Whitefish

About Whitefish Mountain Resort

If affordability and minimal crowds top your list of vacation “must haves,” then a vacation Whitefish ski resort is a no-brainer. Located in the picturesque town of Whitefish, Montana, the resort offers over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain with 113 marked trails, and an average annual snowfall of 300 inches. The resort's terrain is well-balanced with 12% beginner, 38% intermediate, and 50% advanced runs. With three terrain parks and night skiing available on select runs, Whitefish Mountain Resort provides a diverse skiing experience.

Budget hotels and condos may dominate the Whitefish lodging options, but that doesn't mean Whitefish isn’t bursting with top-notch experiences and warm service. The town, with its quaint shops and cozy restaurants, offers a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. The historic downtown area is a great place to explore, with its unique boutiques, art galleries, and a variety of dining options that cater to all tastes. Visitors can also enjoy the beauty of the surrounding Glacier National Park, which offers additional recreational activities such as hiking, snowshoeing, and sightseeing.

With its stunning natural beauty, welcoming community, and extensive range of activities, Whitefish has a feeling of exclusivity—like it’s your own hidden treasure that you don’t want anyone else to ever discover. Plus, on a clear day, there’s no better place to take photos.

How to get to Whitefish Mountain Resort

Getting to Whitefish Mountain Resort is straightforward. Fly into Glacier Park International Airport in Kalispell, Montana (FCA), just a 19-mile scenic drive from the resort. The airport offers numerous direct flights from major cities, ensuring easy access for travelers. Shuttle services, rental cars, and taxis are available to transport you to Whitefish Resort.

Navigating Whitefish is convenient with a complimentary shuttle service that connects the resort’s lodges, lifts, and village areas. The S.N.O.W. Bus offers transportation between Whitefish Resort and Whitefish town.

Skiing in Whitefish Mountain Resort

Whitefish skiing offers experts incredible access as well, via all three zones: Frontside, Northside and Hellroaring Basin. Experts get to experience all of the terrain on the two backside areas, from the sustained glades in Northside’s Window Pane and the steep pitch on Bighorn. 

Those in search of extreme terrain will be pleased with Hellroaring Basin’s offering, especially Picture Chutes. Whitefish also offers beginners backside access. Newbies can explore the Northside zone via Caribou trail, the lone green run in that area. And with Whitefish’s nominal crowds, first-time skiers can feel comfortable learning a new skill without worrying about passersby.

Beginner Skiing in Whitefish:

Ideal for first-time skiers, the Magic Carpet area provides a gentle slope with a conveyor lift, making it easy for beginners to get comfortable on the snow. This area is perfect for learning the basics of skiing or snowboarding in a safe and controlled environment.

If you’re ready to up your game, Chair 6 is designed for beginners who are ready to move beyond the very basic slopes. The runs here are wide and not too steep, allowing new skiers to practice their turns and gain confidence. The First Time Lesson Package is tailored for absolute beginners and includes a full day of lessons, equipment rentals, and a beginner-area lift ticket. It’s an excellent way for newcomers to get started with skiing or snowboarding under the guidance of professional instructors at the Ski & Ride School.

Ski Schools and Tours:

The Ski & Ride School at Whitefish Mountain Resort offers comprehensive lessons for all ages and skill levels. Whether you're a first-time skier or an experienced rider looking to enhance your skills, the school provides both group and private lessons. 

Kids can start at the Kids Center with programs designed for ages 3-6, while juniors aged 7-14 can join group lessons with peers of similar abilities. The Toyota First Time Lesson Package is perfect for beginners, including a day of lessons, equipment rentals, and a beginner-area lift ticket. Adaptive programs are also available for those with disabilities, ensuring an inclusive experience for all.

Expert Skiing in Whitefish:

The Hellroaring Basin area is known for its challenging terrain and is ideal for advanced skiers. It features steep runs and deep powder, providing an exhilarating experience for those looking to test their skills. The area includes a mix of tree skiing and open bowls, offering a variety of terrain options. 

Located near the summit, East Rim offers a combination of intermediate and advanced runs. Skiers can enjoy long, groomed trails as well as more challenging steeps and moguls. This area provides stunning views and a thrilling skiing experience. Accessible from the Summit House, Big Face is another favorite among advanced skiers. It features steep pitches and is often less crowded, making it a great spot for those seeking a more intense run, while the Flower Point section of the mountain offers a mix of intermediate and advanced terrain. 

The runs here are well-groomed, with some areas offering steeper pitches and tree skiing. It’s a great place for intermediate skiers looking to step up their game. Known for its wide-open terrain and deep snow, North Bowl Face is perfect for advanced skiers. The area offers a variety of lines and is a great spot for those looking to experience untouched powder.

Family vacations in Whitefish Mountain Resort

Whitefish Mountain Resort is not just about skiing. Families can enjoy a variety of winter activities, including snowshoeing, tubing, and fat biking. The resort’s Base Lodge is a hub of activity, offering a cozy place to warm up, grab a hot chocolate, and share stories from the day’s adventures.

Just a short drive from the resort, the town of Whitefish offers a charming, welcoming atmosphere with plenty to see and do. Stroll down Central Avenue to explore local shops, enjoy a family meal at one of the many restaurants, or catch a movie at the historic theater. The town’s friendly vibe makes it a perfect complement to your mountain adventures.

One of the best-kept secrets of Whitefish is its uncrowded slopes. Even during peak season, you’ll find plenty of space to ski and play, without the long lift lines and crowded runs you might find at other resorts. More time on the slopes means more family fun!