17 Epic Montana Airbnbs for a Winter Getaway

If you’re planning a winter getaway in Montana and you want to have a truly memorable experience, consider staying at one of these incredible Airbnb properties (or at least fantasizing about it!).

Good-bye, continental breakfast and crowded pool. Hello, tranquility and once-in-a-lifetime experience.

These Montana Airbnb rentals offer something you won’t find elsewhere. Think cozy yurts, luxurious treehouses, and historic log cabins. And with amenities like private hot tubs, saunas, and fireplaces, they’re perfect for winter.

Not only that, all of the properties have access to Montana’s best winter adventures, like ski resorts, snowshoeing trails, and hot springs. And don’t worry, even the rustic ones having heating systems that will keep you toasty!

The most epic Montana Airbnbs seem to be clustered in the northwestern, southwestern, and central parts of the state, so that’s how I’ve listed them here. And before you send me an angry message suggesting I’m a Californian (the horror) who doesn’t know anything about Montana, like where Red Lodge is – I was born and raised in Great Falls, and I realize Red Lodge isn’t quite in southwest Montana. On that note, happy exploring!

Airbnbs in Northwestern Montana

Visiting northwestern Montana in the winter means innumerable opportunities for adventure. This corner of the state is home to five of Montana’s ski areas – and they’re some of the best – as well as cross-country ski and snowshoeing trails around seemingly every corner. 

This also is where you’ll find the crown jewel of the state, Glacier National Park, which in the winter offers unparalleled quiet, solitude, and snowy adventure. And next to Glacier is the town of Whitefish, another spot that’s at its charming best in the wintertime.

Mirror House at Flathead Ranch – Kalispell, MT

Nearby: Lone Pine State Park, Whitefish Mountain Resort, Glacier National Park

If you want to stay somewhere that’s unlike any place you’ve been before, this Mirror House might be it. After all, when was the last time you stayed in an ultra-modern yet cozy cabin built in a reflective cube?

It looks like a tiny home, but somehow comfortably holds a living area with a couch and desk, a small kitchen, and a separate bedroom – all with floor-to-ceiling windows for enjoying the mountain views.

You’ll also have access to much more: an outdoor fire pit, the community garage with TV lounge, and the ranch’s full 80 acres of land to explore (so bring your snowshoes!). Not only is there access to all kinds of winter adventures, it’s also conveniently located next to Glacier Park International Airport.

Quonset Hut in the Woods – Kila, MT

Nearby: Lone Pine State Park

If you’ve ever stayed in a Quonset hut before, well, I will be very surprised. Quonset huts were created during World War II, when the military needed structures that were lightweight, mobile, and easy-to-assemble. Today, this one sits in peaceful solitude about 25 minutes from Kalispell.

The hut is just as unique on the inside as it is on the outside, with tons of rustic touches – there’s even a wooden canoe hanging from the ceiling. What’s more: it’s got a fire pit, a s’mores station is included, and there are snowshoes to borrow. What else could you want on a Montana winter vacation?

The Stillwater at Stoner Creek Cabins – Lakeside, MT

Nearby: Blacktail Mountain Nordic Trails, Blacktail Mountain Ski Area

It might be most popular in the summertime, but don’t sleep on Flathead Lake as a winter destination – especially not when you can stay in this one-of-a-kind cabin! 

It seems like they’ve really thought of everything in this tiny (but actually very spacious) home. Floor-to-ceiling windows look right out into the woods, the upstairs loft has an additional lounge/workspace, and the kitchen is fully-stocked. And with an outdoor fire pit and indoor fireplace, there are plenty of ways to stay warm and cozy.

You’ll feel secluded in the mountains, but the cabin is only a mile from the restaurants, grocery store, and year-round roller coaster (yes, really) in Lakeside.

“Gee Side” of Base Camp Lodge (with Sauna) – Bigfork, MT

Nearby: Bigfork Community Nordic Center

Since you’re probably wondering, “Gee” is a traditional dogsled command meaning “right,” and the owners chose that name because they also run dogsledding tours. 

The lodge is located on eight secluded acres, so you’ll enjoy total tranquility. The Gee Side has a super cozy bedroom and luxurious bathroom, plus a spacious private living room and fully-stocked kitchen. Just outside the lodge is a wood-fired barrel sauna, perfect for warming up on a chilly Montana night.

The property has its own private snowshoe and cross-country skiing trails, with easy access to longer trails on public land – and the hosts even have snowshoes and cross-country skis available for rent.

Cozy Orchard Cabin (with Hot Tub) – Martin City, MT

Nearby: Glacier National Park, Whitefish Mountain Resort

Glacier National Park in the wintertime is still a well-kept secret, and this cozy log cabin sits on an apple orchard just 10 minutes away. It’s got all the makings of a cozy winter vacation – including a hot tub and fireplace – plus a ton of special touches that kids will love. 

The décor is Smokey the Bear-themed, one of the two bedrooms has a small bunk bed accessed by a rope ladder, and there’s a whole shelf of books, games, and toys in the living room. Even more exciting to any child, the orchard has its own playground, complete with a treehouse.

The cabin is on 1.5 secluded acres, but it’s only 15 minutes from all the restaurants, shops, and grocery stores in Columbia Falls.

Lookout Tower – Saint Ignatius, MT

Nearby: Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort

The most popular post we’ve ever published on our Facebook page was about this three-story-tall tower, so we had to include it in our list of best Airbnbs in Montana. Modeled after a fire lookout tower like the kind Jack Kerouac stayed in, this more upscale version looks out at the Mission Mountains between Missoula and Flathead Lake.

Despite its rustic look and offbeat location on a ranch, it’s got a comfortable bedroom, a small kitchen, and all the mod-cons. But most impressive is the extra-deep bathtub (Jack Kerouac definitely didn’t have one of those!). If you want to splurge on a unique experience that’s well away from any crowds, you can’t do better than this place.

Montana Treehouse Retreat – Columbia Falls, MT

Nearby: Glacier National Park, Whitefish Mountain Resort

Having appeared on HGTV, in Outside magazine, and elsewhere, this two-story luxury treehouse is definitely one of the most iconic Airbnbs in Montana.

It’s nestled on five wooded acres, but only a few minutes’ drive into Columbia Falls or Whitefish (if you can tear yourself away from it, that is). And treehouse isn’t (entirely) just a moniker; there are actually living trees growing through its interior!

The first floor has a fully stocked kitchen, a modern bathroom, and a cozy living space. Upstairs in the loft is the bedroom and an additional half-bath, with another deck off the bedroom. It doesn’t come cheap, but no doubt, it’s unlike anywhere you’ve stayed before.

Log Yurt – Superior, MT

Nearby: Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort, Lookout Pass Ski Resort

Another one of the most unique Montana Airbnbs, this custom-built yurt is well off the beaten path, about an hour west of Missoula. It sits in a tranquil open meadow, and the windows on every side offer unobstructed mountain views and prime stargazing opportunities.

Despite the rustic vibe, the yurt is very well-stocked with amenities and has a full bathroom with tub and a small kitchen. There’s a wood-burning stove, and the yurt has two separate bedrooms – one on the main floor, and one up in the loft (accessible by a very adventurous ladder!).

Airbnbs in Southwestern Montana

Southwestern Montana is also an incredible area for a winter trip. Five more Montana ski areas are found in this corner of the state, along with the best Nordic centers around.

Not only that, practically every town in the southwest has an outdoor ice rink, and most of the hot springs in Montana are concentrated in this area. It’s also one of the most historic parts of the state, and many of the old ghost towns are fun to visit in the winter.

Cozy Guest Cottage – Philipsburg, MT

Nearby: Echo Lake Trails, Discovery Ski Area

One of the most underrated areas of Montana – especially in the winter – Philipsburg and its surroundings has everything you could want for a winter adventure. Outdoor activities galore, the famous Sweet Palace, and the scenic drive to nearby Anaconda, for starters. 

And this adorable, budget-friendly cottage right in Philipsburg is the perfect base. It’s super cozy, with a kitchenette, an outdoor fire pit, and neat décor like historic snowshoes. Enjoy beautiful views of the Pintler Mountains while being just a few minutes’ walk from historic downtown Philipsburg.

Urban Chalet – Butte, MT

Nearby: High Altitude Skating Center, Mount Haggin Nordic Ski Trails, Boulder Hot Springs

We always say that Montanans are too quick to dismiss Butte, and that’s especially true in the winter, when it’s known for its bright sunny days. And it’s best enjoyed from an interesting, historic accommodation like this fully updated 1970s chalet.

The chalet is stocked with pretty much everything you could think of, and has tons of great design touches. With a full kitchen, two bedrooms, and plenty of dining and living space, you’ll be surprised how spacious it is on the inside. And it’s especially a great spot for families, as the loft is the perfect kids’ area.

Creekside Log Cabin – Polaris, MT

Nearby: Maverick Mountain, Elkhorn Hot Springs

The quintessential rustic Montana cabin, this little Airbnb is fully off the beaten path, about 40 minutes west of Dillon. If you really want to get away from it all, this is the place.

The cabin dates to the 1940s and sits on two acres with a creek nearby. Though it’s a rustic one-room cabin, it’s also thoughtfully-appointed with lots of added amenities and nice touches, and the wood-burning stove keeps it super cozy.

Montana A-Frame – Anaconda, MT

Nearby: Echo Lake Trails, Discovery Ski Area

This adorable A-frame is actually right by Georgetown Lake, halfway between two of Montana’s most interesting historic towns: Anaconda and Philipsburg (each about 20 minutes away). And if you thought A-frames were tiny, think again – because this one sleeps six!

The first floor has a spacious living room, dining area, and full kitchen, plus one of the two bedrooms. Upstairs is the main bedroom, which takes up the entire loft space. There’s a wood-burning stove inside and one on the deck, so you’ll stay warm and toasty.

Historic Log Cabin – Red Lodge, MT

Nearby: Red Lodge Nordic Center, Red Lodge Ski Area

Close your eyes and imagine a Montana cabin. Now open them. This was the cabin, wasn’t it? Not only is it charming, it has some interesting history, built in the 1930s to house workers who worked on the construction of the Beartooth Highway.

There’s a kitchenette, two fireplaces, and plenty of cozy living space. With the log interior and rustic design features, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time – in the best of ways. And it’s an easy walk to the shops and restaurants in downtown Red Lodge, Montana’s quintessential laid-back ski town.

Airbnbs in Central Montana

If you want to get off the beaten path in Montana, start heading east. Central Montana may not have the same awe-inspiring mountains as the west, but this part of the state still offers more than enough adventure opportunities for any winter trip.

Among the possibilities are three ski areas, a few hot springs, some ghost towns, and several places to go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Plus central Montana is less crowded and often cheaper than the popular towns to the west.

The Montana Mountain Cabin – Neihart, MT

Nearby: Showdown Montana, Silver Crest Winter Recreation Area

Grab some friends for a ski trip to Showdown, and stay at this colorful cabin in nearby Neihart. Enjoy the peace and solitude of rural Montana, but you can pop into the well-known Inconvenience Store on the main road if you need something.

This spacious cabin has two bedrooms, a full kitchen and dining area, and a mudroom for your gear. There’s a fireplace in the living room, and plenty of firewood is provided to keep it crackling. And with the colorful fence made from old skis, you’ll have no trouble spotting it!

Modern Ghost Town Cabin – Marysville, MT

Nearby: Great Divide Ski Area, Broadwater Hot Springs, MacDonald Pass Ski Trails

A modern cabin with rustic décor, this secluded retreat sits on the edge of the Marysville ghost town. Don’t worry, though, you won’t be alone with the ghosts. A few dozen people have stayed in town, and its famed historic steakhouse, the Marysville House, is still thriving among the abandoned buildings.

This comfortable cabin has a kitchenette and a wood-burning stove by the bed, with unobstructed mountain views you can enjoy as soon as you open your eyes. In fact, you can clearly see the runs at Great Divide Ski Area, just one mile away.

Black Mountain Chalet – Helena, MT

Nearby: Broadwater Hot Springs, MacDonald Pass Ski Trails, Great Divide Ski Area

Just 11 miles from Montana’s capital city (and even less to Broadwater Hot Springs, if you want to go for a soak), this luxurious chalet sits on a secluded mountainside where you can truly get away from it all. 

The peaceful setting has a brook nearby, and you may spot some wildlife roaming around the property. Enjoy hiking or snowshoeing through the surrounding meadows, or sit in front of the fire while you take in the mountain views. 

The chalet is surprisingly big on the inside, and very well-stocked. It has a full kitchen, beautiful decorations, and plenty of space to lounge, but the big stone fireplace really takes center stage.

Riverside Train Car – Craig, MT

Nearby: Broadwater Hot Springs, Rogers Pass CDT Trailhead

If you love train travel as much as we do, you’ll definitely want to book this refurbished train car, right on the river between Great Falls and Helena. You may admittedly have some sticker shock, but this is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience, and it does sleep eight people.

A restored Northern Pacific postal car, this Airbnb is the epitome of luxury, with a hot tub, a huge living room, and a kitchen that’s nicer than the one you have at home. The river and mountains views out the windows are stunning, and the car is full of little touches that will make you feel like they’ve really thought of everything.

Tips for Choosing a Montana Airbnb

We know there are lots of Airbnb horror stories out there, and we don’t want to discount that there are absolutely some sketchy properties and scammy hosts on the site – and that the company does not always do enough to protect and compensate guests who had a bad experience.

But after literally hundreds of stays in Montana and around the world, we’ve never had a terrible experience ourselves. While we’ve been very lucky, we also take care to choose good properties and manage our expectations – and we hope these tips will help you do the same.

Check the number of reviews.

Look at the number of reviews – if there’s only a few, there’s more risk (although it may well just be a brand new property). If a listing has few or no reviews, check to see if the host has reviews for any other properties.

Read the reviews.

Read at least some of the reviews for your listing or others with the same host. If there’s a few bad reviews amid overwhelmingly positive ones, I wouldn’t give the bad ones too much weight. If you’re looking for a Montana Airbnb in the winter, pay special attention to whether people complained about the heating system or the roads that access the property.

Read the description carefully.

A lot of negative reviews I’ve seen on Airbnb come from people who were apparently expecting something other than what was in the description – so let’s make sure that doesn’t happen to you. For starters, look at the top of the page to see if the listing is for a room in someone’s house or an entire unit (or a bed in a shared room, but those are pretty uncommon). 

If it’s not a private unit, the top of the page also shows whether the bathroom is private or shared. Additionally, and especially if you’re looking at Montana cabins or other rustic properties, the bathroom could actually be an outhouse or located in a separate building – and some cabins don’t have running water at all. If that’s not enough to push you to read the description, I don’t know what is!

Look at the total price.

I think Airbnb could save itself a lot of angry customers if they just listed the total price up top – but since they don’t, be sure that the price you’re looking at is inclusive of the cleaning fee, service fee, and applicable taxes (which do apply to Airbnbs in Montana).

Nothing is foolproof, of course, but using these tips in choosing your Airbnb will go a long way toward helping you avoid scams and disappointment. I think it’s worth the slight risk to get to stay in unique accommodations in interesting places where there might not even be any hotels, and often to have more privacy and more connection with a local host.

And in Montana, Airbnb opens up so many memorable opportunities, like sleeping in cabins or yurts, experiencing working farms or ranches, and staying up in the mountains where you’re the only one around (or at least it feels like it).

The Ethics of Airbnb

We can’t promote Airbnbs in Montana without discussing the many well-documented issues Airbnb has caused in destinations around the world. However, the Airbnbs we chose to list here are free of many of these problems.

In popular travel hotspots and densely-populated cities, the proliferation of Airbnb and similar platforms has upended the local housing market.

Where landlords can make more money on vacation rentals, they stop offering their properties to long-term tenants – which exacerbates the housing crisis many cities are already facing and drives up rent costs for residents. Commercial rent often increases in parallel, making it hard for small locally-owned shops and restaurants to stay in business, or forcing them to raise their prices beyond what locals can afford.

Fortunately, with the possible exceptions of Bozeman and Whitefish, the low population density in Montana has largely (not entirely) prevented this phenomenon.

Additionally, because large corporations have bought up enormous amounts of real estate around the world (further contributing to the housing crisis), many Airbnbs are now run by big companies rather than locals. Instead of supporting a local family and the local economy, these rentals now direct money back to corporations based in far-away cities.

But to the best of our knowledge, the Montana Airbnbs on this list are entirely owned and managed by locals, who often live on the same property or nearby.

Do you have a favorite Montana Airbnb for winter?

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