Why go
Only about two hours drive north of Missoula the landscape changes noticeably. The mountains move closer, the water becomes omnipresent and suddenly opens up to one of the most beautiful lakes in North America.
With a length of around 45 kilometres and an area of almost 500 km2, Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in the west of the contiguous United States. Its exceptionally clear water, wooded shores, small bays and charming villages make it an ideal destination for anyone who appreciate nature, relaxation and leisure days.
Unlike many well-known holiday regions, Flathead Lake is pleasantly relaxed. Instead of large hotel facilities, small harbours, orchards, artists' villages and numerous viewpoints await you. This blend makes the region's special charm.
Especially after the first days in a camper or Fifth Wheel, Flathead Lake is the perfect place to come to rest and enjoy traveling.
At a glance
Category | Information
Length | approx. 45 km
Area | approx. 495 km2
Altitude | 881 m
Ideal stay | 2–4 days
Fifth-wheel access | Check your vehicle, specific campsite and approach road.
Bathing | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Water sports | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Recovery | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Bigfork
Bigfork is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Montana and inspires with a relaxed atmosphere.
The small village on the northeastern shore offers:
Art galleries
Boutiques
Cafés
Food & drink
a small marina
beautiful walks along the water
Especially in the evening Bigfork develops a very special charm.
Insider tip
Spend the evening on a restaurant terrace by the water and watch the sunset over Flathead Lake.
Lakeside
Lakeside is located on the west bank of the lake.
From here you can enjoy some of the most beautiful views over the entire Flathead Lake.
Especially popular for:
Sunsets
Boat trips
Stand-up paddling
cozy cafés right by the water
Polson
Polson forms the southern end of Flathead Lake.
The place is known for:
Flathead Lake State Park
beautiful waterfront
Small breweries
Fruit stands along the streets
During the cherry season, there is a particularly lively atmosphere.
Wild Horse Island
In the middle of Flathead Lake lies the largest island of the lake.
It is only accessible by private boat or water taxi and is one of the most peaceful natural areas in Montana.
With some luck you can observe:
Wild horses
Bighorn sheep
Mule deer
Whitehead sea eagle
Photo Tip
The island offers beautiful panoramic views over the entire Flathead Lake.
Flathead Lake Scenic Drive
A complete circumnavigation of the lake is one of the most beautiful panoramic roads in Montana.
The route leads past:
Orchards
Vineyards
small villages
Beaches
Viewpoints
Boat ports
For the whole tour, you should plan an entire day.
Bathing in Flathead Lake
The exceptionally clear water invites you to swim in numerous places.
In midsummer the lake reaches pleasant temperatures.
Kayaking and stand-up paddling
The quiet bays are ideal for water sports.
Several providers rent:
Kayaks
SUP Boards
Canoes
Boat tours
The Flathead Lake can also be discovered from the water.
Especially popular are cruises at sunset.
Hiking in the Jewel Basin
Only about 30 minutes east of Bigfork begins one of the most beautiful hiking areas in Montana.
Here you are:
over 40 mountain lakes
Alpine meadows
spectacular views
comparatively few visitors
Popular goals are:
Birch Lake
Crater Lake
Mount Aeneas
Visit cherry plantations
The region is known far beyond Montana for its sweet cherries.
Between July and August, numerous farms sell their crops directly to small stalls.
Insider tip
Many locals claim that the best cherries in North America are growing here. A short stop is definitely worth it.
Shopping
For daily needs you will find supermarkets in:
Bigfork
Polson
Lakeside
Especially popular are:
Court shops
Regional craft shops
Cherries
Small delicacy shops
Ideal to bring local specialties for the further road trip.
The Raven
Located directly on the water.
Known for:
Steaks
Fish dishes
fantastic lake terrace
Echo Lake Café
An institution for breakfast and brunch.
Especially popular:
Pancakes
Omelettes
Cinnamon Rolls
Sheep's restaurant
High-rise kitchen with stunning views of the port of Bigfork.
Ideal for a special evening.
Wayfarers State Park
Located directly on the water.
Ideal for:
Bathing
Kayaking
short hiking tours
Big Arm State Park
Quiet campsite with fantastic views over the lake.
Spacious pitches.
Finley Point State Park
Small, well-kept campsite directly on the water.
Very popular with boaters.
Polson Motorcoach Resort
One of the most comfortable RV parks in Montana.
Perfect for big Fifth Wheels.
RV tip
The roads around Flathead Lake are excellently developed and can also be used with large campers. However, the pickup truck is recommended for visiting smaller villages.
Insider tip
Plan at least a whole day for the rounding of the lake. Many of the most beautiful viewpoints are located directly on the road and invite you to spontaneous stops again and again.
Photo Tip
The sunset on the west bank is one of the most beautiful in Montana. Especially between Lakeside and Big Arm there are spectacular reflections on the water.
Avoid frequent errors
Many travellers just pass the lake – it is worth a stay of at least two nights.
In July and August popular state parks can be booked out early.
Take your time for Bigfork – the village is one of Montana's most beautiful small towns.
During the cherry season, it is worth an early visit to the farm stands, as the most popular varieties are often sold out already in the morning.
Our recommendation
The Flathead Lake is not a place to visit, so you can check out as many sights as possible. Rather, it invites you to take the pace out and consciously enjoy the landscape. A cozy breakfast with lake view, a kayaking tour on the crystal clear water or an evening walk through Bigfork are often among the moments that remain in memory for a long time.