Early spring in Western Montana is a season of transition and adventure, where snow lingers in the mountains, trails begin to thaw and small towns buzz with live music and local events. Here’s your essential list of must-do experiences this extra-special time of year in Glacier Country.
SKI
Don’t stash your skis just yet—spring in Western Montana brings bluebird days and softer snow. Hit the slopes at Whitefish Mountain Resort or Lookout Pass, or carve turns at one of our smaller ski areas for truly local vibes. Check the Ski Area Snow Report for the latest on lift openings, fresh snow and current temperatures. Trip Tip: Don’t miss out on our Ski + Stay packages mentioned below.
STAY
Spring is the perfect time for a Glacier Country getaway, with less crowding and great lodging deals. Book a Ski & Stay package in Kalispell or in Whitefish at The Firebrand Hotel or The Lodge at Whitefish Lake for an extended alpine escape, combining small-town exploration with fun on the spring slopes.
SHOWS
Western Montana’s live music scene is not to be missed. Catch a concert at one of the venues listed below, or plan a trip around the International Wildlife Film Festival April 19 – 24 or the Kyiyo Pow Wow Celebration April 18 – 19, both in Missoula. Check out our events calendar for more performances and happenings.
+ Logjam Presents, Missoula
+ Mission Valley Live, Polson
+ The Great Northern Bar & Grill, Whitefish
+ University of Montana, Missoula
+ Wachholz College Center, Kalispell
SPORT
Spring ushers in sporting events that capture the spirit of adventure and competition, and our region hosts some of the most unique events around.
+ Whitefish Pond Skim
In early April, watch skiers and snowboarders attempt to skim across a man-made pond, avoiding zebra floaties and other obstacles—a hilarious end-of-season sendoff.
+ Forestry Day
In late April, watch log rolling, pole climbing and ax throwing competitions at the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula—a tribute to Montana’s timber heritage.
+ Bigfork Whitewater Festival
Watch kayakers tackle the “Wild Mile” of the Swan River outside Bigfork on Memorial Day Weekend; spectators can catch the event riverside from a nature trail.
+ Brash Winter Rodeo
Experience the adrenaline rush and rich roots of Montana’s ranching culture with bull riding, saddle bronc, team roping and more through the end of March in Kalispell’s indoor arena.
SHOP
From eclectic shops and stylish boutiques to bookshops, antique stores, gift shops and old-fashioned candy stores, our community main streets are brimming with small-town shopping experiences. Discover hidden gem shopping spots, western wear, national brands and shopping malls—plus the added bonus of no sales tax.
SIP
Montana ranks third in the nation for breweries per capita, and the craft beverage scene extends to distilleries, wineries and cideries. Embark on a craft beverage tour and taste your way through Kalispell, Missoula and the Bitterroot Valley, or venture to that small-town brewery you heard the locals talking about. Bonus: Many tasting rooms offer delicious eats, host on-site food trucks, or are located in communities with noteworthy culinary scenes.
SPAS
Spring days are made for adventure—and relaxation. Unwind on a 5-Day Hot Springs Getaway in Glacier Country, or explore the region’s spa retreats—from upscale hotel spas like The Spa at Meadow Lake in Columbia Falls to welcoming day spas like Cedar Creek Salon and Day Spa in Missoula. A spa experience ensures your Western Montana adventure is as restorative as it is unforgettable.
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.
March 3, 2025
Related: Arts and Culture, Bigfork, Breweries, Cideries, Columbia Falls, Distilleries, Downhill Skiing, Events, Hot Springs, Kalispell, Missoula, Montana, Polson, Saltese, Shopping, Spring Fun, Stay, Vacation, Whitefish, Wineries
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