Girls Trip....unsure of layout of the land

Question

Some girlfriends and I would like to plan a trip to Montana in May for some relaxation, hiking and outdoorsy activities. I know minimal info about Montana but have landed on the area of Whitefish. I've read about shopping, food and some lodging but am curious about some hiking. I would love to go to Glacier National Park but it seems to be quite a drive away....I would love any and all input on other areas to stay in, other hiking mountains, etc. Thanks!

Answer

Whitefish is an excellent choice for a relaxing and outdoorsy girls trip, especially in May! It’s a beautiful town with a charming atmosphere, and it offers a wide range of activities that will make for a memorable vacation. Here’s a breakdown of things you can do, places to stay, and hiking options around Whitefish and beyond:

Whitefish: A Great Base for Exploring

Whitefish is nestled in the Flathead Valley and offers a great combination of small-town charm, outdoor activities, and vibrant local life. It's a great choice because it’s close to nature, yet has enough restaurants, shops, and accommodation options to make your stay comfortable. Whitefish Mountain Resort (formerly Big Mountain) is just a short drive from downtown, and it’s a perfect place for hiking, zip-lining, or enjoying some scenic mountain views.

Glacier National Park

While Glacier National Park may seem a bit far (about a 1.5-hour drive from Whitefish), it’s definitely worth the trip if you're interested in experiencing Montana’s stunning wilderness. The park is known for its rugged mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and wildflower-filled meadows. May can still be a bit early for some of the higher elevation hikes due to snow, but lower elevation hikes should be accessible. Consider these hikes within Glacier:

Hidden Lake Overlook: A relatively easy 1.5-mile hike that offers incredible views of Hidden Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Avalanche Lake Trail: A beautiful 4.5-mile hike through forests, ending at a stunning glacial lake surrounded by waterfalls.
Lake McDonald: If you're not up for a strenuous hike, a scenic drive along the shores of Lake McDonald offers breathtaking views.

Hiking Near Whitefish

If you’re looking for shorter, more accessible hikes near Whitefish, there are plenty of options. The town is surrounded by great outdoor spots perfect for hiking and enjoying the scenery:

Whitefish Mountain Resort: The resort offers several scenic hiking trails in the summer, such as the Big Mountain Summit Trail and the Hellroaring Basin Trail. These trails offer great views of the valley, and the resort offers a lift to the top for those who want to skip the uphill climb.
Whitefish Trail: A 42-mile trail system that loops around the Whitefish area, offering various levels of difficulty. It's perfect for hiking, mountain biking, or just enjoying nature. The Swift Creek and Cedar Flats trails are beautiful and easily accessible.
Lazy Bay Loop: If you want something shorter and less strenuous, this is a nice 3.2-mile hike with gorgeous views of Whitefish Lake.

Where to Stay in Whitefish

Whitefish offers a range of lodging options, from charming boutique hotels to more luxurious resorts. Here are some top recommendations:

The Lodge at Whitefish Lake: A beautiful and luxurious lakeside resort with a full-service spa, fine dining, and easy access to outdoor activities.
Whitefish Mountain Resort: If you want to be closer to the mountain, the resort has ski-in/ski-out accommodations in the winter and offers a range of vacation rentals in the warmer months.
Downtown Whitefish Hotels: There are a number of quaint boutique hotels and inns in downtown Whitefish, such as Grouse Mountain Lodge or The Firebrand Hotel. These places are perfect for being close to local restaurants, shops, and entertainment.

Day Trips and Nearby Areas

While Whitefish is an excellent base, there are a few other areas you might want to consider visiting for a day trip, especially if you're looking to explore more of Montana's natural beauty:

Flathead Lake: About a 30-minute drive from Whitefish, Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. You can enjoy boating, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the shore.
Bigfork: A charming town located near Flathead Lake, Bigfork offers art galleries, unique shops, and great places to eat. It’s a great spot to explore if you want to relax and enjoy a slower pace.
Kalispell: Just 30 minutes south of Whitefish, Kalispell is the largest town in the area and offers shopping, restaurants, and a few nearby parks. You can also explore the Conrad Mansion Museum or enjoy a hike in Lindsey Lakes.

May Weather in Montana

Montana in May is beautiful, but it can also be unpredictable, especially in the mountains. The weather can range from sunny and warm to chilly and rainy, so it's essential to pack layers and be prepared for a variety of conditions. Lower elevations like Whitefish are usually mild, but if you plan to hike in Glacier or other higher-altitude areas, you may encounter some snow or cooler temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings.

Final Thoughts

Whitefish is a wonderful base for your trip with plenty of activities to offer. With its charming atmosphere, proximity to Glacier National Park, and outdoor activities, you’ll have a memorable time. If you decide to venture out for a day trip, Flathead Lake and Bigfork are lovely nearby destinations that provide a great mix of relaxation and exploration. There are plenty of accessible hikes around Whitefish, and Glacier National Park is just a short drive away if you're up for the adventure. Enjoy your girls trip to Montana!

Girls Trip....unsure of layout of the land

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