Winter has arrived in Montana and it’s a beautiful thing. There’s something about the sparkly fluffy snow that just begs you to go play in it. Although summer is undoubtedly the most popular time to take a road trip, winter proves a worthy competitor. We love a good winter road trip, especially if skiing is involved. Skiing is one of our favorite winter family activities, and is something the whole family truly gets excited about. We started all three of the kids super early – around age 1 or 2. And boy has it paid off! They fly down the hill and always ask for “one more”.
We worked with the Lodge at Whitefish Lake to make this trip possible. All opinions are our own.
Whitefish Itinerary, 4 days, Winter season:
(This also happens to be what we did)
DAY ONE
Arrive at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake mid-afternoon. Check in and learn a bit about the Lodge from the friendly concierge. Thank the valet for putting your luggage in your room, and then let your jaw drop to the floor looking out at the view of the lake. Suit up and walk (run) to the pool for some family fun time. Order room service dinner and eat it in your pajamas all snuggled up on the sofa watching a movie.
DAY TWO
While the kids are sleeping, take turns at the gym in the Lodge. They have all the best equipment and make breaking a sweat such an enjoyable experience. When the kids wake up, head straight to the outdoor hot tub that directly overlooks Whitefish Lake, to enjoy the sunrise. Then, put on all the ski gear and drive (or catch the shuttle) to the mountain! It’s only a 5-10 minute drive so don’t get too comfortable though. There’s so much terrain to ski, it really is a perfect family mountain. After a full day of skiing, fill your hungry bellies with the best dinner of your life at the Boat Club (seriously, order the huckleberry pork!) and then pull up your covers and go to sleep – you’ve earned it.
DAY THREE
The morning ritual: gym, pool, ski. It’s a pretty great combo, especially when the sun comes out on the summit and you’re treated to an inversion. Skiing above the clouds? Yeah, we did that. After two days of skiing, dinner is carb night: Abruzzo Italian in downtown Whitefish does it up right. Also – if you need to put in a to-go order for sleepy kiddos, they are happy to accommodate.
DAY FOUR
Take advantage of the Spa at Whitefish Lodge and treat yourself to a massage. Speaking from experience, the most stressful part of the whole thing is trying to not drool from relaxation. Then, say your goodbyes to the Lodge and soak up one last fire in their grand fireplace. Downtown Whitefish is just a minute away and a great place to explore as you begin your drive home. If you have the time, sightsee your way through Glacier National Park and perhaps venture out on a snowshoe hike.
With such a family-friendly lodge and skiable mountain, it’s hard not to fall in love with Whitefish. Until next time, lovely place.
