Whitefish is a tiny northwest Montana city tucked away within the higher part of the luxurious Flathead Valley. Regardless of its modest inhabitants of underneath 10,000 and the truth that it is typically ignored by vacationers, it is without doubt one of the most charming small towns worth experiencing in Montana. Whether or not visiting in the summertime or winter, Whitefish has one thing to maintain the enjoyable going.

Glacier National Park is a must-visit for any first-timer in Big Sky Country, and Whitefish is the final word getaway to one in all America’s most visited national parks, situated a mere 35-minute drive from the well-known venue. However that’s simply the tip of the iceberg; this magical city spoils guests with nearly each outside enjoyable that involves thoughts.

From mountain climbing and mountain climbing to snowboarding and parasailing, Whitefish packs a punch of enthralling adventures to ensure vacationers an unforgettable vacation expertise.

Issues To Do In Whitefish

With its jagged peaks, shimmering lake waters, and pristine trails, Whitefish provides a blended bag of actions, together with a number of the most scenic adventures in Montana. Newcomers would possibly discover it onerous to resolve the place to begin, however these are one of the best issues to do on this quaint metropolis.

Associated: This Is The Best Time To Visit Glacier National Park (With Tips)

1
Go to Glacier Nationwide Park


A path in Glacier National Park
Photograph by Cole Allen on Unsplash

A path in Glacier Nationwide Park

In all probability the spotlight for guests to town, Glacier National Park is just 27 miles from Whitefish and beckons followers from all around the nation to discover its magical trails and admire its spectacular glaciers.

Nonetheless, this barely scratches the floor of the depth of experiences awaiting friends on the venue.

An adventurer’s dream come true, the park houses over 700 miles of hiking trails, 25 named glaciers, a number of mountain lakes, and at the least 1,000 species of crops.

It additionally boasts a novel mixture of wildlife, together with black bears, moose, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep, promising an unprecedented sightseeing expedition.

  • Admission: $20 per particular person and $35 per car
  • Hours: Open 24/7

2
Hit The Slopes At Whitefish Mountain Resort


Whitefish Mountain Resort 
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WHITEFISH, MONTANA: Skiers descend from the summit at Whitefish Mountain Resort 

Snowboarding is without doubt one of the top activities in Whitefish, and Whitefish Mountain Resort is a chief spot for skiers visiting the state. Previously Large Mountain Resort, the three,000-acre property attracts hordes of vacationers within the winter to expertise greater than 100 named snowboarding routes and at the least a dozen chairlifts.

Come summer time, the once-frozen trails rework into scenic mountain climbing and mountain biking routes, guaranteeing year-round enjoyable. As adults tackle the large slopes of Whitefish Mountain, kids stay grounded on the base with enjoyable actions like zipline excursions, alpine slides, and the favourite Spider Monkey Mountain.

  • Admission: Grownup $94, Teenagers & Seniors $80, Youngsters $47 for chair lifts
  • Hours: 10 am – 6 pm

3
Get pleasure from The Water Actions At Whitefish Lake


Drone view of Whitefish lake
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Drone view of Whitefish lake in Montana

The scenic 7-mile shoreline of Whitefish Lake treats newcomers to a number of thrilling water-based adventures. Through the summer time, swimming within the toasty waters is the go-to exercise, however there isn’t a scarcity of leisure alternatives. From kayaking and parasailing to boating and paddleboarding, the nice and cozy season by no means disappoints at this stunning lake.

Most individuals collect at Metropolis Seaside, essentially the most sought-after part of the lake. It’s supreme for households with little kids since there are various gazebos, tables, and picnic spots, and the swimming space has been roped off to guard children from the deep part.

Whereas at Whitefish Lake, don’t neglect to take a look at Whitefish Lake State Park on the western shore. It has nice alternatives for RVers and campers.

4
Wander The Quaint Streets Of Downtown Whitefish


whitefish, montana
through Pierrette Guertin / Shutterstock.com

A view of a road in downtown Whitefish, Montana

Conveniently walkable, downtown Whitefish is an enthralling neighborhood with distinctive shops value exploring. The streets are thronged by vacationers, particularly on weekends, buying within the jewellery shops, clothes boutiques, reward retailers, and residential décor shops or sampling Montana’s best summer eats within the pleasant eating places and cafés.

These with a candy tooth can pop into Candy Peaks to fulfill their cravings with a scrumptious, ice-cold deal with, whereas imbibers can seize a refreshing cocktail at Noticed Bear Distillery.

For these visiting Whitefish in the summertime, don’t miss out on the colourful native farmers’ market on Tuesday evenings to pattern some luxurious homegrown treats.

5
Uncover The Metropolis’s Historical past At Whitefish Depot


Whitefish Depot Amtrak Train museum
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Whitefish, Montana: Signal for the Whitefish Depot Amtrak Prepare museum for the Nice Northern Railway

Initially constructed in 1928, White Depot or Whitefish Amtrak Station is a rundown half-timbered constructing harboring an important a part of town’s previous.

It served as a cease on the Nice Northern Railways and continues to take action as a station right this moment, but it surely additionally doubles up as a museum with a small part chronicling the historical past of Whitefish and the neighboring area.

The construction is listed on the Nationwide Register of Historic Locations and managed by the Stumptown Historic Society. Simply subsequent to the station is Depot Park, a quiet place supreme for lazy walks and easy-going picnics.

  • Admission: Free
  • Hours: 6 am – 11:30 pm

6
Discover The Outdoor On The Whitefish Path


Lion Mountain Trail near Whitefish
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Younger hikers on Lion Mountain Path close to Whitefish, Montana on a sunny summer time morning.

Whitefish is house to an unlimited community of community-driven trails traversing town’s forests, parks, and different nature areas. Over 40 miles of path and at the least a dozen trailheads are ready to be explored, providing friends a novel and adventurous manner of discovering the charming city.

Highlights embody Lion Mountain, a 3-mile loop alongside which hikers will get pleasure from unparalleled vistas of Skyles Lake. The route is conveniently marked and snakes by a lush forested space, serving as a wonderful choice for first-timers within the metropolis.

All trails on the Whitefish Path community expose newcomers to the evergreen forests and delightful pure landscapes that outline town. Whichever course hikers select to tackle, the expertise can be simply as satisfying.

7
Chill Out At Flathead Lake


A scenic view of Flathead Lake
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A scenic view of Flathead Lake from Polson,MT.with clouds over the mountains within the background

Flathead Lake is the second-largest lake in Montana and the biggest freshwater mass within the western U.S., barring Alaska. Positioned about half-hour from town, it supplies a pleasant escape from civilization, permitting vacationers to delight in nature’s bounty.

From the beautiful views and the luxurious environment to the nippiness environment, it’s the excellent place to calm down and unwind.

However leisure actions abound at Flathead Lake, and vacationers can partake of their favourite water exercise, together with kayaking, boating, and canoeing. And when a part of the lake freezes over in winter, ice skating and cross-country snowboarding can be found.

8
Dance The Night time Away At The Beneath The Large Sky Pageant


Whitefish downtown
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Whitefish downtown, Montana, USA. Whitefish downtown was busy with visitors.

Beneath the Large Sky Pageant is an thrilling extravaganza that brings the townsfolk collectively for 3 days of celebration on a 350-acre ranch. The pageant honors the custom of household and buddies gathering to take heed to music, dance, and make merry underneath the open skies of Montana.

Pageant goers from across the state and past grace the occasion of their hundreds, with performances by musicians like Billy Strings and Lord Huron. This is a wonderful alternative to be a part of a long-held native custom whereas listening to nation, Americana, and rock music.

The Beneath the Large Sky Pageant is held round mid-July, and attendees can convey garden chairs and picnic blankets to stay cozy whereas jamming to feel-good music on the open grounds.

9
Take A Day Journey To Kalispell


Kalispell Montana US
Photograph by Taylor Noble on Unsplash

A view of the lake in Kalispell Montana

Kalispell is the biggest metropolis within the Flathead Valley Area, popularly known as the “Soul of Montana’s Flathead Valley.” Positioned simply 15 miles from Whitefish, it’s a common metropolis getaway for explorers trying to uncover extra of the encircling area.

Fortunately, it by no means disappoints, due to its wealthy historical past, which guests can uncover at Conrad Mansion Museum.

However there are extra attractions in Kalispell, together with the Hockaday Museum of Artwork, Woodland Water Park, Buffalo Hill Golf Membership, and Lone Pine State Park. The city additionally has a bustling downtown with fashionable cafés and eating places value exploring.

The quickest to Kalispell from Whitefish is through taxi, which prices between $45 and $55 and lasts round 20 minutes.

Associated: Don’t Break The Bank: 10 Most Affordable ( Yet Stunning) Montana Day Trips

10
Chill out In Baker Park


spring foliage along the Whitefish River
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Spring foliage alongside the Whitefish River, Montana

Baker Park is a laid-back area close to town middle the place vacationers can take a break from strolling the downtown streets. It’s a good place to sit down and seize a packed lunch or benefit from the serene setting whereas soaking within the scenes.

The park provides facilities like picnic factors with gazebos and tables, excellent for households to assemble for a enjoyable time out. It additionally encompasses a paved path system connecting to Riverside Park, inviting walkers and bikers to stretch their legs.

  • Whitefish River is well reachable from Baker Park for anybody up for a relaxed day of fishing or canoeing.

11
Finest Time To Go to Whitefish


Winter Sunset in Whitefish, Montana
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Winter Sundown in Whitefish, Montana

Summer time is one of the best time to go to Whitefish due to the delightfully heat climate, particularly if vacationers should not eager on snowboarding and different winter actions. That is additionally when the local people schedules lots of its social occasions.

The excessive season runs from June by August, spurred by the 70s to 80s levels Fahrenheit circumstances. For many who favor to skip the crowds, goal the shoulder seasons from April to June and August to October to expertise town’s magnificence with out competitors.

Spring is an excellent time to be in Montana, and Whitefish confirms this with colourful blooms of inexperienced leaves, leading to a crispness within the air. The setting is ideal for stepping out into the outside to be surrounded by nature.

In the meantime, price range vacationers ought to take into account visiting town between October and March. Winter is the bottom season, and lodge offers abound. First-timers could discover the frigid circumstances an excessive amount of to deal with as temperatures dip under zero.

The upside is that that is the perfect time to discover the mountain slopes when indulging in numerous winter sports activities.

Associated: March In Montana: Bozeman Sees The Most Snow This Time Of The Year

12
How To Get Round Whitefish


Big Mountain in Whitefish
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Ski chairlift going up a ski slope within the snowy mountain vary of Large Mountain in Whitefish, Montana, at Glacier Nationwide Park, USA.

Whitefish is a comparatively tiny city at 4.4 sq. miles, so getting round shouldn’t be too difficult for guests. Nonetheless, the most suitable choice to navigate town is on foot or bike, as this is a perfect manner of exploring the huge countryside and taking within the scenes.

The downtown space is pleasantly pedestrian-friendly, with so many shops to take a look at. To not point out the huge path community within the metropolis, an inviting prospect for walkers, trekkers, and hikers with an affinity for uncovering hidden spots.

Automotive

Strolling is the right choice when vacationers restrict their adventures to a small a part of town, largely downtown. However for individuals who want to enterprise past metropolis limits, a automobile provides the comfort of simply accessing farther sights like Flathead Lake, Glacier Nationwide Park, Swan Lake, and Kootenai Forest.

A automobile additionally is useful for day-trippers trying to discover different overlooked small towns in Montana.

Bus

There is just one bus route passing by city, therefore the general public transport system just isn’t essentially the most dependable in Whitefish. The route begins at Mountain View Manor downtown and ends in Walgreens, operated by the Whitefish Metropolis Bus Line.

  • Fares: Curb-to-curb $1. Door-to-door $2
  • Hours: Monday, Wednesday, & Friday, 11 am – 2 pm

13
The place To Keep In Whitefish


Mountain ski resort
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Whitefish Resort, MT / USA  Mountain ski resort, aerial view throughout summer time day.

Lush environment, beautiful views, and a comfy environment nearly describe the lodging choices in Whitefish. Though they arrive in various choices and price range ranges, they’re largely steeped in nature to make the most of Montana’s stunning countryside.

Whether or not searching for a luxurious keep in a world-class ski resort or the final word outside expertise at top Montana campsites, listed here are one of the best locations to remain in Whitefish.

Luxurious:

Hampton Inn & Suites Whitefish

  • Deal with: 6340 US Freeway 93 South, Whitefish, MT 59937
  • Charges per night time: Begin at $311
  • Facilities: Indoor pool, Spa and wellness middle, Health middle, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/espresso maker, Espresso machine, Free parking, Free airport shuttle, Shuttle service (free), Enterprise middle

Kandahar Lodge at Whitefish Mountain Resort

  • Deal with: 3824 Large Mountain Street, Whitefish, MT 59937
  • Charges per night time: $$
  • Facilities: Spa and wellness middle, Health middle, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Bicycle rental, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/espresso maker, Espresso machine, Free parking

Mid-range:

Apres Whitefish

  • Deal with: 800 Spokane Avenue, Whitefish, MT 59937
  • Charges per night time: Begin at $264
  • Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Enterprise middle, Wi-Fi accessible in all areas, Flat-screen TV, Web, Pets allowed on request. Fees could apply, Laundry services, Hairdryer, Categorical check-out

Chalet Motel Whitefish

  • Deal with: 6430 Freeway 93 South, Whitefish, MT 59937
  • Charges per night time: Begin at $240
  • Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, Tea/espresso maker, Espresso machine, Free parking, Wi-Fi accessible in all areas, Flat-screen TV, Cable or satellite tv for pc TV, Free toiletries, Web

Finances:

Whitefish Memories

  • Deal with: 66 Crestwood Drive 66B, Whitefish, MT 59937
  • Charges per night time: Begin at $134
  • Facilities: Snorkeling, Out of doors pool, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/espresso maker, Espresso machine, Wi-Fi accessible in all areas, Free toiletries, Web, Parking

Inn At Whitefish

  • Deal with: 6400 Freeway 93 South, Whitefish, MT 59937
  • Charges per night time: $$
  • Facilities: Enterprise middle, Pets allowed on request. Fees could apply, Laundry, services, 24hr entrance desk, Concierge service, Pc use accessible, Microwave, Fridge, Air-conditioned, Grill

Associated: Luxe Lodgings Meet Dude Ranch At This Posh Montana Escape

14
The place To Eat In Whitefish


outskirts of Whitefish
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Herd of elk graze in a pasture on the outskirts of Whitefish, Montana, USA

Whitefish’s eclectic culinary scene might be described as fashionable and seasonal. Eating places right here experiment with completely different flavors, mixing cuisines like Mexican, Asian, Italian, and Southern consolation grub, to tantalize any style buds within the metropolis.

Listed below are one of the best eateries to take a look at for one of the best of town’s meals.

Breakfast:

Loula’s Café

  • Deal with: 300 2nd St E, Whitefish, MT 59937-2414
  • Hours: 7 am – 2 pm

Lunch & dinner:

Tupelo Grille

  • Deal with: 17 Central Ave, Whitefish, MT 59937-2546
  • Hours: 4:30 pm – 11 pm

Café Kandahar

  • Deal with: 3824 Large Mountain Rd Positioned inside Kandahar Lodge, Whitefish, MT 59937
  • Hours: Wed-Sat, 6 pm – 9 pm

Drinks:

Montana Tap House

  • Deal with: 845 Wisconsin Ave, Whitefish, MT 59937-2133
  • Hours: 8 am – 11 pm

15
Suggestions To Know When Visiting Whitefish


Sunset Over a Lake
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Sundown Over a Lake in Whitefish Montana

Don’t go to Whitefish searching for the bustle and hustle of massive cities; as an alternative, go for the less complicated aspect of the Montana countryside and to reconnect with nature whereas appreciating the luxurious and pristine landscapes.

Whereas Glacier Nationwide Park is without doubt one of the main sights in Whitefish, it’s going to take greater than a day to expertise the park’s actions totally. Guests ought to take into account spending at the least two days.

Winters in Whitefish are longer and colder than in most areas. Friends ought to carry sufficient heat clothes to deal with the climate if visiting to bask in snow actions.

Associated: Visiting Montana For The First Time? Check Out These Places

16
How To Spend The Good Day In Whitefish


Moose Lake near Kalispell and Whitefish
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A vacationer fishing at Moose Lake close to Kalispell and Whitefish, Montana

Begin the day exploring the lovable downtown on foot. The realm is pedestrian-friendly and there’s a lot to see and do. Take a look at the various shops lining the world, hunt for a memento, or bask in a candy deal with at Candy Peaks.

Later, head to the Whitefish Amtrak station for a fast glimpse into town’s previous. Scope out the displays contained in the little Stumptown Historic Museum earlier than taking a break at Depot Park to rejuvenate with a fast chew or packed lunch.

After lunch, tackle the Whitefish Path to discover the luxurious countryside of town and revel within the final outside expertise, then catch a journey to Glacier Nationwide Park to expertise this iconic Montana attraction.

There is no such thing as a scarcity of enjoyable actions on the park, so it’s going to take greater than a day to take advantage of the go to. Fortunately, there are a number of lodging options at Glacier National Park for friends trying to prolong their keep.



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