Flathead Lake - Pristine waters amongst Snow peaked mountains

Just west of the Continental Divide lies Flathead Lake.  It is the largest body of freshwater west of the Mississippi. This glacial lake attracts visitors from all over who love to recreate.  It is perfect for motor boating, sailing, paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, water skiing, and fishing.  It is also perfect for lakeside dining, watching the sun come up or set, birdwatching, or a cruise around the lake.

Flathead Lake is home to 6 State Parks:  Wayfarer, Yellow Bay, Big Arm, West Shore, Finley Point, and Wild Horse Island.  All except Wild Horse Island can be accessed by automobile.  There you can swim, picnic, camp, or launch boats. Wild horse island can only be accessed via water.  Many go via motorboat, but also via kayak.

The towns of Bigfork, Somers, Lakeside, and Polson are located on the lake.  The southern end of the lake is surrounded by the Flathead Indian Reservation.  Routes 93 and 35 surround the lake.  A great one day driving trip passes through the major towns and provides a spectacular view of the lake and the surrounding mountains.  The east side, along route 35 is home to Flathead’s cherry orchards.  Stop and buy some cherries at a local stand, or take half an hour and pick these delicious cherries with your family.

Many outdoor events are held around the lake.  Look for the Dragon Boat Races, the Friday night sailboat races out of Somers Bay, Spartan Races, Crown of the Continent Guitar Festival, Bigfork Arts Festival, and the Whitewater Festival Kayak Races in Bigfork.

The Flathead Lake is only 40 miles from Glacier National Park.  It is also just a short drive to Kalispell and Whitefish.  The closest airport is Glacier Park International Airport, but many also fly into Missoula International Airport.