Why Go to Whitefish
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Whitefish is an authentic Montana mountain town and the year-round gateway to Glacier National Park. Set in the northern Rockies near the shores of Whitefish Lake, it combines outdoor adventure with a friendly, small-town Western charm.
In winter, ski and snowboard at Whitefish Mountain Resort, known for its powder, uncrowded slopes and views of Glacier's peaks. In summer, swim, paddle and boat on clear Whitefish Lake, hike and mountain bike the Whitefish Trail, and take day trips into Glacier National Park to drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road and hike among alpine lakes. Downtown, stroll Central Avenue, lined with shops, galleries, restaurants and breweries in historic buildings, and visit the historic train depot, a stop on Amtrak's Empire Builder route.
Fly into Glacier Park International Airport, about 15 minutes away, or arrive by train. From the air, watch the glacier-carved peaks rise over the Flathead Valley. I'll plan your lodging, ski days or Glacier park reservations and adventures.
BEST FOR
Skiers, hikers, families, road-trippers and outdoor lovers
BEST MONTHS
July to August or December to March
EXPLORE
- Downtown: Shops, restaurants and breweries.
- Whitefish Lake: Lakefront homes and resorts.
- Big Mountain: The ski resort.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Whitefish
North America › Mountain West › USA › Montana
Mountain-town charm, lake days and the gateway to Glacier National Park.
Lake & River
Skiing
Glacier
Outdoor
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Check Glacier National Park's current entry requirements before you go, and plan to arrive early for parking on Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Ski early to beat the crowds.
Whitefish Mountain Resort
A ski resort with stunning views over Glacier National Park and Flathead Valley.
Drive Going-to-the-Sun Road in summer.
Glacier National Park
Spectacular mountains, lakes and glaciers about 30 minutes away.
Visit City Beach on a summer afternoon.
Whitefish Lake
A beautiful lake with beaches, boating and paddleboarding.
Explore in the evening.
Central Avenue
The town's main street, lined with shops, galleries and restaurants.
Ride the chairlift down.
Danny On Trail
A hiking trail to the summit of Big Mountain.
A lakefront resort with a spa, marina and restaurants.
The Lodge at Whitefish Lake
Whitefish Lake
Hotel Tags
A stylish downtown hotel with a rooftop deck.
Firebrand Hotel
Downtown
Hotel Tags
A classic lodge with golf and mountain views.
Grouse Mountain Lodge
Whitefish
Hotel Tags
A cozy ski-in, ski-out lodge.
Kandahar Lodge
Whitefish Mountain Resort
Hotel Tags
A charming lodge with a rustic atmosphere.
Hidden Moose Lodge
Whitefish
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Whitefish
High 40°F · Low 26°F · Rain 1.4 in
Ski season begins around Thanksgiving, depending on snow.
The best times to visit Whitefish are July through August for hiking and lake days and December through March for skiing. Fall brings beautiful colors and fewer crowds.
Best Times to Visit Whitefish
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Whitefish's dining ranges from casual breweries to farm-to-table restaurants.
- Huckleberries: Try huckleberry pie, ice cream and cocktails.
- Montana fare: Enjoy bison, elk and trout.
- Must-try: Huckleberry pie, bison burgers and local craft beer.
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Walking
Downtown Whitefish is easy to explore on foot.
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Taxis & Rideshares
Taxis and rideshare apps are available.
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Free Shuttles
Free shuttles connect downtown with the mountain in winter.
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Driving
A car is essential for exploring Glacier National Park.
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Amtrak
Amtrak's Empire Builder stops at the historic Whitefish depot.
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Flying In
Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) is about 20 minutes away.
Most travelers fly into Glacier Park International or arrive by Amtrak. Once you're here, a car is essential for exploring Glacier, while shuttles and walking cover town.
Getting Around Whitefish