Outdoor Activities in Flathead Valley, Kalispell and Whitefish MT
The Flathead Valley consists of the communities of Bigfork, Columbia Falls, Kalispell and Whitefish in northwestern Montana. Rich in recreational activity, Flathead Valley always has something new and exciting to try, another area to explore, more fish to catch, slopes to conquer, shops in which to browse, and the list goes on. No other area offers such an amazing combination of skiing, fishing, hiking, golfing, boating, rafting and other outdoor activities as the one found in the Valley.
For instance, campers will find abundant camping opportunities. One such opportunity is at Big Arm State Park which is located on Flathead Lake. It offers camping sites under mature Ponderosa Pines and Juniper trees, a long beach suitable for swimming and catching a few rays, and a nature trail for hiking and bird watching. This park also has a ramp for launching your boat to go to Wild Horse Island State Park.
The nine Flathead Valley public golf courses were named among Golf Digest’s Top 50 Golf Destinations based upon the courses, services provided, transportation and accommodations, as well as setting and value. The golf courses are graced with beautiful mountain vistas, lakes and rivers, and often afford an encounter with wildlife. The well-tended courses are open from April through October, and offer plenty of diversity and challenges for golfers of all levels.
Hikers can enjoy nature exploring the trails in the national and state forests in the Valley. Some are easy hikes with shorter strolls, but there are also overnight backpacking trips into these areas as well. Equestrians have miles and miles of trails which meander through forests, along lake shores, on mountain ridges. Both on foot or horseback, taking a camera is a must as the area offers many opportunities to capturing photos of wildlife and flowers, not to mention gorgeous panoramic views.
Hunters can hunt deer, elk, bear and turkey during the appropriate seasons, and anglers can take the opportunity to try their casting and catching skills on Flathead Lake as well as the three forks of the Flathead River. There are ample smaller lakes and streams that offer fishing opportunities where there is less pressure on the prey. Some of these areas are ideal for introducing youngsters to the fun of fishing. Other activities on the pristine waters of Flathead Valley include rafting, canoeing, swimming, scuba diving, and water skiing.
Winter activities are exceptional in the Valley. Downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling are all popular activities during the winters when blankets of snow are draped on craggy mountain peaks, smoothing out some of the hills. Big Mountain Ski Resort is 10 minutes from Whitefish. It has 11 lifts and can accommodate skiers of all ages and level of expertise.
In the Flathead Valley, the abundance of outdoor activities allows for year-round fun and enjoyment. Can you imagine vacationing or living anywhere else?
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