Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake offers you plenty of room to play – in, on, and by the water. Located just south of Kalispell, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi is 28 miles long and up to 15 miles wide. That’s 188 square miles of pure enjoyment! The lake’s sparkling waters and miles of tree-lined shore offer unlimited recreational opportunities and wildlife habitat. Overlooking it all are the magnificent Swan and Mission mountain ranges.

Come and Play on the Lake

Two highways traverse Flathead Lake’s east and west shorelines. In spring, the fluffy white blooms of the cherry orchards promise luscious fruit in July and August. The six units of Flathead Lake State Park provide sites for picnics, boating, sailing, fishing, hiking, camping and swimming. Two golf courses offer spectacular views and challenging play.

All types of watercraft, propelled by motor, sail or paddle, ply the waters on Flathead Lake. There’s plenty of room on the lake for everyone to enjoy their own choice of boat. If you like your boating quiet, no problem – you can paddle your kayak in peace for hours at a time.

Flathead Lake is home to trophy-size trout, yellow perch and whitefish. The southern half of the lake is part of the Flathead Indian Reservation, home of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes. On these waters, fishermen will need a tribal fishing permit, available at most area sporting goods stores.

Wildlife Habitat

Wild Horse Island, Flathead Lake’s largest island, is a wildlife refuge for more than 75 species of birds along with deer, bighorn sheep, coyotes and bears. Enjoy them from the hiking trails that meander around the island, through forests and open meadows prairie, past early 20th century homesteads. Geese, osprey, herons, and eagles frequent the aptly named Bird Islands, a popular spot for peaceful paddling.

Activities-Water

Whether you prefer fishing, scenic cruises, sailing or kayaking, these businesses can help you explore Flathead Lake the way you want to.