Whether you’re an adventure seeker or enjoy soaking in gorgeous views from the shoreline, Flathead Lake has plenty of activities that will help you create memories for years to come. Take a cruise, go fishing, kayaking or camping and see the alluring beauty of Montana’s largest natural freshwater lake on your next visit.
One of the best ways to experience a vacation in Glacier Country is by boat, and there are several tour companies that offer guided tours on Flathead Lake. Many of these companies have been in business for decades and know the lake well. They can provide the best advice on what to do and where to go on the lake, as well as help you select the boat that’s right for your group.
Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in the Western United States and is a popular destination for visitors looking to engage in water activities like fishing, kayaking, swimming and boating. It’s also an excellent place for a picnic or to simply soak up the scenery.
During the summer, Flathead Lake offers outstanding swimming opportunities, especially along its shoreline in Bigfork and at Salish Point, a safe open-water swimming spot. A boat trip to Flathead Lake can also include a stop at one of the roadside produce stands where locals shop for the day’s freshest fruits and veggies. These produce stand often sell a variety of fruit, including cherries, which are abundant in the area during the summer months.
In addition to a wide range of outdoor activities, Flathead Lake boasts a number of state recreation areas, such as Elmo, Big Arm, Finley Point and Walstad Memorial Park. These sites have full amenities and allow for swimming, hiking, camping, doing watersports and fishing.
For a unique Flathead Lake experience, consider taking a cruise with Shadow Cruises. The company operates out of KwaTagNut Resort and offers several cruises ranging from 90 minutes to 2 hours. Lunch and dinner cruises are available as well. The company recommends making reservations in advance for these excursions.
A trip on a boat tour of Flathead Lake is a great way to get to know the area’s culture and history. For example, you can view secluded lake homes along the shore or take a cruise to Wild Horse Island. This primitive island in Flathead Lake is home to bighorn sheep, full curl rams and trophy mule deer as well as a herd of wild horses.
In addition to providing scenic Flathead Lake boat tours, this company provides narrated whale watching trips as well. During the whale-watching season (October through May), you can see humpbacks, gray and killer whales and seals. They also offer a sunset, moonlight and twilight cruise. Leashed, well-behaved pets are welcome on these private tours. boat tours flathead lake