Winter Adventures

Nestled in the heart of the Rockies, this charming town offers a perfect blend of pristine wilderness and cozy alpine charm. Renowned for its epic powder, “snow ghost” trees, and diverse terrain, it’s a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re enjoying the après-ski scene and breathtaking scenery or embarking on a snowy adventure, a Whitefish, MT winter promises unforgettable memories. Here are our top winter activities in Whitefish and beyond:

Skiing & Snowboarding

Ready. Set. Ski! Whitefish is the place to be during ski/snowboard season. Whitefish Mountain Resort offers more than 3,000 acres of skiable terrain buried in an average annual snowfall of more than 300 inches. Terrain options include open bowls, groomed trails, gladed trees, and chutes for intermediate, advanced, expert, and beginner level skiers and snowboarders. Located just 15 minutes away, we offer a complimentary shuttle from The Pine Lodge to Whitefish Mountain Resort as well as free community transportation daily via the nearby S.N.O.W. Bus.

Cross-Country Skiing

Strap on some cross-country skis and hit the trails. With miles of groomed trails offering views of Glacier National Park peaks, the Cabinet Mountains and the Swan Mountains, cross-country skiing is an exciting way to get active and experience winter in the Rockies.

The Glacier Nordic Center in Whitefish offers trails groomed for classic and skate skiing, ski rentals, and lessons. A variety of course loops are available for all ability levels.

The more adventurous can explore the wintery landscape of Glacier Park on skis as experts guide you through the vast, pristine wilderness in a way few are able to experience it.

Snowshoeing

Enjoy a Montana adventure on Snowshoes! This activity is family-friendly and fun. Snowshoe the interpretive trails winding through the Viking Creek Wetland Preserve at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake. With trailheads located at Viking Lodge and Viking Creek Cabins, it is the perfect way to stretch your legs after a long flight or meal.

Snowshoe tours offer another opportunity to explore Glacier National Park's scenery. Both ranger led and commercial guide options are available.

Fat Tire Biking

If you know how to ride a bicycle, you can ride a fat tire bike! Extend your cycling season and experience Whitefish on two wheels. Fat bikes have super wide tires to navigate across snow and ice for winter travel. Bikes can be taken on the paths around town, some local groomed cross-country ski trails, and on the fat bike specific groomed trails at Whitefish Bike Retreat.

Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling in Western Montana is an outdoor adventurer’s heaven. Explore the Flathead Valley’s pristine alpine forests, breathtaking ridges and powder-filled bowls on over 200 miles of groomed snowmobile trails. Experienced, knowledgeable guides will take you by frozen waterfalls, through snow covered forests, and beyond!

Snowbiking

Skip the lift lines, leave the trails behind and hop on a Snowbike to explore the backcountry like never before. Easier than snowmobiling and no experience necessary, anyone from 16-years-old on up can enjoy a Snowbike. Snow and safety gear included. Customized tours available.

Backcountry Cat Skiing

Take a full-day, guided backcountry adventure to access your private, personal powder lines in wide open bowls, gladed chutes, and some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. Guests have the opportunity to ski 10,000-14,000 vertical feet per day. Guided adventures are all day and include breakfast and lunch.

Dog Sledding

Whether you desire a leisurely cruise down a snowy trail, or a high adventure expedition, guided dog sledding trips are a unique way to experience winter in Montana. Different trip options allow you to get as involved as you want, whether it is taking the reins or gliding across the snow while wrapped up in cozy blankets. These trips book fast! Plan to reserve well in advance.

Horse-drawn Sleigh or Wagon Rides

Enjoy the magic of a sleigh, drawn by gentle draft horses, while snuggling up with blankets and loved ones. This trip will take you back to a simpler time…a time to relax and let the beauty that surrounds you soothe your soul. Cowboys guide this experience of a magical old fashioned horse-drawn sleigh ride. Chili dinner rides, as well as full campfire dinners are available. When the snow level is low, wagons may be used instead of sleighs.

Ice Fishing

Weather permitting, ice fishing is available daily on beautiful Whitefish Lake overlooking the Whitefish Mountain Range. Fish with experienced guides in the comfort of spacious, heated, fishing shanties. All equipment is included in the rate and all experience levels welcome!

Winter in Glacier National Park

Enjoy Glacier National Park year-round! Explore on your own or with a guide and search for signs of wildlife, discover plants and animals of the park while enjoying the solitude of the winter. Ask about options for guided or self-led cross-country ski and snowshoe adventures in Glacier!