Back in the early 20th century, the Great Northern Railway was constructed through the heart of the land that would become Whitefish. When clearing the way, a large quantity of trees had to be cut down, which left stumps all over the place. This led to the town's first name, Stumptown. As time went on, local developers saw the potential in Big Mountain nearby and developed a ski resort there. They capitalized on tourism and renamed the town Whitefish after the local Whitefish Lake.
Tourism continues to be a major industry in this city and for good reason. The modern ski resort at Big Mountain is better than ever before, and that's just the beginning of everything Whitefish can offer. Make the most of your trip by booking your stay in a hotel that features all the amenities you need.
When should you plan your trip to Whitefish, MT?
Whitefish has been developed as a fun resort town, so you'll be able to find loads of activities for the whole family no matter when you plan your visit. For the most part, however, the best time to travel to Whitefish is during the late spring or early summer after the warm temperatures come, but before the lodging costs increase. Specifically, hotel room prices in May and June are typically about 35 percent more affordable when compared to prices in July.
The peak summer travel time is where you'll find the highest prices with the most crowds. There's a good reason for all the traffic, though, as Whitefish features a multitude of exciting warm weather activities. You can go mountain biking or enjoy the beautiful waters of Whitefish City Beach. The weather is quite nice as well, with average temperatures in July around 72 degrees Fahrenheit. July also happens to get less rain than any other month of the year.
As a ski resort town, there's also a significant increase in lodging costs in the winter. In fact, December is the most costly time to visit. It is nearly three times as costly as the average price in May, the most affordable month. If you want to enjoy winter activities, you should try heading to Whitefish near the end of November, right when the snow starts to fall. Lodging should still be relatively affordable before it hits the massive increase in December. November also offers the benefit of being the least crowded month of the year.
If you do head to Whitefish in the winter, make sure you're prepared for snow. Precipitation in the winter months is significantly higher than it is during the summer. With temperatures ranging from an average 32 degrees in November to 22 degrees throughout December and January, you're going to be in for some snow no matter what.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Whitefish, MT:
Whitefish by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean rate trends by star rating class in Whitefish, MT. You can use these charts to calculate the best dates to book a room in Whitefish for any future trips.
What luxury hotel options can you find near Whitefish, MT?
4 Star Average Prices: $112.42
For the ultimate Whitefish experience, you need a hotel that can offer you amenities you won't find anywhere else. Luxury hotels are designed to make you feel at home and then some, so be sure to check out some of the best. One of the most popular options is the Firebrand. This hotel comes with a rooftop terrace, a restaurant and lounge area, and spa services. Breakfast is cooked to order, and there are available bicycle rentals. In the rooms themselves, you'll find premium bedding and a huge 50-inch TV, and you can even get room service.
Another luxury option is the Grouse Mountain Lodge. This stunning hotel is perfect if you're embarking on a ski adventure with the kids. Not only is there a ski storage area for convenience, but there's even an arcade/game room to keep the family entertained at night. You'll also find an indoor pool and a spa tub inside the hotel along with a 24-hour business center, allowing you to manage work and relaxation easily. You can even bring your dog along for the trip when you stay here.
What affordable hotel options are around Whitefish, Montana?
3 Star Average Prices: $184.65
With so much to do and see in Whitefish, it might be a good idea to save your money for the experiences rather than the hotel. Fortunately, there are quite a few hotels in and near Whitefish that can facilitate that exact sentiment like the Under Canvas Glacier. This hotel may be too modest for some tastes, but the overwhelming majority of guests have been satisfied. When you stay here, you'll be in the mountains and have access to concierge services to ensure you know all the best attractions around. You have the option for cooked-to-order breakfasts, and you can bring your pet along for the trip.
If you're planning to do some skiing on your trip, the Hibernation House makes for a great affordable option. It's just a short two-minute walk away from the Big Mountain peaks, but you can always take the free ski shuttle if you want to save your energy for the slopes. Inside the room, you'll find blackout curtains, a flat screen TV with cable and free WiFi. The hotel itself offers free continental breakfast every day, and it even has a spa area. Feel free to take the kids with you as children 12 and under stay free.
