Overhead view of Whitefish Mountain Resort
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Whitefish Mountain Resort

4.7
·3k reviews·Whitefish, United States

A year-round mountain paradise in Montana, offering incredible skiing, biking, hiking, and stunning summit views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mid-week, January

Fewer crowds, great snow

CrowdLow
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Overhead view of Whitefish Mountain Resort

Whitefish Mountain Resort

Best Time

Mid-week, January

Fewer crowds, great snow

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A year-round mountain paradise in Montana, offering incredible skiing, biking, hiking, and stunning summit views.

4.7
(3k reviews)

"Spectacular views, friendly staff, and challenging terrain make this a must-visit mountain resort."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Embrace the Glades

Advanced skiers love Whitefish's natural glades and bowls for an uncrowded, challenging experience.

🚠 Scenic Gondola Ride

Enjoy breathtaking mountain views on the gondola, even if you're not skiing. Great for photos!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Summit Views & Lodge

Summit Views & Lodge

Summit House Cafe

Spectacular panoramic views from the top, with a cozy cafe for refreshments. Perfect for a scenic break.

Alpine Slide Thrills

Alpine Slide Thrills

Base Area

A fun, gravity-powered ride down the mountain. A hit with families and thrill-seekers alike.

Lift-Accessed Mountain Biking

Lift-Accessed Mountain Biking

Bike Park

Over 25 miles of downhill trails for all skill levels, serviced by lifts. A summer adrenaline rush.

Glade Skiing & Bowls

Glade Skiing & Bowls

Various Ski Trails

Advanced skiers rave about the natural glades, bowls, and challenging terrain. A true mountain playground.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Weather

While Whitefish Mountain Resort is known for fewer crowds than many other ski destinations, MLK weekend can see an uptick. Consider visiting mid-week for the best experience. Summer offers hiking and biking, but be prepared for variable mountain weather; layers are key!

Getting Around & Tickets

Parking can be a bit tricky, especially during peak times or with construction. Look for signs to the ticket office and lift areas. Some accommodations offer private transport. Booking lift tickets in advance can sometimes save money, especially if you're not a local.

Best Times

When
Mid-week, January
Why
Fewer crowds, great snow
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Ideal for hiking & biking
Crowd
Medium
When
April (late season)
Why
Pond skim fun
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Twas’ the eve before open 🗓️ And all through the night ✨ Skiers and riders ⛷️🏂 Waited in delight ☺️ Up on Big Mountain 🏔️ Crews were very hyped 🛠️ To make the final preparations 👍🏻 As groomers laid down their stripes ❄️ The countdown is almost done ✅ The slopes are ready 💪🏻 Soon we will all be having fun 😊 And everything will be happy 😁 Here at Whitefish Mountain Resort🎿 We can’t wait for ...
skiwhitefish
6K likes • 93.5K views

🎯 Embrace the Glades

Advanced skiers love Whitefish's natural glades and bowls for an uncrowded, challenging experience. Reddit

🚠 Scenic Gondola Ride

Enjoy breathtaking mountain views on the gondola, even if you're not skiing. Great for photos! TikTok

Perfection in the mountains of Montana🏔️ 🙌🏻 📍Whitefish, Montana Specs: 4 bed | 4.5 bath | Sleeps 14 This home is located on Big Mountain directly next to Whitefish Mountain Resort! It even has a private chairlift for you to access the resort and all 3000+ skiable acres. This place is also perfect for a family who just wants a quiet retreat in Whitefish. It is such a great home! DM us for more...
smithandrossiter
19K likes • 345.6K views
Y’all 🙆🏼‍♀️ this mamas heart today! Will and 3 of his friends got stuck on Chair 1 and had to get evacuated. Will was the last to get down- stuck for 12:45-4pm 🥶 amazing crew though that got him safely down!! (This is one of his friends repelling off the lift) #whitefishmountainresort #whitefishmontana #skiresort #skirescue #skiwhitefish
shoff_ann_10_4
31.7K likes • 2M views

🎢 Alpine Slide Fun

Don't miss the alpine slide for a thrilling ride down the mountain, a family favorite. Reddit

🚵‍♀️ Summer Bike Park

Explore over 25 miles of lift-accessed downhill mountain biking trails in the summer. Instagram

Only one word comes to mind seeing a lift line crowd like this… Why?? 😆😆😆 🎿 No such crowds @whitefishmountainresort #skiwhitefish in Whitefish, Montana! 📍Located just 5 minutes from the (uncrowded!) lifts at Whitefish Mountain Resort, and offering FREE private round trip transportation, Great Northern Mountain Escape is the perfect luxury short term vacation rental property for your next ski ge...
great_northern_mountain_escape
57 likes • 6.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Embrace the Glades

Advanced skiers love Whitefish's natural glades and bowls for an uncrowded, challenging experience. Reddit

🚠 Scenic Gondola Ride

Enjoy breathtaking mountain views on the gondola, even if you're not skiing. Great for photos! TikTok

🎢 Alpine Slide Fun

Don't miss the alpine slide for a thrilling ride down the mountain, a family favorite. Reddit

🚵‍♀️ Summer Bike Park

Explore over 25 miles of lift-accessed downhill mountain biking trails in the summer. Instagram

🅿️ Parking Patience

Parking can be tricky; look for signs and be patient, especially during busy periods. Reddit

☕ Summit House Cafe

Grab a coffee or bite at the summit cafe for stunning views and a warm respite. Reddit

🧥 Pack Layers

Mountain weather changes quickly; bring layers for comfort during both summer and winter visits. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Whitefish Mountain Resort for its stunning natural beauty, abundant snowfall, and friendly atmosphere, offering a less crowded experience than many other resorts. While parking can sometimes be a challenge, the exceptional terrain for advanced skiers and the variety of summer activities like mountain biking and the alpine slide make it a highly recommended destination.

"We did a few activities there and it was wonderful! We took a hike up to the top and stayed at the lodge for some hot chocolate because it was raining and cold. After we got warmed back up, we took the gondala back down for a scenic ride. All of the workers we met were very helpful and friendly. We went back a second day and bought a few rides on the Alpine slide. That was a ton of fun, the entire family enjoyed it. The only tricky thing in the summer is parking... There is ample parking, but kind of tricky to find the closest lot as there was some construction going on."

Michael Barrett

"Beautiful, quiet resort located north of Whitefish, Montana. Summer activities include a chairlift ride to the summit for hiking or biking, and an alpine slide. Nice base lodge with both indoor and patio seating and a coffee shop."

Martin Lisius

"Did the zip line which was expansive and thrilling. Very comfortable, but there is some short hiking in between positions. I would estimate half a mile total at most. Also did the alpine chutes and those were so much fun."

Aaron Roush

What People Like

Abundant snowfall
Challenging terrain
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Parking can be tricky

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Whitefish Mountain Resort is located north of Whitefish, Montana. The closest major airport is Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, about a 30-40 minute drive away. From Whitefish town, you can drive up the mountain via Big Mountain Road. Some accommodations offer shuttle services. Instagram

While there isn't extensive public transit directly to the resort, some local services might operate seasonally. It's best to check with local Whitefish transit authorities or your accommodation for the most up-to-date information. Many visitors opt for rental cars or private shuttles. Instagram

Once at the resort, walking around the base area is easy. For accessing different parts of the mountain for skiing or biking, the lifts are your primary mode of transport. During summer, the scenic chairlift and gondola are popular for accessing trails and views. TikTok

Yes, some lodging options, like the Great Northern Mountain Escape, offer free private transportation. It's always a good idea to inquire with your hotel or rental property about available shuttle services to and from Whitefish Mountain Resort. Instagram

Whitefish Mountain Resort is approximately a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from the west entrance of Glacier National Park, making it a great base for exploring both. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Lift tickets can be purchased online through the official Whitefish Mountain Resort website, at the ticket office located at the base area, or sometimes through third-party booking sites. Buying in advance online is often recommended, especially during peak season. Reddit

Yes, Whitefish Mountain Resort typically offers various lift ticket options, including full-day, half-day, and multi-day passes. They may also have special tickets for specific activities like the alpine slide or scenic gondola rides. Check their website for current offerings. Reddit

Operating hours vary by season. During the winter ski season, lifts typically run from morning until late afternoon. Summer operations for the bike park and scenic lifts have their own schedules. Always check the official website for the most current hours of operation. TikTok

There is no general admission fee to enter the resort grounds. However, you will need to purchase tickets for specific activities such as skiing, snowboarding, scenic lift rides, the alpine slide, or zip-lining. Reddit

Discounts are sometimes available for advance online purchases, multi-day passes, or during specific promotional periods. Local residents or those with certain passes might also qualify for reduced rates. Keep an eye on their website for deals. Reddit

🎫 ⛷️ Winter Activities

Whitefish Mountain Resort is known for its abundant snowfall and excellent snow quality, often featuring light, dry powder. Advanced skiers particularly praise the natural glades and bowls. Reddit

Absolutely! Advanced skiers and snowboarders will find plenty to love with challenging glades, steep bowls, moguls, and a vast amount of skiable terrain. It's often described as a hidden gem for experts. Reddit

Yes, Whitefish Mountain Resort offers a variety of ski and snowboard lessons for all ages and skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Lessons can be booked in advance through their website. TikTok

For advanced skiers, runs like 'The Big Couloir' (when open), the numerous glades in areas like 'Hellroaring Basin,' and the steep pitches off the summit are highly recommended. Beginners will find plenty of groomed runs lower down. Reddit

Whitefish Mountain Resort typically has terrain parks with jumps, rails, and other features designed for skiers and snowboarders looking to practice freestyle tricks. The specific features can change seasonally. TikTok

🎫 ☀️ Summer Activities

In the summer, the resort transforms into an adventure hub with lift-accessed downhill mountain biking, scenic chairlift and gondola rides, hiking trails, and the popular alpine slide. Zip-lining is also a thrilling option. Instagram

Yes, the Bike Park offers a range of trails, including progressive beginner flow and cross-country trails, alongside more advanced jump lines and technical routes. There's something for every skill level. Instagram

Absolutely! You can take the scenic chairlift or gondola to the summit and explore various hiking trails with stunning mountain vistas. The summit house cafe is also a great place to relax. Reddit

The alpine slide is a gravity-powered track where you ride a wheeled cart down the mountain. You control your speed with a hand brake. It's a fun, exhilarating experience for most ages. Reddit

Yes, Whitefish Mountain Resort offers zip-lining tours that provide an expansive and thrilling experience. There's some short hiking between zip-line positions. Reddit

🍽️ 🏨 Lodging & Dining

The resort offers a range of lodging, from rustic condos to hotel rooms, many with ski-in/ski-out access or close proximity to the slopes. Options like Kandahar Lodge and Grouse Lodge are popular. Instagram

Yes, there are dining options available at the resort, including the Summit House Cafe at the top for great views and casual fare, as well as other eateries in the base lodge area. Reddit

The Summit House Cafe typically offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, and a bar area, providing a convenient spot to refuel while enjoying the panoramic mountain views. Reddit

Pet policies vary by lodging. It's best to check directly with individual hotels, condos, or rental properties in the Whitefish area or at the resort itself to confirm their pet-friendliness. Instagram

Beyond the resort, Whitefish town offers a variety of dining options. Popular spots mentioned include Amazing Crepes, Great Northern Bar, and Hell Roaring Saloon and Eatery. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Whitefish Mountain Resort is a fantastic destination for families. The alpine slide is a guaranteed hit, offering a fun and unique ride down the mountain for various ages. During the summer, the bike park has beginner-friendly trails, and the scenic chairlift rides provide easy access to stunning views without strenuous hiking. The resort's generally less crowded atmosphere compared to other major ski areas also makes it more manageable with children. Reddit

In winter, the resort offers ski and snowboard lessons for kids, helping them learn in a supportive environment. The Summit House Cafe is a great spot for a warm-up with hot chocolate and snacks. While parking can sometimes be a bit of a puzzle, the overall friendly vibe and variety of activities ensure a memorable family trip. TikTok

🏂 Advanced Skiers & Snowboarders

For those seeking a challenge, Whitefish Mountain Resort is often described as a hidden gem. The resort boasts extensive natural glades and bowls, offering a true backcountry feel without the extreme commitment. Advanced skiers and riders rave about the quality of the powder and the lack of crowds in these off-piste areas, allowing for fresh tracks long after a snowfall. Reddit

Runs like 'The Big Couloir' (when conditions permit) and the steep pitches accessible from the summit provide exhilarating descents. The resort's commitment to preserving its natural environment means you'll find authentic, challenging terrain that appeals to experienced winter sports enthusiasts looking for an unpretentious mountain experience. Reddit

☀️ Summer Adventurers

Summer at Whitefish Mountain Resort is all about embracing the outdoors. The lift-accessed bike park is a major draw, with over 25 miles of trails catering to everyone from novice riders to seasoned downhill enthusiasts. If biking isn't your speed, the scenic chairlift and gondola rides offer breathtaking views and access to numerous hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. Instagram

Don't miss the chance to experience the alpine slide for a fun, gravity-fueled descent, or the zip-lining tours for an adrenaline-pumping perspective of the mountain. The resort provides a perfect base for exploring the Montana wilderness, combining adventure with stunning natural beauty. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Whitefish Experience: Beyond the Slopes

Whitefish Mountain Resort is more than just a ski destination; it's a year-round mountain playground. In winter, it's celebrated for its abundant snowfall and natural terrain, offering a less crowded alternative to many major resorts. Advanced skiers and snowboarders particularly appreciate the challenging glades and bowls, a stark contrast to the often-manicured slopes elsewhere. The resort also emphasizes climate advocacy, partnering with organizations to protect the mountain environment. Instagram

Summer brings a different kind of thrill with the lift-accessed bike park, boasting over 25 miles of trails for all levels. Visitors can also enjoy scenic chairlift and gondola rides to the summit for hiking and breathtaking views, or experience the adrenaline rush of the alpine slide and zip-lining tours. The resort aims to provide a comprehensive mountain experience, ensuring there's something for everyone, regardless of the season. Instagram

Community feedback highlights the friendly and helpful staff and the welcoming atmosphere that permeates the resort. Even when encountering minor issues like parking challenges or lift evacuations, the positive interactions with staff and fellow visitors often leave a lasting impression. This blend of natural beauty, diverse activities, and genuine hospitality defines the unique Whitefish experience. Reddit

Navigating Whitefish Mountain Resort: Tips from Visitors

When planning your visit to Whitefish Mountain Resort, understanding the nuances of getting around and managing your tickets can significantly enhance your experience. Parking, especially during peak times or when construction is underway, can be a bit confusing. Visitors recommend paying close attention to signage and being patient as you locate the appropriate lots for lift access or the ticket office. Some accommodations offer the convenience of private transportation, which can alleviate parking concerns. Reddit

For lift tickets, purchasing in advance online is often advised to potentially secure better rates and save time upon arrival. While Whitefish is known for being less crowded than many resorts, certain periods like MLK weekend can see an increase in visitors. For the best experience with fewer people, consider visiting mid-week. The resort's charm lies in its natural beauty and challenging terrain, but being prepared for the practicalities ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the adventure. Reddit

Beyond skiing and biking, don't overlook the scenic gondola rides for stunning panoramic views, especially in summer. The Summit House Cafe offers a perfect spot to relax and refuel with a view. For those seeking thrills, the alpine slide is a must-try, providing a fun descent for the whole family. Remember to pack layers of clothing, as mountain weather can change rapidly throughout the day, ensuring comfort whether you're hitting the slopes or exploring trails. TikTok

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