Glacier National Park (Whitefish), Montana
Whitefish is one of the most scenic and breathtaking areas in America. Surrounded on three sides by picturesque mountain peaks, this alpine village offers amazing outdoor recreation opportunities. In winter, the main draw is Whitefish Mountain Resort, were you can ski or ride nearly 3,000 acres of uncrowded terrain and enjoy lightning-fast rides on the six-seater chairlift, the Snow Ghost Express. Whitefish Mountain Resort offers endless entertainment for riders of all skill levels and SKI Magazine's 2023 Resort Guide has named Whitefish Mountain Resort No. 6 overall in their "Top 30 Ski Resorts in the West" issue and #1 in Value as voted by the readers! If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, this is a great place to take lessons and intermediate and advanced skiers will find the perfect runs to to hone their skills. Snow lovers will find a variety of activities in this region - from Fat Tire Biking and back county CAT skiing, to dog sledding and horse drawn sleigh rides.
If that's not enough, just a short drive away you’ll find the real treasure of this area - Glacier National Park’s pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and spectacular lakes. Open year round* on a limited basis, Glacier National Park's winter recreation opportunities are diverse, with trails perfect for adventures like Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and wildlife watching. Guides are available to hire for all skill levels and tours are a great idea for those who'd like to explore with the assistance of someone who's familiar with different aspects of the park. While you're out on the trails, you're likely to spot some majestic wildlife, such as white-tailed deer, moose and elk. Numerous species of birds and the occasional beaver can be spotted as well.
When it's time to return to town, you'll find that Whitefish has retrained the warm, friendly charm of its bygone railroading days. With its covered sidewalk main street leading to the cultural arts center, historic depot museum, and public library, this quaint, picturesque western town offers visitors a change from the fast-paced hustle and bustle of urban life. Getting around Whitefish and Whitefish Mountain Resort is easy in the winter with S.N.O.W. bus service. Central Avenue is filled with a variety of quality restaurants, shopping, and night life. In addition, surrounding communities offer their fair share of unique dining, shopping, museums, art galleries, gaming, and more just waiting to be explored.
GLACIER NATIONAL PARK ENTRY FEES: 7-day entrance permit winter rates are approximately $25 per private vehicle or $15 for each visitor entering by foot, ski, etc. Be aware that most of Glacier National Park's roads are closed during the winter and winter services in the park are extremely limited. The Going-to-the-Sun Road from West Glacier to Lake McDonald Lodge is typically open year-round, weather permitting. Remember to plan ahead, travel and recreate responsibly and leave no trace. Be aware that cell service is limited or nonexistent in the park. Check the National Park Service for more information about visiting Glacier National Park in the winter, https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/index.htm
A vehicle reservation may be required for four areas of the park: Going-to-the-Sun Road, the North Fork, Two Medicine, and Many Glacier. Each location has unique details and may require a separate reservation. Please see the Vehicle Reservation page for details https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/vehicle-reservations.htm