EXPERIENCE FLATHEAD LAKE

When you think of Montana, the first thing that probably comes to mind is mountains. That being the case, one of our beloved destinations—Flathead Lake—tends to fly under the radar, which is surprising since it’s over 27 miles long, nearly 15 miles wide and 300 feet deep. As the largest natural freshwater lake in the West, Flathead Lake provides unparalleled fishing and recreational opportunities like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, fishing and sailing. Plus, with 185 miles of shoreline, there are plenty of places to stop, stay, play and tee up for golf—the Flathead Valley boasts several courses. There are multiple islands on the lake, the largest of which is Wild Horse Island. Created more than 17,000 years ago by heavy glacial activity, this 2,160-acre island serves as a day-use state park. Only accessible by boat, Wild Horse Island is pretty explore-worthy and is a prime wildlife-watching destination, home to wild horses, bighorn sheep, coyotes, deer and a variety of birds. The easiest way to access Flathead Lake is by way of the seven lakeside state parks.

EAT + DRINK: Taste Flathead flavor by picking up the coveted local delicacy—Flathead cherries—at various fruit stands around the lake. For local eats and finely-crafted drinks, visit The Raven, Flathead Lake Brewing Company, Finley Point Grill, Bonfire or Woods Bay Wine. See more at glaciermt.com/eat .

STAY: A variety of lodging options can be found around the lake. Be sure to check out these properties: Red Lion Inn & Suites in Polson, Mountain Lake Lodge, Bridge Street Cottages and Flathead Lake Resort in Bigfork, Camp Kapapa in Elmo, Big Arm Resort in Big Arm and Edgewater Resort in Lakeside. glaciermt.com/stay .

PLAY: Take a boat tour with Far West or charter a sailboat with Go Sail Flathead Lake. Local outfitters, like Bagley Guide Service, offer guided fishing excursions on the lake, and Base Camp Bigfork is the place to go for kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals. For something truly unique, try an aerial experience with Backcountry Flying Experience. Get inspired at glaciermt.com/things-to-do-in-the-water

EXPLORE: The vibrant communities around the lake—including Big Arm, Bigfork, Dayton, Elmo, Lakeside, Polson, Rollins and Somers—offer the kind of small-town hospitality for which Montana is known, with amenities ranging from lakeside lodging to live theater and friendly taprooms. Visit glaciermt.com/communities

Learn more about recreation opportunities on Flathead Lake at glaciermt.com/flathead-lake and protecting our waters at cleandraindry.mt.gov