PARKS & RECREATION

Hidden Lake Trail

Hidden Lake is a breathtaking alpine lake located in the heart of Glacier National Park in Montana. The lake is situated at an elevation of 6,350 feet and is surrounded by rugged peaks and pristine wilderness. Hidden Lake is a popular destination for hikers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

The Hidden Lake Trail is a 3-mile roundtrip hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail begins at the Logan Pass Visitor Center and descends through alpine meadows and rocky slopes to the shores of Hidden Lake. The trail can be challenging in places, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

Along the trail, hikers may encounter a variety of wildlife, including mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and marmots. The area is also home to grizzly bears and black bears, so it’s important to take proper precautions and carry bear spray.

The surroundings of Hidden Lake and the Hidden Lake Trail are truly awe-inspiring. The trail winds through alpine meadows filled with wildflowers, crosses babbling streams, and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. At the end of the trail, hikers are rewarded with the sight of Hidden Lake, a crystal-clear alpine lake that reflects the surrounding mountains.

There are several reasons why you should consider visiting Hidden Lake and hiking the Hidden Lake Trail. First and foremost, the scenery is absolutely stunning, offering a unique and unforgettable glimpse into the natural beauty of Glacier National Park. In addition, the opportunity to encounter wildlife up close is a highlight for many visitors.

Overall, if you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding hike in Glacier National Park, the Hidden Lake Trail is the perfect choice. The trail offers stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and a chance to experience the natural beauty of this remarkable national park firsthand.

Kintla Lake

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:

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

Winter in Glacier National Park

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:

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.
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.
Ice Climbing: Experienced climbers can tackle the frozen waterfalls and ice formations in the park. Guided trips and classes are available for beginners.
Wildlife Viewing: Winter is a great time to spot wildlife in Glacier National Park, including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and elk.
Snowmobiling: Snowmobiling is allowed on certain roads in the park, including the Camas Road and the Inside North Fork Road.
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 Ski Area is a popular resort located in Lakeside, Montana. Here are some of the things you can do on Blacktail Resort:

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

FREE S.N.O.W. Bus

Skiing is Great & The FREE S.N.O.W. Bus Makes It Even Better

The winter FREE S.N.O.W. Bus service began on December 8, 2022, and will continue through April 9, 2023. The S.N.O.W. Bus, a free shuttle service between Whitefish and Whitefish Mountain Resort. The S.N.O.W. Bus has been a staple of our community for over 20 years.

FREE S.N.O.W. Bus Schedule

The FREE S.N.O.W. Bus picks up and drops off from Mountain Mall all the way to the WMR Village & Resort Lodging. The buses begin at 7:10am and run until 11:30pm with the last drop off at Mountain Mall. No pets, e-cigs, vaping or smoking are allowed on the buses. Also, make sure you check the latest rules on face coverings. All stops are located at the bus stop signs and the bus will only stop at designed stops. Click HERE for the entire schedule.

Big Mountain Commercial Association

The Big Mountain Commercial Association is a non-profit public trade association that raises funds to pay for common services and programs. These include funding for the SNOW bus, Big Mountain Road winter maintenance, the Big Mountain Summer & Spring Brewfest, and the Winter Winefest. If you are interested in becoming a member – click HERE.

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!

Let The Skiing Begin in Montana!

Skiing Big Mountain in Montana

Everybody loves fresh powder when skiing. The fresh fallen snow makes you feel like you are floating, and it makes a great landing pad as well. Some of the best skiing temperatures are 20 to 30 degrees F, but for those of us who enjoy skiing, cold weather or snow is just another fun challenge to the slope. Let the skiing begin in Montana……Big Mountain here we come starting December 8, 2022, until April 9, 2023!

Transportation to Big Mountain

Skiing on Big Mountain is great, but you have to get up the mountain first. Many people are just uncomfortable driving up the mountain through the snow or they just don’t want to fight for parking. Don’t worry about it….we’ve got a S.N.O.W bus. The S.N.O.W bus is FREE and they pickup at a variety of locations in Whitefish. Learn more – HERE.

Lift Tickets & Equipment Rental

There are a variety of options when it comes to lift tickets. Adult lift tickets (ages 19-64) are $89 for one day, Super Senior (70+) are $32, Seniors (65-69) are $80, Teens (13-18) are $80, Junior (7-12) are $47 and children under 6 are free. Learn more – HERE. Equipment rental is available for both entry level skiers and aggressive professionals. Standard equipment for individuals 13 and above are $45 per day (but discounts are provided online). Kids 12 and below can rent equipment for $33 per day (but discounts are provided online). Learn more – HERE.

Ski School

Whether you are a beginner or skilled skier, a little ski school can go a long way. Big Mountain has lots of great opportunities for any skillset and age. Children ages 3-6 can participate in Ski/Ride and Play, Juniors ages 7-12 and Adults 13 + can get group lessons. There is also a great program for first times called Learn to Ski or Ride. For only $99 dollars, anyone 7 years old and up can get a wonderful introduction to skiing or snowboarding. “Our Learn to Ski or Ride Program includes two half-day lessons (10am or 1pm), a two-day lower mountain lift ticket, and two days of rentals. You can choose either morning or afternoon lessons on two consecutive days with one of our top-ranked instructors.” Learn more – HERE.

Restaurants

Ed & Mully’s is open! Ed and Mully’s is one of the Go-To fuel stops on the slope-side for tasty bites. Whether you are eating, grabbing a drink or just enjoying a cup of coffee by the fireplace, this is a definite place to stop to refuel from skiing. The food menu has great items like Mountain Nachos, Burgers, Fish n Chips and even a kid’s menu. They also have a great full bar with lots of different beers on top…including local Montana-Made favorites. Ed & Mully’s restaurant is open 11am -4pm and the bar is open 11am until last call at 5:45pm. There is a limited menu for night skiing. Snack and Food prices range from $1.75 to $15.00.

Base Lodge Café & Bar The restaurant is open 11am -4pm with a limited Night Ski Menu until 7pm. The bar is open 11am until last call at 4:45pm and 7:45 pm for Night Ski. If you are looking for a great slice of pizza to help make it through the skiing day, grab a slice of pepperoni with whole milk mozzarella. Mama Mia! If your looking for a great cup of soup or chili, get it with the Bread Bowl. Food prices range from $4.50 to $12.50.

Base Lodge Coffee Bar – It’s coffee Time! The bar is open….at least the coffee bar at the Base Lodge Coffee bar daily from 8:15 until 4pm and on Night Ski at 4:30pm.

Café Kandahar & Snug Bar – Since 1983, Café Kandahar has delighted locals and tourists alike with unique dining experience that can be complemented with carefully curated wine pairings and other beverage recommendations. Owner/Chef Any Blanton comes from New Orleans, famous for delicious food and Mardi Gras, and has created wonderful cuisine highlighting local and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is opened Wednesday through Sunday from 6pm-7:30pm. Café Kandahar and Snug Bar offer take-out menu options 7 nights a week, pickup times begin at 5:15pm and continue until 9:15pm. Learn more – HERE.

Hellroaring Saloon & Eatery – From 11am until 5pm come on out and check out this Saloon. The Hellroaring Saloon & Eatery is located in the historic Chalet on Whitefish Mountain Resort. It offers family friendly dining, great views and something for everyone from steak to burgers to salads…plus something for the kiddos too. Learn more – HERE.

Skiing in Montana is a lot of fun. So, get a ride up to Big Mountain, grab your gear or rent some, and hit the slopes. May the powder be ever in your favor!

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!

It’s Christmas Tree Time!

It’s the most wonderful time of year, especially in Montana, when the first flurries of snow start to fall down from the sky. The weather is not too cold and definitely not too hot, but perfect for a hot cup of cocoa with marshmallows on top. Now that Thanksgiving has past, for many households it is time to put up the Christmas Tree. Pull out the Christmas Tree stand, find the tree skirt and all of the ornaments and of course purchase some more of the ornament hooks, where they go we’ll never know. So, in Montana, the real question is do you purchase a Christmas Tree or do you go and get your own?

Christmas Tree – Cutting Down Your Own

Before you head out to the parks and find the perfect Christmas Tree, you actually will need to get a permit. You can actually cut down up to three trees from Thursday, October 13, 2022 through Saturday, December 31, 2022, if you get a Flathead National Forest Christmas Tree Permit. You can get your permit online – HERE – but it will cost a service fee of $2.50, but if you go to any National Forest Office, you can get a permit without the service fee. In Kalispell, you can go to the Flathead National Forest Supervisor’s Office located at 650 Wolfpack Way, Kalispell, MT 59901. Click HERE to see all locations.

It is very important to make sure that you go to the right place to select your Christmas Tree. If you are unsure of the Forest boundary, maps showing ownership are available at Flathead National Forest offices – Click HERE. Do not cut on private land, in wilderness areas, designated campgrounds, or existing tree plantations.

Did you know that you can actually help the forest by cutting down your own Christmas Tree? “Christmas trees cut to thin overcrowded stands can be beneficial. As young stands of trees mature, they are constantly competing for more space. By cutting your Christmas tree from dense groups around the more vigorous trees, the remaining trees will grow faster to make our future forest,” according to the Forest Service. Tree species that are prohibited from harvesting for Christmas trees: whitebark pine, white pine, western red cedar.

Recreation.gov — *https://www.recreation.gov/*

Need to Know
Where to Cut Your Tree

Your permit allows you to cut Christmas trees on National Forest land in Montana and Northern Idaho.
Do not cut on private land, in wilderness areas, designated campgrounds, or posted timber sales.
Please cut your Christmas tree from an overcrowded stand of trees in meadows.
Do not cut trees within 100 feet of main roads, streams, or recreation sites.

Selecting Your Tree
Each forest has limitations on the size of the tree you can cut and the species of trees that are permitted. See below to help you measure and choose a tree that meets your permit’s guidelines.

Tree Height: 12 feet maximum.
Stump height: 6 inches maximum. Remove and scatter all limbs from the portion of the tree you leave behind.
No cutting of 5 needle pines. (i.e. 5 needles in one cluster)
Take the whole tree. Do not remove the top of the tree; cut down the entire tree.

If snow is on the ground, remove it from around the stump so you can accurately measure the stump and tree height.

Learn more – HERE.

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!

Picnic in the Park

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 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.

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!

National Get Outdoors Day: Nature Hike

Did you know that National Get Outdoors Day is coming up? Will you celebrate…come celebrate with friends on a Nature Hike at Lone Pine State Park. It is the perfect opportunity to enjoy this great weather and see the beautiful sites throughout Montana.

“Take the opportunity to get out of the house and enjoy the beauty that is the flora and fauna up here at Lone Pine State Park! On this hike we will get to appreciate nature and answer any questions you might have regarding the plants and animals that call Lone Pine home. Please bring water, snack, good walking shoes, and please dress for the weather.”

National Get Outdoors Day: Nature Hike

Date & Time: Saturday, June 11, 2022, from 2pm to 3pm

Click HERE for details about National Get Outdoors Day!

**Call the visitor center at (406) 755-2706 Ext. 0 to register for National Get Outdoors Day , as space is limited.

**Cost is free ($8 park entry fee still applies to out-of-state vehicles)

Just minutes from Kalispell, Lone Pine boasts dramatic views of the Flathead Valley and an extensive trail system. The park is open from 8:00 am to sunset.

Montana Residents

Montana residents who pay the $9 state parks fee with their annual vehicle registration have no daily entrance fees to state parks. For residents who don’t include this in their vehicle registration, non-resident day use fees apply.

Nonresidents

Day use entrance fee with a vehicle: $8
Day use entrance fee as a walk-in, bicycle or bus passenger: $4
With a Nonresident Entrance Pass: Free

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!

Snow Science and Safety

Have you ever wondered how something so delicate as snowflakes can cause an avalanche? If this is something you would be interested in learning more about, then come on out to the free Snow Science and Safety with Friends of the Flathead Avalanche Center on Sunday, February 27, 2022, at Whitefish Trail.

Join us on the snowy trail to learn the basics about snow science and safety with the Friends of the Flathead Avalanche Center. We will look at how snow forms, how snow packs change, why avalanches occur, and how to use some of the basic safety equipment. You will never look at snow the same way again! ~ Whitefish Legacy Partners

Snow Science and Safety Details

The group will meet at the Big Mountain Trailhead at 10am ready to mike for about 1 to 2 miles both on and off trail. Please register for the FREE event – HERE.

Please dress appropriately for the weather. Snowshoes are required. Sportsman Ski Haus will be providing free rentals for those registered who need them. Please contact education@whitefishlegacy.org if you would like to reserve some for the program.

This event is free and suitable for all ages however attendance is limited and pre-registration is required. Please reserve a ticket for each member of your party. Please check your email prior to the event in case of inclement weather/cancellation.

For more information about this or other scheduled outings call 406-862-3880 or email education@whitefishlegacy.org.

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!

Skiing is Great & The FREE S.N.O.W. Bus Makes It Even Better

FREE S.N.O.W. Bus Schedule

Big Mountain Commercial Association

Skiing Big Mountain in Montana

Transportation to Big Mountain

Lift Tickets & Equipment Rental

Ski School

Restaurants

Christmas Tree – Cutting Down Your Own

Picnic in the Park Music Lineup

National Get Outdoors Day: Nature Hike

Montana Residents

Nonresidents

Snow Science and Safety Details

Free Event Submission