Explore Whitefish grants enhance bike and Nordic opportunities

The Whitefish Convention and Visitors Bureau, known as Explore Whitefish, has announced the winners of its spring grant awards program. Explore Whitefish awards funds for programs, projects or events that demonstrate the ability to strengthen the community of Whitefish and to help drive visitation during the shoulder and winter seasons.

Flathead Area Mountain Bikers and Glacier Nordic Club were the recipients of this year’s grant cycle for projects, which enhance the livability of the community, benefit both locals and visitors, and promote activities that can be enjoyed throughout the year.

The bikers’ group will use the funds to expand the Armory Park Pump Track near Hugh Rogers Dog Park. The pump track provides easily accessible recreation opportunities close to town for visitors and local residents of all ages. The expanded pump track will be accessible spring, summer and fall.

Glacier Nordic Club will replace the aged lighting system at its Nordic skiing track at Whitefish Lake Golf Course (the Glacier Nordic Center). Night lighting has been an integral component of the Nordic center, and increases accessibility for skiers by allowing after-dark use. In 2020, an estimated 3,500 skiers enjoyed the Nordic center.

Explore Whitefish is a nonprofit destination marketing organization focused on sustainable growth of the economy of Whitefish by emphasizing its desirability as a travel and recreation destination in fall, winter, and spring to non-resident visitors.

Eligible grant applicants must be Whitefish Convention and Visitors Bureau member businesses or Montana nonprofit organizations. The next grant application cycle opens Aug. 1. For more information visit www.explorewhitefish.com.