5 Winter Adventures in Whitefish, Montana
The perfect winter getaway awaits you in Whitefish, Montana
By Jessica Downing January 4, 2017
Sponsored by Explore Whitefish
Located in Northwest Montana, Whitefish is a winter getaway paradise. Downhill skiing or snowboarding? Check. Snowshoe in Glacier National Park? Check. A horse-drawn sleigh ride followed by a homecooked chili dinner? Yummy check! Whatever your adventure style, Whitefish has you covered.
Image by: Noah Couser
Skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort
Hit the slopes at Whitefish Mountain Resort
Consistently top-ranked in national magazines and on top ten lists as a must-ski destination, Whitefish Mountain Resort still keeps its hometown ski vibe while serving up an unparalleled experience. At the summit, strap on your skis or snowboard and gaze around 360 degrees to pick your line—3000 acres of Rocky Mountain snow (read: fluffy) await. Insider’s Tip: Ski under the lights! Night skiing happens Friday and Saturday nights through early March, and is a great way to extend the ski day. On-hill restaurants are open later for post skiing grub and hot drinks.
Snowshoe in Glacier National Park
Winter is the quiet season in Glacier National Park, but no less spectacular. Numerous snowshoe and cross-country trails are maintained for a scenic journey to take in the snow-capped peaks and peaceful forest floor. Insider’s Tip: Join in a Ranger-led snowshoe hike January through March for an intimate view of the Park, and look for signs of wildlife, plants and animals that endure and thrive in winter.
Image by: Jessica Downing
Fat Bike Riding on the Whitefish Trail
Ride a Fat Bike
Fat bikes are becoming a popular winter sport for cycling enthusiasts wanting to extend the cycling season, but it’s not just for committed riders. If you know how to ride a bicycle, you can ride a fat bike. Insider’s Tip: Rent a bike at Glacier Cyclery and pedal along the bike path to the Lion Mountain Trailhead of the Whitefish Trail, a well-used, year-round trail perfect for getting your fat bike legs under you.
Image by: Brian Schott
Sleigh riding at Bar W Guest Ranch in Whitefish
Cozy up on a Horse-Drawn Sleigh
Enjoy the magic of a sleigh drawn by gentle draft horses while snuggling up with friends and loved ones. Sit back and enjoy the fresh air on a sleigh ride at the Bar W Guest Ranch. Afterward, warm up with hot chocolate and cookies. Insider’s Tip: Get the full dude ranch treatment with a homecooked chili dinner in the warm lodge after the ride.
Take the “Ski Train”
Sometimes the journey is just as fun as the destination. Amtrak’s Empire Builder leaves Seattle in the late afternoon and arrives in Whitefish early enough to grab breakfast and make first chair. After a few days (or longer) of fun, hop back on the train in the evening and you’ll be back at your desk before lunch the next day. Insider’s Tip: Many hotels are within walking distance of the train station and will let you store your bags while you grab the free SNOW Bus to get in a full day of skiing before checking in!
About Whitefish: Whitefish, Montana is an inviting, small town located in the northern Rockies next to Glacier National Park, home to some of the most beautiful mountains in the world that rise up above millions of acres of unspoiled nature. The walkable downtown area is host to dozens of award-winning restaurants, galleries and lodging options. We welcome you to ExploreWhitefish.com.
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