From world-class skiing and lively winter festivals to tucked-away adventures and cozy dining, Whitefish invites you to slow down and soak it all in. To help you make the most of the season, we asked locals to share their favorite ways to explore — now's your chance to discover Whitefish like a true insider.
Whitefish Mountain Resort offers all the downhill thrills you can handle, especially if you prefer your slopes a little quieter. Resort skiing not your thing? Bring or rent Nordic skis, snowshoes, fat bikes or ice skates and try something different. Explore your options across Whitefish at Glacier Nordic Club, Dog Creek Lodge, LOGE Glacier, Stumptown Ice Den or Whitefish Disco Skate. As Pursuit retail operations manager Ginjer puts it, “When you’re in Whitefish, the outdoors are at your fingertips.”
But if you didn’t come for the sports (or if your legs simply need a day off), shopping and dining in Whitefish are well worth the trip. Browse local shops for the perfect memento or gift, then slip away from the crowds entirely. Pursuit retail operations manager Dylan suggests “going out to Glacier National Park and seeing Lake McDonald from Apgar” for a quiet winter moment you won't forget.
With 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, Whitefish Mountain Resort has a run (or three) for every skier and snowboarder. “Whitefish offers fantastic skiing without the crowds, and it has that small-town vibe that’s tough to find nowadays,” says Dan, marketing manager with Pursuit.
To enjoy any mountain, you need to know its trails. The definite must-ski trail is Inspiration (known as “Inspo”), an intermediate cruiser offering a stunning view of the entire Flathead Valley. Hell Fire is a long, sporty run in Hellroaring Basin, while Gray Wolf delivers tasty turns on the Backside. For those seeking steeps and deeps, explore Chair 5, “East Rim,” and Chair 8, “Hellroaring.” They’ll take you to jaw-dropping double-black-diamond territory.
When the sun’s out, it’s hard to beat a beverage on the Summit House deck. But if you don’t get thirsty until the lifts stop spinning, there are plenty of other après options. The Bierstube is the on-mountain favorite and Hellroaring Saloon has legendary nachos. Try the hot cocoa, or elevate your experience altogether with a signature Old Fashioned at Logan’s Bar & Grill. “After a day of skiing, nothing beats sitting by the outdoor fire here,” says Alex, general manager at Grouse Mountain Lodge.
If you're venturing beyond the mountain, downtown Whitefish is always a good option. The Great Northern Bar is the staple, and the Bulldog has the best wings (hint: try the Huckleberry Hot).
Whitefish isn’t just ski runs and friendly locals. “It’s like living in a Hallmark movie,” says Amber, a marketing specialist with Pursuit. The town serves up world-class dining experiences, with everything from casual bites to James Beard–nominated fare.
Last Chair is the perfect spot for dinner on your way down the hill, Blackstar has the best views in town, Jersey Boys Pizzeria is your go-to for a slice or a whole pie, and Abruzzo has authentic Italian cuisine made from scratch.
Amidst the many downtown options you’ll also find the elevated and refined Herb & Omni and the Buffalo Cafe, a second-generation family restaurant. If you’re staying at Grouse Mountain Lodge, you have two great restaurant and bar options nearby: Logan’s Bar and Grill inside the hotel, and the always stellar Whitefish Lake Restaurant.
Looking for a drink before or after dinner? Spotted Bear Spirits is a must-stop for cocktails with locally crafted spirits, and Montana Tap House and Bonsai Brewing Project have plenty of beers on tap. Name a better way to end or start your night!
From quiet moments to lively celebrations, Whitefish offers countless winter highlights waiting to be discovered.
The Christmas Stroll and the Whitefish Winter Carnival are two legendary events that draw merry crowds. The Stroll is an early December event where the downtown lights ignite, shops and nonprofits set up booths, and food trucks line up with their tasty treats. The Clydesdale Outpost usually has a team of horses downtown, too — a magical experience for kids. The Carnival’s events happen throughout January and February culminating in its signature parade in early February. “Experience a hometown tradition full of charm. It’s pure magic in the middle of winter,” says Tim, general manager at West Glacier Village.
For those seeking magic in the wilderness, travel at the speed of dog with Dog Sled Adventures in Olney. This one-of-a-kind adventure gets two paws up from everyone who takes a ride. For an exclusive experience just steps from Lake McDonald, retreat to Apgar Lookout Suites. When conditions are right, you can skate on the frozen lake or head out snowshoeing to explore the quiet beauty of Glacier in winter.
Although Whitefish is geographically far from Broadway, the theater scene here is top-notch. Check schedules for the Whitefish Theater Company, Alpine Theater Project and The Cabaret.
With so much to do in Whitefish, packing smart makes all the difference. The weather can shift from sun to snow in a single day, so versatility is key.
What to bring:
Ready to make your winter dreams come true? Book your stay at Grouse Mountain Lodge for easy access to downtown Whitefish or choose the upscale Apgar Lookout Suites for splendid views of a frozen Lake McDonald, just steps from your room.
About the Author
Sarah Ericson is a writer based in northwest Montana, where you’ll often find her walking, biking or skiing in the woods, floating down rivers or sitting in her garden. She is an associate editor for Whitefish Review and she’s always looking for new places to explore — both on the page and in real life.
