It’s time for a ski trip! Pack up the crew and head to Whitefish, Montana — a winter destination the whole family will love, both on and off the hill.
Experiencing Whitefish is an adventure in itself, with plenty of opportunities to sample local flavors, pop into the Imagination Station toy store or grab a warm drink from Folklore Coffee and browse The Toggery, Mums, and other charming shops downtown.
Of course, the main event is Whitefish Mountain Resort — roughly 3,000 acres of world-class Rocky Mountain terrain that’s perfect for a family ski adventure. With the right know-how, planning an all-ages winter getaway is simple in Whitefish. Here are our tips to make it happen.
You'll definitely be spending time on the hill when you visit Whitefish. Take our universal advice to invest in professional lessons. It doesn't have to break the bank! Whitefish Mountain Resort offers options for all ages and price ranges. Plus, you can take some turns while the kids are in ski school, ensuring that the whole family gets time on the slopes.
Check out the resort's Ski & Ride School, featuring lessons for a variety of skill levels. Brand new to skiing? Take advantage of the First Time Lesson Package to bundle rentals, instruction, a beginner-area lift ticket and other perks.
TIP: Skiing with an experienced youngster? Kids six and under can pick up a lift ticket for free.
Skiing can feel a little tedious for the smaller ones — all that gear and chilly faces don’t always add up to smiles (even though us adults know that any day on the hill is a good day). We recommend creating a post-skiing tradition they'll love! Many families make a ritual of hot chocolate in the Base Lodge or après snacks to wrap up each day.
For your Whitefish vacay, choose value and quality at Grouse Mountain Lodge — just a 15-minute drive from Whitefish Mountain Resort. This all-season hotel is ideally located near the edge of Whitefish, with easy access to downtown, plus on-site dining at Logan's Bar & Grill and cross-country skiing just across the street at Glacier Nordic Club.
TIP: Simplify and save with the Ski & Stay Package, combining your lift tickets and your room at Grouse Mountain Lodge.
The Stumptown Ice Den offers public ice skating throughout the week, with affordable rentals to get you striding and gliding. Public skate is a fun way for kids and adults alike to get out on the ice and practice skills, or just zoom around the rink together.
When conditions allow, head to Whitefish Lake for wild skating with mountain views. Better yet, plan your skating for Saturday evening to join a Whitefish Disco Skate — a weekly on-ice event with lights, music and complimentary rentals.
Here's a local secret: when the kids aren't up for another day on the slopes but still have energy to burn, The Wave is a handy solution. For a small town like Whitefish, this facility is impressive — it features a full aquatic center complete with a kid-friendly wading pool, plus a gym, racquetball courts, sauna and steam rooms, daily fitness classes and more.
If the crew is dragging after a chilly morning, a few hours at The Wave will quickly recharge everyone. Be sure to check the schedule to visit during an Open Swim block!
Pick the best base for everyone. Staying at Grouse Mountain Lodge means your escape starts right at your doorstep.
When you need a moment to yourself, grab a coffee at Logan's and relax by the fireplace, or head out for a quick cross-country ski. Make time for yourself — it's your holiday too, after all!
Make new memories with the whole family this winter. Book your stay at Grouse Mountain Lodge and plan your Whitefish vacation today!
