Usually just before Thanksgiving the occasional snows of late Fall begin to stay on the ground, not just in the high country, but in the valleys too. The majority of precipitation falls in the form of snow. In earlier times there always were a few hardy sorts who snowshoed their trap lines or hunted mountain lion but in recent years more people living near the National Forest have learned to appreciate the snow, and winter no longer constrains outdoor activities. Dog sledding is becoming more popular but the snowmobile brings out many of today's winter recreationists.
With its many miles of unplowed roads, the Kootenai National Forest offers the snowmobiler all the ingredients for memorable outings - lots of snow, roads to vantage points with broad panoramas, groomed trails and moderate winter temperatures.
Although somewhat more limited by access and distance than snowmobilers, cross-country skiing is becoming a more important form of recreation. Ski tourers enjoy the fact that their necessary ingredients are often as close as their back door, and those same unplowed roads plus many trails offer excellent skiing.

Downhill skiers are attracted to Turner Mountain - the best kept secret ski area in the Northwest. Turner Mountain is operated by Kootenai Winter Sports, a volunteer organization that is dedicated to maintaining an affordable family skiing and snowboarding area. Turner Mountain, located 22 miles from Libby, is usually open weekends and all week Christmas to New Year's when snow conditions allow. For more information about winter sporting activities e-mail and we'll try to help you.

Ice fishing is another popular winter activity in our area. As with all outdoor recreational activities, safety precautions should be taken before any outdoor adventure.