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White Fish
Montana
Visit White Fish
Whitefish, Montana, is a charming resort town nestled in the Rocky Mountains of northwest Montana, near the pristine waters of Whitefish Lake and at the base of Big Mountain, home to Whitefish Mountain Resort. Known for its beautiful natural surroundings, Whitefish offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and small-town hospitality, making it an ideal destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind in a peaceful setting.
During the winter months, Whitefish transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting skiers and snowboarders from around the globe to its renowned Whitefish Mountain Resort. The resort boasts over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, with runs suitable for all skill levels, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert trails. Beyond skiing, winter visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling through the surrounding forests and mountains. The downtown area lights up with festive decorations, and local bars and restaurants offer warm, cozy retreats from the chilly outdoor air.
In the warmer seasons, Whitefish offers an abundance of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. The surrounding Flathead National Forest provides miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and lakes. Whitefish Lake itself is a hub for water sports, where visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. For a more relaxed experience, the town of Whitefish features a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and a weekly farmers market that showcases local produce and crafts.
Moreover, Whitefish serves as a gateway to Glacier National Park, just a short drive away, making it a convenient base for exploring the park’s rugged peaks, alpine meadows, and clear mountain lakes. Whether you're looking for thrilling outdoor activities or a tranquil escape into nature, Whitefish provides a picturesque backdrop and welcoming community to make your visit truly memorable.
White Fish Monthly Weather Conditions
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DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
13°F
30°F
11
February
16°F
34°F
11
March
23°F
42°F
12
April
30°F
51°F
12
May
42°F
57°F
13
June
42°F
67°F
11
July
51°F
76°F
11
August
51°F
76°F
12
September
42°F
68°F
12
October
32°F
57°F
8
November
24°F
42°F
11
December
16°F
30°F
11
Need to Know Before You Go To White Fish
Nickname:
Big Mountain
Primary Language:
English
Time Zone:
America/Denver
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type B
Annual Visitors:
Primary Export:
Tourism
Busiest Travel Months:
July, August, December
Quietest Travel Months:
November, October, May
Find your Next Adventure in White Fish
Explore White Fish
Iconic Landmarks
Whitefish Mountain Resort
Located on Big Mountain, this resort is popular for skiing and snowboarding in the winter and mountain biking and hiking in the summer. The resort offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Glacier National Park
While not in Whitefish itself, this park is a major draw for visitors to the area. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and over 700 miles of trails, it's a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers.
Whitefish Lake
This large lake offers a variety of water sports, including boating, swimming, and fishing. The lake is also surrounded by beautiful scenery and is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.
Downtown Whitefish
The heart of Whitefish, the downtown area, features a variety of shops, art galleries, restaurants, and bars, all with a distinct Montana charm. The area is particularly lively during the summer and winter months when tourists flock to the town.
Whitefish Trail
A network of multi-use trails surrounding the town, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and nature walks. The trails offer excellent views and connect to several beautiful lakes and natural areas.
Stumptown Historical Society
Located in the historic Whitefish Depot, this museum offers insights into the history of Whitefish and the Flathead Valley, focusing on the area's railway and logging industries.
Cultural Experiences
Whitefish Theatre Company
This local theater company offers a variety of performances throughout the year, including plays, musicals, and concerts. It's a great way to experience local talent and enjoy high-quality productions in an intimate setting.
Alpine Theatre Project
Another fantastic option for live performances, the Alpine Theatre Project brings professional Broadway actors to Whitefish, offering a mix of musicals, dramas, and family-friendly shows. Their performances are known for their high quality and creativity.
Whitefish Gallery Nights
Held on the first Thursday of each month from May through October, Gallery Nights allow visitors to explore the vibrant art scene in Whitefish. Local galleries open their doors in the evening to showcase new exhibitions and artists, often accompanied by refreshments and live music.
Great Northern Historical Trail
While primarily a scenic trail, it also offers a cultural experience as it traces part of the route of the historic Great Northern Railway. Along the trail, you can see historical markers and learn about the area's history and its impact on the development of northern Montana.
Stumptown Historical Society
Located in the historic Whitefish Depot, this society preserves the history of Whitefish and the Flathead Valley. The museum features exhibits on the local railroad history, early exploration, and the development of the town, providing a deep dive into the local heritage.
Whitefish Mountain Resort
While known for its skiing and outdoor activities, the resort also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, craft fairs, and culinary events.
Outdoor Adventures
Skiing and Snowboarding at Whitefish Mountain Resort
During the winter months, Whitefish Mountain Resort is a prime destination for skiing and snowboarding. With a wide range of runs from beginner to expert, it offers spectacular views of Glacier National Park and the Flathead Valley.
Hiking in Glacier National Park
Just a short drive from Whitefish, Glacier National Park offers some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in North America. Popular trails include the Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, and the Trail of the Cedars.
Mountain Biking
The areas around Whitefish are a haven for mountain bikers. The Whitefish Trail, a network of multi-use trails, provides options for all skill levels, featuring everything from easy rides to challenging climbs and descents. Additionally, Whitefish Mountain Resort offers lift-accessed downhill biking in the summer.
Fishing and Fly Fishing
The rivers and lakes around Whitefish are known for excellent fishing, particularly for trout. The Flathead River and Whitefish Lake are popular spots, offering beautiful settings for both casual and serious anglers. Guided trips are available for those looking to improve their skills or learn the best local spots.
Whitewater Rafting
For a thrilling adventure, consider a whitewater rafting trip on the Flathead River. Several local companies offer half-day, full-day, and even multi-day trips that navigate through Class II to Class IV rapids, surrounded by stunning wilderness scenery.
Zip Lining
For a different perspective of Montana’s rugged landscapes, try zip lining. Whitefish Mountain Resort offers a zip line tour that will take you soaring above the mountain slopes, providing an exhilarating view of the area’s natural beauty.
Off the Beaten Path
Hike the Danny On Trail
While many visitors flock to the well-known trails, the Danny On Trail offers a less crowded alternative. This moderate hike located at Whitefish Mountain Resort offers spectacular views of Whitefish Lake, the Flathead Valley, and Glacier National Park from the summit. It’s particularly stunning in the fall when the larch trees turn golden.
Explore the Whitefish Trail
This community-managed trail system provides over 42 miles of natural surface trails with multiple trailheads. It's perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. The trails wind through forests, around lakes, and offer beautiful vistas with fewer tourists than the national park.
Visit the Tally Lake Campground
Located about 40 minutes west of Whitefish, Tally Lake offers the deepest natural lake in Montana. It's a great spot for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The surrounding campground is less frequented by tourists, providing a peaceful retreat in nature.
Go Cross-Country Skiing at Glacier Nordic Center
In the winter, when most visitors head to the ski resort, try cross-country skiing at the Glacier Nordic Center. Located on the Whitefish Lake Golf Course, this center offers beautifully groomed trails for both classic and skate skiing, providing a serene winter experience.
Explore Lone Pine State Park
Just a short drive south of Whitefish, Lone Pine State Park offers hiking trails with panoramic views of the Flathead Valley and Flathead Lake. It’s a great spot for a quiet hike, wildlife observation, and enjoying a picnic with a view.
Visit the Flathead National Forest
While Glacier National Park gets most of the attention, the nearby Flathead National Forest offers expansive areas of wilderness ideal for hiking, fishing, and camping. Explore areas like the Jewel Basin Hiking Area or the Great Bear Wilderness for a more secluded adventure in nature.
White Fish Fun Facts
Whitefish, Montana, is a charming resort town in the Rocky Mountains of northwest Montana, known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant community. Here are the top 10 fun facts about Whitefish:
- Gateway to Glacier National Park
Whitefish is just a short drive from Glacier National Park, one of the most beautiful and popular national parks in the United States, known for its breathtaking peaks, pristine forests, and spectacular alpine meadows.
- Whitefish Mountain Resort
Originally called Big Mountain, the Whitefish Mountain Resort is a top destination for skiers and snowboarders in the winter. During the summer, it offers activities like zip-lining, hiking, and mountain biking.
- Stumptown Historical Society
Whitefish was originally known as "Stumptown" because of the numerous stumps left behind in the downtown area from aggressive logging in the early 1900s. The Stumptown Historical Society now preserves the history and heritage of Whitefish.
- Great Northern Railway
The town was established as a railroad construction camp in the early 1900s by the Great Northern Railway. It became a key location for the railway's operations, contributing significantly to its development and growth.
- Whitefish Lake
This large, beautiful lake offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, and fishing. The lake is a central feature of the town and a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
- Whitefish Winter Carnival
Held every February since 1960, this winter carnival features a parade, a "penguin plunge" into the icy waters of Whitefish Lake, and the crowning of a carnival king and queen, among other festive activities.
- Huckleberries
The area around Whitefish is known for its huckleberries, a local favorite. These berries are a significant part of the local cuisine and can be found in everything from pies and jams to sauces and cocktails.
- Alpine Theatre Project
Founded by Broadway veterans, this professional theatre company offers high-quality theatrical performances and has become a staple of Whitefish’s cultural scene.
- Whitefish Trail
This community-funded trail system provides over 42 miles of natural surface trails for hiking, mountain biking, and trail running, with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
- Whitefish Legacy Partners
This non-profit organization is dedicated to preserving and promoting the natural beauty of the Whitefish area. They are instrumental in maintaining the Whitefish Trail and ensuring sustainable land management practices.
Featured Picture Gallery
Visit the Beautiful Landscapes of Whitefish
Whitefish Lake is a Common for Camping and Boating
Experience the Native Wildlife Around Whitefish
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