Glacier National Park is approximately 40 minutes from Whitefish. Please Note: Going-to-the-Sun Road is often only partially open in early summer due to snow removal. During this period, the alpine sections of the road may be accessible only to hikers and cyclists before opening to vehicle traffic later in the season. Some of our favorite hikes: * Avalanche Lake – One of Glacier’s classic hikes, featuring waterfalls, cedar forests, and stunning mountain scenery. * Trail of the Cedars – Easy boardwalk trail through an ancient cedar forest. * St. Mary Falls & Virginia Falls – Beautiful turquoise water and spectacular waterfalls. * Running Eagle Falls (Two Medicine) – A unique waterfall and excellent family-friendly hike. * Sun Point & Baring Falls – Short hikes with incredible views and easy access. If Going-to-the-Sun Road is still closed to vehicles, renting bikes and riding the road car-free is an unforgettable Glacier experience and one of the best ways to experience the park.
Just 15 minutes from downtown Whitefish, Whitefish Mountain Resort (known locally as “Big Mountain”) offers incredible summer activities and some of the best views in the Flathead Valley. The chairlift or gondola ride to the summit OPENS JUNE 12th - you can do hikes up the week before, after JUNE 12th when the Chairlift opens you can enjoy hikes down and the Mountain Top lodge for a drink or lunch where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Whitefish Lake, the Flathead Valley, Glacier National Park, and the surrounding Rocky Mountains. The resort also offers hiking trails, mountain biking, zip lines, alpine slides, and other summer activities. At the summit, enjoy lunch, a drink, or simply take in the views before heading back down the mountain. At the base, be sure to stop by The Bierstube, a longtime local favorite known for its laid-back atmosphere and classic Big Mountain character.
Bikes for Glacier National, the city of Whitefish is also extremely bikeable * Glacier Cyclery (Whitefish) * Sportsman & Ski Haus (Whitefish) * Flathead Bike & Ski (Whitefish) * Glacier Guides & Montana Raft (West Glacier) * Glacier Outfitters (West Glacier)
Our wedding venue :) One of the best ways to spend a summer afternoon is at Whitefish Lake. Visitors can enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, lakeside dining, or simply relaxing on the beach. For those looking for a classic Montana lodge experience, consider visiting The Lodge at Whitefish Lake, located directly on the lake with beautiful views, a marina, spa, restaurant, and one of the most iconic settings in the area
Absolutely stunning views, has a public beach where you can take a plunge in the glacial waters and warm up in the sun.
Downtown Whitefish is filled with locally owned shops and western boutiques. Our favorites include: * The Toggery – Classic Montana apparel and outdoor clothing. * Stumptown Snowboards – Local snowboard, ski, and outdoor gear shop. * The Montana Scene – Montana-inspired gifts, apparel, and souvenirs. * Whitefish Pottery – Beautiful handmade pottery and local art. * Cawdrey Gallery – Western and contemporary fine art. * Kemo Sabe – High-end western hats, boots, and custom western wear. Super bougie There are also great outfitters with large selections in Kalispell * Sportsman *Boot Barn
* Herb & Omni – One of our favorite spots and the location for several wedding events throughout the weekend. * The Bulldog Saloon – Casual local favorite. Don’t leave without trying the famous Huckleberry Hot Wings. * Blackstar BrewPub – Excellent beer, great atmosphere, and honestly, it’s hard to go wrong with anything on the menu. * Bonsai Brewing Project – Fantastic poke bowls, burgers, beer, and a great outdoor patio. * Jalisco Cantina – Creative Mexican food and rooftop views. * Latitude 48 Bistro – Upscale dining in downtown Whitefish. * Abruzzo Italian Kitchen – Excellent pasta, cocktails, and date-night atmosphere. * Tupelo Grille – Southern-inspired cuisine and one of Whitefish’s most popular dinner spots.
A few great places to start your day: * Montana Coffee Traders – Our personal favorite for coffee, breakfast, and local Whitefish charm. * Swift Creek Café – Excellent breakfast and coffee in downtown Whitefish. * Loula’s Café – A Whitefish institution known for hearty breakfasts and incredible pies. * Buffalo Café – Classic Montana breakfast spot loved by locals and visitors alike.
After a day of hiking or celebrating, check out some of Whitefish’s local watering holes: * The Great Northern Bar & Grill – A true Whitefish institution featuring live music, dancing, and classic Montana western-bar atmosphere. * The Palace Bar – Historic dive bar with pool tables, strong drinks, and local character. * Remington Bar & Casino – Casual gaming, drinks, and a local crowd. * Craggy Range Bar & Grill – Great cocktails and lively downtown atmosphere. * The Firebrand Lounge – Rooftop cocktails and mountain views in the heart of downtown.
Best Ice cream in town!