Explore Kalispell, Montana: Your Gateway to Boundless Adventure

This is Kalispell, Montana, a vibrant mountain town that believes in boundless adventures, loving the earth and venturing boldly. It’s also a place that welcomes you to breathe deeply and live with intention, all while soaking up our storybook-like community and jaw-dropping views. Here in Kalispell, you’ll find welcoming accommodations, diverse activities, things to do year-round, a walkable downtown and a robust culinary scene. You’ll also find a place that’s committed to recreating responsibly, taking care of our wild places and wide-open spaces, and supporting the community. From scenic drives to paddling on Flathead Lake and visiting Glacier National Park, there’s so much to experience in northwest Montana. Come venture boldly in Kalispell. Source: https://discoverkalispell.com/

Quick Facts

Population: ** 29,886
County: ** Flathead County
Founded: ** Officially incorporated in 1892
Elevation: ** Approximately 2,956 ft ft
Known For: ** Gateway to Glacier National Park, outdoor recreation, vibrant downtown, and stunning natural scenery.
Nearby Landmarks: ** Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake, Whitefish Mountain Resort, Blacktail Mountain Ski Area, Hungry Horse Dam.
Fun Fact: ** The name Kalispell is a Salish word meaning "flat land above the lake," referring to its location near Flathead Lake.

Notable People & Pop Culture

Brad Bird – Renowned animator, film director, screenwriter, producer, and voice actor, known for his work on animated films such as The Iron Giant, The Incredibles, and Ratatouille.
Lily Gladstone – Critically acclaimed actress known for her roles in films like Certain Women and Killers of the Flower Moon, for which she received numerous accolades.
Michelle Williams – Award-winning actress known for her versatile performances in films such as Brokeback Mountain, Manchester by the Sea, and My Week with Marilyn.
Heaven's Gate (1980) – This American epic Western film, directed by Michael Cimino, was notably filmed in and around the Kalispell area, capturing the scenic landscapes of Montana.

Top Things to Do in Kalispell

Explore Glacier National Park: A short drive from Kalispell, this iconic park offers unparalleled natural beauty. Hike scenic trails, spot wildlife, and marvel at glaciers and pristine lakes. An adventurer's paradise! (Source: discoverkalispell.com)
Discover Flathead Lake: The largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. Enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, or simply relax by its shores. Don't miss Wild Horse Island, home to wild horses and bighorn sheep. (Source: discoverkalispell.com, visitmt.com)
Visit the Conrad Mansion Museum: Step back in time at this beautifully preserved Victorian mansion, a testament to the city's rich history. Learn about Kalispell's founding family and the early days of the city. (Source: ConradMansion.com, discoverkalispell.com)
Wander through Historic Downtown Kalispell: Experience the charm of Kalispell with its unique local shops, art galleries, breweries, and diverse restaurants. A perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening soaking in the local culture. (Source: discoverkalispell.com)

Local Industry & Economy

The Kalispell Chamber of Commerce has been a cornerstone of the Flathead Valley's community and business environment since 1904. It actively promotes economic prosperity and sustainability by focusing on improving opportunities, infrastructure, development, tourism, and education. Kalispell is recognized as the No. 3 Fastest Growing Micropolitan City in the nation (out of 543). The city serves a significant population, with 30,000 residents in Kalispell itself, 108,000 in Flathead County, and over 155,000 in the broader Kalispell Trade Area. The Chamber boasts 680 diverse member businesses and organizations, which collectively employ more than half of Flathead County’s workforce. This robust network of businesses is dedicated to fostering civic, commercial, and industrial progress, making Kalispell a dynamic hub for economic activity and growth in northwest Montana.

Source: https://kalispellchamber.com/

History & Heritage

The area now known as Kalispell was first explored by European settlers in the 18th century, with surveyor Peter Fidler of the Hudson's Bay Company being among the earliest. Permanent settlement and the introduction of livestock in the 1870s brought significant changes to the region, including the near-eradication of local bison populations.

In 1884, a small town named Ashley was founded where Kalispell stands today. Three years later, the nearby town of Demersville emerged and quickly grew to be the largest settlement in the area. However, Demersville's prominence was short-lived. When the Great Northern Railroad bypassed the town, it was soon abandoned, with its residents relocating to the newly established Kalispell.

The development of Kalispell was closely tied to the expansion of the Great Northern Railroad. Recognizing the need for a divisional point in the Flathead Valley, Charles Edward Conrad, a businessman from Fort Benton, Montana, formed the Kalispell Townsite Company in collaboration with three other individuals from the Great Northern board of directors. The town was named Kalispell, a Salish word meaning "flat land above the lake," with an extra "L" added. The townsite was platted, and lots began selling in the spring of 1891. Kalispell was officially incorporated as a city in 1892. Conrad himself built a grand mansion in Kalispell in 1895, which still stands as a historical landmark.

Despite the railroad being rerouted in 1904 to a flatter course via Whitefish and Eureka, Kalispell continued to grow. It became the largest city in northwest Montana, serving as the county seat and commercial center of Flathead County. The city's growth persisted, and by 2010, its population reached 19,927. The railroad tracks that once ran through the city were removed in 2018, with the railroad operations relocated to the Glacier Rail Park, a new industrial park north of the town.

Kalispell is situated in the scenic Flathead Valley, 31 miles from Glacier National Park and 22 miles from Hungry Horse Dam. It offers access to popular ski areas like Whitefish Mountain Resort and Blacktail Mountain Ski Area. Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, is just 7 miles away. The region's rich indigenous heritage is also preserved, with nearby tribal schools offering classes in the Kalispel–Spokane–Flathead language.

In recent years, Kalispell has faced challenges related to its homeless population, with city and county officials taking controversial measures. However, legal interventions have sought to protect the rights and welfare of homeless individuals in the area.

Seasonal Activities & Local Events

Kalispell offers a dynamic range of activities and events throughout the year, catering to diverse interests and ensuring there's always something exciting to experience.

Spring/Summer: As the snow melts and the valleys turn green, Kalispell comes alive with outdoor activities.

Hiking and Biking: Explore numerous trails in and around the area, including those in Glacier National Park and the Flathead National Forest. The Great Northern Rail Trail offers a scenic path for bikers and walkers.
Water Sports: Flathead Lake becomes a hub for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The clear waters are perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day.
Farmers Markets: Discover local produce, crafts, and artisanal goods at the Kalispell Farmers Market, typically running from May through October.

Fall/Winter: When the leaves change color and snow blankets the landscape, Kalispell transforms into a winter wonderland.

Skiing and Snowboarding: Nearby Whitefish Mountain Resort and Blacktail Mountain Ski Area offer excellent slopes for all skill levels.
Cross-country Skiing and Snowshoeing: Explore the serene winter trails in the surrounding forests and parks.
Ice Fishing: Flathead Lake and other local bodies of water provide opportunities for ice fishing enthusiasts.

Annual Events:

Montana Pond Hockey Classic: (February) A popular winter event held on Foys Lake, bringing together hockey enthusiasts for a weekend of competitive fun.
Montana Dragon Boat Festival: (September) Teams from across the region converge on Flathead Lake for exciting dragon boat races, a unique cultural and sporting event.
Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo: (August) A classic Montana fair experience with rodeo events, livestock shows, carnival rides, and local food vendors.
Kalispell Christmas Parade & Holiday Stroll: (December) A festive celebration to kick off the holiday season with a parade, caroling, and local businesses offering special treats.

Please note: Event dates and details can vary. It's always a good idea to check local listings and official websites for the most up-to-date information before planning your visit.

Getting There & Nearby Destinations

Getting to Kalispell:

By Air: Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) is located just a few miles northeast of Kalispell, offering convenient access with direct flights from several major U.S. cities. Car rental services are available at the airport.
By Car: Kalispell is accessible via U.S. Highway 93 (north-south) and U.S. Highway 2 (east-west). The drive offers stunning views of the Montana landscape.
By Train: Amtrak's Empire Builder line stops in nearby Whitefish, MT (approximately 15 miles north of Kalispell). From Whitefish, you can arrange for a taxi, shuttle, or rental car to reach Kalispell.

Nearby Destinations:

Glacier National Park: (Approx. 32 miles northeast) Known as the "Crown of the Continent," this park is a must-see for its pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and spectacular lakes. Activities include hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
Flathead Lake: (Approx. 7 miles south) The largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and exploring its many islands, including Wild Horse Island.
Whitefish: (Approx. 15 miles north) A charming resort town known for Whitefish Mountain Resort (Big Mountain), offering year-round outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking. The town also has a vibrant arts scene and excellent dining.
Bigfork: (Approx. 17 miles southeast, on the northeast shore of Flathead Lake) A picturesque village known for its art galleries, live theatre, and access to outdoor recreation on Flathead Lake and the Swan River.
Swan Lake: (Approx. 30 miles southeast) A beautiful lake offering fishing, boating, and camping opportunities, nestled in the Swan Valley.

These destinations provide a diverse range of experiences, from exploring national parks to enjoying charming small towns, all within a short drive from Kalispell, making it an excellent base for your Montana adventure.

Where to Stay in Kalispell

Kalispell offers a variety of lodging options to suit different preferences and budgets. Many are conveniently located for exploring the town and nearby attractions. Based on information from the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce, here are some notable places to consider for your stay:

Best Western Plus Kalispell/Glacier Park West Hotel & Suites: Located at 255 Montclair Dr, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations and is a popular choice for visitors to the Glacier Park area.
Hampton Inn Kalispell: Situated at 1140 U.S. Hwy 2 W, the Hampton Inn provides reliable lodging with amenities expected from the Hilton brand.
Red Lion Hotel Kalispell: Found at 20 N Main St, this hotel is centrally located, offering easy access to downtown Kalispell's attractions.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Kalispell, MT: Located at 195 Hutton Ranch Rd, this option provides suite-style rooms, often preferred for longer stays or families.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Kalispell: Situated at 250 Old Reserve Dr, this hotel offers spacious suites and modern amenities.

These are just a few examples, and many other hotels, motels, bed & breakfasts, and vacation rentals can be found in and around Kalispell. It's advisable to check availability and book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Disclaimer: This list is not exhaustive and is based on publicly available information. For the most current details, please check directly with the establishments or the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce.

Plan Your Visit

Ready to explore Kalispell? Add it to your Montana travel itinerary and discover the charm, history, and adventure waiting in Big Sky Country.