Most people have heard of Whitefish and Glacier National Park, but they might not realize how many great towns, stops, and adventures lie between them. The Flathead Valley is a patchwork of scenic drives, mountain towns, lakeside hideaways, and small-town charm—and each place has something unique to offer.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking to branch out on your next trip, here’s a quick guide to where to stay in the Flathead Valley, plus how long it takes to get to West Glacier, the gateway to the park.
Whitefish
Drive to West Glacier: ~35 minutes
Obviously our favorite, Whitefish is the go-to destination for good reason. With easy access to Glacier, Whitefish Lake, and a buzzing downtown along Central Ave, there’s always something to do whether it’s grabbing dinner at a lively restaurant, biking the Legacy Trails, or taking a dip in the lake. Getting to Glacier is also easy with tours and shuttles right from town!
Highlights: Great dining, hiking and biking trails, boutique shopping, breweries, and a vibrant arts scene.
Things to consider: It does get busy, so plan & book ahead if you’re visiting during peak season!
Columbia Falls
Drive to West Glacier: ~20 minutes
Often called the “Gateway to Glacier,” Columbia Falls is the closest town to the park entrance and is quickly becoming a hot spot in its own right. Its updated Main Street area is home to some great eats and breweries, all with a friendly, local feel.
Highlights: Proximity to Glacier, emerging food scene, laid-back vibe.
Perfect for: Travelers who want to beat the morning rush into the park.
Bigfork
Drive to West Glacier: ~1 hour
If summer had a hometown, it might be Bigfork. This lakeside gem sits on the north shore of Flathead Lake and boasts a beautiful little downtown packed with bars, bakeries, and the best sushi in the Valley at Saketome. Whether you’re watching the sunset from a dockside restaurant or browsing local art galleries, Bigfork brings serious small-town magic. Even if you end up staying in another part of the Valley, we highly recommend taking a day trip down to Bigfork!
Highlights: Lake access, amazing food, art galleries, relaxed pace.
Things to consider: You’ll likely need a car, and it’s the longest drive to Glacier, but the scenic route makes it worth every minute.
Kalispell
Drive to West Glacier: ~45 minutes
As the largest town in the Flathead, Kalispell is your go-to for shopping, restaurants, and conveniences-but don’t let that fool you. Its historic downtown is charming, walkable, and filled with galleries, coffee shops, and one of our favorite outdoor gear stores, Rocky Mountain Outfitters.
Highlights: More budget-friendly accommodations, shopping, and access to both Glacier and Flathead Lake.
Good to know: While farther from the park, it’s centrally located for exploring the entire valley.
So… Where Should You Stay?
That depends on what you want out of your trip!
– Want the classic Montana adventure town? Go with Whitefish.
– Looking to be super close to the park? Columbia Falls is your spot.
– Need more amenities or a central home base? Check out Kalispell.
– Craving lake days and sunset cocktails? You’ll fall in love with Bigfork.
Want tips on what to pack, where to rent gear, or book a local guide? Please drop us a message—we’re happy to help you plan the ultimate Flathead weekend!
