Montana's Stunning Resort Town In The Rocky Mountains Is Perfect For A Winter Ski Trip

There is a resort town in the Rocky Mountains of Montana that receives, on average, more than 300 inches of snow each winter. The snow, coupled with 3,000 acres of trails and terrain to explore, make Whitefish, Montana, an excellent choice when planning the perfect winter ski trip. Whitefish Mountain Resort makes accessing the slopes convenient, with trails for varied skillsets and more than a dozen ski lifts to get you to the start of your slope of choice.

Situated within the charming mountain town of Whitefish, which was founded in 1905, the ski resort takes advantage of the inclines of Big Mountain and the views of Glacier National Park, a destination so beautiful it's known as the crown of the continent. The resort has offered top-notch skiing since it opened in 1947 and today offers lodging, skiing lessons, and snow machines, just in case more powder is needed on the slopes.

Both skiers and snowboarders frequent the slopes at Whitefish Mountain Resort. While there is an ongoing debate on which method of descending the slopes is easier to learn, the resort offers lessons for beginners in both sports. There are also lessons designed specifically for children ages 7 to 12, and for teens and adults who are new to the snow.

There's no doubt that the slopes are the main attraction for winter enthusiasts in Whitefish. That's why it's among the best underrated skiing destinations in America. The multiple chairlifts and variety of ski slopes make a ski vacation accessible for nearly everyone. However, the mountain town of Whitefish itself offers plenty of options for those times spent away from the slopes or for those who prefer a relaxed, less adventure-packed holiday.

Nothing says winter more than a sleigh ride, just like those mentioned in multiple holiday songs. During the winter in Whitefish, horse-drawn sleigh rides are readily available through local companies like Bar W Guest Ranch. Sleighs hold up to 10 people per ride and last up to 45 minutes. Even better, hot cocoa and cookies are available after the experience. 

For a more refined meal, consider any number of dining options in Whitefish. Chophouses and bar-and-grill spots are sprinkled throughout the village as are cozy cafes and bakeries. If your skiing adventure brings you to Whitefish during the holidays, consider making a reservation for a Christmas dinner at the Firebrand Restaurant, located within the hotel of the same name. Enjoy a multi-course meal and a special kid-friendly dish for the younger ones in your group. If your ski travels happen to land in February, be sure to check out Whitefish's Winter Carnival, which is free and celebrates the season with games, a parade, and delicious food.

The wonderful thing about traveling through the Rocky Mountains is that the scenery they provide can easily be incorporated into the enjoyment of the trip. Twice a day, Whitefish Depot welcomes the arrival of the Empire Builder. This Amtrak train offers scenic rides from Seattle and Portland and connects to Chicago in the east.

Those travelers looking for a faster and more direct route to Whitefish can consider flights into Glacier Park International Airport (FCA), just over 10 miles away. Numerous rental car options are available at the airport. Rideshares and taxis are also options for the short, 20-minute ride to Whitefish.

Ski season in Whitefish begins in early December and runs through early April. Lift tickets and ski lessons are available without reservation and can be acquired at Whitefish Mountain along with options to rent ski equipment. There are also a number of special ski-related events in the winter at Whitefish, including opportunities to tackle the slopes at night as well as parades, ski competitions, and fireworks. Even though Montana is not among the top five snowiest states in America, outdoor enthusiasts will no doubt find plenty of winter fun in and around Whitefish.