“If you’re looking for a winter trip that’s scenic, relaxed, and actually doable with kids, Montana checks every box. Bigfork is the perfect small, cozy town to live out your winter wonderland dreams and see all of what Montana has to offer.”
— Anna Cook (@adventurewithanna_) visited the Flathead Valley with her daughter for a small-town winter getaway capped with the festive Parade of Lights in Bigfork, Montana.
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Kick off the holiday season with this three-day itinerary to get you into the Christmas spirit. With scenic winter hiking, warm and cozy restaurants and enough yuletide cheer to last the whole month of December, a winter getaway to Bigfork is pure magic.
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Your arrival in Bigfork marks the beginning of your lakeside winter getaway. A charming waterfront community that is teeming with art galleries, boutiques and year-round entertainment, this is your basecamp for the weekend, offering unparalleled access to Flathead Lake and the surrounding wilderness. This time of year, Bigfork transforms into Montana’s Christmas Village, and is decorated in lights and tinsel to bring holiday cheer to residents and visitors alike. Check in to your accommodation and spend the rest of the afternoon exploring this warm, inviting community.
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This morning, fuel up with breakfast and gather any necessary hiking supplies before hitting the trails for a scenic walk. Head to Notch Trail, where you’ll set out on a 3.8-mile round-trip hike with stunning views of the Flathead Valley and Foy Lake. On a clear day, you can catch glimpses of the Swan Mountain Range and Glacier National Park. After you’ve returned to the trailhead, grab a well-deserved lunch in nearby Lakeside. Spend the rest of the day leisurely walking the streets of downtown Bigfork, making sure to pop into local favorites like Electric Avenue Gifts, Sault and 406 Hat Bar.
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Today, head northwest to Kalispell for a morning of ice skating at the Woodland Park Ice Skating Rink. This outdoor rink is open during the winter months, and is a popular weekend destination for locals. Skate rentals are available. Enjoy lunch downtown, and travel back to Bigfork for a laid-back afternoon. As the sun begins to set, make sure to bundle up and find your prime viewing spot along Electric Avenue for the Parade of Lights, traditionally held on the first Saturday in December. The parade is best enjoyed with some hot chocolate as you take in the colorful lights, ending with a visit from Santa Claus himself. Once you’ve thoroughly gotten into the yuletide spirit, grab one last dinner or sweet treat to cap off the winter weekend you’ll never forget.
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