Get Fit Great Falls, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service; Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks; and the City of Great Falls, is hosting Winter Trails Day on Feb. 7 at the Silver Crest Winter Recreation Area.

This free, family-friendly event offers guided snowshoe hikes and cross-country skiing sessions for all ages and experience levels. Whether you’re brand new to winter recreation or looking to enjoy a guided outing in the Little Belts, there’s something for everyone.

Winter Trails Day is sponsored by Scheels, North 40 Outfitters, Benefis Health System and Bighorn Outdoor Specialists.

Snowshoes will be provided free of charge for registered participants, thanks to the U.S. Forest Service, Montana Discovery Foundation and Wild Montana.

Participants who pre-register will be entered into a drawing for gift cards from Scheels, which will be awarded on the day of the event. Must be present to win.

“We’re thrilled to bring Winter Trails Day back to Silver Crest,” Alex Sholes, past president of Get Fit Great Falls said in a release. “It’s a great opportunity to try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing with knowledgeable guides on hand to help. The Little Belts are especially beautiful in winter, and we encourage families to come out and enjoy the day together.”

Snowshoe Hikes

Space is limited and advance registration is required. Registration closes at noon Feb. 6.

A total of 11 guided snowshoe hikes will be offered between 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Hikes are grouped by experience level, including options for families with young children, easy, and moderate hikes. Depending on the route, distances range from approximately 1/3-mile to 2-3/4-miles, with hike times lasting between one and three hours.

Register online here.

Cross-Country Ski Sessions

Bighorn Outdoor Specialists and Silver Crest Trails Association will offer two guided beginner-focused cross-country ski sessions, from 10 a.m.-noon and 12:30-2:30 p.m. A limited number of spots are available. While these sessions are focused on beginners, more experienced skiers are welcome to join.

Cross-country ski equipment will be provided free of charge. Participants who need to borrow equipment must visit Bighorn Outdoor Specialists, in person, to be fitted for boots before registering here. Phone reservations are not accepted.

Participants who have their own cross-country ski equipment do not need to visit Bighorn and may register directly online.

What to Bring and Getting There

Participants should dress warmly in layers and bring their own food and beverages for the day. A small day pack is recommended for carrying personal items on the trail.

Vault toilets are available onsite, but the nearest full-service facilities are at Showdown Montana Ski Area, two miles away.

Silver Crest Winter Recreation Area is located approximately 60 miles southeast of Great Falls on U.S. Highway 89, off the northwest corner of the Kings Hill Winter Recreation Parking Area.