Itinerary - Kalispell/GNP - May 1 to 5, Snowshoeing

Question

My husband and I are going to be in Whitefish the last week of April, then have a few days to spend in the GNP area beginning on Friday, May 2 before departing on Monday. He wants to snowshoe at GNP.

Following is an itinerary suggested by ChatGPT (after a lot of back and forth). The itinerary generated is very specific, but I plan on being flexible. What do you think? I normally don't do just one night anywhere, but given the short distances between hotels, I might be ok with it on this trip.

I like visiting historic locations, great views of nature, shopping, wineries/distilleries, and good restaurants. Snowshoeing at GNP is his main goal.

Friday, May 2 – West Glacier / Columbia Falls

9:00 AM: Depart Whitefish, drive to GNP. Husband drops me off at Glacier National Park Conservancy Park Store--get National Parks passport stamp for me, shop and and rent bear spray for husband while he drives to Glacier Outfitters in Apgar Village to rent snowshoe equipment, then returns to pick me up.

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM: Drop husband at Avalanche Lake Trailhead or Going to the Sun Road for snowshoeing while I have some solo time at Lake McDonald – reading, relaxing, walking

Drive to Coram, visit Glacier Distilling Company, then drive to Columbia Falls and check in to hotel (Cedar Creek Lodge). Afternoon shopping at Station 8 if there's time. Dinner at Three Forks Grille or Backslope Brewing

Saturday, May 3 – Kalispell

Morning: Drive to Kalispell (~20 mins). Visit Conrad Mansion Museum, then Hockaday Museum. Have lunch at Bonelli’s Bistro or Café Mamá. Check in at hotel: Kalispell Grand Hotel or Sherman Lodge. Afternoon shopping: The Toggery (women’s clothing), Sassafras (artisan collective). Dinner at the The Mercantile Steak or Hop’s Downtown Grill.

Sunday, May 4 – Bigfork

Morning: Drive to Bigfork (~45 mins). Visit art galleries (Riecke’s Bayside, Eric Thorsen, Persimmon Gallery) and/or shop. Lunch at Pocketstone Café or Saketome Sushi

Midday: Wayfarers State Park and/or visit Whistling Andy Distillery (Lakeside)

Dinner: Showthyme or Schafer’s (check seasonal hours)

Overnight: Bridge Street Cottages

Monday, May 5

Breakfast & morning walk, followed by scenic drive along Flathead Lake (Hwy 35), drive to Kalispell, last minute shopping.

I need a lunch somewhere in here, and I'm also thinking it might be better to drive back to Kalispell for a 2nd night rather than staying overnight in Bigfork on Sunday because that will be easier with luggage, but that would do away with the drive along the lake.

4:30 PM: Depart Kalispell for airport (FCA)

6:30 PM: Flight departure

Would you add or subtract anything?

Finally, he's telling me it will be fine for him to snowshoe alone because he'll be on a road or trail and other people, possibly snowmobilers, etc. will be around. Thoughts? He is an experienced snowshoer, but the unfamiliar location, weather, and possibility of wildlife encounters makes me unsure of this plan. However, I'm not sure what the alternative would be.

Answer

Your itinerary looks well thought out and offers a good mix of scenic views, historic sites, and fun activities. Here are a few thoughts on how to adjust or enhance it:

Friday, May 2 – West Glacier / Columbia Falls: - The plan seems solid, but ensure that your husband’s snowshoeing trip is within a safe distance. Avalanche Lake Trailhead and the Going-to-the-Sun Road are popular, but conditions in May can be unpredictable. Have backup trails ready in case of snow conditions or other closures. - For your solo time, consider checking out Lake McDonald Lodge or the McDonald Creek area as alternatives for relaxing or walking.
Saturday, May 3 – Kalispell: - The Conrad Mansion and Hockaday Museum are both great options for a more historical and cultural day. If you're looking for something more outdoorsy, consider stopping by Somers Bay or the Flathead Lake State Park for some great scenic views. - You might also want to explore some outdoor gear shops in Kalispell like Rocky Mountain Outfitter if you're looking for unique shopping experiences.
Sunday, May 4 – Bigfork: - The art galleries in Bigfork are lovely, and you’ll have a peaceful day exploring the charming town. If you decide to stay in Bigfork instead of returning to Kalispell, you can enjoy the scenic drive along Flathead Lake on Monday without feeling rushed. The only downside to staying in Bigfork would be that it limits your shopping options, but if you prioritize the quieter lakeside experience, it’s a great option.

Regarding your husband's snowshoeing plan:

Your husband is right that snowshoeing in GNP can be done safely, but there are some important things to consider:

Trail Conditions: May could still be challenging for snowshoeing, depending on how much snow is left. Some trails might be muddy or have patchy snow, so always check the conditions ahead of time. Consider checking in with Glacier Outfitters for trail updates.
Wildlife Considerations: GNP is home to bears, moose, and other wildlife. Even though he's an experienced snowshoer, it's best to be aware of wildlife activity in the area. Carry bear spray (which he already plans to rent), and make noise to alert animals of your presence. If possible, join a guided snowshoe tour for extra safety.
Safety: Snowshoeing alone in the wilderness can be risky, especially in unfamiliar areas. If he is set on going solo, ensure his phone is fully charged and let you know his plans ahead of time. Having a backup plan with your location might give you peace of mind. A local guide or group could be a safer option for first-time snowshoers in the area.

If you're both open to adjusting plans, a guided snowshoeing tour might be a safer, more enjoyable experience for both of you. There are many companies offering winter tours in GNP, which also ensures that he'll have a guide with knowledge of the terrain and wildlife in the area.

Final Thoughts: Your itinerary looks great, and being flexible is key. The balance between outdoor activities, shopping, and relaxation should give you both a wonderful trip. As for the snowshoeing, staying aware of conditions and wildlife, and possibly considering a guide, will help make your husband's adventure safer and more enjoyable.

Itinerary - Kalispell/GNP - May 1 to 5, Snowshoeing

More Glacier National Park Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions