Six Reasons Albertans Love Whitefish

Albertans love Montanans like a big sibling. We're partial to their quirky mannerisms, inspired by their passions and surroundings, and we're cut from the same cloth when it comes down to our roots. We Albertans hold a soft spot for our south-of-the-border neighbour, and Whitefish is the focus of that fondness.

1. Small Town Vibe, Big Town Amenities
   In Whitefish, you’ll get the two-finger wave from every pickup you pass like you’re one of their own. Western-style false front buildings, antique stores and Tuesday Farmers' Markets blend in seamlessly with trendy cafes and sports gear retailers. The few gift shops you’ll find are mom-and-pop businesses offering every imaginable Saskatoon berry homemade good.

2. Stand-out Lodging and Dining
   As its popularity grows, this quaint mountain town has quickly developed a unique reputation in the tourism scene, with amenities to suit all tastes. Grouse Mountain Lodge is the perfect vacation base no matter the season, just steps away from downtown and an easy ski shuttle to the resort. And with every fresh visit, you’re bound to find a new dining joint to enjoy, while the tried-and-true classics faithfully remain year by year.

3. Whitefish Mountain Resort
   Some changes have been made with the times, but ‘Big Mountain’ ski bums from the '70s and '80s can still take a trip down memory lane here. The best parts of this classic ski resort remain unchanged: easy-to-navigate terrain for all levels, summit ‘Dr. Seuss’ snow ghosts, and on-resort après spots have only improved through the years. The ‘Bierstube’ is still where it’s at after last chair, and straight skis won’t get a second glance.

4. Summer Sport Paradise
   Once the snow melts, beautiful wildflowers and fresh scenery emerge on Whitefish Mountain Resort, transforming ski runs into hiking and biking trails. Avid golfers will be nothing short of impressed by the variety and number of courses available. And after you’ve gotten in your activities for the day, Whitefish Lake is warm enough to enjoy for an afternoon in the sun. Albertans love water and the mountains—this place has it all!

5. Half the Fun is Getting There
   You don’t need to book a plane ticket to get to Whitefish, nor would you want to. The scenic ‘Going-To-The-Sun Road’ through Glacier National Park is a popular summer route from Alberta, offering some of the most breathtaking vistas the USA has to offer. Up for a detour? The Whitefish–Kallispell–Columbia Falls triangle offers several unique and quirky experiences, from a haunted mansion, to a human-sized maze, to Hungry Horse Dam.

6. Cheap Beer Tastes Better
   No matter what rate the Canadian dollar is at, you can bet on cheap, delicious Montana beer. Whitefish has their beverage enjoyment dialed, whether it’s a winter après pint at Hellroaring Saloon, a crisp summer lager from the rooftop at Casey's, or a $6 pitcher of Pabst at the Pin and Cue. You’re bound to find brews sourced from their very own Great Northern Brewing Co. at any local hot spot—the Great Northern Bar, right across the street, is a good place to start the night.

Albertans love that it's so close, yet just far enough. We love how Whitefish feels like home, but slightly different. We love how Montana shares our penchant for down-to-earth vibes and unpretentious style while living amongst such a vast and beautiful natural environment. To an Albertan, Montana has endless opportunities for adventure.