Whitefish Mountain Resort: A dream destination all year round
Located in northwest Montana, Whitefish Mountain Resort is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re a winter skiing enthusiast or a summer hiking enthusiast, this resort offers an unparalleled experience, rooted in a rich history and equipped with modern infrastructure.
Resort overview
Location: Whitefish Mountain Resort is located approximately 11 kilometers north of the town of Whitefish and 56 kilometers west of the world-famous Glacier National Park. Easy access is provided by Glacier Park International Airport, just 29 kilometers away, and the Whitefish Amtrak station, offering convenient transportation options for local and international visitors.
History: Inaugurated in 1947 as “Big Mountain”, the resort has evolved into one of North America’s largest ski areas, with over 3,000 skiable acres. This transformation reflects decades of investment and improvements, while retaining an authentic mountain charm.
Some key features:
- More than 3,000 acres (about 1,200 hectares) of skiable terrain
- A vertical drop of over 700 metres
- 105 marked trails
- 14 ski lifts
- An average of over 7.5 meters of snow per year
Read about Whitefish lift tickets
Seasonal activities at Whitefish Mountain Resort
Winter: A paradise for snow lovers
Skiing and snowboarding: The ski area boasts 111 runs, offering a variety of terrain, from carefully groomed descents to vast bowls and wooded areas ideal for forest skiing. Thanks to an annual average of almost 7.5 meters of snow, conditions are optimal throughout the season.
Night skiing: For a unique experience, the resort offers night skiing on certain nights, offering a different perspective on the snow-covered mountains under a starry sky.
Other winter sports: Apart from skiing, visitors can enjoy activities such as snowshoeing, snowmobiling, dog sledding or even ice fishing. These diverse experiences make Whitefish a must-see destination for winter lovers.
Summer: A natural playground
Hiking and mountain biking: When the snow melts, the slopes turn into trails for mountain biking and hiking. Downhill trails, accessible by chairlift, attract thrill-seeking cyclists, while hikers explore striking panoramas of the surrounding mountains.
Adventure activities: The summer months also offer activities such as zip-line courses, an alpine slide, and scenic chairlift rides. These adventures captivate visitors of all ages, from families to adrenaline junkies.
Facilities and services
Resort village: The village offers a diverse range of accommodations, from budget options to luxury lodges. Amenities include restaurants, bars, a grocery store and recreational programs suitable for children and adults, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all.
Educational center: Located at the summit, an educational center invites visitors to learn more about the mountain environment and the activities available. It’s an excellent opportunity to combine recreation and education.
How do I get from Whitefish to the mountain resort?
There are several options for getting from the town of Whitefish to Whitefish Mountain Resort, whether you have your own vehicle or prefer public transport or shuttle services.
By car
The quickest and most convenient way is by car. Whitefish Mountain Resort is around 11 kilometers (7 miles) from the center of Whitefish, which represents a journey of around 15 minutes by car. Follow these directions:
- From Whitefish, head north on the main road, Wisconsin Avenue.
- Continue on this road, which becomes Big Mountain Road.
- Follow Big Mountain Road to the summit, where you’ll find the resort’s main entrance.
Free shuttles
The resort often offers a free shuttle service during the winter and summer seasons. These shuttles run regularly between downtown Whitefish and the resort, providing easy access for visitors without cars. Check schedules at the Whitefish Tourist Information Center or directly with the resort.
Cabs or VTC services
Local cabs and services like Uber or Lyft are available in Whitefish. This can be a convenient option, especially if you’re traveling in a group or with bulky luggage. Fares generally range from $20 to $30 for this short trip.
By bike or on foot
For adventure-seekers, it’s also possible to cycle or walk to the resort along Big Mountain Road. However, this option is reserved for the more athletic, as the climb can be steep, especially over the last few kilometers.