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The Ultimate Activity Guide

The Ultimate Activity Guide

15 Jul 2025    Things to do in Montana

Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Flathead Valley & Glacier Country

Welcome to our beautiful corner of Montana! Surrounded by towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and charming mountain towns, the Flathead Valley offers endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.

From the breathtaking landscapes of Glacier National Park to the lively streets of Whitefish and Bigfork, this guide highlights some of the best activities and attractions in the area.


🌄 1. Hiking & Outdoor Adventures

Outdoor lovers will feel right at home here. With miles of scenic trails, mountain views, and wildlife sightings, the region is a paradise for hikers and explorers.

Glacier National Park

Often called the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park is a must-see.

  • Avalanche Lake Trail – A favorite among visitors, this scenic hike leads to a stunning alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks.

  • Trail of the Cedars – An easy and family-friendly boardwalk through an ancient cedar forest.

  • Logan Pass Trails – When open, this area offers some of the park’s most spectacular hikes with sweeping mountain views and frequent wildlife sightings.

Whitefish Mountain Resort

While famous for winter skiing, Whitefish Mountain Resort transforms into a summer playground featuring:

  • Scenic chairlift rides with panoramic views

  • Thrilling zip-line tours

  • An exciting alpine slide perfect for families

Lone Pine State Park

Located just outside Kalispell, this peaceful park offers several hiking and biking trails overlooking the beautiful Flathead Valley and Flathead Lake.


🛍️ 2. Local Markets & Shopping

The Flathead Valley is full of local charm, and one of the best ways to experience it is by exploring its markets and downtown shops.

Farmers Markets

Experience a true Montana tradition by visiting one of the area’s vibrant farmers markets.

  • Kalispell Farmers Market (Saturdays) – Fresh produce, handmade crafts, baked goods, and local treats.

  • Whitefish Farmers Market (Tuesdays) – A lively evening market featuring food vendors, artisan products, and live music.

Downtown Shopping

Take a relaxing stroll through the picturesque streets of:

  • Whitefish – Boutique shops, galleries, and unique mountain souvenirs.

  • Bigfork – A charming village filled with art galleries, handmade crafts, and lakeside shops.


🍽️ 3. Food & Dining

Montana’s food scene combines hearty comfort food with locally inspired flavors.

Café & Brunch

Start your day the Montana way with a delicious breakfast or brunch at one of the valley’s cozy local cafés.

Local Favorites

Some must-visit spots include:

  • Tupelo Grille (Whitefish) – A refined dining experience known for its Southern-inspired dishes and upscale atmosphere.

  • Moose’s Saloon (Kalispell) – A legendary Montana establishment famous for its classic pizza and rustic saloon vibe.

And don’t forget to try huckleberry treats, a regional favorite found in everything from ice cream and pies to candies and syrups.


🎭 4. Art & Culture

Beyond outdoor adventures, the Flathead Valley also offers a vibrant arts and cultural scene.

Bigfork Summer Playhouse

This nationally recognized theater hosts professional Broadway-style productions throughout the summer.

Conrad Mansion Museum

Step back in time with a tour of this beautifully preserved 23-room Victorian mansion, once home to Kalispell’s founder, Charles Conrad.

Live Music & Community Events

During summer months, the valley comes alive with music.

  • Picnic in the Park (Kalispell) – Weekly Tuesday concerts where locals gather with blankets and food.

  • Many bars and venues in Whitefish and Bigfork regularly feature live music.


👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 5. Family-Friendly Fun

Traveling with kids? The area offers plenty of activities for families.

Whitefish Mountain Resort

Children and adults alike love the alpine slide, ropes course, and mountain adventures.

Whitefish City Beach

A favorite summer destination featuring:

  • A sandy beach

  • Swimming area

  • Playground

  • Food stand and picnic areas

Big Sky Waterpark

Located in nearby Columbia Falls, this waterpark features slides, a lazy river, and splash zones that make for a perfect summer day.


🎉 6. Seasonal & Annual Events

The Flathead Valley hosts exciting events throughout the year that showcase the region’s lively spirit.

Summer

  • Under the Big Sky Festival (Whitefish) – A major country and Americana music festival drawing visitors from across the nation.

  • Bigfork Festival of the Arts – One of the Northwest’s top art festivals featuring hundreds of artists.

Spring

  • Bigfork Whitewater Festival – Watch kayakers race through the thrilling “Wild Mile” of the Swan River.

Fall

  • Great Northwest Oktoberfest (Whitefish) – Celebrate the season with German food, beer gardens, and lively polka music.

Winter

  • Whitefish Winter Carnival – A beloved tradition featuring parades, skijoring (skiing behind a horse), and the famous Penguin Plunge into Whitefish Lake.


Plan Your Montana Adventure

Whether you're looking for breathtaking hikes, local culture, delicious food, or family-friendly fun, the Flathead Valley offers something for every traveler.

We hope this guide helps you discover the best of our incredible mountain community and makes your stay here even more memorable.

Welcome to Montana — adventure awaits!