Whitefish, Montana, Is the Ideal Mountain Town

Enjoy the mountains year-round in charming little Whitefish.

Whitefish, Montana, Is the Ideal Mountain Town

Whitefish, Montana, is a dream destination for anyone interested in the outdoors. With a population under 8,500, this small mountain town is the main gateway into the magnificent Glacier National Park. It has everything you want from a mountain town: a charming downtown, good beer and lots of nature.

The mountains are the main draw, of course, but there are also glacier-fed lakes that provide breathtaking scenery in the winter and swimming opportunities in the summer. Whenever you visit, you'll find exciting things to do. Whether that's leaf-peeping in the forest, skiing the slopes or taking part in an outdoor summer festival.

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Where to Stay in Whitefish, Montana

Skiing on The Big Mountain at Whitefish, Montana

One of the advantages of small towns is that no matter where you stay, you'll be near the action. The Lodge at Whitefish Lake overlooks a gorgeous lake, which can be seen from the large outdoor pool. It's the best place to stay in the summer, and prices are reasonable for a four-star property. You'll also be a 15-minute drive from the Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort.

Grouse Mountain Lodge is another wonderful alternative for those looking to enjoy the town. With chalet-style architecture, you'll love coming back here after a day at the slopes. You can also enjoy the indoor swimming pool at any time of the year.

And if you prefer to spend your money on experiences rather than on your accommodation, you'll find a clean, cozy place to lay your head at Apres Whitefish.

Best luxury hotel in Whitefish: The Lodge at Whitefish Lake

Best mid-tier hotel in Whitefish: Grouse Mountain Lodge

Best budget hotel in Whitefish: Apres Whitefish

Getting To and Around Whitefish

Thanks to its proximity to Glacier National Park, Whitefish has its own airport, the Glacier Park International Airport. It is serviced by several national airlines, including Alaska, American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest and United. Though flying directly into Whitefish tends to be more expensive, you'll be a mere 20 minutes from the town.

But if you can't find reasonable flights, try landing at Missoula Montana Airport instead. You'll be about two-and-a-half hours away from Whitefish, but prices might make the drive worth it.

And on that subject, it's absolutely necessary to rent a car while visiting Whitefish. As in most small towns, public transportation is limited. Having your own set of wheels will allow you to go out into the wilderness and enjoy the amazing national park and the mountains surrounding the town.

Book flights to Whitefish

Rent a car in Whitefish

Alternative Mountain Town: Telluride, Colorado

Telluride, Colorado, during the fall season

Can't make it to Whitefish? Try heading to Telluride in Colorado instead. A former mountain town that turned into a sought-after ski destination, Telluride is as picturesque as can be. It's also home to many exciting music festivals throughout the year.

Best luxury hotel in Telluride: The Auberge Residences at Element 52

Best mid-tier hotel in Telluride: The Hotel Telluride

Best budget hotel in Telluride: Cimarron Mountain Retreat

Book flights to Telluride

Rent a car in Telluride

Alternative Mountain Town: Lake Placid, New York

Doubling as a lake town as well as a mountain town, Lake Placid provides visitors with the best of both worlds. Walk around the center for shopping and some impressively good dining. Hike around the Adirondacks or have fun in the several lakes around town.

Best luxury hotel in Lake Placid: The Whiteface Lodge

Best mid-tier hotel in Lake Placid: High Peaks Resort

Best budget hotel in Lake Placid: White Pine Camp

Book flights to Lake Placid

Rent a car in Lake Placid

Alternative Mountain Town: Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Like Whitefish, Gatlinburg's charm lays partially on the fact that it sits at the entrance of a beloved national park. When you're not enjoying Tennessee bourbon, live music in bars and Southern food, you can head outdoors to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Best luxury hotel in Gatlinburg: The Park Vista Gatlinburg, a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

Best mid-tier hotel in Gatlinburg: Edgewater Hotel Gatlinburg

Best budget hotel in Gatlinburg: Gatlinburg Mountain Inn

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Rent a car in Gatlinburg

For more great small mountain towns, check out these places.