Activities You Must Try in Whitefish, MT: Tours and Activities Guide
Whitefish, Montana, isn’t just a destination—it’s an adventure waiting to happen. Nestled in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains, this vibrant ski town offers a variety of unique experiences that make it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. From paddling on glowing clear kayaks at sunset to exploring scenic trails and soaring through treetops, Whitefish has something for everyone. Let's dive into the Top 6 must try activities in Whitefish.
1.Sunset Glass Kayak Tour
Our Clear Kayak Tour is one of the most popular ways to experience the natural beauty of Whitefish, Montana. With our clear kayaks, you’ll glide across the water and enjoy an unmatched view of the world beneath you. Whether you’re paddling at sunset or under the stars, this tour is perfect for families, couples, and friends seeking a magical evening on the water.
As the only illuminated glass kayak tour in Whitefish, this unique experience begins approximately 30 minutes before the sunset's. You’ll start your journey during the golden hour, paddling as the sky transforms into vibrant hues. As the sun sets, the bright LED lights under each kayak illuminate the water, creating a stunning ambiance and revealing the underwater world in a way that’s truly magical.
This is a beginner-friendly 2-hour tour, designed to provide a relaxing and enjoyable outing for families, couples, and friends. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a fun and unique activity, and it’s especially ideal for a romantic date night.
"This was the highlight of our trip to Whitefish! The Glass kayaks are stunning, and the guide was amazing." — Sarah J.
Trip Details:
- You'll meet your guide at KayBeller Park, located in the heart of Whitefish
- Make sure to arrive at the park 20 Minutes before the trip begins. (Whitefish gets really busy especially during the peak Season, I recommend you give yourself an extra 10 minutes to find parking)
- You'll paddle up whitefish river for about 1 mile, once you get to the mouth of the river you'll be greeted by the sunset on Whitefish Lake.
- Your guide will lead you to a bay, as the daylight fades your kayak will illuminate the water beneath you, creating a really cool ambience.
- After about 45 minutes you'll kayak back to the river and make your way down stream.
Price: $150 per person
The full experience lasts about 1.5-2 hours
2. Horseback Riding Adventures
Saddle up and explore the breathtaking landscapes of Whitefish on a guided horseback tour. Bar W Guest Ranch provides a tailored experiences for riders of all skill levels. Whether you prefer a peaceful trail ride through dense pine forests or a more adventurous outing that includes breathtaking mountain views, horseback riding is a timeless Montana tradition. You’ll also have the chance to spot wildlife and connect with the natural beauty of the area, all while enjoying the guidance of experienced wranglers.
The Bar W Guest Ranch in Whitefish, Montana, offers a comprehensive 6-night package stay that includes a variety of activities, accommodations, and dining experiences. Here's a simple breakdown of what they offer:
Accommodations:
- Main Lodge: A 6,200 square-foot lodge featuring six bedrooms, three common areas, and a game room.
- Cabin Suites: Amish-designed cabins with two suites overlooking pastures and forests.
- Glamping Tents: Luxurious canvas tents equipped with custom log beds, electric blankets, heating, air conditioning, log futons, kitchenettes, and private bathrooms nearby.
- Covered Wagons: For a pioneer experience, stay in covered wagons with modern comforts.
Riding Packages:
- Ranch Package: Ideal for non-riders; includes all ranch activities and meals.
- Spencer Package: Suitable for all skill levels; offers equal time for riding and other activities, including arena lessons and trail rides.
- Spencer Plus Package: For those seeking more riding time (70%); includes one off-site ride and various arena activities.
- Swisher Package: Designed for avid riders; includes multiple off-site rides and requires the ability to mount from the ground.
Activities:
- Horseback Riding: Explore thousands of acres of Montana wilderness on horseback.
- Cattle Drives: Participate in authentic cattle drives, including roping, branding, and more.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy fishing, hiking, mountain biking, swimming, and bird watching.
- Ranch Activities: Engage in hatchet throwing, 3D archery, fly casting, roping, wagon rides, line dancing, branding, and campfires.
Specialty Weeks:
- Family Weeks: Tailored activities for all family members, including a dedicated kids' program.
- Adults-Only Weeks: Weeks reserved exclusively for adults, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
Dining:
All meals are included and served buffet-style in the Horseshoe dining center, featuring hearty Montana-style cooking.
For more detailed information or to book your stay, visit their official website
3. SkyDive Whitefish
Skydive Whitefish offers an exhilarating tandem skydiving experience in the stunning surroundings of Whitefish, Montana.
The Experience:
- Tandem Jump: Jump from 10,000 feet securely harnessed to an experienced instructor. The adventure begins with a scenic flight showcasing breathtaking views of Glacier National Park and the Flathead Valley, followed by an unforgettable free fall. skydivewhitefish.com
Pricing:
- Tandem Jump: $299
- Media Packages:
- Photo and Video Combo: $129
Booking Details:
- Seasonal Operation: Open seven days a week from June through September.
4. Scenic Bike Tours
Discover the beauty of Whitefish on two wheels with a scenic bike tour. Whitefish Bike Retreat provides high-quality rentals and guided tours that showcase the best routes in the area, including the famous Whitefish Trail. Whether you prefer a leisurely ride through picturesque valleys or a challenging trek up rugged terrain, biking is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the area’s natural splendor. Don’t forget to bring your camera—you’ll encounter plenty of photo-worthy spots along the way.
Biking & Rentals
Whitefish Bike Retreat is designed for riders of all skill levels, offering direct access to miles of singletrack trails, bike rentals, and essential biking amenities.
- Direct Trail Access – Ride straight from your campsite or cabin onto the Whitefish Trail and other surrounding scenic routes.
- Bike Rentals & Repairs – High-quality mountain bikes and bikepacking gear available for rent, plus an on-site workshop for tune-ups.
- Guided Rides & Private Lessons – Improve your skills or explore the best trails with experienced guides.
6. Ziplining and Aerial Adventures
The Aerial Adventure Park at Whitefish Mountain Resort offers an exhilarating outdoor experience for visitors aged 7 and older. Featuring five distinct obstacle courses of varying difficulty levels, the park boasts over 60 challenges, including cable bridges, rope ladders, and a trapeze. Participants are allotted two hours to navigate multiple courses, making it an ideal activity for families, friends, and team-building groups.
For those seeking a comprehensive adventure, the resort offers an Aerial Adventure Park Activity Package. This package includes two hours in the park, a round-trip Scenic Lift Ride ticket, and three rides on the Alpine Slides. The package is valid for two days, allowing guests to spread out the fun.
Learn More Here
6. Hiking Adventures
If you’re a fan of exploring on foot, Whitefish boasts some of the most stunning hiking trails in Montana. From gentle forest walks to challenging mountain ascents, there’s a trail for every level of hiker. Whitefish Outfitters & Tours offers expert-guided hikes that help you discover hidden gems and learn about the area’s rich history and ecology. With breathtaking vistas, fresh mountain air, and a chance to connect with nature, hiking in Whitefish is an experience you won’t want to miss.
