13 Wonderful Things to Do in Whitefish MT in Summer

Nestled between two national forests in the shadow of Glacier National Park is the charming mountain town of Whitefish, Montana. While it’s best known for its ski resort, these are the best things to do in Whitefish MT in summer.

Home to majestic mountains, big skies, and everything huckleberry, there’s nothing quite like Montana in the summer. The warming temperatures and longer days melt snow into crashing waterfalls and help fill grassy meadows with wildflowers. While one of the best places to observe Montana’s natural beauty is at Glacier National Park, the Flathead Valley to its west is equally stunning. Whitefish is a great central location to explore not only the national park, but also Whitefish Lake State Park, Flathead National Forest, and Flathead Lake. 

Here are my favorite things to do in Whitefish, a charming town of about 8,500 people about 25 miles west of West Glacier in Northwest Montana.

Have You Visited Whitefish, Montana?

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View of lake from Whitefish Mountain gondola

1. Enjoy Summer Activities at Whitefish Mountain Resort

At the top of Big Mountain, Whitefish Mountain Resort has been welcoming skiers for more than 70 years. But if you prefer the mountains in the summer, when the trails are surrounded by colorful wildflowers and curious woodland creatures (instead of snow-packed and filled with skiers), then Whitefish Mountain Resort is the perfect Whitefish attraction for you!

Sage Advice: The altitude of Whitefish, Montana, is over 3,000 feet. If you’re visiting from a lower-altitude place (like where I live in Kansas City), these tips will help you adjust to the higher altitudes. (And get answers to all of your embarrassing altitude sickness questions — like do higher altitudes make you fart — in this related article.)

Start your day at Whitefish Mountain Resort by riding the gondola. You’ll be treated to sweeping views of the valley below and will see Montana’s big blue skies reflected in the crystal waters of glacier-cut lakes. In the summer, chairlifts and gondolas are fitted with bike racks, so you can mountain bike down the ski runs or just sit back and relax on a round-trip ride back to the ski lodge. At the lodge, purchase tickets for the zipline, summer tubing, or alpine slide for more mountaintop fun.

Visit Whitefish Mountain Resort at 3889 Big Mountain Rd, Whitefish, Montana.

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A girl hiking on a mountain trail in Whitefish
Photo Credit: Sage Scott.

2. Hike, Bike, or Run the Whitefish Trail

With 12 trailheads covering more than 40 scenic miles of Northwestern Montana wilderness, the Whitefish Trail is a great way to experience Whitefish in the summer. Hike, bike, or run through cedar groves, along scenic overlooks, and to hidden lakes. And the rush of the Whitefish River bordering the east side of the trail provides a calming sound for hikers and runners, adding to the trail’s allure.  

Whether you plan on hiking in Glacier National Park or in nearby Whitefish, be sure you have the right gear for the conditions. I always pack my KEEN waterproof hiking sandals when I head to Whitefish. They provide all of the comfort of a hiking boot, but with slip-on/slip-off convenience. They are the perfect footwear for splashing in creeks and wading in lakes when I hike in Montana. And they’re a snap to clean. Just add a little bit of laundry detergent, throw them in the wash, and let them air dry!

Flowers on Hiking Trail in Whitefish MT

Regardless of your experience or fitness level, you’re sure to find a trail that works for you in Whitefish. The Swift Creek Trail is a great option for newbies and families with younger children. The Swift Creek Loop is about 1.3 miles long, or you can hike all the way to Smith Lake for a distance of about 2.5 miles. The northwest portion of the trailhead is even wheelchair accessible, making it the perfect fit for anyone with limited mobility or families using a stroller. There are also longer, more challenging trails for those who want to see more of Montana’s rugged beauty.

3. Enjoy the Great Outdoors at Whitefish Lake State Park

A visit to the Whitefish Lake State Park is another summertime favorite with locals and tourists alike. The park is part of the Whitefish hiking and biking trail system, and there is no shortage of things to do as the park offers docks, sandy beaches, breathtaking views, gazebos, designated swimming areas, and picnic spots. Enjoy an amazing day in the great outdoors with a cool splash in the designated swimming areas or a picnic feast surrounded by gorgeous mountain views. 

Sage Advice: Dogs are not allowed in the designated swimming areas, picnic areas, or the city beach, so be sure you leave your furry best friend at home.

ATV Tour in Whitefish MT

4. Jump On An ATV

For an adrenaline rush at altitude, get off the beaten path and deeper into the Montana forests on an ATV. Breathe in the crisp mountain air as you admire gorgeous views and motor past crystal clear lakes. And if you’re lucky, you’ll even spot some wildlife! Book your ATV adventure now!

Sage Advice: Whitefish and the surrounding areas are in bear country. Before you set out to hike, bike, or run, be sure you know these bear safety tips.

5. Spend the Day on Flathead Lake

Just a short drive south of Whitefish, Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi in the contiguous United States. With over 200 square miles of water and 185 miles of shoreline, this sprawling, crystal-clear lake is a beautiful place to swim, fish, paddle, or picnic.

Sage Advice: Here’s a great list of additional things to do in Montana for families.

Statue of train conductor and boy by train

6. Return to Stumptown at the Train Station

Whitefish was founded in the early 1900s when large swaths of the area’s thick forests were cleared to make a flatter route through the Rocky Mountains on the Great Northern Railway. As laborers flocked to the area to work on the railroad or in the timber industry, the town quickly grew around the tree stumps left behind, earning it the nickname Stumptown. However, it was officially named after nearby Whitefish Lake.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, not only is this train station the busiest in Montana, it’s the most frequented Amtrak stop between Seattle and Minneapolis. An average of 170 train passengers board or detrain the Empire Builder line at the Whitefish train station daily. Whether you are riding the rails or not, visiting the Tudor Revival Whitefish Depot is a historic thing to do in Whitefish, Montana.

Located inside the historic train depot is the Whitefish Museum. Established 25 years ago by the Stumptown Historical Society, this one-room exhibit tells the town’s story and its connection to the railway.

Sage Advice: If you are planning a trip to Whitefish and haven’t booked a hotel, check out the #1 rated hotel on Trip Advisor. This beautifully restored 1920s inn in downtown Whitefish includes a three-course breakfast.

A bruck is a unique vehicle that is part bus and part truck

Be sure to also explore the grounds outside. In addition to a restored train engine, you’ll see a restored Bruck. Part bus, part truck, this unique vehicle was designed to take both passengers and cargo the 17 miles from the Whitefish train station to Kalispell. There were only 12 Brucks made, and this one, lovingly restored by the Stumptown Historical Society, is the only one remaining.

You’ll also see a statue of a Rocky Mountain goat, the logo of the Great Northern Railway. Apparently, the hallmark of the railroad company is based on a goat that one of the company’s presidents used to haul newspapers as a boy.

Visit the Whitefish Depot at 500 Depot St, Whitefish, Montana.

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I'd Rather Be in Montana T-Shirt
Photo Credit: The Montana Scene

7. Shop the Downtown Boutiques

Downtown Whitefish offers an assortment of unique boutiques where you can purchase everything from clothing to beauty products to souvenirs.  Stop at The Montana Scene to pick up a locally made gift or garment to take home with you. The Nest Boutique is hailed for its high-quality ladies’ clothing at affordable prices, and Sage & Cedar offers natural, healthy skincare and bath essentials inspired by Montana’s natural beauty.

Baskets of Cherries for Sale

8. Visit the Whitefish Farmer’s Market

If the lure of locally grown produce, fresh baked goods, and handcrafted items isn’t enough, the timing of the Whitefish Farmer’s Market ties it up with a bow. While most farmer’s markets take place on Saturday morning, requiring night owls like me to get up early on a day when I’d rather sleep in, the Whitefish Farmer’s Market is held on Tuesday evenings. Stop by between 5:00 pm and 7:30 pm any week between late May and the end of September to support local farmers, bakers, artisans, and others in and around the Whitefish area.

Visit the Whitefish Downtown Farmer’s Market at Depot Park near the intersection of Central Avenue & Railway in Whitefish, Montana.

9. Wind Down with a Relaxing Spa Treatment

Feel time slow down and tension roll away as you treat yourself to  massages and other spa treatments. Whitefish has several spa facilities offering an array of day spa services such as custom facials, body treatments, and more. 

The Spa at Whitefish Lake offers options for individual and couple treatments, as well as group activities and spa parties. The lodge’s restaurant will tempt you with a delectable menu to complete the day of relaxation. For those into hot stone treatments, Natural Elements Massage & Spa offers free upgrades with your booking. They specialize in couples treatments, making this the perfect spot to visit with your significant other.  

10. Go Fly Fishing

Wide and deep, the rushing water of the Flathead River is one of the most popular fly fishing rivers in the area. It’s a great spot to fish for rainbow and cutthroat trout. Conveniently located near both the Flathead River and Swan River is Wild Trout Adventures, providing top-notch guiding services for first timers and veteran anglers alike. 

Woman holding cup of coffee in her lap - Montana Coffee Traders
Photo Credit: Montana Coffee Traders

11. Get Caffeinated at Montana Coffee Traders

Nearly 40 years ago, Montana Coffee Traders began roasting coffee beans in an old farmhouse in Whitefish. From the Americas to Africa, Montana Coffee Traders buys organic, fair-trade, and shade-grown certified coffees whenever possible. Of course, you’ll find expertly roasted single-bean coffees, like Sumatra and Columbia, but there are also delicious signature blends.

When I visit, I stock up on Buffalo Blend, Montana Blend, and Grizzly Blend. Beyond its full-bodied, dark roast, I love the Grizzly Blend because a portion of all sales helps support grizzly bear habitat. Montana Coffee Traders’s special Whitefish Farmers Market Blend was inspired by and exclusively blended for the Whitefish Farmers Market.

Sage Advice: On Fridays at 10:00 am, Montana Coffee Traders offers tours of its roastery. Reservations are required, and space is limited to just 10 people, so if this is something you want to do when you visit Montana, you’ll want to call 406.862.7628 right away!

In addition to the roastery on Hwy 93, there are three coffee shop locations in and around the area. Visit the Whitefish Coffeehouse at 110 Central Ave or the Montana Coffee Traders cafes in Columbia Falls and Kalispell.

Find Montana Coffee Traders at 5810 Hwy 93 South, Whitefish, Montana, or shop for coffee, tea, and other merchandise from anywhere in the United States via the online store.

Vodka - Spotted Bear Spirits

12. Enjoy an Adult Beverage

Whether you’ve been out on the water or strolling the downtown boutiques, an adult beverage is a lovely way to unwind from the day’s activities. 

Spotted Bear Spirits

Spotted Bear Spirits offers a wide range of homegrown spirits and cocktails. The family-friendly environment allows parents to bring their kids, provided they stay away from the bar. For $20 per person, the staff will take you on an hour-long tour to teach you how their spirits are made, from growing the grains to the final bottled product.

Bonsai Brewing Project

Lovers of high-quality ales will love Bonsai Brewing Project where the brews range from the sweet Lil Blond Honey to the spicy Thangs Change with ginger and habanero. The bar, owned by a lovely couple who grew up in Montana, has exciting events happening all throughout the week, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to mix with the locals. 

Montana Tap House

If the prospect of beer on tap excites you, Montana Tap House is the place to be. The bar has 58 taps of the finest ales and lagers from all over the world. They also serve pizza (classic and specialty), soups and salads, savory snacks, and burgers to go with your brew of choice.

Two filled crepes at Amazing Crepes in Whitefish MT ready to serve
Photo Credit: Amazing Crepes

13. Eat Locally

Summer in Montana means lots of fresh fruit, vegetables, and other farm-fresh ingredients. And there are plenty of dining options in Whitefish to satisfy even the most ravenous appetite.

Loula’s Cafe

Loula’s Cafe is a family-owned restaurant that specializes in home-cooked meals. Fill up for the day on some eggs Benedict or the breakfast patty melt, consisting of patty sausage, over-hard eggs, cheddar, and swiss on grilled sourdough. The French toast is a huge hit and the perfect “starter” to follow up with some of the cafe’s specialty pies. 

Amazing Crepes

Stop for lunch at Amazing Crepes, where the scratch-made crepes have locals coming back for more. If you’re in the mood for something savory, try the turkey, spinach, and brie. For a sweet option, the chocolate banana or pear and almond flavors fit the bill.

Tupelo Grille

Located in the heart of downtown Whitefish, Tupelo Grille brings Southern-inspired cuisine to Big Sky Country, where it mingles with the local flavors for truly unique and incredibly delicious dishes. Be sure to try out the elk meatloaf, which comes with some huckleberry demi-glace, roasted garlic whipped potatoes, and onion rings.

Sweet Peaks has the best huckleberry ice cream!

Sweet Peaks Ice Cream

Nothing says Montana like the state’s unofficial fruit, huckleberries. Although Sweet Peaks serves some of the best huckleberry ice cream in the Western US, there are many other flavors you’ll want to try. 

Related Article: All About Huckleberries

Practical Information About Visiting Whitefish, MT

In addition to these wonderful things to do in Whitefish, MT, here are answers to common questions about this Northwestern Montana town.

Where is Whitefish, Montana?

Located in the northwest corner of Montana, Whitefish is just west of Glacier National Park and about 25 miles north of Kalispell. The town has a population of around 8,500 and is known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and charming small-town atmosphere.

What’s the Weather Like in Whitefish, MT in Summer?

The summer months in Whitefish are just about perfect. From June to August, the average high temperatures range from the mid-70s to low 80s F, with overnight lows dipping into the 50s. While rain is possible, the region is known for its dry and sunny summers. As the weather in Whitefish can vary from day to day, it’s always a good idea to check the local forecast before planning your activities and to build some flexibility into your itinerary.

How Far is Glacier National Park from Whitefish, Montana?

Glacier National Park is approximately 30 miles northeast of Whitefish. The drive from Whitefish to Glacier National Park typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. Its proximity to Glacier National Park makes Whitefish a perfect place to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the park during the day and the comfort of hotels, vacation rentals, restaurants, and bars in the evening.

How Far is Kalispell from Whitefish, Montana?

Kalispell is about 15 miles south of Whitefish. The drive between the two cities will take about 20 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions, making it easy for travelers to explore both cities and their surrounding areas during their visit to Northwestern Montana.

How to Get to Whitefish, Montana

Although Whitefish is located in the northwestern corner of Montana, getting there is easier than you might think. Here are several options:

By Air

Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) is the closest airport to Whitefish. It is located about 15 minutes southeast of downtown Whitefish and is serviced by several airlines,  including Alaska, American, Delta, and United. You can find daily direct flights from major US cities like Denver, Minneapolis, Seattle, and Salt Lake City.

By Car

It’s easy to visit Whitefish by car. The town is just off Highway 93, which runs north-south through the town. If you are coming from the east or west, take Highway 2, which runs through Whitefish as well. If you are driving from Seattle or Portland, take Interstate 90 east to Missoula and then head north on Highway 93.

By Train

One of the most fun and unique ways to visit Whitefish is by train. Amtrak’s Empire Builder line runs through Whitefish, making it a convenient option for travelers coming from Seattle, Portland, Chicago, or other cities along the route. Because the Whitefish Amtrak station is located in downtown Whitefish, it’s just a short walk from the rails to hotels, restaurants, and other shops.

What Airport is Close to Whitefish, Montana?

The closest airport to Whitefish is Glacier Park International Airport (FCA). It’s located approximately 12 miles southeast of Whitefish. 

Does Southwest Fly to Whitefish, Montana?

At this time, Southwest Airlines does not fly to Whitefish. However, you can fly Southwest to Spokane (GEG) and drive about 250 miles to Whitefish, MT.

Does Amtrak Go to Whitefish, Montana?

Yes, Whitefish is served by Amtrak’s Empire Builder route, which runs between Chicago and Seattle. The Whitefish Amtrak station is located at 500 Depot Street and is within walking distance of downtown Whitefish. 

Are there bears in Whitefish, Montana?

Whitefish is located in bear country. While bear encounters are rare, you should take precautions to avoid attracting grizzly bears and black bears when visiting Whitefish and the surrounding areas. And when you hike or camp in the area, it’s important to carry bear spray, make noise while hiking, and properly store food and trash to prevent attracting bears.

Related Article: Be Bear Aware with These Tips to Avoid (and Survive) a Bear Encounter

Where to Stay in Whitefish, Montana

From traditional hotels to bed and breakfast accommodations and vacation rentals, you have many options when finding a place to stay in Whitefish, Montana, including:

Have You Visited Whitefish, Montana, in the Summer?

What did you think of this Northwestern Montana town? What did you do, see, and eat in Whitefish? Share your experiences in the comments section below.

Looking for more information to plan your Montana vacation? Check out my free Montana travel guide to help you plan your trip to Montana including the best time to visit Montana, what to see and do in Montana, the best places to stay in Montana, where to eat in Montana, and more!

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4 thoughts on “13 Wonderful Things to Do in Whitefish MT in Summer”

  1. I drove through Whitefish on Amtrak once and it was beautiful! I’d love to go back to hike around and explore the mountains!

  2. The tubbing slides look like so much fun! Great idea to extend your trip to Glacier National park. Thanks for the tips

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