Northwest Montana
Northwest Montana is the perfect base camp for every lifestyle. If you are an outdoor enthusiast there is rock climbing, hundreds of miles of hiking, mountain biking and cross-country ski trails, epic downhill skiing and so much more! Are you a lover of fine art and fine wine? The communities of Whitefish and Bigfork are known for their art galleries, theaters and fine dining choices! Northwest Montana has something for everyone with wide open spaces in between.
FLATHEAD LAKE
The largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River is an oasis of fun and recreation in Northwest Montana. Recently named one of the cleanest lakes in America, Flathead Lake's crystal clear waters are inviting in the warm summer months and provide world class fishing year round.
Get out on the water - Try a fishing charter or rent a kayak or paddleboard!
GLACIER National Park
Officially known as Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Glacier National Park is located in Northwest Montana, with over 50 miles bordering Canada. The "Crown of the Continent" has been inspiring visitors from around the world for over 100 years since its designation on May 11, 1910. Though it encompasses over one million acres, there are many ways to see much of this amazing natural landscape, with accessibility for everyone.
Since 1933, visitors have been able to traverse through the center of the park by vehicle after the construction of Going-to-the-Sun Road. The 52 mile long road took 12 years to complete and is still considered an engineering marvel. On the west side, the road begins its journey through the park along the shores of Lake McDonald before the steep climb to the Continental Divide at Logan Pass at an elevation of 6,646 feet and then descending into St. Mary's valley and St. Mary Lake to the east entrance of the park. Try one of the iconic Red Bus Tours! Going-to-the-Sun Road is also a favorite for bicyclists, though there are posted times for bicycle travel due to the narrow roads.
There are over 700 miles of trails crossing through all areas of the park, ranging from short and easy to multiple day backpacking treks. Though day hikes are allowed with the entry to the park, visitors must obtain backcountry permits for any overnight excursions. There are many books about different hiking opportunities in Glacier National Park and trail maps are available at park headquarters in West Glacier.
One of the best ways to afford a different view is to get out on the water. With minimal effort, kayaks, canoes and paddleboards can get you a panorama most visitors will never see. There are also boat tours available on Lake McDonald, St. Mary Lake and Two Medicine Lakes. Please note: Beginning in the 2017 season, motorized boats coming from out of the park will no longer be allowed in Glacier National Park due to the threat of invasive species. Hand propelled watercraft will be allowed after inspection.
For more information on Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park please visit the National Park Service's website HERE
epic skiing
Over 300" of snow fall annually blanket the 3000 acre ski paradise at Whitefish Mountain Resort. The summit offers stunning views of Glacier National Park and, on bluebird days, the views reach far into Canada. The "Big Mountain" boasts 105 marked ski runs and 11 chair lifts taking skiers up 2300 vertical feet to those views, marked runs and epic tree skiing adventures.