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The Great Outdoors meets Western tradition in Kalispell.

by Trevor Riggs - Posted 1 year ago

The Great Outdoors meets Western tradition in Kalispell.


It's a picturesque community located in the northwestern part of Montana. Kalispell is a fantastic combination of the old west and a bustling tourist hub, surrounded by mountains, glacial lakes, and stunning views.


The city of Kalispell was established in 1891. After the Great Northern Railroad selected the site of the town, Kalispell quickly became a thriving business center and tourist attraction.


A slightly larger community in Montana, Kalispell has plenty of lodging options. Kalispell's best lodging options have something for every kind of traveler, from luxury to kid-friendly.


Tourism is the primary industry in the community, which was initially supported by agriculture, flour mills, and timber mills. In addition to being a world-renowned destination for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and fishermen seeking blue-ribbon trout fishing, Kalispell is located on the edge of Glacier National Park.


There are many things to do in Kalispell, but a few attractions are to be noticed. Several of the main attractions in Kalispell are centered around taking advantage of the outdoor spaces in this area. It's historic downtown. Kalispell has many attractions, including the Hockaday Museum, Conrad Mansion Museum, and The Kalispell Grand Hotel. With eclectic restaurants and craft breweries, Kalispell is a slice of the old west. Along with historically significant buildings dating back to the 1890s, the historic downtown is home to several museums, art galleries, and restaurants. 


These places tell stories about Kalispell and northwest Montana and let you see what life was like back then. Downtown Kalispell is just 10 miles from Flathead Lake.


Flathead Lake is a glacial lake with crystal clear water, with some of the area's finest summer recreation opportunities and world-class fishing.

This lake is 200 square miles in size and has 185 miles of shoreline. In addition to Flathead Lake's beauty, mountain views surrounding the lake will take your breath away. Downtown Kalispell is just 10 miles from Flathead Lake.


 Near Kalispell, there is Glacier National Park. Its towering mountains, expansive meadows, unique wildlife, and namesake glaciers make it one of the first national parks established in the United States. Drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road to see the park's glaciers and stunning views of the mountains. Be on the lookout for wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, wolves, deer, and Elk.


Kalispell offers a wide variety of outdoor recreational activities. There are plenty of things to do in Kalispell, whether you're stopping by before heading to Glacier National Park or just coming for recreational activities.


There are hundreds of miles of hiking trails in the Kalispell area. Hikers can hike in Glacier National Park or Flathead National Forest for a quieter experience. A popular place called Jewel Basin in Flathead National Forest is loved by locals. With 35 miles of well-marked trails, you can enjoy fantastic views, wildlife viewing, and beautiful lakes in this area. From downtown Kalispell, it takes just 30 minutes to reach Jewel Basin.


Kalispell offers plenty of road and mountain biking opportunities for those who prefer a faster pace. If you decide to get your own bike or rent one, you can get advice from a bike shop on safe and challenging roads. Foy's to Blacktail trails are a favorite single-track trail network, meticulously maintained and signed in the community. Single-track trails such as Bear-dance Trail are also popular. Undoubtedly, this is one of the best single-track routes in the area. It is challenging, but it also offers impressive views of Flathead Lake.


Road bikers will find Rails to Trails, a network of trails that use old Great Northern Railway railway paths, appealing. Families and those looking for a leisurely ride with great views will enjoy these trails, as they're relatively flat.


Kalispell and the surrounding area have an abundance of fly-fishing streams and lakes. Local fly shops can give you tips on where to cast your line. If you plan on fishing in Montana, make sure that you have a fishing license. A license can be purchased on the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks website, or information about fishing regulations can be found on the state's website.


As a result of its location in the middle of two incredible ski resorts, Kalispell offers the best of both worlds. Ski at Whitefish Mountain Resort, a full-service ski resort, offers lodging and dining along the slope. There is also Blacktail Mountain Ski Area, which offers world-class skiing and snowboarding to intermediate skiers and snowboarders.


The top vacation spot for outdoor enthusiasts is Kalispell, MT.


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