Under the Big Sky

A summertime trip to Whitefish—with music, mountains & more.

Ahh… another summer in Big Sky Country. If you’ve ever read or watched anything about Montana, it’s likely you’ve heard the phrase. And those who have spent time here know exactly why Montana has been coined as such. Almost inexplicably, views seem to extend well beyond 360 degrees as the air & clouds go on forever. It appears as though everything is being distorted by a fish-eye lens. That quality, amongst many, is part of what makes life in these parts so special. But also on that list is one of the most unique gatherings around: the Under the Big Sky Festival, happening July 17, 18, & 19, this summer.

The Big Mountain Ranch, just outside of Whitefish, has invited excited visitors to its grounds for the festival since 2019. This year’s musical guests include big names like Chris Stapleton, Zach Top, and Cody Jinks; also on the docket are a handful of local musicians, including Bozeman-based Madeline Hawthorne, Hannah King, and Michelle Rivers. The festival does a great job with regional representation, as well as bringing in other national talents. 

But the festival is of course much more than music. It’s a whole melding of culture and art that’s guaranteed to stimulate all your senses. There are food trucks serving a variety of eats. Visual displays and art stands build on the western aesthetic. And oh yeah—there’s an entire rodeo event to welcome the crowd and get the party started. (Make sure to download the Under the Big Sky app, to plan for and stay updated on all the happenings.) 

There is no camping at the festival, but there are lots of nearby options depending on what you're looking for. Whitefish offers hotels and BnBs that will keep you cared for and comfortable—like the Kandahar Lodge which holds Buchanan's Chop House and the Snug Bar within, so you'll be well taken care of. Otherwise, there are some more primitive camping options all around the festival grounds that you can roll right up to, purchase a site, and post up at for the weekend.

Additionally, there are lots of other fun things to do while you’re up north. Whitefish is an outdoor-recreation powerhouse. First, Glacier National Park is right around the corner and well worth the visit for those who haven’t had the experience. Beyond that, there's floating, biking, fishing, and more, all with some of the most scenic views in the state, and possibly the world.

Before you head out, or if you want to slow down and check out town, downtown Whitefish is as quintessential of a mountain town as they come. There’s good food, neat shops, and plenty else to keep you occupied. Montana's only alpine coaster is just down the road at Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster. You can easily spend a whole day just exploring the nearby towns and enjoying the quant amenities, but we're here for a little more than just that, with the Glacier landscape waiting right out of your back door. To get you pointed in the right direction, here are a few adventure options:

Boating
When it comes to river-fueled activities, there are several places to hop in and cool off. The Flathead River is among the best, with the North, Middle, and South forks all offering exciting waters to explore. Each has something to offer for first timers and pros alike, and everyone in between. Just make sure to do a bit of research to be certain you’re not getting in above your head with potential whitewater downstream. The North Fork of the Flathead is considered to be the more approachable. For more chill floats with canoes, tubes, and paddleboards, or just for a dip to cool off, check out the Whitefish River and Whitefish Lake. On the river, put in just around the corner from the city beach and float as long as your heart desires (read: until your sunburn becomes unbearable).

Biking
The Whitefish area has something for everyone when it comes to pedal-powered fun. For an in-town spin, there's a lakeside bike path that’ll take you along the water straight from downtown. If you’re looking to get on some dirt, there are loads of single- and doubletrack trails, too. You can pretty much encircle Whitefish Lake on a mountain bike on what’s called the Whitefish Trail. It makes for some nice rolling, cross-country riding with ups and downs to get the blood pumping. Or you can pick a specific area to home in on. There’s Spencer Mountain for more developed riding, or go to Whitefish Resort for the whole downhill-biking shebang. Alternatively, get out on the Reid Divide Trail for an epic loop.

Fishing
Lastly, for folks looking for tight lines, there are more than a few places to hook into a trout. Once again, the Flathead's where the action's at. It’s a freestone river that offers a wild & scenic look at the area and its waters. As usual, the further you can get away from town, the better to find the road less traveled. The Middle and North forks are talked about the most often for fishing access. There’s also some great creekin’ options if smaller water and wilder fish are what get you going. For a start, try Swift Creek right as it drains into Whitefish Lake.

There are tons of adventures to be had in Whitefish, and we've barely scratched the surface. Just make sure to make it back to the festival in time each day and trade out your wading boots and bike shoes for your dancing shoes, and save some energy for the dance floor.