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The Ultimate "Coolcation" Summer Escape: Glacier National Park & Flathead Valley
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items Let's face it—hitting our 30s means crowded, sweltering beach resorts just don’t hit the same anymore. I wanted stunning, rugged mountain views, crystal-clear glacial lakes, incredible local food, and a cozy boutique base camp to return to after a da...
Sections
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The Dream Boutique Base Camps & Luxury Lodges
Epic Guided Adventures on Going-to-the-Sun Road
Stunning Mountain Towns & Lakeside Hidden Gems
Wellness, Culture, & Unique Local Excursions
The Dream Boutique Base Camps & Luxury Lodges
Forget sleeping on the floor in a sleeping bag. When traveling in my 30s, a comfortable bed, a gorgeous design aesthetic, and close proximity to espresso are non-negotiable. These are the absolute best boutique stays and luxury lodges surrounding the...
Located right in downtown Whitefish, this is my favorite blend of urban boutique chic and mountain vibes. The rooftop hot tub is unmatched after a long day of hiking, and the lobby coffee is excellent.
The FireBrand Hotel (Portland)
Perfect if you're traveling with friends and want a bit more space. It features beautiful, condo-style living with an on-site spa, located just minutes from the West Entrance of Glacier.
Meadow Lake Resort & Condos – Columbia Falls, MT
If you want absolute lakeside luxury, this is it. Sitting on the deck with a glass of wine watching the sunset over the water is pure bliss. It feels like a high-end summer camp for adults.
The Lodge at Whitefish Lake – A Luxury Hotel in Whitefish, MT
A classic, expansive Montana lodge with modern updates. The outdoor fire pits are the perfect place to unwind at night, and they offer a super convenient shuttle to the downtown area.
Grouse Mountain Lodge
Epic Guided Adventures on Going-to-the-Sun Road
Glacier's main highway is an absolute bucket-list drive, but navigating the narrow cliffs can be stressful. Booking guided excursions lets you look out the window at the jaw-dropping glacial valleys instead of white-knuckling the steering wheel.
This takes all the stress out of navigating the park. The guide handles the driving along the dramatic Going-to-the-Sun Road while giving you all the history, best photo spots, and wildlife viewing tips.
Glacier National Park Full-Day Scenic Driving Tour Driving Tour
If you prefer to move completely at your own pace like I do, download this audio app. It uses GPS to narrate the history and point out hidden viewpoints exactly as you drive past them
Glacier National Park Self Guided Driving Audio Tour
A perfect mix of adrenaline and gorgeous scenery. The water is incredibly crisp and blue, and the guides make you feel safe the entire time. It's an absolute blast to do with a group.
Whitewater Rafting Adventure on the Middle Fork Flathead River
For the days you want the river views without the intense rapids. It’s peaceful, relaxing, and a great way to spot eagles and wildlife along the canyon walls while just drifting along.
Scenic Float on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River
Stunning Mountain Towns & Lakeside Hidden Gems
The towns surrounding the park are filled with vibrant local boutiques, art galleries, and scenic lakeshores. These stays give you the perfect opportunity to experience Montana's charm outside of the park gates.
Bigfork is a gorgeous, storybook arts village right on the edge of Flathead Lake. Staying here gives you a beautiful, old-world charm experience right next to the local theater and restaurants.
The Bigfork Inn US
A highly reliable, comfortable option if you want to be centrally located between the massive Flathead Lake and the mountain trails. The breakfast spread saves so much time in the mornings.
Best Western Plus Flathead Lake Inn & Suites Kalispell Mt
An incredibly chic, historic building converted into luxury boutique suites right in downtown Whitefish. It feels like a high-end apartment you never want to leave.
Sherman Lodge
This resort features adorable, updated vintage cabins right on the water. They offer private beach access, making it the perfect spot for morning paddleboarding sessions.
Flathead Lake Resort Bigfork Mt Us
Wellness, Culture, & Unique Local Excursions
A summer vacation shouldn't just be about hiking until your feet hurt. Balancing outdoor activity with local culture, wellness, and curated experiences is what makes a trip truly feel like a vacation.
The best way to get your bearings in Whitefish. You get to learn about the old railroad history while stopping at some of the absolute best local culinary highlights and sweet shops.
Downtown Whitefish Historic Walking & Food Tour
Trying fly fishing was a major bucket-list moment for me. The instructors are incredibly patient, teach you the art of the cast, and take you out to the most peaceful, quiet bends of the river.
Introduction to Fly Fishing Whitefish
Trust me, treat yourself to a deep-tissue mountain massage after a long day of hiking the Highline Trail. The relaxation lounge here is pure luxury and completely recharges you.
The Spa at Lodge at Whitefish Lake Experience