Content Produced in Partnership with Whitefish, Montana

Located only 27 miles from Glacier National Park, Whitefish is your gateway to adventure in western Montana. Whether you love biking, camping, paddle boarding, or hiking, Whitefish has it all.

This small town has a vibrant and buzzing main street with dozens restaurants (many of which are farm to fork), bars, coffee shops and clothing boutiques for whatever strikes your fancy. But let’s get to the epicness. While we love eating and a nice spa treatment here and there, we travel for the adventure, we travel for the heart pumping adrenalin that rushes through our body when we are trying something new or pushing ourselves to our limits. We want to work up a sweat and we want our scenery to be gorgeous while we do it. That is exactly what Whitefish is all about.

Here’s how we’d spend an action-packed weekend in Whitefish: 

Do:

Whitefish, Montana is an active adventurer’s dream come true. From sun up to sun down, there’s plenty to do and see. Here’s a look at a few of our favorites.

Bike: Springtime is our favorite time to bike Glacier National Park and a reason alone to plan a trip to Whitefish. If you don’t bring your own bike, rent one from Glacier Cyclery and Nordic. They’ll fit the perfect road bike for you and make sure you’re on your way with all the important gear you need on the road. *Going-to-the-Sun Road is actually closed to cars until mid-to late June every year depending on snowmelt. Hikers and bikers have free reign and can enjoy the quietness of the open road and this gorgeous bucket list drive all to themselves.

Paddleboard: Rent a Paddleboard from Paddlefish Sports right at the lake level and head out for an hour or day long excursion. The lake is almost six miles long and one mile wide, so it’s possible to paddle around the whole thing. If you bring your own board, we highly suggest popping out for a ride right around sunset to see the sun reflect back on the mountains above the Lodge at Whitefish Lake. The view is worth the twilight paddle home.

Hike: With 36 miles of trails, Whitefish Trail is the spot to begin your hiking adventures. Families, dog walkers, and runners will love these trails. Once you have your hiking legs under you, head over to Glacier and hike around one of the many breathtaking and bucket list worthy hikes. Our favorites include Iceberg Lake, Grinnell Glacier, Highline Trail and Hidden Lake Overlook. *Tip: Don’t forget to pack a picnic (may we suggest from Montana Coffee Traders) as some of these hikes are full day, 11 miles back and forth and you’ll want some fuel.

Stay:

Depending on accommodation preferences, Whitefish has something for everyone. In addition to outstanding lodges and hotels, there are camping spots in the state park and Glacier, but these three provide that touch of luxury that your body craves after a long bike ride up Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Grouse Mountain Lodge: Located about four minutes from the downtown area, Grouse Mountain has the traditional touches of a historic mountain town lodge – huge fireplaces, dark woods and cozy interiors. The adjacent golf course and free downtown shuttle are the cherries on top.

Lodge at Whitefish Lake: If you’re traveling with a big group, a private condo might be your best bet. The Lodge at Whitefish Lake offers condo accommodations with the benefits of a large resort. But the number one reason to stay here is that the Whitefish lake is right outside your window.

The Firebrand Hotel: Located downtown, this brand new hotel offers chic stays that the Instagrammer in your party will love. We love the brunch menu and ideal location within walking distance to all our favorite eateries.

Eat: 

Every adventure requires fuel. That’s why we love that Whitefish is full of hearty meals that fill the belly and the soul.

Tupelo Grille: Shrimp and Grits. Enough said. Order them and thank us later.

Bonsai Brewing Project: After a day full of adventure, their beer flights are exactly what the doctor ordered.

Mama Blancas: The fire roasted corn on the cob (aka elote) is an absolute must. This rivals any that we’ve tasted in Southern California.

Loula’s Café: Order a slice or two of one of their famous pies. No one will judge you if you order a slice for breakfast.

Montana Coffee Traders: This is THE place to grab a coffee and a to-go chicken wrap for a day out exploring, especially if you’re planning to tackle the Going-to-the-Sun Road later..