Kalispell, as we now know it, came in to being on New Year’s Day in 1892. That was the day that the first steam locomotive of James J. Hill’s Great Northern Railway chugged its way to the center of Main Street. A huge celebration was held, at which a commemorative silver spike was driven home into the final wooden tie by the area’s two oldest residents at the time. Over the years, the railroad has brought settlers, businessmen, tourists, and pioneers looking for a new start. Sawmills, flour mills, merchants, and farmers soon established themselves in and around Kalispell. Kalispell established itself as the trading center for Northwestern Montana, and eventually the seat of Flathead County. Situated 2,959 feet above sea level on the west slope of the Rocky Mountains, Kalispell and the surrounding 24 square mile Flathead Valley, enjoy a relatively mild and pleasant climate year round. Four distinct seasons, each provide a new way of enjoying the area. There are very few places in the world where you can ski, swim, golf, and sail-occasionally on the same day!