Custom Winter Hiking Trip Planning and Rental Equipment

Montana , United States of America

Custom Winter Hiking Trip Planning and Rental Equipment

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This service includes both hike-planning and gear rentals, removing the hassle from your vacation planning. With the help of a professional guide, you’ll enjoy a winter hike tailored to you, your family, and your friends.

This service includes a 30 min virtual meeting to discuss your ideal day on the trail.

With your rental, you'll also receive virtual delivery of a custom topographical hiking map of the route you've selected for that day.

Flexible pickup and drop-off timing available!

Available options

Gear Rental + Trip Planning

Customize your route!

What's included

Micro Spikes Rental

Backpack Rental

Snowshoe Rental

First Aid Kit with 1 Mylar Bag

Winter Trekking Pole Rental

Custom Digital Trail Map on CalTopo.com

What you'll see

When you book this service, professional guide Luke Hayduk will reach out to plan a custom hiking trip for you!

You will first schedule a 30-60 min virtual meeting to discuss your ideal day on the trail and limitations for the hike. During this meeting, you'll review a custom digital topographical trail map, (which will be provided to you) and talk about various winter hiking logistics to consider like basic avalanche awareness, staying warm on the hike, what to do when the trail is icy, and planning around shortened daylight hours.

We'll then teach you about the various rental equipment available to you, (snowshoes and micro spikes) and when to use them! We'll also provide a list of clothing we recommend to bring.

Pickup and drop-off for the rentals can be planned with a guide, or is at the Little Smith Creek Ranch in Victor, MT. At the entrance, go straight through the big wooden arch and then look for the little green office on the left! Pick up and drop off time will be determined, anytime between 8 - 11 am.

What's not included

Winter Clothing. Breathable insulating layers recommended with outer shell. One big coat is ok!

Sunscreen and Sun Protection (Think the sun reflecting off the snow on sunny days!)

Winter Hiking Boots/Shoes or Best Pair of Hiking Boots

Water - Bring your own! Water is difficult to collect from semi-frozen streams in the winter.

Food - Bring more than you need!

Winter Hiking Shoes! Bring boots or wear your best hiking shoes if that's all you have

Private transportation - Please contact us if you're looking for transportation! We can recommend local transportation services!

Guiding Services - This does not include a person guiding the hike!

Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

The trail is an uneven surface with snow and ice along the way. Micro spikes are required!

Meeting point

Please proceed to smith creek rd, then right under the big wooden arch. Head straight through the arch, then look on your left for a little green office!

About Montana

Montana, known as Big Sky Country, is a vast and rugged state in the northwestern United States. It is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, including the Rocky Mountains, Glacier National Park, and Yellowstone National Park. Montana offers a unique blend of adventure, tranquility, and wide-open spaces, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a genuine Western experience.

Top Attractions

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning landscapes, glaciers, and diverse wildlife. It offers hiking, scenic drives, and breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.

Nature Multiple days recommended Free (park entry fee: $35 per vehicle for 7 days)

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, the world's first national park, is famous for its geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pots. It also offers diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Nature Multiple days recommended Free (park entry fee: $35 per vehicle for 7 days)

Bozeman Hot Springs

Bozeman Hot Springs offers a variety of natural hot springs pools for relaxation and rejuvenation. It is a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Relaxation 1-3 hours $25-$40 per person

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bison Burger

A delicious and lean alternative to beef burgers, made with locally sourced bison meat and topped with fresh ingredients.

Main Course Gluten-free options available

Huckleberry Pie

A sweet and tangy pie made with wild huckleberries, a favorite fruit of Montana.

Dessert Contains gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Glacier National Park Skiing and snowboarding at Big Sky Resort Whitewater rafting on the Missouri River Soaking in Bozeman Hot Springs Picnicking in Caras Park Enjoying a craft beer at a local brewery Visiting the Museum of the Rockies Exploring the historic district of Old Town Missoula

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Montana, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the best time to explore national parks, hike, and enjoy outdoor activities. However, it is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (GMT-7:00, GMT-6:00 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Montana is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, visitors should be aware of potential hazards, such as wildlife encounters, extreme weather conditions, and remote areas with limited services.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Research and book tours and activities with reputable operators.

Getting there

By air

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from Bozeman
Missoula International Airport • 7 km (4 miles) from Missoula

By train

AmTrak Empire Builder

By bus

Jefferson Lines, Greyhound

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable bus service within Missoula, connecting major points of interest and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Bozeman Old Town Missoula

Day trips

Bannack State Park

50 km (31 miles) from Dillon • Half day to full day

Bannack State Park is a historic ghost town and the site of Montana's first major gold discovery. It offers a glimpse into the state's mining history and features well-preserved buildings and artifacts.

Big Sky Resort

50 km (31 miles) from Bozeman • Full day

Big Sky Resort is a year-round destination offering skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, hiking, and more. It is one of the largest ski resorts in the United States and offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.

Festivals

Montana State Fair • Late July to early August International Wildlife Film Festival • April

Pro tips

Visit national parks early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
Pack layers and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, especially in the mountains.
Try local foods and support local businesses, such as farms, ranches, and artisan shops.
Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance, as encounters can be dangerous and harmful to the animals.
Plan your route and transportation in advance, as Montana is a large state with vast distances between attractions.