Whitefish is a charming town known for its outdoor adventures and natural beauty. Just a short drive from Glacier National Park and home to Whitefish Mountain Resort, it’s the perfect destination for both summer and winter.

Location

Whitefish is located in the Flathead Valley, about 25 miles north of Kalispell and Glacier Park International Airport.

Things to Do

Whitefish Mountain Resort

Winter Activities:

• Skiing and Snowboarding: With over 3,000 acres of terrain, Whitefish Mountain Resort is known for its excellent snow conditions, stunning views, and uncrowded slopes. It’s perfect for all skill levels, from beginner to expert.
• Night Skiing: One of the unique features of Whitefish Mountain Resort is night skiing, allowing you to enjoy the slopes under the stars.
• Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing: If downhill skiing isn’t your thing, there are plenty of options for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing through the quiet, snow-covered forests.

Summer Activities:

• Zip Line Tours: Fly through the trees on one of the largest zip line tours in the U.S., offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Mountain Biking: The resort’s network of mountain biking trails provides plenty of excitement, from beginner-friendly routes to challenging downhill tracks.
• Hiking: Ride the chairlift up and hike down, taking in panoramic views of the Flathead Valley and Glacier National Park in the distance.

Visit Whitefish Lake

• Boating and Kayaking: Rent a boat, kayak, or paddleboard to explore the lake’s clear waters. Several rental shops around town offer hourly and daily rentals.
• Swimming: The town’s public City Beach is a favorite spot for swimming and picnicking, with a designated swimming area, lifeguards on duty, and plenty of picnic tables.
• Fishing: Whitefish Lake is known for its great fishing opportunities, with species like lake trout, whitefish, and northern pike populating its waters.

Explore Downtown Whitefish

• Shopping: Explore local boutiques that offer everything from outdoor gear to handmade jewelry, art, and home decor.
• Dining: Whitefish is home to an impressive range of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining options. Enjoy everything from fresh, local fare at The Whitefish Lake Restaurant to craft beer and wood-fired pizza at Craggy Range Bar & Grill.
• Art Galleries: Discover local artists at one of the many galleries in town, such as Sunti World Art Gallery or Nancy Cawdrey Gallery, showcasing everything from Western-inspired art to contemporary pieces.

Glacier National Park

Whitefish is just a short drive from the western entrance of Glacier National Park, making it an ideal base for exploring one of the most iconic national parks in the U.S.

Where to Stay in Whitefish

Whitefish offers a variety of accommodations to suit any traveler’s style and budget.

• Luxury Lodging: For a luxurious stay, check out the Lodge at Whitefish Lake, which offers upscale rooms, a spa, and lakefront dining. Whitefish Mountain Resort also has several high-end condo and chalet rentals.
• Mid-Range Hotels: For something more budget-friendly but still comfortable, consider the Firebrand Hotel in downtown Whitefish, which offers modern amenities and is within walking distance to shops and restaurants.
• Vacation Rentals: If you’re traveling with family or in a group, there are plenty of vacation rentals in and around Whitefish.
• Camping: For outdoor lovers, nearby Whitefish Lake State Park offers camping right on the water, with opportunities for boating and hiking just steps from your tent.

Fees and Passes

• Whitefish Mountain Resort: Lift tickets in the winter for skiing and snowboarding range from $79 to $100 for a full day, depending on the season.
• Whitefish Lake State Park: Entrance is free for Montana residents, while non-residents pay a $8 daily fee. Camping fees range from $24 to $34 per night.
• Glacier National Park: The entrance fee for Glacier National Park is $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. If you’re planning to visit multiple national parks, consider purchasing the America the Beautiful Pass for $80, which covers entry to all U.S. national parks and federal recreational lands for a year. Glacier National Park also requires vehicle reservation passes between the months of May-September.

Best Time to Visit Whitefish

Whitefish is a true year-round destination, with different activities to enjoy in every season!