When you consider a mountainous retreat, your thoughts in all probability goes to a distant, remoted village with nearly nothing to do as soon as the outdoorsy adventures are over. But what if we informed you there’s an underrated metropolis nestled in northwestern Montana that not solely gives all the same old energetic enjoyable and delightful views but in addition guarantees a walkable downtown match for even essentially the most avid metropolis trippers of the group? That’s proper: Kalispell is dwelling to a pleasant number of charming cafes and highly-rated eating places whereas additionally serving as Montana’s “Gateway to Glacier National Park,” whose magnificence is so unmatched, it is generally known as the “Crown of the Continent”. Remember, that is additionally the place you will discover a hidden mountain passage that provides essentially the most breathtaking alpine views, so if there was ever a spot to faucet into your extra daring facet, that is it.
Unlike the rugged trails of Glacier National Park, Kalispell is straightforward to search out and entry. Several main roads and highways run straight by means of town, so connectivity should not be a difficulty. That goes for air vacationers, too. Usually, with extra mountainous hubs like this, it is arduous to discover a main airport close by, however on this case, Glacier Park International Airport is only a fast, 10-mile drive away! If you do not discover a direct flight right here, you’ll be able to attempt Missoula Montana Airport as a substitute, however that is about two hours south of Kalispell, so most individuals attempt to make it work with the in-town possibility. Public transportation choices aren’t available, although, so for those who do not have already got a automobile, it is a good suggestion to hire one on the airport.
Kalispell is the right gateway to Glacier National Park
Kalispell’s proximity to Glacier National Park provides you entry to world-class outside recreation. Home to over 700 miles of trails, in addition to towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and huge forests, this can be a good spot for a scenic jog or nature pictures. Keep in thoughts, although, that a regular entry cross can price anyplace between $20 and $35, and that pricing will range by season (summers are often costlier). Alternatively, you’ll be able to pay $70 for an annual cross — that is the worth for U.S. residents solely. The cross grants you entry to a large range of activities contained in the park, together with every little thing from mountaineering, tenting, and fishing to boating and cross-country snowboarding.
If you take into account your self an outside fanatic, your choices do not finish right here. The metropolis is a part of the attractive Flathead Valley, Montana’s up-and-coming wine area that facilities round one of many largest pure lakes in America (that goes by the identical identify). Flathead Lake is only a 13-minute drive away from downtown Kalispell, and it gives lots so that you can do, together with swimming, tenting, fishing, jet snowboarding, picnic amenities, and a number of other boat launches. Lone Pine State Park is even nearer, providing greater than 7 miles out there for mountain biking, snowshoeing, and horseback driving.
Having enjoyable thus far? Why not go on a day journey to Columbia Falls? Located lower than half an hour away, this isn’t solely an underrated riverside metropolis full of out of doors enjoyable, but in addition one other gateway to Glacier National Park. To take your outside adventures into a brand new, thrilling route, take into account driving to McGregor Lake, too. The breathtaking Montana lake is a hidden gem for cozy lodging, fishing, tenting, and wild views.
Explore Kalispell’s walkable downtown
With a inhabitants of over 30,000, Kalispell’s not the typical sleepy mountain city with nothing to do after an extended day of out of doors points of interest. Its downtown has retailers, bars, artwork galleries, and wellness facilities, and it’s totally walkable, too. Start your tour right here with Western Outdoor, a Kalispell basic that sells western-inspired boots and hats, in addition to a number of clothes for each women and men. It’s regionally owned, and prospects consistently reward the worth and high quality.
Just a six-minute stroll from right here, you will discover Moose’s Saloon, one of many metropolis’s hottest joints. It’s a country pizza restaurant whose pies are consistently raved about. The costs are nice, too, with most individuals paying between $10 and $20 for his or her meal. The sawdust-filled flooring and low lighting give the area a sort of cozy, relaxed really feel that makes it an incredible spot to unwind after a day on the paths.
An extra 10-minute stroll takes you proper to the Northwest Montana History Museum, the place you may get your native tradition repair. Featuring many fascinating exhibitions (full with unique artifacts and genuine objects) in addition to enjoyable programs to hitch, the place takes guests way back to the late 1800s. While you will should pay a modest payment to enter, the expertise right here might be informative and shifting. The previous constructing simply provides to the attraction, so take into account including it to your itinerary for those who’re a historical past buff.