Living a Outdoor Oriented Lifestyle in Whitefish, Montana

The town of Whitefish, Montana is a popular resort and community for those looking for outdoor beauty and adventure. About 15 miles from Kalispell in northwest Montana, Whitefish is home to a number of ski resorts, including Big Mountain Ski Area. Hunting, fishing, hiking are excellent. The town is built on gorgeous Whitefish Lake, which makes for an ideal setting for those who love to be outdoors on a boat.

Whitefish began in 1904 when The Great Northern Railway was built through here. It was originally called Stumptown due to the logging that took place to clear the valley. The railroad and logging were the original industries, but tourism has become increasingly important. Whitefish is located in Flathead County. It is equidistant from Missoula (MT) and Spokane (WA) – about 110 miles. Photo of downtown courtesy of Wikipedia and WikiCapa. Photo of nearby BIg Mountain courtesy of Wikipedia and Rajesh Dhawan.

Where to Retire in Whitefish and Home Prices

You can live in town, near the mountains, or on the lake Almost any home or condo has a spectacular view of the mountains or lake.  There is at least one active community in the area (see link at right).
Whitefish real estate can have a wide range depending on location (on the lake will be expensive, obviously)  and the size and quality of the home. Prices became quite expensive since 2000 because there is a limited supply of privately available land. In mid-2022 the median home value was $1,002,256, according to Zillow, and a 56% jump over the past year.

What Is Special about Whitefish

Whitefish has Big Mountain Ski Resorts, Glacier National Park, unparalleled nature activities and scenery, Whitefish Lake, and Flathead Lake and Flathead Valley.

What Is Not Special about Whitefish

Crowds in season; Whitefish is off the beaten track; and the nicest places are very expensive.

Climate and Physical Environment

Whitefish and Whitefish Lake are on the western side of the continental divide, near Glacier National Park.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Whitefish culture is built around its proximity to nature and outdoor sports. The Stumptown Museum includes many railroad artifacts as well as community memorabilia and photographs. In 1990 the Depot, located in the historic depot building, was restored to its original 1927 Glacier National Park chalet-like appearance. Great Northern Locomotive #181, one of only seven of its kind ever built, can be seen at the museum. Big Mountain Ski Resort offers many events and festivals. The Environmental Education Center is located on top of Big Mountain.

Crime

The crime rate in Whitefish is well below the national average.

Medical Facilities

North Valley Hospital is a 44 acute bed, 56 long term bed facility offering personalized health care. 24 hour emergency care is available.

Transportation

The Amtrak Station here is one of the line's busiest, and befits the area's beginning as a railroad town. Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) is also here.  Whitefish is a very walkable community when compared to other communities.

Valuable Links

Whitefish Chamber of Commerce

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