Fodor's Expert Review Grouse Mountain Lodge

Always a Whitefish favorite, Grouse Mountain is consistently booked solid in July and August. Public tennis courts and cross-country trails border the lodge, and there's a 36-hole golf course next door. Off-season you can book some bargain activity packages. Thoroughly modern, it has a sunny lounge area with a lacquered slate floor, elk-horn chandeliers, soft-cushioned furniture, and a tall fireplace. The Grill at Grouse ($$–$$$$) focuses on steaks, ribs, and Pacific Northwest salmon baked on a cedar plank. Food is also served outside from mid-April to mid-October on the deck and patio ($–$$$), where there's shade and a large stone fire pit. The Wine Room can be reserved for a five-course dinner expertly paired with wines from their impressive collection. Recently renovated guest rooms are less refined but have standard modern furnishings and features, including 24-inch flat-screen TVs and high-speed Wi-Fi. Also updated, with a refrigerator, wet bar, and microwave, the loft units are a good choice for families. During the holidays the lodge is decorated with twinkly flair.