Montana travel deals make snow-covered season sweeter

In Western Montana, we take winter pretty seriously. After all, this region receives an average of 300-plus inches each year, which means there is serious playing to be done. And with travel deals created to complement your winter adventure, a visit to Glacier Country becomes even sweeter. West Glacier, Mont. Serving as “guide central” for Glacier National Park and the surrounding area, West Glacier is an ideal launching point for discover the park’s quiet season and provides resources and lodging for cross-country skiing, skijoring and snowshoeing in and around the park. And while snowmobiling is not allowed in the park, there are more than 200 miles of groomed trails in the Flathead Valley, with guided tours available. Travel Deals Belton Chalet Stay-n-Ski Recently marking its 100th anniversary, the Belton Chalet is a historic inn that provides cozy accommodations for travelers. Their stay-n-ski package entices visitors to experience “Winters in West Glacier” with a stay at the Belton’s cottages, combined with cross-country ski rentals and trail passes for the 13K of groomed trails at Glacier Outdoor Center. This package is $99 and is valid now through March 21, 2011. Call 888-235-8665. Belton Chalet Romantic Rendezvous – An Early Valentine Retreat Whisk your sweetheart away to West Glacier (travel made easy via Amtrak’s Empire Builder – the train depot is located across the street from the Belton) for an early Valentine’s Day retreat. The dinner package includes an appetizer, entrees, shared dessert and two glasses of champagne. Or combine dinner with a stay in the lodge. Live acoustic music will set the mood for your special weekend away. This package is valid Saturday, Feb. 12, 2011, and varies from $80-$178. Call 888-235-8665. Seeley Lake, Mont. Surrounded by the Mission and Swan mountains in one of Montana’s loveliest valleys is Seeley Lake. An outdoor adventure lover’s paradise, Seeley is a Mecca for snowmobilers, dog sledders and cross-country skiers. To experience the Seeley Valley at its best, rent a snowmobile in town and let the adventure begin. Travel Deals Double Arrow Lodge Winter Package After a day of playing in the snow, escape to the cozy Double Arrow Lodge in Seeley Lake for a perfect end to your winter filled day. Packages include lodging, dinner and breakfast, while snowmobile rentals can be added for an additional fee. Rates vary depending on midweek or weekend. Package is valid now through March 31, 2011, while prices vary from $157 - $498 per couple. Call 800-468-0777. Whitefish, Mont. Located on the shores of Whitefish Lake and at the base of Big Mountain, Whitefish is a year-round destination with a mixed array of shops, coffee houses, restaurants, accommodations and plenty of outdoor fun. Visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Whitefish Mountain Resort, as well as horse-drawn sleigh rides, cross-country ski trails, snowmobiling and more. Travel Deals Eat-Ski-Sleep-Repeat The best deal on Big Mountain, this package at Whitefish Mountain Resort is $75 and includes accommodations, hot breakfast and a lift ticket. This package is valid Sunday – Thursday and a two night stay is required. Valid now through April 2011. Call 877-SKIFISH-to book your stay. Dollar Rent-A-Car Winter Specials Rent a car for three days and get your third car rental day free. Car comes with FREE ski rack rental. This deal is valid now through April 9, 2011. Call 800-457-5335. 20 Percent off Amtrak to Whitefish Make your trip from Spokane to Whitefish even easier with 20 percent off your adult ticket. Call Flathead Travel Service at 800-553-3400 and mention Amtrak 20 percent off to Whitefish. Purchase now through Feb. 13, 2011, for travel through March 31, 2011.