Come play in Western Montana’s Flathead Valley this winter with an easy, three-day Glacier Country getaway. Fly into Glacier Park International Airport in Kalispell, or hit the road for a scenic winter drive.
Here’s our take on an ideal three-day winter itinerary in this adventure-filled valley.
DAY 1: DOGSLEDDING + SNOWSHOEING + NORDIC SKIING
In Bigfork, choose your adventure with the help of Base Camp Bigfork. Try hands-on dog sledding, or rent Nordic skis or snowshoes and explore the Bigfork Community Nordic Ski Trails. Snowshoers can also follow the 2-mile Swan River Nature Trail.
Stop by Pocketstone Café for breakfast or lunch—the cinnamon rolls are a local favorite.
Spend the afternoon browsing Bigfork’s shops along the waterfront, then overnight at Mountain Lake Lodge, complete with fireplace suites and outdoor hot tubs.
DAY 2: SCENIC DRIVE TO LAKESIDE + DOWNHILL SKIING AT BLACKTAIL MOUNTAIN
Drive south along Flathead Lake to Lakeside and stop to ride the Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster through snow-dusted trees with sweeping turns and forest views along the way.
Continue to Blacktail Mountain ski area for relaxed downhill skiing with light, dry powder and wide views of Flathead Lake, Glacier National Park and the Mission Mountains.
Overnight at The Cabins at Blacktail and book a sauna and cold plunge session. Or, drive to Kalispell for dinner at Mercantile Steak and a stay at Sherman Lodge or The Kalispell Grand Hotel.
DAY 3: SNOWSHOEING AT LONE PINE STATE PARK IN KALISPELL
Start your final day with winter wonderland views. Snowshoe Lone Pine State Park in Kalispell, offering 7.5 miles of trails, with rentals available on-site for $5 per person or $10 per family. From the overlooks, you can see Flathead Lake, Big Mountain, the Jewel Basin and Glacier National Park on clear days.
In the afternoon, explore Kalispell’s craft beverage scene at Sacred Waters Brewing Co., Big Mountain Ciderworks, Waters Edge Winery & Bistro and Whitefish Handcrafted Spirits.
If you’re in the mood for some western fun, don’t miss Kalispell’s Brash Winter Rodeo series.
3-DAY WHITEFISH SKI WEEKEND OPTION
If your priority is downhill skiing, base yourself in Whitefish for a weekend at Whitefish Mountain Resort. Read our Ski Weekend in Whitefish blog post for the full itinerary.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Winter conditions in Western Montana can change quickly, so it’s a good idea to call ahead to confirm snow levels, trail grooming and activity availability before you set out each day. Some attractions, rentals and amenities operate on limited winter hours or are weather-dependent.
Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents recreate responsibly by being mindful of the following: know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help build an inclusive outdoors.
February 16, 2026
Related: Bigfork, Breweries, Cideries, Dining, Distilleries, Dog Sledding, Downhill Skiing, Flathead Corridor, Kalispell, Lakeside, Montana, Nordic Skiing, Rodeos, Snowshoeing, Stay, Vacation, Whitefish, Wineries, Winter Fun
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