SUMMER ACTIVITIES

DAY HIKES

With summer’s arrival in Whitefish, it's time to swap ski poles and boots, for hiking sticks and shoes. Remember: a single can of bear spray should go a long way (keep a can with you every step hiked, bushwhacked or backpacked in NW Montana). Make proper hydration your top consideration. Account for our sporadic summer weather, where a scorching sun can quickly give way to a drenching downpour. Whether your adventurer's eyes are set skyward on the Rockies' lofty peaks, or it's a simple stroll down the riverwalk you desire, prepare accordingly.

Danny On Trail- Whitefish Mountain Resort

The likeminded (and hike-minded) in your group should gather at the Danny On trailhead and ascend the 3.8 miles, to the zenith of Big Mountain. Valley views abound on this moderate hike, where switchbacks wind through pine-shaded patchworks of huckleberry and wildflowers. Rest your legs on the way back by purchasing a one way lift ticket for the ride down.

WhiteFish Legacy Trails

Happy trails to you, from Whitefish Legacy Partners- a community minded non-profit dedicated to recreation, education and conserving the sacred lands around Whitefish. Their conservation effort thus far, has gifted hikers, bikers and equestrians, a 47-mile trail system that encircles Whitefish Lake. Choose and familiarize yourself with the route that will most make your day. https://www.whitefishlegacy.org/maps-conditions

DOWN HILL MOUNTAIN BIKING

The seasons change but adrenaline levels remain constant, for dirt-bike downhillers braving the summer slopes of WMR. Twenty Five miles of gravity-powered downhill mountain biking trails, set above beautiful Flathead Valley are only a scenic, summer lift-ride away.

ZIPLINE

Forest-flyers are cleared for takeoff, to set sail 300 ft above the alpine canopy, across ravines and pristine panoramas, on Montana’s longest zip-line tour.

ALPINE SLED

The community-cherished Whitefish farmers market fills Depot Park every Tuesday evening from mid-May to late September. Reap the bounty of springtime's harvest with fresh produce and meats sold directly from Flathead Valley farmers. At the many other tent stands you'll find local vendors selling soaps, souvenirs, mementos and artwork. Come celebrate our thriving community and inbound Summer days to the sound of live music as Depot Park becomes a food-truck mecca.

GONDOLA RIDES

The community-cherished Whitefish farmers market fills Depot Park every Tuesday evening from mid-May to late September. Reap the bounty of springtime's harvest with fresh produce and meats sold directly from Flathead Valley farmers. At the many other tent stands you'll find local vendors selling soaps, souvenirs, mementos and artwork. Come celebrate our thriving community and inbound Summer days to the sound of live music as Depot Park becomes a food-truck mecca.

FISHING

There are seemingly infinite places to fish located in our area. Below are just a few of the ones we recommend. For an extensive list of options, we recommend checking out the fishing report (www.snappysportsenter.com/blog/category/fishing-report) or visit the local fly shop (www.lakestream.com) for the most up-to-date information.

Abundant rushing waters, brimming with Cutties, Rainbows and Brookies make NW Montana an angler's paradise. Along with chatting up friendly locals at the fly-shop to glean knowledge of secret fishing spots, we recommend visiting https://www.bigskyfishing.com/rivers/northwest-montana which provides information on fishing conditions, locations, species, etc..

Whitefish Lake

Close to home as it is to our hearts, Whitefish Lake was named for the now-allusive native species that once claimed dominion over crystalline waters. For the fishermen trolling the lake these days, lake trout and cutthroats are the species most often tugging at their baited lines.

Tally Lake

Locals agree that campouts at Tally Lake, the deepest natural lake in the state, are a Summer bucket-list must. Hiking and biking trails aplenty weave outdoor enthusiasts to stunning lakeside vistas. Fisherman can test their mettle against the rainbows and cutties that inhabit the waters of Tally.

Upper & Lower Stillwater Lake

Forested islands and thriving bio-diverse bird populations make Stillwater Lake a perfect setting for dropping in a drift boat or fishing from shore. Just North of Whitefish, right off US 93, Upper Stillwater is a favorite for day trips.

Flathead River

The pristine waters of the Flathead River bend and fork through miles of dreamy Montana landscapes. A destination for expert fisherman and nature-loving novices alike, time spent casting the valley's lifeblood waters, is time well spent. When seeking your perfect fishing spot along the legendary Flathead River, plan accordingly but let your heart be your guide. North Fork, Middle Fork, & South Fork.

Whitefish River

The ever-calm, SUP and kayak-friendly Whitefish River is rich in fishing holes, where good-sized trout and pikies are known to congregate.

Local Outfitter (Guided Fly Fishing Trips)

Montana Fly Fishing Experience Chris McCreedy 406-249-1482

Fishing License: https://ols.fwp.mt.gov

WHITEFISH LAKE

City Beach

Launch your boat at the public dock, paddle to the mouth of lazy Whitefish River, or sprawl out on your towel in the grass. With its Big Mountain views, grill-ready gazebos and riverwalk access, visiting City Beach is essential to your visit to Whitefish.

Whitefish Lake State Park

Extend your day-cation and pitch a tent at this low-key campsite nestled in a canopied cove. Starry skies, the scent of pine and the hum of distant trains contribute to the serene lakeside ambience at Whitefish State Park.

Les Mason State Park

Cobblestone beaches, a shaded picnic area and onsite paddle board rentals, make this (very dog friendly) state park a popular spot to picnic, plunge or paddle.

INDOOR ACTIVITIES

The Whitefish Wave Fitness And Aquatic Center

The Wave is your gym away from home. Get a day pass and get access to The Wave's strength training equipment, group fitness classes, lap pool, racquetball courts, sauna and steam room. https://whitefishwave.com

Rockfish Climbing Gym

Stay in peak climbing shape during the winter, bouldering the walls at Whitefish’s only indoor climbing gym.