Trying to name the best mountain town in Montana is like trying to find the most beautiful star in the sky. Montana means “mountainous,” after all, and there are around 100 named mountain ranges and sub-ranges in the Treasure State.
Recently, USA Today named some of America’s most charming mountain towns, and we weren’t surprised to see that Kalispell made the list. While it isn’t as popular of a tourist destination as some of our other mountain towns, the locals are well aware that this little city is underrated.
Kalispell is nestled between three different mountain ranges (the Swan, Mission, and Salish ranges, to be exact) in Flathead County.
Holly Hayes / Flickr It’s close to Flathead Lake, Glacier National Park, and many of western Montana’s other gems.
History buffs tend to love Kalispell – there’s a lot to learn about the local past.
Tony Hisgett / Flickr From farmers and fur trappers to Native American tribes and early settlers, you can learn about the local history at places like the Conrad Mansion Museum or the Northwest Montana History Museum.
Of course, the modern downtown Kalispell is also pretty lively, with plenty of locally owned shops, restaurants, breweries, and bars.
Discover Kalispell / Facebook You’ll find century-old buildings that are home to new businesses; a strange but fantastic juxtaposition.
Kalispell is beautiful in any season.
Discover Kalispell / Facebook And while it’s certainly livelier in the summertime, there’s truly never a bad time to go.
When you visit, you’ll be so close to outdoor recreation activities that you’ll have a tough time staying in town.
Discover Kalispell / Facebook Get out and explore the nearby nature if you can. It’s well worth it.
Northwest Montana is a skier’s paradise, but even if you aren’t into snow sports, you’ll love winters here.
Discover Kalispell / Facebook From holiday festivities to winter kayaking, there’s always something to do – the town certainly doesn’t shut down when the temperature drops.
Kalispell might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Montana’s most charming mountain towns, but it’s certainly a top contender.
Holly Hayes / Flickr If it’s been a while since you’ve visited, perhaps it’s time to come explore.
Do you agree with USA Today adding Kalispell to their list?
Holly Hayes / Flickr
It’s close to Flathead Lake, Glacier National Park, and many of western Montana’s other gems.
Tony Hisgett / Flickr
From farmers and fur trappers to Native American tribes and early settlers, you can learn about the local history at places like the Conrad Mansion Museum or the Northwest Montana History Museum.
Discover Kalispell / Facebook
You’ll find century-old buildings that are home to new businesses; a strange but fantastic juxtaposition.
And while it’s certainly livelier in the summertime, there’s truly never a bad time to go.
Get out and explore the nearby nature if you can. It’s well worth it.
From holiday festivities to winter kayaking, there’s always something to do – the town certainly doesn’t shut down when the temperature drops.
If it’s been a while since you’ve visited, perhaps it’s time to come explore.
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Address: Kalispell, MT 59901, USA
