Your Guide to Whitefish + Kalispell
Discover the magic of Fall in Northern Montana
When the air turns crisp and the trees shimmer in shades of gold, Montana's Flathead Valley comes alive in the most magical way. Fall in Whitefish and Kalispell isn’t just a season—it’s an experience. Think harvest festivals, scenic hikes under golden larches, cozy gatherings, and the kind of local charm that makes you want to slow down and savor every moment.
Whether you’re looking to sip cider by a fire pit or cheer with a crowd at Oktoberfest, autumn here offers something for everyone. We've rounded up our favorite fall events and activities to help you make the most of this spectacular season.
Whitefish Food & Wine Festival
Dates: September 8–14, 2025
Location: Haskill Creek Farm
Indulge in a week of flavor at this upscale culinary festival featuring chef dinners, wine tastings, live music, and farm-to-table charm. A perfect fall pairing of good food and gorgeous surroundings.
Fritz Corn Maze – Kalispell
Season: September through October 31, 2025
Location: 173 Birch Grove Rd, Kalispell
Classic fall fun is alive and well at Fritz Corn Maze. Navigate the corn maze by day or brave the haunted trail on select nights (October 19, 26, and 31). There’s also a pumpkin patch, barnyard games, and plenty of space to roam.
Whitefish Songwriter Festival
Dates: September 19–21, 2025
Location: O’Shaughnessy Center & venues across town
Award-winning songwriters from Nashville and beyond gather for an unforgettable weekend of intimate acoustic sets and storytelling. It’s a rare chance to get up close with the artists and hear the heart behind the hits.
Great Northwest Oktoberfest – Whitefish
Dates: October 2–4 & 9–11, 2025
Times: Fridays 5–11 PM, Saturdays Noon–11 PM
Location: Depot Park, 510 Railway St, Whitefish
Whitefish goes full Bavarian for two weekends every October, and it’s as fun as it sounds. Expect stein-holding contests, lederhosen, German beer and brats, and a dance floor that doesn't quit. Thursdays are locals-only night (free for Flathead County residents), and Saturdays feature kid-friendly daytime fun.
Whitefish Trail Blazer (formerly the Legacy Run)
Dates: October 4–5, 2025
Location: Whitefish Trail & Beaver Lakes area
The Whitefish Trail Blazer, once known as the Legacy Run, brings runners of all levels together for a weekend of trail racing. Saturday features a challenging 50K ultra to the summit of Big Mountain, while Sunday offers a half marathon, 10K+, 5K+, and a family fun run.
Conrad Mansion Ghost Tours – Kalispell
Dates: October 17 & 18, 24 & 25, 2025
Take a candlelit tour of this historic mansion, said to be one of the most haunted spots in the valley. The storytelling is theatrical, the details are spine-tingling, and the setting couldn’t be more atmospheric.
Downtown Halloween Trick-or-Treat Trail – Whitefish
Dates: October 31, 2025
Families love this sweet and spooky tradition. Kids in costume stroll downtown Whitefish, visiting shops and collecting treats in a safe, festive setting.
Scenic Fall Activities Around the Valley
- Sweet Pickins Pumpkin Patch: September 21–October 30 – hayrides, apple cannons, and autumn memories waiting to be made.
- Lone Pine State Park: Incredible views and quiet trails perfect for leaf-peeping hikes.
- Flathead Lake: Paddleboarding, kayaking, or fly fishing surrounded by fall color and calm water.
- Harvest Tastings: Check out Big Mountain Ciderworks and local farms for apples, fresh donuts, and handcrafted cider.
- Fall Drives & Golden Tamarack Trees: Each fall, western larches around Kalispell turn from green to brilliant gold before shedding their needles. Head toward Lone Pine State Park or the Swan Range foothills for the best views of this stunning and rare autumn transformation.
Where to Stay: A Juniper Style Autumn Escape
After a day of celebrating, sipping, or hiking, there’s nothing better than coming back to a space that feels like yours. Juniper Holiday + Home offers beautiful vacation rentals tucked in and around Whitefish—think cozy fireplaces, serene porches, and peaceful wooded views that bring fall right to your doorstep.
Whether you're here for the festivals, the foliage, or the slower pace of the season, we’ll help you find a stay that fits just right. Our homes are thoughtfully appointed, guest-ready, and designed for real relaxation.
Ready to plan your fall getaway? Let’s make it golden.
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