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Kalispell

Kalispell travel guide

City in Montana, United States

Best time to visitJune to September
Nearest airportFCA · 8 mi from centre
Time zoneUTC−6
Population24,558

About Kalispell

Kalispell is a city in and the county seat of Flathead County, Montana, United States. The 2020 census put Kalispell's population at 24,558. The latest estimates put the population at 31,296. Among cities in Montana, it is the 8th largest by area, 7th most populous, and 8th fastest growing from 2010 to 2020. In Montana's northwest region, it is the largest city and the commercial center of the Kalispell Micropolitan Statistical Area. The name Kalispell is a Salish word meaning "flat land above the lake".

Places to visit in Kalispell

  1. Glacier National Park

    Glacier National Park

    Nature · 45 mi from centre

    A short drive northeast, this park offers glacier-carved peaks, turquoise lakes and the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. Kalispell is a convenient base for day trips to Lake McDonald and the west entrance.

  2. Flathead Lake

    Flathead Lake

    Nature · 23 mi from centre

    A large, clear freshwater lake just south of Kalispell, with lakeside towns, cherry orchards and state parks. Ideal for boating, kayaking, swimming and scenic drives along its shores.

  3. Conrad Mansion

    Conrad Mansion

    Historic

    The preserved Shingle-style home of Kalispell's founder, furnished with original belongings and surrounded by gardens. Guided tours offer a look at wealthy frontier life in early Montana.

  4. Whitefish Mountain Resort

    Whitefish Mountain Resort

    Entertainment · 21 mi from centre

    Above the nearby town of Whitefish, this resort offers skiing in winter and scenic lift rides, mountain biking and hiking in summer, with views toward Glacier National Park.

  5. Lone Pine State Park

    Lone Pine State Park

    Viewpoint · 2 mi from centre

    A hilltop park on the edge of Kalispell with forested trails and overlooks across the Flathead Valley and toward the surrounding mountains. A good spot for a quick hike close to town.

  6. Hockaday Museum of Art

    Museum

    A downtown museum in a historic Carnegie library building, focusing on art of Montana and Glacier National Park. A pleasant cultural stop between outdoor adventures.

Where to stay in Kalispell

Popular hotels in Kalispell, out of 12 properties you can book.

See all hotels in Kalispell

Best time to visit Kalispell

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Kalispell is June to September, when average daytime highs are around 71–81°F and rain falls on about 9 days a month.

MonthTemperature (°F)Rain days
Jan 12° – 29° 6
Feb 16° – 33° 14
Mar 26° – 46° 17
Apr 31° – 54° 10
May 40° – 64° 12
Jun 47° – 71° 11
Jul 54° – 81° 7
Aug 53° – 77° 9
Sep 50° – 73° 7
Oct 35° – 56° 8
Nov 28° – 42° 14
Dec 25° – 38° 15

Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.

Kalispell weather forecast

  • Wed 21 Oct 68° 41° 1%
  • Thu 22 Oct 66° 41° 54%
  • Fri 23 Oct 59° 40° 73%
  • Sat 24 Oct 54° 34° 34%
  • Sun 25 Oct 46° 30° 24%
  • Mon 26 Oct 47° 26° 14%

Know before you go

Currency
United States dollar (USD)
Language
English
Calling code
+1
Driving
On the right
Time zone
America/DenverUTC−6
Capital
Washington, D.C.

Upcoming public holidays in United States

  • Veterans Day
  • Thanksgiving Day
  • Christmas Day
  • New Year's Day
  • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
  • Presidents DayWashington's Birthday

Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.

Getting to Kalispell

These are the airports closest to central Kalispell. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.

  • FCA Glacier Park International Airport8 mi (13 km) from the city centre
Search flights to Kalispell

Getting around Kalispell

Walk, drive, bike, or take the Mountain Climber on-demand transit service to get around. The city isn't too large, so you shouldn't get lost.

Kalispell travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Kalispell?

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Kalispell is June to September, when average daytime highs are around 71–81°F and rain falls on about 9 days a month.

What is the weather like in Kalispell?

July is usually the warmest month in Kalispell, with average highs of 81°F (27°C). January is the coolest, with average lows of 12°F (-11°C). The wettest month is typically July, with about 93 mm of rain.

Which airport is closest to Kalispell?

Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) is the closest airport, about 8 miles (13 km) from the centre of Kalispell.

What time zone is Kalispell in?

Kalispell uses the America/Denver time zone (currently UTC−6). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.

How do I get around Kalispell?

Walk, drive, bike, or take the Mountain Climber on-demand transit service to get around. The city isn't too large, so you shouldn't get lost.

What are the best places to visit in Kalispell?

Top sights in Kalispell include Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake, Conrad Mansion and Whitefish Mountain Resort. A short drive northeast, this park offers glacier-carved peaks, turquoise lakes and the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. Kalispell is a convenient base for day trips to Lake McDonald and the west entrance.

Where should I stay in Kalispell?

Popular areas for hotels in Kalispell include Downtown and Flathead Valley. Well-reviewed options include Red Lion Hotel Kalispell and Best Western Plus Flathead Lake Inn and Suites.

How many hotels can I book in Kalispell?

Destina Holidays currently lists 12 properties in and around Kalispell, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.