5 Winter Adventures in Whitefish, Montana

Downtown Whitefish, Montana with views of Whitefish Mountain Resort © ChuckHaney.com
World-class skiing and snowboarding? Check. Snowshoe in a National Park? Check. Horse-drawn sleigh ride? Check! Whatever your adventure style, Whitefish has you covered.
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 old fashioned western hospitality making visitors feel like old friends. The mountain offers 3,000 acres of varied terrain friendly for all abilities. Consistent refills of powder grace its multiple faces so you can strap on your skis or snowboards at the summit and gaze around 360 degrees to pick your line. Take a moment before your run to soak in the views of Glacier National Park or take a photo of the picturesque snowghosts.
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.

Skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort - Noah Couser
Snowshoe in Glacier National Park
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.
Insider’s Tip: Join in a Ranger-led snowshoe hike January through March for an intimate view of the Park, looking for signs of wildlife and discovering plants and animals that linger through the winter.
Ride a Fat Bike
Fat bikes are 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 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.

Fat Bike Riding on the Whitefish Trail - Jessica Downing
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: Get the full dude ranch treatment with a homecooked chili dinner in the warm lodge after the ride.

Sleigh Rides at the Bar W © Brian Schott
Take the “Ski Train”
Sometimes the journey is just as fun as the destination. Amtrak’s Empire Builder leaves 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 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!
About Whitefish:
Whitefish, Montana is an inviting, small town located in the northern Rockies next to Glacier National Park, home to some of the most beautiful mountains in the world that rise up above millions of acres of unspoiled nature. The walkable downtown area is host to dozens of award-winning restaurants, galleries, and lodging options. We welcome you to ExploreWhitefish.com.