Where to go in the Flathead Valley?
From towns to nature
Montana is the 4th largest state in the US, yet it ranks only 43rd in population. This low population density is one of the great charms of the Treasure State and therefore of the Flathead Valley. Of course, the cities in the region are not on the same scale as the larger ones in the country. That said, you’ll find everything you need while being close to lakes, ski slopes, and the region’s National Park.
Glacier National Park is the 12th largest of the 62 National Parks in the country. It is inhabited by 356 species of animals, not counting the fish and insects in the park. You have a great chance to meet some of them during your visits and hikes.
The Cities in Flathead Valley
The towns in the valley were all founded in the late 19th century, specifically around the 1890s. Some were railroad towns, like Whitefish but not only. Bigfork, for example, was created around an orchard. The name of Bigfork, like that of Kalispell, comes from the Salish language, that of the natives of the region.
Glacier National Park
According to archaeological sources, Native Americans were already living in the park 10’000 years ago. The Flathead, or Salish, the Native American nation that gave its name to the valley, lived there well before the arrival of Europeans. Today, the park welcomes some 3 million visitors annually who come to discover the beautiful scenery, fish, or swim in the park’s lakes. Its most famous road, Going-to-the-Sun road, offers breathtaking views.
