Regional

Regional Profile

Located in Northwest Montana, the Flathead Valley is defined by Glacier National Park and Whitefish Ski and Summer Resort on the northern end and Flathead Lake and Blacktail Mountain Ski Area at the southern end. Flathead County is comprised of more than 5000 square miles of the country’s most spectacular scenery and recreational playgrounds.

Comprised of three incorporated cities and numerous small towns each with its own distinct character, the Flathead provides something for everyone. Kalispell with its vibrant Chamber of Commerce at the center of the valley acts as the business,medical care and higher education hub.  Flathead Valley Community College offers a wide range of classes for students of all ages.

While Columbia Falls is both the Gateway to Glacier National Park and home several of the largest employers in the area. Whitefish on the edge of Whitefish Lake and at the base of Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort offers professional theater, excellent restaurants and unique shopping in its quaint downtown area.

Bigfork on the east side of Flathead Lake is home to a number of the area’s nationally-known artists while Somers and Lakeside grow on the opposite side of the lake; blossoming from sleepy little towns into attractive and bustling locations for residents and visitors alike.

The Flathead Valley is a friendly, community-centered region. Most people who live here take advantage of the unparalleled recreational environment. More than 80% of Flathead County’s three million plus acres are protected by national parks, federal and state forests and private timber reserves. While it is possible to find extremely remote places in the county, the entire area is served by Glacier International Airport with direct flights to seven major hubs throughout the U.S. providing residents access to major markets within hours.