6 Fun Winter Events in the Flathead Valley

So you might be wondering, "what do people in Kalispell do for fun in the winter?"  There's no dragon boat race or sailing on Flathead Lake, you can't drive over Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, the cherry festivals are over and all the huckleberries are gone.  While these attractions are great, the events that happen every winter may be just as fantastic.  Here are the top 6 events that happen during the winter in the Flathead and near Kalispell, MT:

1. Bigfork Parade of Lights December 5th-  This is the main event, but there are several winter events surrounding this weekend in Bigfork.  Downtown Bigfork displays more lights in one area than any other town in the Flathead!  It is the prettiest place in the valley to go for a winter stroll.  Businesses are open late and hot drinks are available too!  There are also great Christmas plays surrounding the Christmas season in Bigfork at the Bigfork Center for Performing Arts.

2.  Whitefish Winter Carnival runs February 5,6 and 7 and includes a parade, a gala, a pie social, the penguin plunge in Whitefish Lake and a variety of other fun winter events.

3. Whitefish Parade which takes place during the carnival is one of the most unique parades you will probably ever witness.  The floats range from strange to creative, but always entertaining. The grand marshal is typically a celebrity, 

4. A Chocolate Affaire takes place in downtown Kalispell on February 5th.  Several downtown businesses keep their doors open late and provide chocolate and other hot beverages.  It is a fun and entertaining event for the whole family.

5. Skijoring, quite possibly the wildest event on snow happens every year just outside of Whitefish near the golf course.  In this fast paced event, skiers are pulled by long ropes tied to horses at speeds close to 50 mph through a course that includes jumps and obstacles.  As of this writing, they haven't set the dates for the event or the practices (which are almost more fun to watch than the event), but it generally happens in February.  Click on their facebook page, to find out more.

6. Lakeside Winterfest has a variety of events for the whole family.  There is a kids ice skating rink, an outdoor movie, hot chocolate and chili, a pig roast at the Tamarack, cross country and down-hill ski races and even a trap shoot!

Article written by Matt Harrington, marketing specialist at the Best Western Plus Flathead Lake Inn and Suites in Kalispell, MT.  If you're coming to the Flathead, to Kalispell or to Glacier National Park, check out Kalispell's best hotel!

8 Fun Things-To-Do in the Flathead Valley this Winter (Outside)

You might not be able to swim, sail or boat on Flathead Lake (unless you enjoy hypothermia).  Driving up Going-to-the-Sun Road might prove impossible.  Mountain biking might be kind of tricky (unless you have those really thick tires).  But trust me, there are still many fun things-to-do in the Flathead Valley during the winter!  In Northwest Montana, winter means snow and most of the events on this list revolve around snow!  Check out our other blog on indoor activities

, if you'd rather be in a warmer place during your trip to the Flathead Valley!

1. Skiing!  Between Blacktail Mountain and Whitefish Ski Resort, the Flathead has some of the best skiing in the Northwest!  Tons of powder!  Blacktail is more of a family mountain and often has shorter lines.  Whitefish Mountain is a top 20 rated US ski area.
2.  Skiing (Cross Country)!  Want to glide through the snow but not pay as much dough?  Or maybe you want more exercise and only a half day commitment.  Try cross-country skiing!  Easier to learn and there are several places that will rent you equipment including Lakeside Ski and Sport!  There are free (donations accepted) groomed trails on your way up to both Blacktail and Whitefish mountains that offer excellent views of the valley!

3. Dog sledding!  No, dog sledding isn't just for Alaskans!  There are a couple places that will take you out and even let you steer a sled pulled by several hard running canines.  It is an incredibly experience you shouldn't miss out on!  Check out the Basecamp for more information!
4. Winter Festivals! There are several winter festivals in the valley!  Many include parades, sleigh rides, hot drinks and snacks in local businesses, Christmas lights, skijouring and so much more!  Here are links to a few of them: Whitefish Winter Carnival, Bigfork Parade of Lights,  Lakeside Winter-fest,  A Chocolate Affair in downtown Kalispell, and the Whitefish Christmas Stroll to mention just a few!
5. Sledding!  There are several great sledding hills in the Flathead Valley, including "the gully" off of Woodland Drive and the hill near Herron Park.  You can buy sleds fairly cheaply at Murdoch's.
6. Ice Skating!  Ice skating is a great way to experience winter fun!  Skating is free at Woodland Park in Kalispell and rental skates are available there as well!  And if you are a hockey fan, be sure to check out the Pond Hockey Classic!
7. Explore Glacier National Park in the Winter! Here's a secret:  Glacier is always open!  You can drive to Lake MacDonald and take in the amazing winter Glacier views!   You can also snow- shoe or cross-country ski anywhere you want in Glacier!
8. Snowmobiling! There is an amazing winter wonderland out there waiting to be explored!  Explore with speed and have a blast!  Check out Swan Mountain Outfitters for more information!

Article written by Matt Harrington, marketing specialist at the Best Western Plus Flathead Lake Inn and Suites in Kalispell, MT.  If you're coming to the Flathead, to Kalispell or to Glacier National Park, check out Kalispell's best hotel!

7 Fun Things-to-Do in the Flathead Valley during the Winter (Indoors)

Picnics on the beach at Flathead Lake just aren't as fun in the winter and a huckleberry shake might give you a serious brain-freeze!  If you prefer indoor activities in the winter to playing in the snow, here is a list of great indoor activities for winter in the Flathead Valley!


1. The Theater!  The Flathead Valley, for its population size has some great options if you want to see a play!  Check out the Whitefish Theater Company, the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts!

2. Bowling Alleys!  The Flathead Valley has several great bowling alleys including Pick's just east of our hotel!
3. Cinch Rodeo Series!  Rodeos aren't just for the Summer!  Check out the indoor Cinch Rodeo Series at the Majestic Valley Arena, just north of Kalispell!
4.Art galleries!  The Flathead Valley is home to several great artists who consistently produce nationally recognized art!  Downtown Bigfork, Lakeside, Whitefish and Kalispell all have several galleries that are open year round!

5. Breweries!  Kalispell, Bigfork, Lakeside and Whitefish all have local breweries that produce some of the finest microbrews in the Northwest!  There's no better way to spend an afternoon in the winter than watching the snow fall outside the window and sipping on great brew!
6. Coffee Shops!  Relax with a cup of joe and a cozy, inspiring setting!  Kalispell, Lakeside and Whitefish all have great coffee shops and bakeries where you can relax, catch up with friends or enjoy a good book in a great atmosphere!
7. Museums and Mansions!  The Hockaday Museum is a great place to check out a variety of Western Art! You can also jet down to Polson on the south end of Flathead Lake and visit their Miracle of America Museum. It has a vast collection, from WWII planes, Native American artifacts, classic cars and homestead antiques!   Don't forget the Conrad Mansion in Kalispell either.  Built by the founder of Kalispell, it has been maintained just as it was built in the late 1800s.  Winter tours are generally available during the holiday season!

Article written by Matt Harrington, marketing specialist at the Best Western Plus Flathead Lake Inn and Suites in Kalispell, MT.  If you're coming to the Flathead, to Kalispell or to Glacier National Park, check out Kalispell's best hotel!

Uber Comes to Kalispell?!?

Getting around in Montana without a personal car has always been difficult.  Public transportation is extremely limited and taxi services are spread thin (huge areas to cover, but insufficient demand to increase in numbers).  It can take over an hour to get a taxi to pick you up in the Flathead.  While renting a car is still the best option for seeing all Glacier Country and Flathead Lake have to offer, if you want to spend a night on the town, a new, better option will soon be available: Uber!  The crowd-sourcing taxi service that has been sweeping the nation is on its way to Montana.  Last spring the Montana legislature paved the road legally and now uber is "driving" down that road to Montana.

Uber is currently registering drivers for Montana (I tried contacting Uber to see when they will be in Kalispell and they haven't go back to me yet, I'll update this when they do).  The registration process is fairly easy, but it does require a driver's license and proof of insurance.  You also have to watch a short training video and have a "newer" car.  If this description of the driver selection process isn't exactly building up your confidence, take a deep breath driver (and passenger) reviews are a key part of what makes this system work.  User reviews will help you determine the trustworthiness of a driver.  If you read a review that makes you nervous, you don't have to get in the car.  Plus, depending on the city you're in, you can request different kinds of cars.

If you're new to the concept of uber check out this link that walks you through exactly how the process works.

So get excited!  Uber is coming to Montana and will make transportation in cities much easier than it was before!






Article written by Matt Harrington, marketing specialist at the Best Western Plus Flathead Lake Inn and Suites in Kalispell, MT.  If you're coming to the Flathead, to Kalispell or to Glacier National Park, check out Kalispell's best hotel!

Flying to Montana as Cheaply as Possible -When and What City

In the last couple months I have thought a lot about flying in and out of Montana.  I recently visited my sister in Boston, MA and was trying to buy the tickets for the lowest possible price.  A flight is such a large percentage of the cost of most vacations that it is worth doing some research.  I read a great article that explained what day of the week to buy (Tuesday 3pm ET), what day of the week to fly (Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays) and how far in advance to buy (about 1 month out).  It used a huge data set from hundreds of thousands of flights and averaged it altogether.  The problem is, it varies from city to city and while that might give you some guidelines you really have to do your own research for your area and where you'd like to fly.  So I did some research for those of you traveling to Montana.

There are so many variables in the equation so I decided to focus on a couple and collect the price points on Kayak.  I looked at flights from Boston, MA to 6 locations in western Montana and flights from Miami, FL to those same locations.   Then I looked at how the price changed depending on how many weeks or months out you were booking.  I may not have used the city you are flying from, but I think the information will give you an idea of how far out to buy and possibly what city to fly into when you visit Montana.

Observations

When flying into Montana from Boston, the further out you book, the lower price you'll pay (in general).  The best prices for every city were between 4 weeks and 4 months.  Kalispell, was the average cheapest place to fly into and Butte was by far the most pricey.

When flying into Montana from Boston, it seemed best to book last minute or book 4 months in advance.  The best prices for every city were booked 4 months in advance.  Missoula and Helena seemed to be the cheapest places to fly into, while Butte, Kalispell and Bozeman seemed to be the most pricey.

Overall, Butte seemed to be the only city that was significantly more expensive than the others and no city had a corner on the cheap tickets.  If you want the best deal and can plan far out, your best bet is to buy 4 months out.  

Controlling for Variables

I had all flights starting and ending on Tuesdays.  As it happened, none of the flights directly coincided with traditional holiday traveling times (or at least the busiest holiday travel times).  Holiday flight information behaves differently.  All flights were booked for 2 adult travelers.  I did not look at total flight time or stops.


Article written by Matt Harrington, marketing specialist at the Best Western Plus Flathead Lake Inn and Suites in Kalispell, MT.  If you're coming to the Flathead, to Kalispell or to Glacier National Park, check out Kalispell's best hotel!

10 Fast, Fun, Facts about the Flathead (the Valley, the Lake, the River and the County)

Here are some fun, fast facts about the Flathead Valley.  For clarification, when people say “the Flathead” they could mean one of several things: the Flathead Valley, the Flathead River (or one of its 3 forks), The Flathead Lake or Flathead County.  Flathead County encompasses most of the Flathead Valley and some of the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex to the East but does not include the land bordering the lower half of Flathead Lake.

The Flathead Valley from Lone Pine State Park

1.  Flathead Lake, to the South of Kalispell is the largest freshwater lake West of the Mississippi (in the continental US).
2. Flathead County has an estimated population of 94,900.  3^rd most populated county in Montana.
3. Only about 30,000 residents live in the incorporated towns of Kalispell, Columbia Falls and Whitefish.  The rest live in the country and in smaller communities.
4. 94% of the 5,000 + square miles of land in Flathead County is National Forest, State Forest, Corporate Timber, Wilderness or Agricultural.  Only 6% is developed.
5.  The total population of the Flathead increases by 40% from June through August.
6.  Dorothy M. Johnson, a Western Novelist, who had 3 of her books made into movies was a long-time Flathead Valley resident.
7.  The town of Kalispell (the largest town in the valley) was incorporated when the Great Northern Railway was built through the valley in 1891.  Prior to 1884 there wasn’t even a post office in the Flathead Valley.
8. The Flathead River and its 3 forks (North Fork, South Fork and Middle Fork) have 219 miles of designated scenic river.
9. Between 3 and 5 million pounds of cherries are harvested in the Flathead Valley every year.
10.  The Flathead Valley is named after the Native American tribe known by that name that now resides on a reservation bordering the south end of Flathead Lake.

Article written by Matt Harrington, marketing specialist at the Best Western Plus Flathead Lake Inn and Suites in Kalispell, MT.  If you're coming to the Flathead, to Kalispell or to Glacier National Park, check out Kalispell's best hotel!

Flathead Cherries- Festival, Seasons and Orchard - Flathead Lake's Fruit

You’ll see the signs and roadside stands all over as you drive in the Flathead Valley and near Glacier National Park:  “Huckleberries and Flathead Cherries Sold Here!”  Huckleberries get a little more publicity, but their domesticated rival, the Flathead Cherry, deserves some credit in the delicious category too.  Flathead Cherries are technically the Lambert variety of sweet cherries, but have their own unique flavor because of where they are grown.  Often colored in both yellow and light red, they have the perfect amount of sweetness combined with a savory flavor. 



As you can see the big three are: Cherries, Huckleberries and Jerky (not necessarily in that order)

Cherries? Montana in Montana?!  Isn't it too cold?

The Flathead Lake region is actually ideal for cherry production given its altitude, water access, soil and moderate climate.  "Cool evenings are our saving grace," said one Flathead cherry grower.  Apparently 40-50 degree evenings combined with warm days are ideal for extending the cherry growing season.  The early cherry growers must have realized this when they started growing cherries in the Flathead over 80 years ago in 1932!  The Flathead Cherry Growers Association has been around since 1935.  



Cherry Stand near West Glacier, MT

The Flathead typically produces between 3 and 5 million pounds of cherries every year with a high of 7 million.  There are 120 cherry growers in the Flathead.  This isn't close to the volume that Washington state produces, but Montana is among the top cherry producers in the nation.  

Where? When?  How?

The timing and volume of cherry crops are extremely weather dependent (this year the harvest was earlier because of the hot weather in June), but in general the cherry harvest occurs in mid July and lasts for 2-3 weeks.  Polson's Cherry Festival celebrating the beloved fruit is typically slated for mid to late July.  This event is a must attend if you are in the area!  Vendors line the streets and there are all manner of cherry related contests including: pie eating, stem tying and pit spitting.  

As stated in the beginning of this article, during the harvest you can buy them at almost any roadside stand anywhere near Flathead Lake and Glacier.  You can often get them in grocery stores and they are even sold at super markets in some northwest, midwest and southwest states.  

But if you want the most authentically Montana experience in obtaining your cherries, you can pick them right from the tree!  Hockaday Orchards, just south of Lakeside on the West shore of Flathead Lake will let you pick your own cherries at $1 a pound!  Or you can adopt your own tree at Point Caroline Orchards!


Article written by Matt Harrington, marketing specialist at the Best Western Plus Flathead Lake Inn and Suites in Kalispell, MT.  If you're coming to the Flathead, to Kalispell or to Glacier National Park, check out the Trip Advisor number 1 Kalispell hotel!

As Sweet as Authentic Montana Honey

"Honey is a 12 million dollar industry in Montana," my Montana legislator friend remarked in the midst of a discussion on cottage industries.   Montana isn't known for honey, but perhaps it should be.  The industry isn't huge, but as far as honey goes, Montana was second in dollars of honey sold only to North Dakota (South Dakota was a close 3rd).   Not only are sales high, it tastes pretty amazing too!

Employees pour honey into containers

If you like sweets, it is difficult not to like honey!  I recently toured Glacier County Honey Company during "Fill Your Own Bucket Day".  The process is pretty amazing and so is the honey.  The honey is transferred from the boxes you'll see in fields by simply pulling out the trays that are already in the boxes.  The trays are sealed with wax and put in a hot room.  They are then transferred to a couple pretty impressive machines that first pull all the honey and wax out of the trays and then separate the wax from the honey.  

Honey Bear and Glacier County Honey Co.

They make Christmas ornaments out of the wax and all the honey goes through a set of pipes and comes out of spicket-like piece of hardware on the wall, almost as if it is on-tap.  I was amazed that when I handed them my mason jar, they didn't get any honey on the lid.  In addition to the honey and wax products they sold their own blend of Montana Coffee Traders Coffee and they even had a delicious honey bar recipe!

Great idea for a tasty treat

From what I understand, honey varies greatly by the environment in which it is made so even within the Flathead or Glacier Country the taste of honey can vary significantly.  So this summer, try something Montana may not be well known for, but certainly should be: honey!

The process: start to finish

Glacier County Honey Company is located near Babb, MT and the Many Glacier entrance to Glacier National Park.  

Great Northern Honey Company is located in Columbia Falls, MT near the West Glacier entrance to Glacier National Park.

Both companies have a list of local retailers that sell their honey. Glacier County Honey Company sells directly to customers and can give you a tour if you stop by as well!

Best Restaurants Glacier National Park

Its late and you are just getting out of Glacier National Park.  By the time you get back to Kalispell it will be eight o'clock and you are hungry now!  Is there anywhere you can eat that is closer to Glacier, actually has decent food and isn't trying to rip you off ?!  Oh, you don't want to eat in a seedy bar either?! Why yes, there are several places!  We have divided our suggestions by where you might be coming from in Glacier.

The Pole Bridge Mercantile

Polebridge/Bowman Lake:  If you are adventurous enough to drive up the West Side of Glacier along the North Fork of the Flathead you will come to a town....of sorts, Polebridge!  It happens to have 2 restaurants and a bakery and they're all good!  The Polebridge Home Ranch Bottoms serves standard burgers and fries, and also features Taco Tuesdays!  Northern Lights Saloon and Cafe serves classic burgers and fries and also features pizza on Fridays (sometimes featuring live music)!  The Polebridge Mercantile has one of the best bakeries around....their huckleberry bear claws are to die for!

Where the pies from the Huckleberry Patch Go

Hungry Horse/ West Glacier: Most of the restaurants in West Glacier are overpriced and crowded.  Hungry Horse, just down the road, might be busy, but it has some unique options that are worth stopping for.  If you are looking for a huckleberry shake to hold you over, the Huckleberry Patch and Willow's Huckleberry Haven are good places to start.  The Huckleberry Patch even ships their pies nation-wide!  Hungry Horse is kind of the Huckleberry Mecca of Montana, but unfortunately I haven't found the classic Glacier trifecta (burger, fries and shake) all at the same place in the town of Hungry Horse.  For that you have to go to The Glacier Grill.  The Glacier Grill is a great place for standard burgers, fries and shakes (shakes are spendy though).  They also make tasty pizza!

Two Medicine/East Glacier: If you have been exploring the East side of Glacier and are on your way back to Kalispell don't overlook East Glacier's dining options.  It has two superb bakeries: Rock 'n Roll Bakery and Brownies.  It also has one of the best Mexican Restaurant in Glacier Country, Serranos!  Serranos doesn't open until 5pm and many entrees cost around $12-15 but it is worth waiting for.  Great Chimichangas!  Two Medicine Grill offers the standard burgers and fries but their unique feature is that they bake the best (arguably) huckleberry pies in Glacier Country!  If you are looking for a tasty, slightly more healthy option, check out Luna's for some mouth-watering wraps!

Babb/ Many Glacier:  If you're coming out of Many Glacier around dinner time, you might not have too many options, but Two Sisters Grill is always worth a stop!  Classic burgers, fries and shakes with a few unique features and a funky atmosphere that completes the unique experience!


Article written by Matt Harrington, marketing specialist at the Best Western Plus Flathead Lake Inn and Suites in Kalispell, MT.  If you're coming to the Flathead, to Kalispell or to Glacier National Park, check out the Trip Advisor number 1 Kalispell hotel!

The Glacier National Park Family Photos, Group Pictures and Selfies Conundrum

The hikers coming up the trail looked nice enough, maybe they would take our picture.  Eight of us sat relaxing overlooking the Two Medicine Valley.  Eight people from five different countries.  The chances of us all being in the same place again were slim to none and we needed a picture to document the occasion.   So we asked the first group of hikers coming up the trail and they were kind enough to consent.  One of our group members, a trained photographer, handed the lead hiker her $900- camera and he snapped a couple photos.  The hikers continued up the trail while our photographer examined his work.  Apparently it didn't cut it, because she set up a rock tripod and timer on her camera a couple more times until the moment was sufficiently memorialized.  

This is not an uncommon situation.  I have often struggled with how to take the best group photo, especially when scenery is involved.  When visiting a place as picturesque as Glacier National Park, people generally want to have equally outstanding pictures of themselves, family and friends with a great back-drop.  This can be hard to pull off.  There are three methods for taking group pictures that people typically try.  Some work in certain situations but all of them have downsides. I have listed the basic methods, pros and cons below. At the bottom of the page there are a couple pointers that will help you make the most of every group photo opportunity.   

1. Basic Selfie - The person taking the picture extends their arm out, turns the camera toward the group and pushes the button.  

• Pros: Easy to take multiple photos, good resolution on people's faces, does not require additional technology (tripod) or people (a volunteer photographer), can be done with any camera phone.



Classic Selfie

• Cons: Pictures are facebook-worthy but not frame-worthy, its difficult to adequately capture a large group, scenery is a secondary consideration, you can always tell that the picture was a selfie.

2. Tripod Timer - The person taking the picture puts their camera on a tripod (a large professional one, a gorilla pod or even a flat rock), sets a timer and then runs back to where the rest of the group is standing before the timer goes off and the picture is taken.

Gorilla Pod Photo

• Pros: Can produce frame and Christmas-card quality photos, allows for multiple attempts as long as your group is patient, can be done without an additional person (volunteer photographer)
• Cons: Tripods can fall down or cameras can fall off in windy situations, it can be difficult to get the right angle (unless you have a large tripod which is cumbersome to carry), the photographer must run back to his/her spot in the photo, a tripod cannot make sure everyone is smiling.

3. Volunteer Photographer - You find a random stranger and ask him/her to take a picture of your group.

Volunteer Photographer Photo

• Pros: The photographer can make sure everything looks good, they can adjust for better angles, they can take multiple photos quickly.
• Cons: The photographer may have no sense of photography, he/she has no motivation to care about the picture they're taking of you and your group, its awkward to ask them to re-take your photo, sometimes there are no potential photographers where you want to take a group picture.

Best Solutions:
The Skilled, Incentivized Photographer- If there are a few people in the area where you are taking your group photo, pick the one with the nicest camera and offer to trade photography duties (you take his/her picture they take yours).  This way you are picking the most skilled person (generally) and they have an incentive to do it well.

Carry Backup- Always take a gorilla pod tripod with you.  They are small, can grab onto rocks or trees to resist wind and are a good option if there are no volunteer photographers present.

Written by Matt Harrington

Marketing Specialist

Best Western Plus Flathead Lake Inn and Suites

4824 Highway 93 South

Kalispell, MT 59901

Looking for a place to stay near Glacier National Park?  Check out: http://www.bestwesternflatheadlake.com/  we also have comprehensive lists of things to do and places to eat!

Why You Shouldn't Be Afraid of Grizzly Bear Attacks in Glacier National Park, Montana

We watched with a mixture of concern and amusement as the situation unfolded before our eyes.  We were near the top of Siyeh Pass, looking at the glacial lake below us.  Nearly half a mile away, a hiker was walking around to the far side of the lake, possibly with the intention of sliding down the snow field into the freezing water.  Walking from the other direction, across the scree field nearest the snow, was what appeared to be a large grizzly (through binoculars).  Neither the bear, nor the hiker could see that they were about to have a close encounter.

They both saw each other at the same time and they had to have been within 100 feet when it happened.  Fortunately for the hiker, the grizzly reacted by turning around and heading up the rock slide away from the hiker.  Even though the hiker was a small dot from our vantage point, he seemed to move with incredible speed as he ran back around the lake.  I've never seen someone so far away move so fast.

Millions of people visit Glacier National Park every year and only a small handful will have the kind of encounter that this visitor did.  But grizzly bears and black bears are present in Glacier so here are a few facts and tips to put you at ease and help keep you safe in the event of a bear encounter.

• Fact: The last fatal bear attack in Glacier National Park was in 1998 even though the number of bears has increased since then. 
• Tip:Never run from a bear
• Fact: Bear spray is much more effective than a gun.
• Tip: Check the expiration date, practice taking the safety off, keep it easily accessible and visualize spraying a Z-pattern at a bear if he/she charges!
• Fact: Most fatal bear attacks happen to lone hikers or groups of two and there are no recorded bear attacks against groups of 6 or more.
• Tip: If you make noise while on the trail, you probably won't surprise a bear
• Fact: Bears stand on their hind legs to get a better view of what has caught their attention
• Tip: If they are defensive (stomping and huffing), back away slowly.
• Fact: Bears have good eyesight and can see in color.
• Tip: If they are aggressive (approaching you silently and swiftly), get loud and big!
• Fact: People who use guns against bears are more than twice as likely to incur serious injury than people who use bear spray in the event of an attack.
• Tip: Never get between a mother and her cub(s)!
• Fact: Grizzly bears can outrun horses over short distances!
• Tip:Know the difference between grizzlies and black bears
• Fact: 3 people die from bears every year....90 people die by being struck by lightening
• Tip: In the unlikelihood you are attacked play dead if you're attacked by a grizzly and fight back if you're attacked by a black bear 

Be bear aware but don't let it keep you from hiking.  Chances are you won't have a bear encounter and if you follow the tips above, the chances of the encounter turning into a bear attack are about as small as.....all the glaciers being around in GNP 100 years from now!


Article written by Matt Harrington, Marketing Specialist at the Best Western Plus Flathead Lake Inn and Suites in Kalispell, MT.  If you're coming to the Flathead, to Kalispell or to Glacier National Park, check out the Trip Advisor number 1 Kalispell hotel!

Iceberg Lake Glacier National Park- the family friendly 10-mile hike

With so many day-hikes to choose from you might think Montanans never hike the same trail in Glacier twice.  However, some hikes in Glacier are worth repeating and Iceberg Lake is definitely one of them.  About 2 weeks ago, I hiked up to Iceberg Lake for the 3rd time and yet again I was blown away by the captivating rugged amphitheater that holds this classic glacial lake.

The trail takes you up a sweeping glacial valley, offering views of several rugged mountains.  The slopes above the trail stay green most of the summer and you can often see bighorn sheep and mountain goats grazing or bedding down during the heat of the day.  A little past mid-way you will cross a small babbling falls with several large flat rocks which are perfect for a lunch or snack stop (don't worry, there is a bridge over the falls).  Right before the lake, there are a few snow fields that remain until late July (depending on the year) but they are very navigable and do not have steep pitches.

It is possibly the easiest 10-mile hike in Glacier which gives it unique appeal to many families whose kids are ready for longer days but would tire with a steep incline.  The gradual down-hill slope makes it manageable for those with bad joints as well.   I have seen eight-year-olds make it to the lake as well as people in their seventies.  It is not a short hike, but it is doable for many people and worthwhile fore everyone.

You can reach the trail by going to the Swift Current trailhead/store area.  There is plenty of parking.  If you can, park so your car is shaded during the heat of the day.  Also, keep in mind, the store offers great refreshments but is not open until mid-June, so don't bank on getting Gatorade there like we did if you're hiking before the 16th of June.

Written by Matt Harrington- Marketing Specialist at the BestWestern Plus Flathead Lake Inn and Suites

Many Glacier, Goat Lick and Other Wildlife Viewing Areas in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is known for its scenic views and Yellowstone National Park for its wildlife, but Glacier probably should be known for both.

Black Bear near Lake McDonald

This last week, four of us traveled to the Many Glacier entrance on the northeast side of Glacier.  Over the course of two days of hiking and one night of camping we saw five moose, ten bighorn sheep, two mountain goats and one elk!  Some were spotted through binoculars, but three of the moose were visible across the river from our campsite in the Swift Current campground!  All that to say, Glacier has plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities!

Best Viewing Areas
Many Glacier is the best entrance for general wildlife viewing.  Every animal you can see in Glacier can be seen here and sometimes from the Many Glacier Lodge itself.
Goat Lick is the most reliable option for seeing Mountain Goats.  It is a marked pull-off along Highway 2 on the south end of Glacier.  The minerals on the hillside are just what the goats are craving and they almost never leave during the summer.

Bighorn Sheep in Logan Pass parking lot

Logan Pass is a great place for viewing Bighorn Sheep and Mountain Goats.  You can often see both without getting out of your car!



Tips for Viewing
Grizzly Bears are often higher up during June and then slowly make their way down in elevation as the berries ripen in July.  Scan high meadows and snow fields in June and lower ones in July, August and September.  Be very careful in thick brush, especially in August and September!

Moose on Cut Bank Creek

Moose are all about the low meadows and ponds.  If you can get up high, scan areas that have lots of water and brush around them.  Be careful though, moose are statistically more dangerous than bears.
Bighorn Sheep and Mountain Goats both love to hang out up high.  You can scan for them from below and they are often easiest to pick out when they are running across snow fields.
General Tips- if you can, get a pair of binoculars before you go into Glacier, its well be worth it.  Whether you're driving or hiking, get to an area where you can see lots of open hillsides, meadows and snowfields with brush in between each section.  If you can get there in early morning or late evening.  You will see more wildlife at those times.  Scan the meadows, hillsides and snowfields with your naked eye, or with binoculars until you see movement.  The more area you have to scan the better your odds.  Once you see something you can zero in with your binoculars.  Patience is key.  Something is almost certainly out there, you just have to be willing to wait until it comes to a place you can see it.

Hiking in the Two Medicine Glacier National Park

You've looked forward to your Montana vacation for months.  You're finally at the entrance to Glacier National Park and to your dismay you find out you can't actually access Logan Pass and all the hikes in the central part of Glacier!?!  What are you supposed to do now?  Twiddle your thumbs in your Kalispell hotel room?

Rest assured, you're not the first person to be disappointed by the late opening of Going-to-the-Sun Road.  But this blog is not about problems, its about solutions.  Its time for an off-the-beaten-path approach!

Twin Falls

The Two Medicine trailhead is just over 2 hours from Kalispell.  It is the least traveled paved-entrance to Glacier National Park, but not for lack of great scenic hikes.  Here are three hikes and brief descriptions of them (all mileages include round-trip).

Running Eagle Falls- .6 miles.  Stunning waterfall.  Trail head is just after the main entrance.  A hike/walk everyone can do!

Upper Two Medicine Lake

Upper Two Medicine Lake- 2.3 miles if you use ferry or 9.6 without ferry.  Main trail is relatively flat and travels around the north side of Middle Two Medicine Lake.  Stunning views on both sides and wildlife sightings on the north side of the trail.  At the end of the lake the trail merges with the trail from the boat dock (where you'd come from if you take the ferry).  It climbs a little on the way to Upper Two Medicine Lake, but the grade is fairly shallow.  You can also do a 100 yard side trip to Twin Falls, my personal favorite waterfall in Glacier!  The whole time you'll be able to see the sweeping glacial valleys and the gorgeous red/purple rock in the upper strata.  This hike is great as it gives you options for the whole family (short or long hike with the help of the ferry).

Bighorn Sheep near Scenic Point

Scenic Point- 7.9 Miles. This hike climbs 2300 ft but the views are worth it.  Switchbacks along a shale-like slope for most of the hike.  A short section that is pretty steep and then a flat walk across the top to where the views are best.  It is a great place for 360 views of the plains and Glacier at the same time.  Bighorn Sheep are frequently on the trail or up higher.  This hike can also be done as a loop back to East Glacier.

Other Worthwhile Hikes

There are several other hikes that are more difficult (longer and steeper) but equally rewarding in or near the Two Medicine entrance including: Dawson Pass, Firebrand Pass and Pitamakan/Dawson.  See hike734.com for more details!

More than Hiking

In addition to the hiking, you can drive over Looking Glass Pass just north of East Glacier for spectacular views (probably the least traveled scenic drive in Glacier Country).  The Two Medicine campground is picturesque with pick-nick spots along the river.  Serranos serves some of the best Mexican food in Glacier Country and is located in East Glacier.  If it is raining or you just need a relaxing afternoon, try the "Big Tree" Lodge in East Glacier for a relaxing afternoon of listening to live music near the fireplace.  

All these options and it will take you  less time to get there than if you went to Logan Pass?! Yes!  Two Medicine is where its at if Logan Pass is still closed!

Written by Matt Harrington- Marketing Specialist at the BestWestern Plus Flathead Lake Inn and Suites

Going-to-the-Sun Congestion and How to Deal with It

“Really!?!  That’s the third shuttle!”

The Highline Trail- one of the most congested hikes in Glacier

We were all frustrated as we watched yet another shuttle full of hikers pull out and head up toward Logan Pass.  We had parked at “the Loop” in hopes of getting a shuttle to the top of Logan Pass so we could hike the famed Highline Trail back down to our car.  Many of us had waited 45 minutes and seen three full shuttles go by.  Our small group of three and another group of two had a time crunch in the afternoon so without wasting more time we set off to hike the Highline Trail in reverse.  We found out later, the next shuttle arrived within ten minutes of our departure with several open seats. But by then we were long gone, enjoying the scenery, making record time and getting a great work-out while doing it.  We made it to Logan Pass, shuttled back down to our cars and arrived back to town in time to see our new niece. 

The "clean-up crew" before all the cars get to Logan Pass parking lot

A record 2.34 Million people visited Glacier National Park last year!  While that may be good news for area businesses that cater to tourists, those of us who want to travel on the famed Going-to-the-Sun scenic highway may find the roadway a little crowded.  The road is becoming so crowded that Park officails recently asked for public comment on five different proposals designed to lower congestion.  Several of the proposals include provisions for expansion of the shuttlesystem and one shuts it down entirely.  A couple of the proposals implement a reservation system for Going-to-the-Sun Highway during July and August.  Two of the proposals also include a provision for bike only days.  Whichever one they choose, it will likely look very different in a couple years, but none of these changes will take place until 2017.

So what does all this congestion mean for you, coming to Glacier this summer?  Well, you essentially have 4 choices: park shuttles, personal vehicle, cycling or the Red Bus Tour. 

In spite of the wait time sometimes involved, park shuttles are your most reliable option if you want to hike for a few hours.  This is because once you’re on the shuttle; you don’t have to look for parking.  If you take your personal vehicle and can’t find parking you don’t have the option of circling around to vulture-park because the road is too narrow to turn around! 

Siyeh Bend Pull-off early in the day

The best part about driving your personal vehicle is that you can actually stop and take pictures if (and that’s a big if) there’s an open pull-out.  You also have the option of driving through Logan Pass (meaning you don’t have to come back the way you came).  Besides the uncertain parking situation, another downside is that the driver usually doesn’t enjoy the scenery because the narrow, congested, high-consequence road demands most of his attention. 

Until they have bike only days, your best bet cycling is in the early and late hours of daylight (I have friends who bike up under the light of the full moon).  I have never biked on the road during heavy traffic, but I pray for bikers that do.

The Red Bus Tour (and by bus I mean four rows of seating) is probably the best sight-seeing option.  The drivers are informed, engaging and even funny.  There aren’t quite as many photo opportunities as if you drive yourself, but if the bus is stopped(as it often is due to traffic and construction)  you can stand up and take a picture because the roof is retracted (weather permitting). 

Written by Matt Harrington- Marketing Specialist at the BestWestern Plus Flathead Lake Inn and Suites

Spring Hikes in Glacier

When hiking in Montana in the spring, you never really know what to expect.  You might have great trail for three miles, then mud, then ice, then six inches of snow and then back to great trail.  The weather could be equally erratic: rainy, sunny and snowy all in the same day.  But despite the obstacles, the long winter and the recent sunny days are an irresistible lure for hikers to return to the mountains.  What follows are three hikes (one may require snow shoes) that can be done in either early spring or late spring.

Apgar Lookout:

This is one of the best accessible hike-with-a-view in early spring and it is a stunner.  After going through the main West Glacier entrance, you drive about half a mile and turn left on the road marked for Apgar Lookout.  The road ends in a parking lot at the trail head.  The hike starts out in trees and then goes through a burnt area with a couple pretty long switchbacks, it then winds around the front of the mountain to the lookout and a spectacular view of Lake McDonald and the mountains that climb up behind it to Logan Pass.  While the lookout is obviously not open in the spring, it makes for a great spot to eat lunch from and take in the amazing views.  My wife and I went up in late February and snow shoes were necessary for about half the hike.  That being said, the trail receives a lot of sun so by late March it should be hike-able the entire distance.  Round trip the hike is 7.1 miles.

Bowman Lake:

Yes, you can just drive here in the summer, but before the dirt road leading to Bowman Lake (from Polebridge) is open, Bowman Lake is a worthwhile hike.  The hike up has a mild elevation gain and is in the trees for about two thirds of the time.  It opens up at the campground and the view of Bowman is surprisingly stunning.  It is a long lake, stretching back with pristine mountains behind and around it.  My wife and I hiked there in early March and it was still frozen over.  I think that is the largest frozen body of water I have ever seen.   Snow shoes were not necessary, although Yak Tracks would have been advisable. 

Trout Lake:

This hike is definitely a later spring hike but is worth your time before Going-to-the-Sun is open.  Simply drive to the end of Lake McDonald and take the first road to your left at the end of the lake.  Go over the bridge along the dirt road which will eventually end at the trailhead.  The hike has some substantial elevation gain, but the reward is seeing down a large glacial valley that few have the opportunity to see.  The lake itself is crystal clear.  The first time I went with my wife, we saw lunes cruise under-water after small trout and it was fascinating to watch.  Sometimes avalanches hit the trail pretty hard during the winter, so you might have to find the trail again after an avalanche chute.  The round trip mileage is less than 8 miles but the elevation gain makes it a demanding hike.  Alternatively, you can hike to the top of the first ridge and have a great view of Lake McDonald and then return to your vehicle.

Final thoughts:

Avalanche Lake is another late spring hike, but I already mentioned it in another blog.  Also, keep in mind the uncertainty of trail conditions and changing weather.  Bring yak tracks and warm and water-proof clothes.

Top 10 Worst Huckleberry Products

If you’ve ever been anywhere close to Glacier National Park during the summer, you know that Glacier Country is Huckleberry Country.  Even if you come in the winter you’ll notice a plethora of signs offering everything from huckleberry jam to huckleberry wine.  While there are many great huckleberry products, for this blog we thought we’d list the 10 weirdest huckleberry products.  Some exist and some are only ideas.  Either way, if you’ve been looking for a huckleberry product that could really stick out from the crowded field, here are some ideas you might want to try!

1.       Huckleberry toilet paper- Freshen up the outhouse with scented toilet tissue!

2.       Huckleberry scented bear spray- Spray something that smells natural to the bear, just be sure the unnatural stuff is powerful enough to stop him.

3.       Huckleberry cologne/perfume- The opposite sex will be after you like bears in a huckleberry patch!

4.       Huckleberry deodorant- Ahh yes!  Nothing overcomes BO like huckleberries!

5.       Huckleberry toothpaste, mouth wash or floss- Your next dental cleaning appointment will be a pleasure for your dentist!

6.       Huckleberry fog machine- Watch your favorite sports team or performer come out in a mysterious cloud of purple huckleberry scented fog!

7.       Huckleberry pizza- They already make pineapple, why not huckleberry?!?

8.       Huckleberry burritos- Salty, spice and sweet (huckleberry) all at once?  I think Yes!

9.       Huckleberry flavored tobacco products- Already exist, but wouldn’t you rather have this kind of second hand smoke than the alternative?

10.   Huckleberry scented diapers- Your least favorite task just got a little sweeter and your child is well on his/her way to becoming a huckleberry kid!

Classic Glacier Hikes

As I write this, the temperature is below freezing and the cloud cover overhead is thick.  It seems like summer will never come.  Hiking in Glacier may be the last thing on your mind, but it might be just what you need to get you through the stalemate between spring and winter that we are now in.  Picture yourself in a high mountain meadow, full of blooming wild flowers and bright green grass.  The sky is a perfect baby blue and the temperature is hovering at 75 degrees.    The spectacular glacial valleys stretch in every direction and snow fields end in glacial blue lakes over each rise.  This is Montana at its finest!

Glacier has 734 miles of trail so you have a lot of potential hikes to choose from.   While there are many lesser known hikes that are worth-while, for this edition of our blog we will focus on three classic glacier hikes.  The two mid-range hikes (5-mile round trip) of Hidden Lake and Avalanche lake along with the longer Garden Wall hike are well traveled but with good reason.  If you are planning on doing any of these quintessential Glacier hikes, here’s what you should know.

Highline trail is one of the best full-day hikes there is in Glacier.  It is a loop, so you leave your car at “the bend”, take a free shuttle to Logan Pass and then hike the loop back to your car.  The first leg from Logan Pass to Granite Peak Chalet  takes you along a steep, spectacularly green hillside with a rock face on the up-hill side.  The views down the glacier valleys during the entire hike are amazing and you will often see mountain goats.  You can also add a quick side trip and see Grinnell Glacier from the top.  Things to be aware of: As with all hikes in Glacier, the earlier you can get there the better.  Shuttles coming up Going-to-the-Sun Road often are full from the stops below by the time they get to the bend, so if you get there at mid-morning you will likely have to wait for a shuttle to Logan Pass.  Start with enough water for the whole trip.  Even though there is a chalet about 7 miles from the trailhead, everything is packed in by horse, so water is expensive and there are few streams along the way.  Grizzly Bears are frequently encountered on this trail despite its popularity so be sure to carry bear spray.

Hidden Lake is a great hike and has spectacular views for the entire hike.  It is an easier hike with minimal elevation gain.  Much of the trail is on a board walk with wild flowers and green fields on both sides.  It is the type of trail where you can turn back at any point and still enjoy 360 scenic views.  If your are not sure how far you can hike, this is a good option.  The lake itself is a deep glacial blue and worth the five mile round trip.  You will often see mountain goats and bighorn sheep near the trail or even near the visitor’s center where it begins.   Things to be aware of:  If you come between 10AM and 5PM, the parking lot at Logan Pass can fill up quickly and the trail to hidden lake can become very crowded (note that just because the parking lot says “full” does not mean it is actually full).

Avalanche Lake is the most popular hike that is not connected to Logan Pass.  It is about 5 miles round trip with a mild up-hill grade.  The first part of the hike winds through a very wet almost rain-forest like climate.  The lake itself has a great view and you can see the various avalanche chutes that give the lake its name.  The trail goes around it and there are several perfect spots for a picnic.   The trailhead for Avalanche Lake is accessible long before most trailheads in Glacier are, which makes it ideal for a spring, early summer or late fall hike.  Things to be aware of:  Bears frequent this trail, especially Black Bears so be aware.  In June, before Logan Pass opens, this hike is extremely popular, so if you can avoid hiking in the middle of the day, it will feel more like a hike and less like a walk in Central Park. 

As you begin to plan your trip Jake Bramante’s website www.hike734.com has some excellent resources for potential hikes.  Jake spent a summer hiking and documenting all 734 miles of trail in Glacier and created several resources using his knowledge.  We are not paid to endorse his products, but I mention them because they are comprehensive and well worth your time and money.