Quick Facts
- Population: Approximately 8,915 (2022/2023 est.; 7,751 in 2020 Census)
- County: Flathead County
- Founded: Incorporated 1905 (settlement began earlier, railroad c. 1904)
- Elevation: 3,033 ft (924 m)
- Known For: World-class skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort, gateway to Glacier National Park, year-round outdoor recreation, vibrant downtown.
- Nearby Landmarks: Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake, Whitefish Lake, Big Mountain.
- Fun Fact: Originally known as "Stumptown" for the cleared timber during town and railroad construction.
Notable People & Pop Culture
- Constance Towers: Actress and singer born in Whitefish.
- Maggie Voisin: Olympic freestyle skier from Whitefish.
- Brian Schweitzer: Former Montana Governor, resident of Whitefish.
- David Graham: Pro golfer, major winner, associated with Whitefish.
- Deric McCabe: Actor born in Whitefish ("A Wrinkle in Time").
- Dorothy M. Johnson: Author of Western stories, connections to Whitefish.
- Whitefish Mountain Resort has featured in adventure media and film.
Top Things to Do in Whitefish
- Ski or Snowboard at Whitefish Mountain Resort: Over 3,000 acres of legendary terrain and views.
- Explore Glacier National Park: Hike, drive Going-to-the-Sun Road, spot wildlife.
- Enjoy Whitefish Lake: Boating, swimming, paddleboarding, City Beach access.
- Discover Downtown Whitefish: Central Avenue, boutiques, galleries, dining, nightlife.
Local Industry & Economy
- Tourism, outdoor recreation, hospitality, arts, retail, and services.
- Historic roots in timber, railroad, and agriculture.
History & Heritage
- Founded with railroad expansion in early 1900s; incorporated 1905.
- Originally "Stumptown" for timber clearing.
- Growth fueled by Whitefish Lake, railroad, and later ski resort.
Seasonal Activities & Local Events
- Spring/Summer: Hiking, biking, water sports, golf, Glacier National Park access.
- Fall/Winter: Skiing, snowboarding, cross-country, snowshoeing, dog sledding.
- Annual Events: Whitefish Winter Carnival, Huckleberry Days Arts Festival, Whitefish Arts Festival, Taste of Whitefish, farmers markets, holiday celebrations.
Getting There & Nearby Destinations
- Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) 11 miles SE; Amtrak Empire Builder stops downtown.
- On U.S. Highway 93, 15 miles north of Kalispell.
- West Entrance to Glacier National Park ~25 miles east; Flathead Lake ~30-45 min south.