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Light Up the Night: The New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks at Whitefish Mountain Resort

If there is one tradition that truly captures the magic of winter in Montana, it’s the New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks at Whitefish Mountain Resort. As the sun sets on 2025, the slopes of Big Mountain transform into a glowing masterpiece, offering a spectacle that has become a “must-do” for locals and visitors alike.

A Ribbon of Light on Ed’s Run

As twilight falls, all eyes turn toward the mountain. Starting at 5:45 PM, a silent, glowing ribbon of light begins to descend Ed’s Run. This “ribbon” is actually a procession of expert skiers and riders carrying brightly lit torches, weaving their way down the mountain in a synchronized display of skill and holiday spirit.

It is a mesmerizing sight that perfectly sets the stage for the grand finale.

The Big Bang: Fireworks Under the Big Sky

Immediately following the parade, the sky above the Upper Village erupts in a massive fireworks display. Framed by the snow-covered pines and the silhouette of the Northern Rockies, it’s a breathtaking way to celebrate the final moments of the year.

Because the festivities wrap up by 6:30 PM, it’s the ultimate “early bird” celebration—spectacular enough to wow the adults, but early enough that the kids can enjoy the show before heading home for cocoa (or before the grown-ups head out for a late-night party!).

💡 Pro-Tips for the Best Experience

The Best Seat in the House: For the absolute best views of the parade and the fireworks, head to the patio of Ed & Mully’s. It’s located right at the base of Ed’s Run in the Upper Village, placing you directly in the “splash zone” for the mountain views.
Arrival & Parking: The village gets busy! Aim to arrive by 5:00 PM to find parking and secure your spot. Remember, the S.N.O.W. Bus is a great free option to avoid the parking scramble.
Layer Up: You’ll be standing outside for about an hour. Wear your warmest boots and don’t forget the hand warmers!
Night Skiing Note: Please be aware that Chair 2 typically closes around 5:00 PM to allow for parade preparations, but other lifts like Chairs 3 and 6 often remain open for those who want to get a few last turns in.

Event Details at a Glance

When: Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM (Parade starts at 5:45 PM)
Where: Whitefish Mountain Resort (Upper Village / Ed’s Run)
Cost: FREE for spectators!

Cruise the Blues: Your Next Family Adventure at Whitefish Mountain Resort!

Hey Skiers and Riders! Are you ready to add an extra layer of excitement to your day on the slopes? This holiday season, Whitefish Mountain Resort is thrilled to announce a brand-new event that’s perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking for a fun challenge: the Cruise the Blues Scavenger Hunt!

When: Saturday, December 27, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Where: Whitefish Mountain Resort, Whitefish, Montana Cost: FREE to participate with a valid lift ticket!

What’s It All About?

Get ready to explore the stunning terrain of Whitefish Mountain Resort like never before! The Cruise the Blues Scavenger Hunt is designed to take you on an exciting journey across our fantastic intermediate “blue” runs. It’s not just about skiing; it’s about discovery, teamwork, and a whole lot of laughs.

Here’s how it works:

Grab Your Clues: On the morning of December 27th, head to the Base Lodge to pick up your official Scavenger Hunt clue sheet.
Hit the Blues: With your clues in hand, it’s time to hit the slopes! You’ll be navigating across various blue runs, searching for hidden markers, solving riddles, and completing fun tasks that will lead you to your next destination.
Explore and Discover: This is your chance to really get to know the mountain. Whether you’re a seasoned local or visiting for the first time, you might just discover a new favorite trail or a breathtaking viewpoint you’ve never noticed before.
Finish Strong: Once you’ve completed all the challenges and collected all your answers, return to the designated finish line at the Base Lodge by 4:00 PM to submit your entry.

Why You Can’t Miss This!

Family-Friendly Fun: This event is tailor-made for families! It’s a fantastic way to encourage teamwork, get everyone involved, and create unforgettable memories on the mountain. Intermediate skiers and riders will find this particularly engaging, but all skill levels can participate and enjoy the journey.

Explore Whitefish’s Best: Our blue runs offer some of the most scenic and enjoyable skiing on the mountain. The scavenger hunt will guide you through diverse terrain, ensuring a full day of adventure.

Awesome Prizes: What’s a hunt without a reward? Those who successfully complete the Cruise the Blues Scavenger Hunt will be entered into a drawing for some fantastic prizes, including Whitefish Mountain Resort swag, gift certificates, and more! Details on specific prizes will be available at registration.

It’s FREE! That’s right, all you need is your lift ticket, and the adventure is yours for the taking. It’s a perfect way to add extra value and excitement to your ski day without any additional cost.

Tips for a Successful Hunt:

Dress Warm: December on the mountain can be chilly, so layer up!
Team Up: While you can participate solo, it’s often more fun with a group. Designate a clue master and a navigator!
Bring a Camera: You’ll want to capture the stunning views and hilarious moments.
Know Your Blues: Familiarize yourself with the resort map beforehand to get a general idea of the blue runs.
Have Fun: Above all, enjoy the experience!

Don’t miss out on this exciting new tradition at Whitefish Mountain Resort. Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 27th, and get ready to Cruise the Blues! We can’t wait to see you there!

Don’t Get Left in the Cold: The Flathead Valley Christmas Day Survival Guide

While most of the Flathead Valley settles in for a quiet day at home, there are plenty of ways to make the most of Christmas Day in our winter wonderland. Whether you’re looking to carve some turns, enjoy a world-class buffet, or find a peaceful spot in the park, here is your 2025 guide to what’s open on December 25th.

⛷️ Outdoor Adventures

If your ideal Christmas involves fresh air and mountain views, you’re in luck. The valley’s major recreation spots are ready for you.

Whitefish Mountain Resort: The lifts spin from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It’s a local tradition to spot Santas and elves skiing down the slopes. Note that the S.N.O.W. Bus usually runs on its holiday schedule, making it easy to get from downtown Whitefish to the Village.
Blacktail Mountain: Typically open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It’s often a bit quieter than Big Mountain, offering a “local” vibe and incredible views of a frozen Flathead Lake.
Glacier National Park: The park is open 24/7, 365 days a year. While the visitor centers are closed on Christmas Day, you can still drive to Apgar Village or Lake McDonald Lodge (exterior access) for a snowshoe or a quiet winter hike. Note: You still need a park pass, which can be purchased online or at self-pay stations.

🍽️ Christmas Dining & Drinks

Forget the dishes! Several premier valley restaurants offer special holiday menus, but reservations are essential.

Venue	Event/Special	Hours
The Lodge at Whitefish Lake	Grand Christmas Buffet (Boat Club)	2:00 PM – 9:00 PM
The Firebrand Hotel	3 or 4-Course Dinner + Live Music	3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Grouse Mountain Lodge	Logan’s Bar & Grill Holiday Dinner	4:00 PM – Close
Craggy Range Bar & Grill	Brats & Brews (Whitefish)	Starts at 5:00 PM
Bigfork VFW	Christmas Bingo & Bar Service	Starts at 5:30 PM

Local Tip: Many bars in downtown Kalispell and Whitefish open their doors in the evening (around 6:00 PM or 8:00 PM) for those looking for a “nightcap” after family festivities.

🏛️ Local Sightseeing & Events

While museums like the Conrad Mansion are closed on Christmas Day itself, the grounds are often open for a festive stroll to see the exterior lights.

Self-Guided Light Tours: Take a drive through the Bigfork Village (the Christmas Village of Montana) or the Kalispell East Side to see the historic homes decked out in lights.
Worship Services: Most valley churches (like St. Matthew’s in Kalispell or Whitefish Assembly) hold special Christmas morning services.

💡 Know Before You Go

Gas & Groceries: Most major grocery stores (Safeway, Smith’s, Albertsons, Costco) will be closed. Ensure you have your essentials by the 24th.
Reservations: If you plan to eat out, call today. Tables for Christmas Day often fill up weeks in advance.
Weather: Check the MDT Road Report if you’re traveling between towns, as snow plows may have limited holiday shifts.

Beyond the Slopes: Your Guide to the Flathead Valley’s Best Snowshoe and Cross-Country Trails

❄️ Beyond the Slopes: Your Guide to the Flathead Valley’s Best Snowshoe and Cross-Country Trails

Introduction: Discovering the Quiet Side of Winter

The Flathead Valley is famous for Whitefish Mountain Resort, but for many locals and visitors, the best way to experience a Montana winter is beyond the slopes. If you’re looking for a peaceful, affordable, and incredibly scenic way to enjoy the snow, snowshoeing and cross-country (XC) skiing are your perfect choice. From the iconic silence of Glacier National Park to the local, groomed loops near Kalispell, here is your essential guide to the best winter trails in Northwest Montana.

🏔️ Glacier National Park: Winter Silence and Solitude

Once the Going-to-the-Sun Road closes for the season, the park transforms into an accessible, non-motorized winter wonderland. Be aware that services are limited, and you must check current avalanche conditions and park regulations before setting out.

Lake McDonald Road & Apgar Village

Activity: XC Skiing, Snowshoeing, Winter Walking
Location: West Glacier Entrance
Details: The plowing stops at the Lake McDonald Lodge, leaving miles of vehicle-free road perfect for skate skiing or classic cross-country. For a gentler snowshoe path, explore the trails around Apgar Village, like the Inner North Fork Road.
Pro Tip: Look for animal tracks—this area is a hub for wildlife in the winter.

Two Medicine Valley (East Side)

Activity: Snowshoeing (Intermediate)
Location: East Glacier (Accessible via Hwy 49)
Details: Though remote, the Two Medicine entrance offers stunning, secluded views. The road to the lake is not maintained, so be prepared for a longer, more challenging snowshoe trek. Only attempt with proper gear and preparation.

🎿 Whitefish Area: Groomed Trails for Every Skill Level

The Whitefish community provides excellent options, many of which are regularly groomed by local non-profit groups, making them ideal for high-quality cross-country skiing.

The Whitefish Trail

Activity: XC Skiing, Snowshoeing
Location: Multiple trailheads (e.g., Lion Mountain, Spencer Mountain)
Details: This extensive trail network offers incredible flexibility. Check local grooming reports for up-to-date conditions on loops perfect for skate or classic skiing. Snowshoers can usually enjoy the ungroomed, single-track paths alongside the ski trails.

Glacier Nordic Center

Activity: Dedicated XC Skiing (Lessons and Rentals available)
Location: Adjacent to the Whitefish Lake Golf Course
Details: A premier destination for cross-country skiers, offering 12+ kilometers of professionally groomed trails. This is the best choice for beginners needing rentals or lessons, or advanced skiers seeking quality training loops.

🌲 Kalispell’s Local Gems: Herron Park and Foys to Blacktail

For easy access right outside of Kalispell, these parks offer trails often maintained by local volunteers, making them a favorite for afternoon outings.

Herron Park

Activity: Snowshoeing, XC Skiing
Location: West of Kalispell
Details: A popular multi-use park. The main loops are often track-set for classic skiing after fresh snowfalls. It’s a fantastic spot for a quiet forest outing with rolling hills, perfect for snowshoers looking for a good workout.

Foys to Blacktail Trails

Activity: Snowshoeing (Intermediate/Advanced)
Location: South of Foys Lake
Details: These trails offer higher elevation and more challenging terrain, which often means deeper snow and incredible views of the Flathead Valley. Excellent for those seeking a longer, more strenuous snowshoe hike.

🧤 Essential Gear and Winter Safety Tips for Flathead Trails

Winter adventure in Montana is rewarding, but requires preparation. Be smart and stay safe!

Dress in Layers: Avoid cotton. Use synthetic fabrics or wool to wick away moisture.
Check Conditions: Always check the Flathead Avalanche Center report, especially if traveling in Glacier National Park or high-elevation areas.
Water & Food: Carry more than you think you need. Dehydration is a major risk in cold weather.
Tell Someone: Inform a friend or family member exactly where you are going and when you expect to return.
Dog Friendly: Most National Forest and local trails are dog-friendly, but Glacier National Park does not allow dogs on most winter trails (except the Apgar area roads).

Conclusion

Whether gliding through fresh powder on cross-country skis or crunching silently along a ridge in snowshoes, getting Beyond the Slopes is a quintessential Flathead Valley experience. Grab your gear, enjoy the silence, and discover the true beauty of a Montana winter.

Do you have a favorite hidden trail? Let us know in the comments below!

Snow Ghosts in Montana: Discover Flathead Valley’s Winter Marvel

What Are Snow Ghosts?

Snow Ghosts are one of Montana’s most enchanting winter phenomena. These frosty, ethereal shapes form when dense fog freezes onto trees, transforming them into towering sculptures draped in snow and ice. Often seen at higher elevations, Snow Ghosts are the result of a combination of freezing temperatures, high humidity, and strong winds, which create an otherworldly winter landscape.

The unique shapes of Snow Ghosts vary depending on the weather conditions and wind direction, making each one a piece of natural art. Their presence in the Flathead Valley is a testament to Montana’s rugged beauty and frigid winters, attracting photographers, outdoor enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.

Where to Find Snow Ghosts in the Flathead Valley

If you’re looking to experience these snowy marvels, the Flathead Valley is home to several prime locations:

1. Whitefish Mountain Resort

Known for its world-class skiing, Whitefish Mountain Resort is one of the best places to witness Snow Ghosts. Ride the Big Mountain chairlift to the summit, where you’ll find forests filled with these frozen sculptures. The resort offers breathtaking views of the valley below, making it a top spot for photography and sightseeing.

2. Glacier National Park

While many parts of Glacier National Park are inaccessible during the winter, its higher elevations can host stunning Snow Ghost displays. Areas like Logan Pass, when open, are especially scenic, though you’ll need to check weather and road conditions before visiting.

3. Flathead National Forest

For a quieter adventure, head into the Flathead National Forest. Backcountry trails, snowshoeing paths, and cross-country skiing routes often pass through groves of snow-covered trees that resemble Snow Ghosts, especially after a recent snowfall.

Best Times to See Snow Ghosts

Snow Ghosts are typically at their most spectacular during the peak of winter, from late December through February. Early mornings and clear days provide the best lighting for viewing and photographing these natural wonders. Keep in mind that foggy or windy conditions often enhance their formation, creating even more dramatic shapes.

Tips for Visiting Snow Ghosts

Dress Warmly: Temperatures in the Flathead Valley can plummet during winter. Wear insulated clothing, waterproof boots, and gloves to stay comfortable.
Bring a Camera: Snow Ghosts are incredibly photogenic, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture their beauty.
Stay Safe: Some of the best Snow Ghost locations are in high-altitude or backcountry areas. Make sure to check weather conditions, bring proper gear, and let someone know your plans.
Respect Nature: Snow Ghosts are delicate creations. Avoid touching or disturbing them to preserve their beauty for others.

Why You Should Experience Snow Ghosts

Seeing Snow Ghosts in person is an unforgettable experience that encapsulates the magic of winter in Montana. These frosty trees not only showcase nature’s artistry but also highlight the unique climate of the Flathead Valley. Whether you’re skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort or exploring a snowy trail, the sight of Snow Ghosts will leave you in awe.

Plan Your Snow Ghost Adventure Today

Montana’s Flathead Valley is a winter wonderland waiting to be explored. Pack your gear, plan a trip to Whitefish or Glacier National Park, and witness the breathtaking beauty of Snow Ghosts this winter. It’s a natural spectacle you don’t want to miss!

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.