Western Montana’s Glacier Country is a prime destination for board retreats, leadership meetings and team gatherings, especially in Whitefish, Kalispell and Columbia Falls, located in the Flathead Valley of Western Montana. With easy access to Glacier National Park, guest ranches, boutique hotels and unique venues, and team-building activities and adventures, it’s no surprise planners are bringing groups here for inspiration and connection.

WE HAVE AN UPDATE: For meetings in July 2026, please note that Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) will undergo a runway rehabilitation project. While this necessary upgrade will temporarily affect weekday air service, Western Montana is still open, welcoming, and ready for your events. Here’s what you need to know to keep your plans on track.

Glacier Park International Airport Project Overview

  • Dates: July 6 – 31, 2026
  • Runway closures: Mondays at 6 p.m. through Fridays at 10 a.m.
  • Service available: Fridays – Mondays, with approximately 60% of flights still operating.

What This Means for Your Meeting or Retreat

  • Weekend arrivals and departures: Groups can still fly directly into Glacier Park International Airport on weekends.
  • Weekday meetings: If your event begins midweek, alternate airport options are available in Missoula and Great Falls, but will take some additional planning.
  • Advance planning is key: Booking flights early will be important, especially for July travel.

Alternative Air Access for Meeting Attendees

  • Missoula Montana Airport (MSO): Located two hours south of Whitefish/Kalispell, MSO offers direct flights from major U.S. hubs and is an excellent option for midweek arrivals. The drive is scenic and straightforward. Rental cars are available. If a group needs help with motorcoach transportation, we are here as a referral source.
  • Great Falls International Airport (GTF): Four hours southeast, GTF is another option that pairs well with itineraries that include Glacier National Park’s east side.
  • Amtrak’s Empire Builder: Rail access adds another layer of flexibility, with stops in Libby, Whitefish, West Glacier, Essex, East Glacier Park Village and Cut Bank. Whitefish, in particular, is a convenient hub with car rentals available.

Why July 2026 is Still a Great Time to Meet in Western Montana

  • Excellent venues: Including boutique hotels and lodges in Whitefish and Columbia Falls, to full-service properties in Kalispell.
  • Outdoor inspiration: Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake, and Whitefish Mountain Resort offer incredible teambuilding and off-site options.
  • Seasonal vibrancy: July is a beautiful time in Montana—long summer days, warm evenings and endless opportunities for connection in the great outdoors.

Key Takeaway for Planners

While Glacier Park International will have limited weekday service in July 2026, Western Montana remains an excellent choice for meetings and retreats. With Missoula and Great Falls airports nearby, plus Amtrak service, your attendees can still arrive with ease. Advance planning will ensure a smooth experience, allowing you to focus on what matters most — creating a productive and inspiring event for your team.

Our team is here to support you with logistics, sample itineraries and transportation guidance to make your July 2026 meeting a success. Here is a link to more information at Glacier Park International Airport.

Meet in Montana,

DP

October 6, 2025

Related: Bigfork, Blackfeet Nation, Browning, Columbia Falls, Direct Flights, Flathead Lake, Glacier National Park, Incentive, Kalispell, Lakeside, Libby, Meeting Planner, Meetings & Conventions, Transportation, West Glacier, Whitefish

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