Whitefish is the ultimate vacation destination, and we're not just talking about ski season! When you stay in an on-mountain vacation rental during the summer, you get to experience nearby Glacier National Park plus all the fun summer activities Whitefish Mountain Resort has to offer. From Scenic Lift Rides to Montana's longest lift-served Zip Line Tours to world-class Montana mountain biking, there's no shortage of things to do at Whitefish Mountain Resort.
But the fun doesn't stop on the mountain. If you want to explore downtown Whitefish, it's only a 15-minute drive from the resort! There are countless ways to make the most of your visit here, whether you're on a weeklong adventure or just passing through. To get you started, here are 10 things to do in and around Whitefish that are sure to put a smile on your face.
1. Hike the Whitefish Trail!
You don't have to drive far or trek into the backcountry to experience some of the natural beauty this region has to offer. The Whitefish Trail is a network of multiuse trails spanning nearly 50 miles around the city. One of the more popular sections covers Lion Mountain, a short drive west of downtown. You can even hike or bike from the resort directly into town via the Big Mountain and Reservoir trailheads. Remember to look out for wildlife and other trail users!
2. Swim, paddle or sunbathe at Whitefish Lake!
Who doesn't love spending time on the water? Whitefish Lake is a local gem, easily accessible from City Beach. Lounge in the sun with a good book or a picnic spread, take a dip in the buoyed swimming area, or rent a kayak, tube or paddleboard from Whitefish Outfitters & Tours. Another popular lake access point is Les Mason State Park. Or you can take in waterfront views while sipping a cocktail at the Tiki Bar at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake. Don't forget the sunscreen!
3. Sip craft beer and spirits made in Montana!
Whitefish bars and restaurants serve a wide variety of beers made in Montana. We also have two breweries right here in town! Blackstar Brewpub serves up beers by Jeremiah Johnson Brewing Co. and Bonsai Brewing Project offers distinctive small-batch brews you'll only find in Whitefish. If you prefer craft cocktails, pay a visit to Spotted Bear Spirits for a selection of unique liqueurs and other offerings from their distillery!
4. Go huckleberry picking!
Foraging for huckleberries is a rite of summer in Northwest Montana. July and August are typically the peak months of the picking season, but most years you can find ripe ones well into September. If you're hiking up Big Mountain on the Danny On Memorial Trail or exploring some other area around Whitefish, keep an eye out for huckleberry bushes along the trail! Just remember not to damage the plants and pick only what you plan to eat.
5. Take a class or try something new!
Whether you're an athlete, a creative type or just need to burn some energy, you'll find plenty of fun and interesting activities around town Throw axes at wooden targets at Hank's Hatchets, take a yoga or barre class at one of the studios in town, paint pottery or take a class at Stumptown Art Studio, or try indoor rock climbing at RockFish Climbing & Fitness. Ask around and you're sure to find much more!
6. Eat amazing food!
Whitefish has many great places to eat. Downtown you can enjoy classic diner breakfasts, tasty pub burgers and a wide variety of dinner options — Japanese, Thai, Mexican, Cajun, Italian, Mediterranean and more. No matter the occasion or time of day, you're sure to find a satisfying and memorable meal. And remember, restaurants here get busy during the summer months, so call ahead or check their websites in case you need a reservation!
7. Visit the Summit Nature Center!
Bears! Mountain lions! Whitebark pines! Northwest Montana is home to many incredible plants and animals, and you can learn all about them at the U.S. Forest Service's Summit Nature Center located on the bottom floor of the Summit House. Open daily during the summer, the Summit Nature Center is filled with hands-on wildlife exhibits that will fascinate visitors of all ages. Kids can sign up for the Junior Ranger program, and families can take part in ranger-led "discovery walks" each morning or afternoon. There's no better way to discover what makes our mountain ecosystem special.
8. Hit the links!
Book a morning tee time at the world-class Whitefish Lake Golf Club and start your day with 18 holes of golf and picturesque Rocky Mountain scenery. The North and South courses feature tree-lined fairways, bentgrass greens, beautiful bunkers and exceptional views of Whitefish and Lost Loon lakes.
9. Attend a local event!
Check the calendar as you plan your visit! There are plenty of fun events happening in or around Whitefish. The Whitefish Farmers Market, Whitefish Gallery Nights and Whitefish Arts Festival keep downtown bopping throughout the summer. Also check out the Summer Brewfest in Depot Park, an opportunity to sip craft beers from around the region and raise money for the S.N.O.W. Bus, which provides free rides up and down the mountain. And right on the edge of town, the annual Under the Big Sky music festival brings in big names in country, folk and Americana music. Don't miss out!
10. Experience the local art scene!
Whitefish is home to nearly a dozen art galleries displaying many locally crafted masterpieces! Pay them a visit any time, or take a stroll through town on Whitefish Gallery Nights — the first Thursday of each month during the summer and fall — for a dose of creativity as well as complimentary refreshments. On weekends you're sure to find live music at one of the local bars or restaurants, or you can watch a live play or musical at one of the stage theaters in town — the Whitefish Performing Arts Center and the O'Shaugnessy Cultural Arts Center.