Whitefish – They Don’t Call It Big Mountain for Nothing!
Whitefish Mountain Resort, in Montana, has 3,000 acres of varied terrain for skiing and boarding on 113 named trails in addition to four terrain parks, several bowls and glades known for world-renowned tree skiing. They have a friendly fun-loving vibe with virtually no lift lines at an unbelievable value. There really is something for everyone at this world class ski resort just 50 miles south of the Canadian border and 35 minutes west of Glacier National Park.
Whitefish receives on average 300 inches of snow each year. With a base elevation of 4,464 feet, and a summit elevation of 6,817 feet, you will not need to worry about altitude sickness. The resort has 14 lifts
to whisk you up and, on the mountain, where you can descend 2,353 vertical feet down the south facing slope. Be sure to check out the longest run named Hell Fire, some 2.52 miles through the Hellroaring Basin for those who dare. The mountain has 12% beginner slopes, 36% intermediate, 45% advanced and 7% expert with 100% Fun! All serviced by 12 lifts and a conveyor carpet for beginners.
Whitefish is a wintertime mecca for snowshoeing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, ski-joring, sleigh riding, sledding, ice skating, and cross-country skiing. A wide variety of groomed Nordic skiing trails are available throughout the Whitefish area. Tours in Glacier National Park take you through breathtaking scenery, and the Whitefish Lake Golf Club magically transforms into the Glacier Nordic Center in winter—a 15-kilometer Nordic touring center that is tracked and groomed for skating and cross-country skiing. Be sure to take a day off from skiing and enjoy some other winter activities in Whitefish.
Just so you know the geographical mountain itself is named Big Mountain which is in the Whitefish Range. There was a slogan from the 90’s “Ski the Fish”, as many locals referred to the resort as Whitefish. In 2007, the resort name was officially changed to Whitefish Mountain Resort from Big Mountain Resort to better associate the ski area with the town of Whitefish.
Speaking of the town of Whitefish – much has changed since the town was established and main economy was fueled by such industries as railroad, timber, farming and ranching. Today most locals are more likely to be employed in retail and service industries, which they all preform with a smile. This is a very friendly town with top notch restaurants, many bars and even a brewery or two. If your club is staying on the mountain, be sure to plan a few evenings in this beautiful idyllic old west town. There are a ton of places to eat, ranging from causal to elegant dining. Not sure where to go, just ask any local and I’m sure they will point you in the right direction.
Transportation to and from the town to the ski hill is easy, just jump on board the free SNOW Bus. There are designated bus stops in town and along the ride to the mountain. Some lodging properties may offer their own shuttle service to and from the hill and town as well.
Don’t miss this great trip to a winter wonderland to ski, shop, explore and eat at Whitefish Mountain Resort. You will be glad you did.