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!