Charming Small Towns | Whitefish, Montana

Tucked away in the picturesque Rocky Mountains and located on the southern shores of Whitefish Lake, you will find the charming small town of Whitefish, Montana. Despite its pristine natural beauty and wonderful small-town setting, it might surprise you to discover they have a host of things to do in Whitefish, Montana, that will make you want to visit. Given its stunning location, Whitefish has a treasure trove of year-round outdoor sports and activities to entertain visitors of all ages.  

Whether you love fly-fishing, golf, skiing, and snowboarding, you’ll never be stuck for what to do in Whitefish when you visit. Known for also staging several outstanding live festivals and events, if you’re looking to escape the bright lights of the big city, then Whitefish, Montana, will provide you with a delightful dose of small-town charm. 

Unwind and Explore at Whitefish Lake 

Whitefish’s most prominent attraction for visitors must be Whitefish Lake, topping many people’s bucket list of things to do in Whitefish, Montana. Here, the turquoise waters of Whitefish Lake are a haven for swimming, boating, and paddleboarding during the summer months and creates the most beautiful natural rink where you can ice skate when the lake freezes over in the winter. 

Whitefish Lake is the ideal spot to enjoy the charms of this small-town community on sunny days. You can soak up the sunshine at Whitefish City Beach or take a leisurely stroll along the shores to revel in the breathtaking views across the lake. Alternatively, if you’re looking for an adventure, you can rent river tubes and kayaks for a relaxing float or paddle from the Whitefish Outfitters & Tours team. 

However, visitorswho come during the cooler winter months to Whitefish, Montana, get to witness how Whitefish Lake transforms into the picture-perfect natural ice skating rink. Whether you’re a beginner or a figure skating pro, a trip to Whitefish Lake is a must during your stay in town. 

Alpine Action on Whitefish Mountain 

If you love high-altitude escapades, there are countless reasons why you must visit Whitefish. For the skiers and snowboarders among you, Whitefish is also home to the Big Mountain ski area, which is why it’s consistently voted one of the best ski towns in North America. 

Featuring a total of 113 named trails and over 3,000 acres of varied terrain, Big Mountain benefits from over 300 inches of snow and tops the list of things to do in Whitefish, Montana, during the winter season. With an excellent Ski and Ride School and equipment hire from Black Tie Ski Rentals, Big Mountain is idyllic for skiers of any standard.   

Fortunately, the fun doesn’t stop when the snow disappears, as Big Mountain reverts into a rugged playground for outdoor enthusiasts. If you’re wondering what to do in Whitefish when you visit, the mountainous layout provides a range of mountain biking and hiking trails. Conversely, scenic chairlift rides or thrilling zip-lining experiences are also available if you’re seeking more relaxed and enjoyable activities. 

Whitefish’s Annual Events and Festivals 

We couldn’t create a guide to Whitefish, Montana, without featuring the many festivals and events held in this charismatic small town in the Rocky Mountains. Celebrating its cultural and musical roots, the annual festivals here become the highlight for residents and visitors alike of things to do in Whitefish, Montana. 

Summertime in Whitefish is bookmarked by two impressive July festivals. The first is the Whitefish Arts Festival, which celebrates its unique Montana art style, where local artists display a range of homemade paintings, sculptures, and pottery. Complimenting this incredible gala of arts is the Under the Big Sky Festival held at Big Mountain Ranch in Whitefish, whose three-day event features live music acts and daring rodeo displays. 

Another fantastic family-friendly festival is the Whitefish Winter Carnival, typically held on the first weekend of February. You’ll have to be brave to participate in the Penguin Plunge, where heroic souls dive into a hole cut into Whitefish Lake for a sub-zero charitable dive. Nevertheless, for those of you who want to keep dry, you can wrap up warm and experience the downtown parade, skijoring horse races, the torchlight parade and fireworks. 

Enjoy the Highs of Whitefish in the Heart of the Rockies 

With so many things to do in Whitefish, Montana, a vacation here any time of year will always be rewarding. You and your family and friends can participate in a wealth of outdoor pursuits and events before you explore the boutique shops and artisan stores in Whitefish’s quaint downtown area. 

Whenever you choose to explore the charming small town of Whitefish, be ready for a good time and enjoy the wealth of activities this mountainous gem provides. Elevate your experience in Whitefish, Montana, by securing a reservation at the exceptional Best Western Rocky Mountain Lodge.