Columbia Falls Community Market

The Columbia Falls Community Market will begin the 2023 Season on May 18 and will last until September 28, 2023. The market takes place weekly on Thursday from 5pm until Twilight at 830 1st Avenue West in Columbia Falls. The locals’ market offers friends, families, neighbors and visitors the chance to more conveniently live a farm-to-table lifestyle while enjoying each other’s company, live music, fresh food, desserts, artisan gifts and locally-brewed beer. Learn more about the Columbia Falls Community Market – HERE.

Columbia Falls Community Market Live Music Schedule

June 15: Badger Hound
June 29: The Stafford Family Band
July 6: Winnie Brave
July 13: Nol & Justin Harris Duo
July 20: David Walburn Band
July 27: kNiption FiT
August 3: Brent Jameson
August 17: Jamie Wyman Band
August 24: Marc Holyoak
August 31: Billy Billie
Sept 14: Achertown
Sept 21: @TheTeccas Duo
Sept 28: 20 Grand

Are you a Farmer, artist or food vendor?

Are you a farmer, artist or food vendor? Then you may want to consider becoming a vendor at the Columbia Falls Community Market. “We have limited spaces available, and are looking for local farmers handmade arts/crafts AND food vendors. Market season begins in May and goes until the last Thursday in September. Market time is from 5pm until twilight.” Learn more – HERE.

406.Buzz Montana Living Magazine

Are you in the Buzz?

406.Buzz is your best resource for the latest events happening around the Montana Flathead Valley area. From Kalispell and Whitefish to Eureka and Columbia Falls, we’ve got the hottest events, best outdoor activities, restaurant lists, and so much more.  From farmers’ markets and breweries to festivals, music events and family fun entertainment, we know all the buzz happening around town.

Whether you are a local or a visitor, we have all the insider information on the best places to check out every day of the week. Check out our Events Calendar – HERE –  and get in the buzz!

Kintla Lake

Kintla Lake, Glacier National Park

Kintla Lake is a pristine alpine lake located in the northwest corner of Glacier National Park in Montana, near the Canadian border. Here are some reasons why you might want to consider visiting Kintla Lake:

  1. Scenic Beauty: Kintla Lake is surrounded by towering mountains and dense forests, making it one of the most picturesque spots in Glacier National Park. The crystal-clear waters of the lake reflect the surrounding landscape, creating stunning views that are sure to take your breath away.

  2. Hiking: Kintla Lake is a popular starting point for several hiking trails, including the Kintla Lake Trail and the Boulder Pass Trail. These trails offer spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness and are great for both casual and experienced hikers.

  3. Fishing: Kintla Lake is a popular spot for fishing, with abundant populations of trout and other fish species. Visitors can try their luck fishing from the shore or by renting a boat.

  4. Camping: Kintla Lake has several primitive campsites that offer a secluded and peaceful camping experience. Visitors can camp right on the shores of the lake and enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness.

  5. Wildlife Viewing: Kintla Lake is home to a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, black bears, moose, and deer. Visitors should be cautious and keep a safe distance from these animals, but they offer a unique and exciting wildlife viewing experience.

Overall, Kintla Lake is a remote and beautiful destination that is well worth the trip for anyone who loves nature and outdoor recreation. Its pristine beauty, abundant wildlife, and outdoor recreation opportunities make it a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Glacier National Park.

Many Glacier

Black Bear at Many Glacier

Why should you visit Many Glacier in Glacier National Park?

Many Glacier is a beautiful and scenic area located in Glacier National Park in Montana. Here are some reasons why you might want to consider visiting Many Glacier:

  1. Scenic Views: Many Glacier is known for its stunning views of towering mountains, glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes. It’s a great place to take in the natural beauty of Glacier National Park and snap some photos.

  2. Hiking: Many Glacier is a hiker’s paradise, with a variety of trails that range from easy walks to challenging backcountry adventures. Some popular hikes include the Grinnell Glacier Trail, Iceberg Lake Trail, and Swiftcurrent Pass Trail.

  3. Wildlife Viewing: Many Glacier is home to a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, black bears, moose, elk, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats. Visitors can often spot these animals along the roads and trails in the area.

  4. Boating and Fishing: Many Glacier has several lakes that are popular for boating and fishing, including Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine. Visitors can rent kayaks, canoes, or rowboats and enjoy the serene beauty of the lakes.

  5. Lodging and Dining: Many Glacier has a historic lodge that offers cozy accommodations and delicious dining options, including a restaurant and a coffee shop.

Overall, Many Glacier is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Glacier National Park. Its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and outdoor recreation opportunities make it a memorable and rewarding experience.

Moose Calf at Many Glacier
Moose Cow at Many Glacier

Polbridge Mercantile

Polbridge Mercantile, Polbridge Montana

What is the Polbridge Mercantile, and is it worth the trip?

The Polebridge Mercantile is a historic general store located in Polebridge, Montana, near the northwest entrance of Glacier National Park. The store has been in operation since 1914 and is known for its homemade baked goods, including huckleberry bear claws, bread, and pastries. It also offers a selection of groceries, camping supplies, and souvenirs.

Many visitors consider a trip to Polebridge Mercantile to be worth the effort, as it offers a unique and authentic Montana experience. The store is located in a remote and beautiful area, surrounded by forests, mountains, and wildlife. It’s a popular destination for hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts who want to stock up on supplies or enjoy a delicious pastry before hitting the trails. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic outside the store or visit the nearby Polebridge Ranger Station and Kintla Lake.

That being said, Polebridge Mercantile is located about an hour’s drive from the town of Whitefish, and the road leading to Polebridge can be rough, especially in winter. Visitors should also be prepared for limited cell phone service and no access to electricity. However, many people find the trip to Polebridge to be a rewarding and memorable experience, and it’s definitely worth considering if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Montana.

Polbridge Montana

Dog Sledding in the Flathead Valley

Dog Sledding in the Flathead Valley, Montana

Dog sledding is a popular winter activity in the Flathead Valley of Montana. Here are a few places where you can go dog sledding in the area:

  1. Base Camp Bigfork: Base Camp Bigfork offers dog sledding tours in the Flathead National Forest, near the town of Bigfork. Their tours range from half-day to full-day adventures, and include opportunities to mush your own team of sled dogs through the snowy wilderness.

  2. Dog Sled Adventures Montana: Dog Sled Adventures Montana is located in Olney, just a short drive from Whitefish and Kalispell. They offer a variety of dog sledding tours, ranging from one-hour rides to overnight trips.

  3. Winter Woods Dog Sled Tours: Winter Woods Dog Sled Tours is based in West Glacier, and offers a variety of tours that take you through the beautiful forests and snow-covered landscapes of Glacier National Park. They offer both half-day and full-day tours, as well as customized trips for larger groups.

  4. Dog Song Adventures: Dog Song Adventures is located in the town of Essex, just outside the southern boundary of Glacier National Park. They offer dog sled tours through the pristine forests and snow-covered meadows of the park, with options ranging from one-hour rides to multi-day adventures.

Be sure to check with each of these companies for their specific tour options, pricing, and availability, as they may vary depending on the season and weather conditions.

Winter in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park in Winter

Glacier National Park in Montana is a popular winter destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the winter activities available in Glacier National Park:

  1. Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing: Glacier National Park offers miles of scenic trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Some popular trails include the Apgar Loop, Camas Road, and the Lake McDonald Lodge area.

  2. Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding: Visitors can hit the slopes at the nearby Whitefish Mountain Resort, which is located just outside the west entrance of Glacier National Park.

  3. Ice Climbing: Experienced climbers can tackle the frozen waterfalls and ice formations in the park. Guided trips and classes are available for beginners.

  4. Wildlife Viewing: Winter is a great time to spot wildlife in Glacier National Park, including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and elk.

  5. Snowmobiling: Snowmobiling is allowed on certain roads in the park, including the Camas Road and the Inside North Fork Road.

  6. Sleigh Rides: Visitors can take a scenic sleigh ride through the park, enjoying the snowy scenery and possibly spotting wildlife along the way.

It’s important to note that some roads and facilities in Glacier National Park are closed during the winter months, so it’s important to check the park’s website for up-to-date information before planning your visit. Additionally, it’s important to be prepared for winter weather conditions and to follow safety guidelines for any outdoor activities you choose to do in the park.

Blacktail Mountain Resort

Blacktail Mountain Resort

Blacktail Mountain Ski Area is a popular resort located in Lakeside, Montana. Here are some of the things you can do on Blacktail Resort:

  1. Skiing and Snowboarding: Blacktail Mountain Ski Area is a great place to hit the slopes, with over 1,000 acres of terrain and a variety of runs for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

  2. Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing: If you prefer to explore the winter wonderland on foot, you can go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on the resort’s trails.

  3. Hiking and Mountain Biking: During the summer months, Blacktail Mountain Ski Area transforms into a hiking and mountain biking destination. The resort offers a variety of trails with stunning views of Flathead Lake and the surrounding mountains.

  4. Disc Golf: Blacktail Mountain Ski Area also has a disc golf course with 18 holes, which is open during the summer months.

  5. Scenic Chairlift Rides: If you want to take in the stunning views without exerting too much energy, you can take a scenic chairlift ride to the top of the mountain.

  6. Photography: Blacktail Mountain Ski Area offers plenty of opportunities for photography enthusiasts, with breathtaking views of Flathead Lake and the surrounding mountains.

Overall, Blacktail Resort is a great place to visit for outdoor recreation and relaxation, whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast or a summer adventurer.

Blacktail Mountain Ski Resort

The Desoto Grill

The Desoto Grill, Kalispell

The Desoto Grill in Kalispell is famous for its delicious BBQ dishes, especially its smoked meats. Some of the most popular items on the menu include the brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, which are all smoked in-house and seasoned with a special dry rub. The restaurant also serves a variety of tasty sides, including mac and cheese, baked beans, and coleslaw. Additionally, The Desoto Grill is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with a cozy interior and a staff that is attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. Overall, The Desoto Grill has built a strong reputation for providing a high-quality dining experience, and it is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

The Desoto Grill in Kalispell is generally considered to be a great place to eat. The restaurant has a 4.5-star rating on Google with over 1,100 reviews and is highly rated on other review sites as well. Customers often praise the restaurant’s BBQ dishes, including their brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, as well as their tasty sides such as mac and cheese and baked beans. Additionally, the restaurant has a nice atmosphere with friendly and attentive staff. Of course, individual opinions may vary, but The Desoto Grill has a strong reputation for providing a quality dining experience in Kalispell.

Picnic in the Park

Picnic in the Park 2022

Get your blanket and maybe some lawn chairs and head on over to the Depot Park for free outdoor concerts. This summer, the Kalispell Parks & Recreation Concert Series is hosting Picnic in the Park on Tuesday evenings and Wednesday afternoons. The free concerts take place in Kalispell’s downtown Depot Park. There will also be lots of great food vendors to complement the great live musical lineup.

Picnic in the Park 2022

Picnic in the Park Music Lineup

The Picnic in the Park has a great musical lineup.

On Tuesdays from 6-8pm, the following bands and musicians will play:

June 28 – The Olson Bro

July 5 – Dan Harmon and Cascade Country

July 12 – Archertown

July 19 – The Groove Riders

July 26 – Miller Campbell

August 2 – Tommy Edwards Band

August 9 – Winnie Brave

August 16 – Hannah King & Friends

August 23 – Kenny James Miller Band

On Wednesday afternoons from 11:30 until 1:30pm, the following musicians will play:

July 13 – New Relm

July 20 – John Dunnigan

July 27 – Larry Myer

August 3 – Eric Alan

Kalispell Parks and Recreation maintain over 445 acres of parkland and natural open space that range from large urban and community parks to mini parks.  Whether your recreation tastes trend towards a park with playgrounds and sports amenities, flower gardens, a free concert, walking trails or a quiet undeveloped place to enjoy trees and birds, Kalispell has something to offer everyone. Parks are opened from 6am until 11pm. Learn more about the parks – HERE. 

406 Buzz Montana News

Are you in the Buzz?

406.Buzz is your best resource for the latest events happening around the Montana Flathead Valley area. From Kalispell and Whitefish to Eureka and Columbia Falls, we’ve got the hottest events, best outdoor activities, restaurant lists, and so much more.  From farmers’ markets and breweries to festivals, music events and family fun entertainment, we know all the buzz happening around town.

Whether you are a local or a visitor, we have all the insider information on the best places to check out every day of the week. Check our calendar – HERE – and get in the buzz!