Dreamscapes Travel & Lifestyle

the city of Kalispell every February, so why not sign up a team and enjoy this great event too? Back to the brewery, the $10 sampler will give your taste buds a challenge to deter- mine your favourite local brew. Luckily you can also fi nd their beer at the local stores so you can continue to enjoy it while you're in Montana. PlAN FOR UNIqUE ACTIVITIES After a good night of après-ski you may decide to sleep in a bit and opt for a unique experience. Herron Park has a vast trail system for cross-country skiers and hikers. There are hundreds of miles of other cross-country trails throughout the Flathead Valley. Or maybe give ice fi shing a try on one of the 130 lakes and ponds in the area. Snowshoe discovery hikes are offered in the town of Kalispell and it only costs $5 to rent snowshoes. Woodland Park, also in Kalispell, has an ice-skating rink so you can play a pickup game of ice hockey if you still have any energy left. If you plan your visit before or after the ski season, you also have an opportunity to meet some true cowboys and try horseback riding on one of many trails. A great place to reenergize is the city of Kalispell, smack in the middle of the wilderness. Featuring numerous hotels it's a great place to stay and especially affordable during the winter season. And there are plenty of choices when it comes to dining, shopping, museums, paths and parks to keep you busy. Don't miss out on the vast selection of beers and wines at Hops Restaurant to complement their delicious lasagna. As far as satisfying your appetite, don't expect big-city prices or small portions. There's a real local farm-to-table movement happening in this valley featuring hearty comfort food with contemporary techniques using local produce. your appetite and wallet will be happy. Flathead Valley also has its foot in the agritourism busi- ness. Approximately 50 farms in the area raise cattle, yaks, lamb and chickens and make their own wine, cheeses and fresh honey. The fruit and vegetable options are nearly end- less. Pick up the Farm Hands map at the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce, which outlines the farms, times to visit and what each produces. Finally, a trip to this area without a tour of its top attrac- tion Glacier National Park is a big mistake. Its vast wilderness vistas will amaze you. An exciting way to tour the area in winter is by snowmobile on groomed trails with a guide. Once you exit the park a tasting stop at Glacier Distilling is a defi nite treat. Nicolas, the owner, is very passionate and eager to share his experience and love of whiskey. While all the activities in the area will keep you busy it's the time you spend with the locals you will remember most. They are truly happy to share their valley. travel planner For more information, visit: Flathead Convention and Visitor Bureau: fcvb.org Blacktail Mountain Ski Area: blacktailmountain.com Glacier National Park: visitmt.com/national_parks/glacier Glacier Distilling: glacierdistilling.com Kalispell Chamber/Convention & Visitor Bureau: discoverkalispell.com Whitefi sh Mountain Resort: skiwhitefi sh.com top to bottom: A warm fi replace at Averill's Flathead Lake Lodge is always a welcoming sight after a day on the ski slopes. Chris Hollenderski Join in the fun at the annual Pond Hockey Classic staged just outside the city of Kalispell every February. Damon Ristau/Firewater Productions When it comes to dining, don't expect big-city prices or small portions. Chris Hollenderski

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