Montana's 'Gateway To Glacier National Park' Is An Underrated City With A Walkable Downtown And Outdoor Fun

When you think of a mountainous retreat, your mind probably goes to a remote, isolated village with almost nothing to do once the outdoorsy adventures are over. But what if we told you there's an underrated city nestled in northwestern Montana that not only offers all the usual active fun and beautiful views but also promises a walkable downtown fit for even the most avid city trippers of the group? That's right: Kalispell is home to a nice selection of charming cafes and highly-rated restaurants while also serving as Montana's "Gateway to Glacier National Park," whose beauty is so unmatched, it's known as the "Crown of the Continent". Remember, this is also where you'll find a hidden mountain passage that offers the most breathtaking alpine views, so if there was ever a place to tap into your more daring side, this is it.

Unlike the rugged trails of Glacier National Park, Kalispell is easy to find and access. Several major roads and highways run straight through the city, so connectivity shouldn't be an issue. That goes for air travelers, too. Usually, with more mountainous hubs like this, it's hard to find a major airport nearby, but in this case, Glacier Park International Airport is just a quick, 10-mile drive away! If you don't find a direct flight here, you can try Missoula Montana Airport instead, but that's about two hours south of Kalispell, so most people try to make it work with the in-town option. Public transportation options aren't readily available, though, so if you don't already have a car, it's a good idea to rent one at the airport.

Kalispell's proximity to Glacier National Park gives you access to world-class outdoor recreation. Home to over 700 miles of trails, as well as towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and vast forests, this is a great spot for a scenic jog or nature photography. Keep in mind, though, that a standard entry pass can cost anywhere between $20 and $35, and that pricing will vary by season (summers are usually more expensive). Alternatively, you can pay $70 for an annual pass — this is the price for U.S. residents only. The pass grants you access to a wide range of activities inside the park, including everything from hiking, camping, and fishing to boating and cross-country skiing.

If you consider yourself an outdoor enthusiast, your options don't end here. The city is part of the beautiful Flathead Valley, Montana's up-and-coming wine region that centers around one of the largest natural lakes in America (that goes by the same name). Flathead Lake is just a 13-minute drive away from downtown Kalispell, and it offers a lot for you to do, including swimming, camping, fishing, jet skiing, picnic facilities, and several boat launches. Lone Pine State Park is even closer, offering more than 7 miles available for mountain biking, snowshoeing, and horseback riding.

Having fun so far? Why not go on a day trip to Columbia Falls? Located less than half an hour away, this is not only an underrated riverside city full of outdoor fun, but also another gateway to Glacier National Park. To take your outdoor adventures into a new, exciting direction, consider driving to McGregor Lake, too. The breathtaking Montana lake is a hidden gem for cozy lodging, fishing, camping, and wild views.

With a population of over 30,000, Kalispell's not the average sleepy mountain town with nothing to do after a long day of outdoor attractions. Its downtown has shops, bars, art galleries, and wellness centers, and it's very walkable, too. Start your tour here with Western Outdoor, a Kalispell classic that sells western-inspired boots and hats, as well as a selection of clothing for both men and women. It's locally owned, and customers constantly praise the price and quality.

Just a six-minute walk from here, you'll find Moose's Saloon, one of the city's most popular joints. It's a rustic pizza restaurant whose pies are constantly raved about. The prices are great, too, with most people paying between $10 and $20 for their meal. The sawdust-filled floor and low lighting give the space a type of cozy, relaxed feel that makes it a great spot to unwind after a day on the trails.

A further 10-minute walk takes you right to the Northwest Montana History Museum, where you can get your local culture fix. Featuring many interesting exhibitions (complete with original artifacts and authentic objects) as well as fun programs to join, the place takes visitors as far back as the late 1800s. While you'll have to pay a modest fee to enter, the experience here can be informative and moving. The old building just adds to the charm, so consider adding it to your itinerary if you're a history buff.