Five Winter Adventures in Whitefish

Located in Northwest Montana, Whitefish is a winter getaway paradise. Downhill skiing or snowboarding? Check. Snowshoe in Glacier National Park? Check. Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride followed by a home-cooked chili dinner? Yummy check! Whatever your adventure style, Whitefish has something to pique your interest.

Hit the slopes at Whitefish Mountain Resort

Consistently top-ranked in national magazines and top-ten lists as a must-ski destination, Whitefish Mountain Resort still keeps its hometown ski vibe while serving up an unparalleled experience. Strap on your skis or snowboards at the summit 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. Restaurants on-hill are open later for some post skiing grub and hot drinks.

Snowshoe in Glacier National Park or Take a Guided Ice Climbing Adventure

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. Ice Climbing will show you winter in Montana from a different point of view.

Insider’s Tip: Whitefish Vertical Adventures leads customized ice climibing trips for a winter tour you’ll never forget. Or for a guided snowshoe or cross country ski adventure in Glacier National Park, contact Whitefish Outfitters.

Ride a Fat Bike

Winter Fat Biking is 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 & Nordic and pedal along the bike path to the Lion Mountain Trailhead of the Whitefish Trail, a well-used trail year-round perfect for getting your fat bike legs under you. Or rent bikes at the Whitefish Bike Retreat and utilize their groomed trail network.

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 a hot chocolate and cookies.

Insider’s Tip: Sleigh rides can accommodate up to ten people, so gather a group of friends for a fun winter outing.

Take the “Ski Train”

Sometimes the journey is just as fun as the destination. Amtrak’s Empire Builder leaves Seattle and Portland 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 be back at your desk before lunch the next day.

Insider’s Tip: Many hotels are within walking distance of the train station or have shuttles that pickup from 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!