It’s hard not to get excited about the upcoming spring. So far, January’s weather in Montana has been mild. There is still a lot of winter left in Montana, so I am not ready to start planting a garden yet.  

Why Montana’s January Weather Feels So Unusual

Driving around in my neighborhood lately, I have seen robins in the trees, lawns that look green, and one of my neighbors has a lawn mower sitting in their front yard. I have even had the chance to golf on a Montana course on a mid-January Saturday.  

READ MORE: Missoula Golf Course Opens in January Thanks to Unusual Montana Warmth

When it starts getting time to plant gardens, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the weather and when Montana’s frost season ends.  

What the Old Farmer’s Almanac Predicts for Frost Dates

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, parts of Montana may see frost temperatures stick around a bit longer than normal this year, while other parts of the state will be frost-free around the normal time of year.  

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The eastern part of the state is expected to see the last frost dates around the normal time this year, while Western Montana and the northern part of the state may see frost dates extended by a week or two this year. 

The Old Farmer’s Almanac 2026 Last Frost Date Map May be shared with attribution and a link to this page: Almanac.com/Frost-2026
The Old Farmer’s Almanac 2026 Last Frost Date Map May be shared with attribution and a link to this page: Almanac.com/Frost-2026
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Last Frost Date Forecast:

  • Missoula: May 22
  • Great Falls: May 11
  • Butte: June 21
  • Billings: May 15
  • Bozeman: June 2
  • Kalispell, June 7

There is still a lot of winter left in Montana, and the weather can change quickly. For the time being, those hoping to plant their gardens early in Northern and Western Montana, should keep an eye on the forecast; planting may take a little longer this year than normal.  

Montana's Coldest Januarys on Record

The top ten coldest average temperatures in Montana.

Gallery Credit: Chris Wolfe

Montana's Top Ten Warmest Januarys on Record

According to NOAA, here are the top ten warmest average temperature Montana Januarys on record.

Gallery Credit: Chris Wolfe

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