Drop: 1800 ft

Lifts: 5 Double Chairs & 3 Rope Tows

Trails: 60+ marked trails on 1,800 acres across two mountains.

Longest Run: 2.5 miles.

Avg Annual Snowfall: 325″

Maverick Mountain

Here at Maverick Mountain we have opportunities for skiers of all abilities! Although we have one lift, you can ski over mile-long runs with consistent fall lines and uncrowded slopes!

MTN Feature Statistic:

Vertical Drop: 2,020 feet
Trails:24
Acres:450
Average Annual Snowfall:200
Base Elevation:6080
Summit Elevation:9000
Chairlift Length:5,010
Chairlift Ride Time:10 minutes
Pony Lift Length: 800 feet
Beginner: 30%
Intermediate: 40%
Expert: 30%