Flathead Lake Tours and Activities

Photo provided by Kalispell CVB/Gravity Shots
Photo provided by Chuck Haney
Photo provided by Kalispell CVB/Gravity Shots
Photo provided by Donnie Sexton
Photo provided by Damon Ristau


Visit the lovely lake created thousands of years ago after glaciers carved ridges, peaks and valleys in Montana’s Rocky Mountains.

The sprawling blue jewel of Flathead Lake with nearly 200 square miles (500 square kilometers) of surface area and more than 160 miles (260 kilometers) of shoreline is the largest natural freshwater lake in the contiguous U.S. west of the Mississippi River. Explore the strikingly beautiful views and recreational opportunities of these vast waters.

Approach the lake on either of two scenic highway routes. On the west see panoramic lake views from lookouts over the crystal clear lake below the towering peaks of the Mission and Swan ranges. The slow winding route along the eastern shoreline offers breathtaking sunset vistas over the lake. In late July stop at roadside stands to sample the fresh crop from the cherry orchards lining the road.

On the lake itself, public beaches and state parks offer access to pebble and sand beaches for watersports enjoyment. The clear waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and boating. From Dayton Harbor on the western shore, rent a boat and motor to Wild Horse Island State Park for fabulous hiking and wildlife viewing. Look for the herd of wild horses that still inhabit the island.

The consistent breeze and sheltered bays on Flathead Lake make it a sailor’s paradise. Alternatively, rent a powerboat and water skis. Find charters and watercraft rentals at marinas in the villages of Polson, Bigfork, Lakeside, Somers and Dayton. After your day on the water, visit the quaint shops, restaurants and breweries in these small towns.

Fish in the deep waters abundant with lake trout. Bring your gear to look for 50-pound (23-kilogram) lake trout. The sheltered bays offer ice-fishing opportunities when winter weather conditions are right for a thick freeze.

Observe patriotic parades and firework displays in villages around the lakes for Independence Day. Participate in or watch the Montana Dragon Boat Festival on Flathead Lake in September.

Fly into Kalispell’s Glacier Park International Airport and rent a car to enjoy the beauty and pleasures of Flathead Lake.

Popular places to visit


Top Flathead Lake Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Lakeshore Retreat on Wonderful Flathead Lake!

Lakeshore Retreat on Wonderful Flathead Lake!

Rollins
Lakeshore Retreat on Wonderful Flathead Lake!
Mellow Cove Retreat!! Private Dock and Outdoor Kitchen!!

Mellow Cove Retreat!! Private Dock and Outdoor Kitchen!!

Rollins
Mellow Cove Retreat!! Private Dock and Outdoor Kitchen!!
Spectacular lake-view retreat with deck, grill, free WiFi, W/D, & island views

Spectacular lake-view retreat with deck, grill, free WiFi, W/D, & island views

Dayton
Spectacular lake-view retreat with deck, grill, free WiFi, W/D, & island views
Rustic Retreat on Flathead Lake

Rustic Retreat on Flathead Lake

Dayton
Rustic Retreat on Flathead Lake
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake offers a range of activities for visitors, including fishing, boating, and sightseeing. You can enjoy scenic campsites, take a relaxing boat ride, and catch live music performances. For golf enthusiasts, there are beautiful courses to explore, and adventurous types can embark on exciting trail rides, making it a perfect destination for outdoor lovers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, Kehoe's Agate Shop (20.9km away) offers unique gemstones and souvenirs, while Eva Gates Homemade Preserves (19.3km away) is perfect for delicious local jams. Both spots provide charming gifts to remember your trip!

Recreation

At Yellow Bay Recreation Park, enjoy serene walks and nature exploration amidst stunning landscapes, perfect for relaxation. Eagle Bend Golf Club offers a challenging course with breathtaking views, ideal for sports enthusiasts. Swan Lake Boat Launch provides a peaceful spot for kayaking and unwinding by the water.

Adventure

At Eagle Cove Trailhead, hike through breathtaking scenery only 6.4km from Flathead Lake, immersing yourself in nature's beauty. For snow lovers, Blacktail Mountain Ski Area, located 20.9km away, offers thrilling skiing experiences. Don’t miss Woodland Water Park, 35.4km from the lake, perfect for family fun and adventure.

Nightlife

At Flathead Lake, experience vibrant nightlife with the Bigfork Summer Playhouse, just 19.3km away, offering captivating theatre performances. For a cinematic night out, head to Cinemark Signature Stadium Kalispell 14, located 40.2km away, where you can enjoy the latest films in a charming setting.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Flathead Lake

When visiting Flathead Lake in Polson, Montana, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the stunning Flathead Lake State Park, perfect for family adventures and beach relaxation. The lake boasts pristine waters ideal for various activities, and nearby mountain lakes offer additional exploration opportunities. Don't miss the chance to experience the local islands and amusement parks, making for a well-rounded holiday filled with outdoor fun and scenic beauty.

  • Wild Horse Island State Park: Experience the rugged beauty of this state park, accessible via a scenic boat ride. Ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting, it offers stunning views and a chance to see the wild horses that roam freely, making it a true outdoor adventure.
  • Douglas Islands: A hidden gem for beach lovers, Douglas Islands features pristine sandy shores perfect for sunbathing and picnicking. Enjoy swimming and kayaking in the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery.
  • Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster: Get your adrenaline pumping on this thrilling alpine coaster, perfect for families. Glide through the stunning landscape while enjoying breathtaking views, making for an unforgettable adventure amid the great outdoors.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Flathead Lake

When planning your trip to Flathead Lake, consider visiting from December to February for the best hotel deals, as prices are significantly lower compared to the peak season from June to August. Tuesdays offer the cheapest accommodation rates, while Sundays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly options and consider package deals to save on flights and activities. Plus, explore free outdoor activities like hiking and fishing to enjoy the stunning natural beauty without spending a fortune.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing around Flathead Lake is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay around Flathead Lake are December to February, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are moderately higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Flathead Lake is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Flathead Lake is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. To discover the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Flathead Lake accommodation with flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.