The Court is Calling: Why Pickleball is the Ultimate Luxury Vacation Trend

Whitefish, Montana, has long been a sanctuary for those seeking the pinnacle of mountain luxury. From the jagged peaks of Glacier National Park to the crystal-clear waters of Whitefish Lake, the allure of the Big Sky Country is undeniable. However, a new trend is taking over the high-end travel scene: Pickleball luxury travel, and it has nothing to do with skis or hiking boots.

Pickleball has officially arrived in the world of luxury travel, transforming from a backyard pastime into a “must-have” amenity for the discerning traveler.

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A Sport on the Rise: By the Numbers

If it feels like everyone you know has picked up a paddle lately, you aren’t imagining it. Pickleball has been the fastest-growing sport in America for five consecutive years. The statistics are staggering:

• Explosive Growth: Participation has surged by over 223% since 2020.
• The 20-Million Mark: As of 2024, there are approximately 19.8 million active players in the U.S. alone.
• The New Demographic: While once associated with retirees, the fastest-growing age bracket is now the 18-34 demographic, proving the sport’s cross-generational appeal.
• Global Reach: The International Federation of Pickleball now has 78 member countries, doubling its reach in just half a decade.

For the luxury Pickleball traveler, this means a shift in itinerary. A morning “dink” session is now just as essential as a spa treatment or a tee time.

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Fun Pickleball Facts to Drop at the Net (or the Cocktail Party)

• The “Pickle” Boat: While some say the sport was named after a dog named Pickles, co-founder Joan Pritchard actually named it after a “Pickle Boat”: the crew boat that holds the leftover rowers from other boats. This is a nod to how the game combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong.
• The Kitchen Rules: Players call the non-volley zone “The Kitchen.” Why? No one is certain, but the rule is simple: you can’t stand in the kitchen and volley the ball out of the air.
• Hawaii’s Version: Hawaiians call the game Pukaball, as puka is the Hawaiian word for “hole”. This is a reference to the perforated ball.

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Where to Play Pickleball in Whitefish

Photo credit: Julie Engler/Whitefish Pilot

• The Wave Aquatic & Fitness Center: Boasting some of the most pristine courts in the valley, this facility is a local favorite for high-energy matches.
  • Proximity: Just a 10-minute drive from the estate.
• The City of Whitefish Courts (Riverside Park): Located near the river, these courts offer a vibrant community atmosphere.
  • Proximity: Approximately 12 minutes away.
• The Pickle Barn (Kalispell): For those rare rainy days, this dedicated indoor facility ensures the game never stops.
  • Proximity: A scenic 25-minute drive south.

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Coming Soon: The Ultimate Private Court Experience

At Great Northern Mountain Escape, we define luxury travel as exclusivity with ease. That is why we are thrilled to announce a brand-new addition to our estate: two private, regulation-size pickleball courts, coming soon!

We designed the property for the ultimate group getaway. The courts are perfectly suited for eight players to engage in simultaneous matches without ever leaving the property. Our estate is purposefully engineered for four couples and their families to retreat in absolute comfort. The home features:

• Elegant Accommodations: Four sprawling en suite bedrooms with King-size beds offer a private sanctuary for each couple.
• The Bunk Wing: Three custom bunk rooms featuring Queen-over-Queen beds provide a high-end experience for children and extended family. Total capacity is 24 guests.
• Outdoor Opulence: After a competitive match, soak in our large-capacity hot tub, gather around the designer gas fire pit, or enjoy lawn games on our expansive main lawn.
• Indoor Entertainment: The fun continues in our vast game room, featuring a full wet bar, a vintage pool table, table tennis, and a massive leather sectional perfect for movie nights.

Whether you are a seasoned pro or picking up a paddle for the first time, your Montana escape just got a lot more exciting. Experience what Pickleball luxury travel is all about at our Whitefish, Montana estate.