Anyone taken the train to Whitefish?

If so, how on time is it? My train arrives in Whitefish at 7:30am. I'm wondering if I should plan on skiing that day or wait till the following. The package I purchased required me to choose the five days of lift tickets beforehand, which I thought was quite strange. Most resorts give you a 5 out 6 day pass, right? So its either ski Sunday thru Thursday or Monday thru Friday. Either way I'm gonna have to buy 1 extra lift ticket if I plan on skiing the 6 days that I will be there, as the train does not leave till 9pm. Any info is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

yeah, several times.  really a fun way to go as a group.  anyway, it's plenty early for a full day, but considering conditions, ask yourself what a difference most of a week might make...

A little off topic... so sorry for the thread drift.

Has anyone done any bc around whitefish? We're gonna be there in Feb, and would like to get out in the bc for a couple days. Sidecountry or backcountry favorites around? We won't have a snowmobile, if that makes a difference...

Yes. it totally worth it. stay at the hostel and use the free bus to big mountain/whitefish resort. hitching to glacier national park is nice as is getting of the train at izack walton inn. do it it a great experiance!

yeah, several times. really a fun way to go as a group. anyway, it's plenty early for a full day, but considering conditions, ask yourself what a difference most of a week might make...

Hey DavidG, not sure I understand what you mean. Are suggesting since I'm staying a whole week, what does it matter if I get a late start on the day I arrive? By the way its been dumping up there non stop for over a week.

Oh I am definitely doing it. Whitefish is offering a deal, slopeside accomodations for $80 a night includes lift ticket and hot breakfast! Basically I'm paying $20 bucks for the hotel room.

Never done it, but I believe there is some good side country at Big Mountain near the radio tower. The last time I was there, the resort was cool with uphill traffic. Also, there is some touring along the way to West Glacier.

The folks at Rocky Mountain Outfitters in Kalispell are dialed to the scene - there is apparently a local BC guide book for the area (lost my copy) but they might have it. Nice snowcat outfit that started up last year if you feel like splurging- had a great time with them.