Kalispell, Montana

Quick Facts

• Population: 29,886
• County: Flathead County
• Founded: Officially incorporated in 1892
• Elevation: Approximately 2,956 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!
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Local Industry & Economy

Kalispell's economy is driven by tourism (especially Glacier National Park), healthcare, retail, manufacturing, and a growing tech sector. Agriculture and forestry remain important, and the vibrant downtown supports local businesses, restaurants, and shops. The city is a regional hub for the Flathead Valley.

Seasonal Activities & Local Events

• Spring/Summer: Hiking, boating, fishing, farmers markets, and events like the Arts in the Park festival.
• Fall/Winter: Skiing and snowboarding at Whitefish Mountain Resort and Blacktail Mountain, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and the Montana Pond Hockey Classic.
• Annual Events: Arts in the Park, Montana Pond Hockey Classic, Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo, and more.

Getting There & Nearby Destinations

• By Air: Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) is located just outside Kalispell, with direct flights from major U.S. cities.
• 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 (about 15 miles north). 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.

Where to Stay in Kalispell

• Hotels: Find hotels in Kalispell on Expedia.
• Motels: Find motels in Kalispell on Expedia.
• Bed & Breakfasts: Charming B&Bs can be found, offering a more personalized experience.
• Vacation Rentals: Find houses, apartments, and cabins for rent on VRBO.
• Campgrounds: For those who prefer the outdoors, there are campgrounds in the surrounding national forests and some private RV parks.