Whitefish is what Aspen and Jackson Hole wish they still were. A resort area the “jet set” has yet to discover. This year-round resort town is nestled at the north end of Flathead Valley under the shadows of Big Mountain. It’s a lively and spirited place, chock full of charm, history and outgoing folks who absolutely love the great outdoors. And it doesn’t get much greater than this. Whether you’re a skier, kayaker, golfer, equestrian (all of the above?), or just someone seeking quality of life in a serene setting, Whitefish real estate is worth exploring.

The roots of Whitefish are in timber and railroading. This was a rough and tumble town before it became a destination resort community. Old-time building facades, an historic railway depot, and covered sidewalks keep the western heritage of Whitefish alive. Country cafes, coffee houses, bookstores and bars draw local residents and visitors from afar. Whitefish has accumulated many good chefs (an essential ingredient in any world-class resort area). Superb restaurants abound. And the Great Northern Brewing Company makes a range of microbrews that are worth toasting. Repeatedly.

The biggest draw of all is Big Mountain Ski & Summer Resort. Known simply as Big Mountain, it offers many miles of downhill and Nordic skiing – with 83 marked runs and 11 lifts. From the top of the mountain you can see over into Glacier National Park (just 30 miles away) and south to Flathead Lake. The ski area gets tons of snow, which draws skiers in droves. Big Mountain has been well developed and has numerous real estate opportunities available.

At the base of the mountain is Whitefish Lake. Seven miles long, it features several sandy beaches and is just blocks away from downtown Whitefish. You can walk there on flip-flops, and swim, sail, kayak and fish from one end of the lake to the other. Naturally, there is some wonderful lakefront property available. Near the shores of the lake are two acclaimed 18-hole golf courses, each among the finest in the state.

If you like riding, on bike or horse, you’ll enjoy saddling up here. There are trails that wind all over Big Mountain as well as through the woods and meadows outside town. A bike and pedestrian trail system is being developed along the Whitefish River that will connect Whitefish Lake with the junction of Highway 40. It’s no wonder why this is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. The path to quality living, and great residential and resort property, starts here.