Western Montana's Glacier Country

FAMILY DAY TRIPS ON THE WEST SIDE

FAMILY DAY TRIPS ON THE EAST SIDE

ADULT DAY TRIPS ON THE WEST SIDE

Coram, Hungry Horse, Columbia Falls: 10 miles

Begin the day with a farm visit at Goats of Glacier in Coram or experience strange phenomena at the Montana Vortex and House of Mystery in Columbia Falls.

For lunch, head to The Huckleberry Patch in Hungry Horse, where you'll find plenty of options for the whole family at Patch's Alpine Grill. Choose from burgers (including elk and bison), sandwiches, wraps, salads and finger foods, plus a kids menu. Top off lunch with huckleberry pie or a huckleberry shake.

Spend a thrilling afternoon in an outdoor adventure park, like Glacier Ziplines in Columbia Falls or the Amazing Fun Center and Glacier Highline in Coram. You'll find high-flying fun, waterparks, pools, go-karts and more.

After a day of outdoor play, make your way to Backslope Brewing in Columbia Falls for some finely crafted Montana beer and excellent eats. The kids will love drinking a "fizzy," created with house-made flavored syrups.

Whitefish

Spend the day at Whitefish Mountain Resort—it’s so much more than a winter ski destination. In the summer, take your pick of zipline tours, an aerial adventure park and the alpine slide.

Don't miss a scenic ride on the chairlift for views of Whitefish Lake, the Flathead Valley and Glacier National Park.

Before you head back down the mountain, grab some lunch at the Summit House—a mountaintop eatery and bar with amazing views. (Summer hours are early June through Labor Day and the kitchen stops serving food by 3:30 p.m.)

Take a post-lunch hike back down the mountain on the 3.8-mile Danny On Memorial Hiking Trail, then head downtown to shop local stores, and find yourself at Thirty Eight, a local gathering spot for drinks, food and live music during the summer. Everyone will love the extensive food menu, and the adults will enjoy the well-crafted local beer.

Bigfork

In Bigfork, grab breakfast at Pocketstone Café—the cinnamon rolls are not to be missed. Then walk downtown to explore local art galleries, shops and boutiques, including a stop by Mady & Max children's boutique. From downtown you can take a walk on the Swan River Nature Trail, which begins with a stretch alongside rushing whitewater known as the "Wild Mile," then travels for another mile along a calmer stretch.

Have lunch on the lakeside deck at The Sitting Duck and enjoy Flathead Lake views as well as a burger or salad. For the kids, you'll find hot dogs and chicken nuggets.

After lunch, visit nearby Wayfarers State Park—one of many park units in the Flathead Lake State Park system. The rocky cliffs along the shoreline provide excellent views of Flathead Lake. Jump in for a family swim or gear up for an afternoon paddle on Flathead Lake. Rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards from Base Camp Bigfork.

For great food and award-winning Montana brews, head to Flathead Lake Brewing Company and grab dinner at their Pubhouse. Time your visit to catch a play at the Bigfork Summer Playhouse, which puts on Broadway caliber theater.

Kalispell

Begin the day with a refreshing hike on the trails at Lone Pine State Park, where you'll find idyllic views of the Flathead Valley. On a clear day, you can also see Big Mountain, the Jewel Basin and Glacier National Park.

Now that you've worked up an appetite, grab some lunch at Norm's Soda Fountain—the only old-fashioned soda fountain in the Flathead Valley—and shop the selection of more than 800 kinds of candy. Take note—their motto is "Eat Dessert First."

Spend the afternoon at Woodland Park, Kalispell's oldest city park, and let the kids work off that sugar high at Woodland Water Park.

Make it a pizza night at Moose's Saloon (yes, kids can visit a Saloon in Montana). Moose's has been serving up their world-famous pizza for decades. People come from far and wide to enjoy this legendary pie, and kids love the novelty of the sawdust floor.

West Glacier, Columbia Falls: 19 miles

Enjoy a half-day fly-fishing trip with Glacier Anglers & Outfitters, Glacier Guides and Montana Raft, Glacier Raft Company, Great Northern Fly Fishing Guides or Wild River Adventures in West Glacier.

After a morning on the water, make your way to Backslope Brewing in Columbia Falls for incredible local beer and delicious food. We recommend the Crooked Wind IPA and a pita.

Next, relax and unwind with a spa treatment at Meadow Lake Resort in Columbia Falls, or get on the green for a round of golf on their 18-hole course.

Top off the day with drinks and dinner at Gunsight Saloon in Columbia Falls. If a wine tasting is more your style, visit White Raven Winery, also in Columbia Falls.

Whitefish

Rent bikes and pedal the Whitefish Trail or rent stand-up paddleboards and paddle Whitefish Lake. Whitefish Outfitters offers a wide range of rentals.

For lunch, make your way to Bonsai Brewing Project's outdoor beer garden. Their menu consists of thoughtfully house-made comfort food and small-batch brews.

Next up, get your shop on in downtown Whitefish, where you'll find quaint boutiques and galleries. Look for items made by local farmers and craftspeople.

For dinner, you can't go wrong at Abruzzo Italian Kitchen. This Whitefish gem serves wood-fired pizza and scratch-made pasta along with a great “wine by the glass” list to pair with your choice. We recommend the Carbonara pizza or the Wild Boar Ragu. For food truck fun, head to Thirty Eight, where you’ll find delicious outdoor eats, drinks and live music.

Close out the evening with some live entertainment—if you time it right, take in a show at Alpine Theatre Project or Whitefish Theatre Company. For live music, head to The Great Northern Bar & Grill.

Bigfork

Explore this vibrant village on the northeast corner of Flathead Lake. Downtown Bigfork is known for its shops and art galleries. Or, hike Mount Aeneas, the highest peak in the Flathead National Forest. It's a 6.3-mile round trip, so plan accordingly and enjoy the views.

You'll need a hearty meal after that hike, so head to Echo Lake Cafe where they serve lunch and breakfast until mid-afternoon.

After you've filled up, rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards from Base Camp Bigfork and spend the afternoon paddling Flathead Lake, taking in the sparkling water, warm sunshine and spectacular views.

Cap off your day with drinks at Whistling Andy Distillery and have dinner at Bonfire, where the seasonal menu never disappoints.

Kalispell

Gear up for a morning bike ride. Rent a mountain bike from Wheaton's Cycle and ride the trails in the Foys to Blacktail Trails system. You'll find multiple routes to choose from.

Unwind with lunch and beers on the rooftop patio at Bias Brewing overlooking historic downtown Kalispell with views of the Swan Mountains.

Post ride, wind down with a glass of wine at Waters Edge Winery & Bistro—a full-production urban micro-winery sourcing grapes from all over the world.

Flathead Lake Loop: 104 miles

Start the day off right at Bonjour Bakery & Bistro in Kalispell, where French sophistication meets Montana hospitality. You can't go wrong, but the Bacon and Egg Danish is a must.

Explore the vibrant village of Bigfork situated at the northeastern corner of Flathead Lake. Here you'll find a quaint downtown with eclectic shops and multiple art galleries.

Head south along the lake to Polson, and have lunch at Mackenzie River Pizza Company, a local favorite for their unique pizzas, salads, burgers and more, including the must-try Lodgepole starters.

Spend your afternoon one of three ways: Explore downtown Polson and walk along one of several beaches in this lakefront community; from Lakeside, take a boat cruise on Flathead Lake with Far West Boat Tours; or take a boat ride to Wild Horse Island State Park with Big Arm Boat Rentals and Rides.

Make your way back to Kalispell for a BBQ dinner at Desoto Grill.

St. Mary, Babb, Browning: 96 miles

Begin the day in St. Mary Lake and head south on U.S. Highway 89 toward Browning. Passing through Kiowa Junction.

Make a stop at Kyiyo Bakery & Mercantile for a sweet treat before continuing to Browning.

Once in Browning, visit the Museum of the Plains Indian or view art at the Lodgepole Gallery. For souvenirs and American-Indian-made finds, shop at Faught's Blackfeet Trading Post and Western Curios.

From Browning, travel north on Montana Highway 464 to Babb.

In Babb, fish Duck Lake for brown, bull and rainbow trout (note that a tribal permit is needed) or drive Chief Mountain International Highway for breathtaking views. Turn around after approximately 20 miles at the Canada border. Access to Chief Mountain is reserved for tribal members only, but the view alone is worth the drive.

Stop at Thronson's General Store for last-minute supplies.

For dinner, head to Two Sisters Cafe in Babb for hand-made food made with locally sourced ingredients. Don't miss the huckleberry pie! (Note: They serve dinner only.) You can also head back to St. Mary for dinner at Johnson's of St. Mary.

East Glacier Park, Browning: 25 miles

In East Glacier Park, play a round of golf at the historic Glacier Park Lodge or go just to marvel at the impressive architecture. Visit The Clarke Gallery in East Glacier Park to experience the vibrant culture and artistic legacy of the Blackfeet Nation firsthand. Find contemporary and traditional art, oil paintings, beadwork, bronze sculptures and more created by local and national Tribal artists.

From there, drive to Browning, stopping along the way at the Blackfeet Nation Bison Reserve viewing area on U.S. Highway 2 for a glimpse of the tribe's free-roaming bison.

Get to know the history and culture of the Northern Plains tribes on a cultural workshop hike with Iron Shield Creative out of Kyiyo Bakery & Mercantile at Kiowa Junction.

Plan on eating dinner back in East Glacier Park at Serrano's Mexican Restaurant, or drive south on U.S. Highway 2 for an unforgettable steak dinner at Summit Mountain Lodge Steakhouse.

Cut Bank, Browning, East Glacier Park: 58 miles

Begin your day with a hike along the scenic Cut Bank Creek Coulee via the Cut Bank Trail System.

Then explore downtown Cut Bank and keep an eye out for the murals that commemorate the town's history. Time your visit to coincide with the Wednesday afternoon farmers market.

Shop at Marketplace on Main, then step into the past at the Glacier Historical Museum and Archive, which includes exhibits on the Marias School, Maltby Homestead, an oil worker's house, mercantile, miniature farm, an oil rig and several vehicles.

Afterward, make your way to Browning and explore the Blackfeet culture with a stop at the Museum of the Plains Indian. View contemporary art at Lodgepole Gallery and explore souvenirs and American Indian-made finds at Faught's Blackfeet Trading Post and Western Curios. Time your trip for Native American Indian Days in July to experience a Blackfeet powwow.

From Browning, take U.S. Highway 89 to the scenic Looking Glass Road (State Highway 49) south to East Glacier Park, with a stop at the Kyiyo Bakery & Mercantile for some fresh baked goods. Dine at Glacier Park Lodge's Great Northern Dining Room.

BABB

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Babb is located on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. If you plan to recreate (camp, fish, hunt, hike, boat) on tribal land, you will need a tribal permit. Visit Blackfeet Nation Fish & Wildlife for more information.

Drink + Eat Local

Grab dinner at Two Sisters Café, a roadside eatery that's been satisfying diners for more than 25 years.

Shop (Tax Free!)

Shop for necessities and souvenirs at the locally-owned and nearly century-old Thronson's General Store.

Outdoor Adventures

Buy a tribal permit and fish Duck Lake, known for unusually large brown and rainbow trout.

Lodging

Spend the night in a tipi at Chewing Black Bones Campground.
Book a room at Duck Lake Lodge for easy fishing access to Duck Lake.

BIGFORK

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Visitor Information

Bigfork Chamber of Commerce | 8155 State Highway 35, Bigfork | 406.837.5888

Arts + Culture

Take in a show at Bigfork Summer Playhouse, the finest live professional repertory theater in the northwest.
Go on a gallery stroll; Bigfork has a surprising array of art galleries.

Drink + Eat Local

Taste award-winning craft brews at Flathead Lake Brewing Company.
Tour Whistling Andy Distilling and sample The Spirit of Sperry, their huckleberry-flavored vodka with a name inspired by Glacier National Park's Sperry Chalet.
Pair your meal with Flathead Lake views at The Raven or The Sitting Duck
Enjoy wine tastings and small plates at Woods Bay Wine.
Eat a hearty breakfast or lunch at Echo Lake Café.

Shop (Tax Free!)

Shop downtown for unique jewelry, artwork, clothing and gifts.
Find local stones, gems, agates and more at Kehoe's Agate Shop.

Outdoor Adventures

Hike to the top of Mount Aeneas, or explore one of many other trails in the Jewel Basin.
See the "Wild Mile" of the Swan River by walking the 2-mile Swan River Nature Trail.
Go paddle boarding or kayaking on Swan Lake or at Wayfarers State Park.
Check with the Swan Lake Ranger District to find out more about nearby recreational opportunities in the Flathead National Forest.
Picnic at Carlyle Johnson Park or Sliter's Park, both in Bigfork.
Rent kayaks, paddleboards or mountain bikes from Base Camp Bigfork.
Embark on a world-class fly-fishing trip with Wild Trout Adventures.
Add some adrenaline to your summer with jet ski and ski boat rentals from Narrow Path Adventures.

BROWNING

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Browning is located on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. If you plan to recreate (camp, fish, hunt, hike, boat) on tribal land, you will need a tribal permit. Visit Blackfeet Nation Fish & Wildlife for more information.

Arts + Culture

Learn about the history and culture of area tribes at the Museum of the Plains Indian.
Admire Plains Indian artwork at Lodgepole Gallery.

Drink + Eat Local

Fill up on treats at Kyiyo Bakery & Mercantile, located about 13 miles outside of town.

Shop (Tax Free!)

Shop unique and Native-made goods at Faught's Blackfeet Trading Post and Western Curios.

Indoor Experiences

Play more than 300 slots at Glacier Peaks Casino.

Outdoor Adventures

Stop at the viewing area on U.S. Highway 2 to look for free-roaming bison on the Blackfeet Nation Bison Reserve.
Listen to traditional stories and learn about the landscape on a hike led by Blackfeet guides from Iron Shield Creative.

COLUMBIA FALLS

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Visitor Information

Discover Columbia Falls +
Columbia Falls Area Chamber of Commerce | 233 13th St. E., Columbia Falls | 406.892.2072

Drink + Eat Local

Stop for lunch, dinner or drinks at Backslope Brewing.
Swing into White Raven Winery for a wine tasting.
Enjoy locally sourced, handcrafted Montana ice cream at Sweet Retreat Creamery or Farm to Table Ice Cream.
Grab a bite at The Rendezvous, a local favorite for their Montana-inspired cocktails and unique menu, plus live music on Fridays and Saturdays.
Check out The Nite Owl and Back Room known for their BBQ, classic diner fare and Montana hospitality.

Family Fun

Take on a treetop adventure with unforgettable views from Glacier Ziplines.
Don't miss out on family fun at Montana's largest waterpark, Big Sky Waterpark.
Experience the anomaly for yourself at Montana Vortex and House of Mystery.
Looking for a good old-fashioned swimming pool? Visit City of Columbia Falls Aquatic Center.
Enjoy the large playground at Marantette Park.
Cast a line in the Family Fishing Pond or stroll along the Flathead River at River's Edge Park.
Check out Camp Scout + Gather for mini golf and mercantile shopping—there's something for the whole crew at this stop.
Visit the new Columbia Falls Skate Park at Fenholt Park for wheels and tricks in a community-designed space.

Outdoor Adventures

Trek to the summit of Columbia Mountain or make your turn around point at one of three waterfalls along the way.
Explore trails in the Flathead National Forest.
Go green at the "must play" Meadow Lake Golf Course.
Enjoy picturesque Montana fly-fishing and rafting on the Flathead River.
Bike the 3-mile Columbia Falls River Trail along the Flathead River.
Contact the Hungry Horse-Glacier View Ranger Station for more information on recreational activities in the Flathead National Forest.
Hike the park with expert-led programming from The Glacier Institute, including educational hikes, private tours and kids programs.
Try the Cedar Flats trail system for hiking, biking and views, with 25 miles of terrain to explore.
Gear up for a guided fly-fishing trip or simply get outfitted for your angling adventure at Lary's Fly and Supply

CORAM

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Visitor Information

Columbia Falls Area Chamber of Commerce | 233 13th St. E., Columbia Falls | 406.892.2072

Drink + Eat Local

Savor handcrafted whiskey and spirits "so close to Glacier you can taste it!" at Glacier Distilling.

Family Fun

Discover family fun at the Amazing Fun Center with a maze, go-karts, mini-golf, bumper boats and bankshot basketball.
Experience a working farm and goat yoga at Goats of Glacier.

Outdoor Adventures

Get an adrenaline rush at Glacier Highline, an aerial adventure park offering 50 activities.
Bicycle 7 miles to West Glacier on the Gateway to Glacier Trail.
Rent e-bikes, paddleboards, kayaks or floatzillas from Sky Eco Rentals.
Explore Hungry Horse Recreation Area on an ATV or UTV from Glacier Ridge Runners.
Contact the Hungry Horse-Glacier View Ranger Station for more information on recreational activities in the Flathead National Forest.
Take a 7-zipline canopy tour with Glacier Ziplines.
Fly fish the Flathead River with Wild Montana Anglers.

CUT BANK

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Visitor Information

Cut Bank Area Chamber of Commerce | 59 Golf Course Road | 406.873.4041

Arts + Culture

Step back in time at the 14-acre Glacier County Historical Museum and Archive with the option to spend the night in a historic caboose, oil worker's house or homestead house.
Learn about the Cut Bank Army Airfield's role in World War II at the Airmen's Museum.
Take a stroll around town to view the murals that celebrate Cut Bank's history.

Shop (Tax Free!)

Shop handmade local goods at Marketplace on Main.

Family Fun

Buy tickets for a scenic roundtrip train ride on Amtrak's Empire Builder from Cut Bank to Whitefish, skirting the southern border of Glacier National Park.
Take the kids to the playground at City Park.

Outdoor Adventures

Hike the Cut Bank Trail System along the scenic Cut Bank Creek Coulee.

EAST GLACIER PARK

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East Glacier Park is located on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. If you plan to recreate (camp, fish, hunt, hike, boat) on tribal land, you will need a tribal permit. Visit Blackfeet Nation Fish & Wildlife for more information.

Visitor Information

East Glacier Park Chamber of Commerce | 909 State Highway 49 N. | 406.226.4403

Arts + Culture

Visit The Clarke Gallery to view works from internationally renowned wood carver and local Blackfeet tribesman, John L. Clarke.
Wander around the architecturally stunning Glacier Park Lodge, a historic hotel built in 1913 by the Great Northern Railway.

Drink + Eat Local

Try bison tacos at Serrano's Mexican Restaurant, a classic East Glacier Park eatery.

Outdoor Adventures

Play the nine holes named after Blackfeet Indian chiefs at Glacier Park Lodge Golf Course, the oldest grass greens course in Montana.
Contact the Rocky Mountain Ranger District for more information on recreational opportunities in the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest.

ESSEX

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Visitor Information

Columbia Falls Area Chamber of Commerce | 233 13th St. E., Columbia Falls | 406.892.2072

Drink + Eat Local

Moose-watch from the deck of Summit Mountain Lodge & Steakhouse while enjoying local beef and views of Glacier National Park.

Outdoor Adventures

Indulge your inner cowboy or cowgirl on a week-long cattle drive with Bear Creek Guest Ranch.
Take a horseback ride into the Great Bear Wilderness with Snowy Springs Outfitters.
Hike 4 miles round-trip to Stanton Lake in the Great Bear Wilderness.
Scan for mountain goats at the nearby Goat Lick Overlook.
Visit the Walton Ranger Station for more information on nearby recreational opportunities.

HUNGRY HORSE

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Visitor Information

Columbia Falls Area Chamber of Commerce | 233 13th St. E., Columbia Falls | 406.892.2072

Arts + Culture

Visit Montana's highest dam: Hungry Horse Dam and Visitor Center.

Drink + Eat Local

Indulge in huckleberry pie at The Huckleberry Patch, Montana's first huckleberry cannery.
Dig into lunch or dinner at family-friendly Tex & Jerry’s Eatery.

Outdoor Adventures

Drive the 120-mile scenic loop around Hungry Horse Reservoir.
Camp, boat or hike: recreation abounds!
Take a stroll around Lion Lake. Look—and listen—for loons.
Head out for huckleberry picking, a quintessential Montana experience.
Kayak or paddleboard Hungry Horse Reservoir.
Contact the Hungry Horse Ranger District for more information about recreational opportunities in the Flathead National Forest.

Lodging

Stay at Timberwolf Resort, with camping accommodations from tent and RV sites to rustic cabins and lodge rooms.

KALISPELL

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Visitor Information

Discover Kalispell Visitor Information Center| 2 S. Main St., Suite 205, Kalispell | 406.758.2811

Arts + Culture

Visit Conrad Mansion Museum for a slice of history and railroad-glory-days architecture. The mansion offers docent-guided and self-guided tours, as well as special events throughout the year.
See rotating exhibits and the museum's permanent collection (including Glacier National Parks' art and culture) at the Glacier Art Museum.
Catch an event, concert or play at the Wachholz College Center. While you're there, be sure to visit the Wanda Hollensteiner Art Gallery, with rotating exhibits on display.
Learn the local history through interactive exhibits for the entire family at the Northwest Montana History Museum.
Stroll downtown Kalispell on a walking tour.

Drink + Eat Local

Enjoy Kalispell's array of culinary offerings, including breweries, restaurants and coffee shops.
Wet your whistle at Bias Brewing, SunRift Beer Company, Sacred Waters Brewery, MontaVino Winery, Waters Edge Winery, KM Bar, Moose's Saloon or Big Mountain Cider Works.
Stroll through downtown and be greeted by mouthwatering offerings. Fill up on pastries at Ceres Bakery, pizza at Moose's Saloon, bison ribeye at Mercantile Steak, BBQ at DeSoto Grill or ice cream at Norm's Soda Fountain.

Shop (Tax Free!)

Visit downtown Kalispell's shops and boutiques for made-in-Montana items, cowboy boots, clothing, outdoor gear, jewelry and souvenirs.
Browse downtown Kalispell's Main Street and don't miss Western Outdoor, The Toggery, Princess & Buck, Lyon and Pearle, Sage & Cedar, Sassafras and The MOD Hive.

Outdoor Adventures

Plan to paddle, boat or fish the waters of Flathead Lake, located a 10-minute drive from downtown Kalispell. Guided recreation is available on the lake, as well as numerous state and public parks that provide access to its glacial-fed waters.
Take an airplane or helicopter scenic tour with Red Eagle Aviation.
Learn more about Kalispell's farm and flower experiences with a visit to Two Kay's Flower Farm, Plant Land or Longview Lavender Farm. Be sure to check out the Kalispell Farmers Market, too.
Get a bird's-eye view of the entire valley—and hit the trails—at Lone Pine State Park.
Explore Foy's to Blacktail Trails at Herron Park—only 10 minutes from town. Dog and mountain-bike friendly.
Bike from downtown Kalispell to Flathead Lake on the paved, accessible, nonmotorized "Rails to Trails" Parkline Trail. Rentals available at Wheaton's Cycle.
Rent kayaks from Sportsman & Ski Haus and paddle Foys Lake, just minutes from downtown Kalispell.
Learn how to fly fish with True Water Fly Shop.
Reserve an LED-lit sunset kayak tour with Rocky Mountain Glass Kayaks.
Go tandem skydiving with Skydive Glacier Country.

LAKESIDE / SOMERS

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Visitor Information

Lakeside and Somers Chamber of Commerce | 7191 U.S. Highway 93, Lakeside | 406.844.3715

On the Lake

Cast a line from a chartered fishing boat, like Hooked on Montana.
Play on the water with kayaking and SUP rentals/tours.
Take a cruise with Far West Boat Tours.
Access the lake at Somers Bay, Somers Beach State Park, Flathead Harbor, Volunteer Park and West Shore State Park.

Around the Lake

Ride the Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster.
Visit Longview Lavender Farm and pick up some lavender oil, bundles, hydrosol or sachets.
Stop by an orchard to pick famous Flathead Cherries, or find a roadside stand.
Bike from Somers to Kila on the paved Great Northern Historical Trail.
Stretch your legs at Lakeside Community Park.
Contact the Flathead National Forest for more information on recreational opportunities near Somers and Lakeside.
Shred the trails at Legacy Bike Park (experienced mountain bikers only).
Book a sauna and cold plunge session at The Cabins at Blacktail.

Drink + Eat Local

Relax with a craft beer on Tamarack Brewing's creekside patio.

Lodging

Get cozy in a cabin, motel or RV site at Flathead Harbor Resort.
Tuck in for the night among the peace and quiet of The Cabins at Blacktail.

MARTIN CITY

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Visitor Information

Columbia Falls Area Chamber of Commerce | 233 13th St. E., Columbia Falls | 406.892.2072

Outdoor Adventures

Take the East Side Reservoir Road #38 and drive part or all of the loop around Hungry Horse Reservoir.
Contact the Hungry Horse-Glacier View Ranger Station for more information about recreational opportunities in the Flathead National Forest.

POLEBRIDGE

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Visitor Information

Columbia Falls Area Chamber of Commerce | 233 13th St. E., Columbia Falls | 406.892.2072

Drink + Eat Local

Stop at the Polebridge Mercantile & Bakery and try a huckleberry bear claw. Stock up on trip essentials and Montana-made souvenirs and rent outdoor gear.
Drink, dine and listen to live music on the lawn of the Northern Lights Saloon.
Enjoy some time at Home Ranch Bottoms with freshly squeezed huckleberry margaritas, food and live music through their annual summer concert series.

Outdoor Adventures

Hike in the Glacier View Ranger District offering many different hiking opportunities, including Demers Ridge/Glacier View Mountain.

Lodging

Stay at the off-the-grid North Fork Hostel & Square Peg Ranch and meet visitors from all over the world.
Rent the Ben Rover Forest Service cabin.

POLSON

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Polson is located on the Flathead Indian Reservation. If you plan to recreate (camp, fish, hunt, hike, boat) on tribal land, you will need a tribal permit. Visit CSKT Wildland Recreation for more information.

Visitor Information

Polson Chamber of Commerce | 402 First St. E., Suite 102, Polson | 406.883.5969

Arts + Culture

Visit the Miracle of America Museum and explore the vast collection—340,000 and counting—of Americana curiosities.
At the Sandpiper Gallery and hand MADE Montana, shop for local art, pottery, jewelry and other gifts and handmade items.
Top off a day on the lake with a live performance by the Port Polson Players inside a 1938 log theater on the lakeshore.

Drink + Eat Local

If you're visiting in July, you can't miss the region’s famous Flathead cherries; grab them at a roadside stand, U-Pick farm or during the Polson Main Street Flathead Cherry Festival.
Find artisan cheeses handmade in small batches at Flathead Lake Cheese.
Try some of the finely crafted local beer on tap at Glacier Brewing Company.
Grab a bite to eat on the lakeshore at Finley Point Grill, serving up steaks, seafood and other mouthwatering entrees, and touting a robust wine list.
Grab burgers at Richwine's Burgerville, known for its 100% bull hamburgers, which they've been serving for more than 50 years.
Find blues, booze and barbecue at East Shore Smoke House.

Outdoor Adventures

Relax lakeside at one of several city parks or rent watercraft from Riverside Recreation.
Go kayaking at Finley Point State Park.
Schedule a private boat tour of the largest lake west of the Mississippi with Discover Flathead Lake.
Ride the rapids with Flathead Raft Company.

Family Fun

Skate the 7th Avenue Skatepark.
Play along the shores of Flathead Lake at Riverside Park, Sacajawea Park, Point Salish Park or Boettcher Park.

Lodging

Spend the night at any number of lodging options in this lakeside community: Polson Motorcoach Resort, America's Best Value Port Polson Inn, Red Lion Ridgewater Inn & Suites Polson, Polson Flathead Lake KOA.

ST. MARY

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Drink + Eat Local

Eat hearty at Johnson's of St. Mary, where the Johnson Family has been dishing up their signature American-style fare since 1950.

Outdoor Adventures

Walk the paved paths at St. Mary Overlook for marvelous views of the valley below.

Lodging

Find a place to stay at St. Mary Village.
Camp overnight and take a swim in the pool at the St. Mary/East Glacier KOA Holiday..

WEST GLACIER

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Visitor Information

Visitor center at the Historic Belton West Glacier Train Depot | 12544 U.S. Highway 2 E., West Glacier | 406.888.5756

Drink + Eat Local

Stop for breakfast, lunch, dinner or cocktails at the Sunflower Café.
Indulge in fine dining at the Belton Chalet Dining Room. Then overnight at the Belton Chalet, a Great Northern Railway hotel dating back to 1910.
Pull over for Mexican fare at the Wandering Gringo Café.

Family Fun

Head to the family-friendly Crown of the Continent Discovery Center to book guided trips, relax with coffee, spirits, or ice cream, shop for souvenirs, visit the petting zoo and more!
Tee up at Golfing to the Sun mini golf course and then treat the family to ice cream from the on-site Club House.

Shop (Tax Free!)

Gear up for your outdoor adventure at Glacier Anglers & Outfitters.
Shop the Glacier National Park Conservancy Gift Store for Glacier National Park souvenirs.

Outdoor Adventures

Sign up for a guided adventure! Many outfitters offer whitewater rafting, fly-fishing, trail riding and hunting excursions of varying lengths, including half-day, full-day and multiday. Outfitters include:
Rent a bicycle from Glacier Outfitters and ride 7 miles to Coram on the Gateway to Glacier Trail (e-bike rentals also available).
Explore trails in the Flathead National Forest and the Great Bear Wilderness.
Golf 18 holes at Glacier View Golf Club.

Lodging

Enjoy a romantic getaway in a private designer log chalet at Silverwolf Log Chalets.
Find warm western hospitality at Belton Chalet, West Glacier Village and Glacier Guides Lodge.
Find camping at Glacier Campground & RV Park, West Glacier KOA and West Glacier RV Park & Cabins.

WHITEFISH

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Visitor Information

Explore Whitefish/Convention and Visitor Bureau + Whitefish Chamber of Commerce | 505 E. 2nd St., Whitefish | 877.862.3548

Exploration is easy with visitor kiosks throughout town featuring maps, travel guides and activity/event posters. For the love of the wild, please remember to recreate responsibly.

Getting Around

SNOW Bus: Catch a ride with daily service from Whitefish to Whitefish Mountain Resort (running whenever the chairlifts are running at the resort).

Bring your wheels on bicycle-friendly buses with racks for up to 16 bikes.

View the current schedule here.

Drink + Eat Local

Bonsai Brewing Project, a community-raised brewery featuring locally crafted brews, food, live music and an outdoor beer garden.
Taste the rugged landscape and the heart and soul of Montana at Spotted Bear Spirits or Tiki Bar & Grill.
Dine outdoors at one of many restaurants that offer summer outdoor seating, including Boat Club, Piggyback BBQ, Firebrand, Indah Sushi, Logan's Bar & Grill, The Craggy Range or The Belvedere. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during the busy summer months.

Shop (Tax Free!)

Don't miss shopping in downtown Whitefish, including Chill Clothing Company, Haskill Creek Farms, The Toggery, FORLOH and Trovare.

Outdoor Recreation

Play on Whitefish Lake, with three public-access points, including Whitefish Lake State Park, Whitefish City Beach and Les Mason State Park.
Explore 47 miles of dog-friendly trails and scenic overlooks on The Whitefish Trail.
Tee off at the 36-hole Whitefish Lake Golf Club.
Paddleboard on Whitefish Lake and Whitefish River with paddleboard rentals from Whitefish Outfitters at Whitefish City Beach.
Go on a guided day hike in the Flathead National Forest with Glacier Hikes & Bikes.
Go on a seaplane tour with Backcountry Flying Experience.

Indoor Fun

Find family fun at the kid-friendly Stumptown Art Studio.
Test out your throwing skills at Hank's Hatchets.
Pamper yourself at the spa at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake or the Firebrand Hotel.
Take in a play or concert with Alpine Theatre Project or Whitefish Theatre Company.

Whitefish Mountain Resort, Summer Style

Soar through the trees, high above the slopes on a zipline tour.
Find an obstacle park in the trees at Aerial Adventure Park.
Take sliding to a whole new level on the Alpine Slide.
Visit a must-do Montana attraction—Scenic Lift and Gondola Rides.
Taste Montana with mountaintop dining at the Summit House.
Go for a ride on smooth-flow, lift-accessed mountain-biking trails.
Take a hike, literally, with miles of trails to explore.
Learn more about summer activities at Whitefish Mountain Resort.

Scenic, Adventure-Filled Travel Corridors

We’ve mapped Western Montana’s Glacier Country into nine scenic travel corridors to help you find your way through it. Each route connects landscapes, communities and experiences—from Glacier National Park and Flathead Lake to backroads, small towns and wide-open country ready for adventure. However you choose to explore, the drive between it all is part of what makes this place worth seeing.

Weekly Events (Seasonal)

Monday

Bigfork: Shop local at the Bigfork Monday Market.

Tuesday

Whitefish: Shop local at the Whitefish Downtown Farmers Market.

Kalispell: Picnic in the Park at free outdoor evening concerts in Kalispell.

Wednesday

Kalispell: Picnic in the Park at free outdoor lunchtime concerts in Kalispell.

Bigfork: Shop local at the Bigfork Farmers Market.

Cut Bank: Shop local at the Cut Bank Farmers Market.

Thursday

Columbia Falls: Shop local at the Columbia Falls Community Market.

Friday

Polson: Shop local at the Polson Farmers Market

Saturday

Kalispell: Shop local at the Kalispell Farmers Market.

Towns + Events Near Glacier National Park

Explore Small Towns and Communities Near the Park

Explore Small Towns and Communities Near the Park

There's This Place Where There Is An Art to Adventure

FAMILY DAY TRIPS ON THE WEST SIDE

FAMILY DAY TRIPS ON THE EAST SIDE

ADULT DAY TRIPS ON THE WEST SIDE

Coram, Hungry Horse, Columbia Falls: 10 miles

Whitefish

Bigfork

Kalispell

West Glacier, Columbia Falls: 19 miles

Whitefish

Bigfork

Kalispell

Flathead Lake Loop: 104 miles

St. Mary, Babb, Browning: 96 miles

East Glacier Park, Browning: 25 miles

Cut Bank, Browning, East Glacier Park: 58 miles

BABB

Drink + Eat Local

Shop (Tax Free!)

Outdoor Adventures

Lodging

BIGFORK

Visitor Information

Arts + Culture

Drink + Eat Local

Shop (Tax Free!)

Outdoor Adventures

BROWNING

Arts + Culture

Drink + Eat Local

Shop (Tax Free!)

Indoor Experiences

Outdoor Adventures

COLUMBIA FALLS

Visitor Information

Drink + Eat Local

Family Fun

Outdoor Adventures

CORAM

Visitor Information

Drink + Eat Local

Family Fun

Outdoor Adventures

CUT BANK

Visitor Information

Arts + Culture

Shop (Tax Free!)

Family Fun

Outdoor Adventures

EAST GLACIER PARK

Visitor Information

Arts + Culture

Drink + Eat Local

Outdoor Adventures

ESSEX

Visitor Information

Drink + Eat Local

Outdoor Adventures

HUNGRY HORSE

Visitor Information

Arts + Culture

Drink + Eat Local

Outdoor Adventures

Lodging

KALISPELL

Visitor Information

Arts + Culture

Drink + Eat Local

Shop (Tax Free!)

Outdoor Adventures

LAKESIDE / SOMERS

Visitor Information

On the Lake

Around the Lake

Drink + Eat Local

Lodging

MARTIN CITY