Flathead Lake, Montana

With almost 185 miles of coastline, Flathead Lake is the biggest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. It is situated between the communities of Polson and Kalispell in Montana's northwest region, close to Glacier National Park. Flathead Lake is best visited in the late spring to early fall due to its location, as the winters are rather cold.

Around the lake, Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks maintain thirteen public access sites. Sailing, power boating, waterskiing, swimming, fishing, picnics, and camping are all popular activities on and near the lake. Roadside booths along the east shore sell a variety of locally grown cherries, apples, plums, and other fruits throughout the summer. There are various motels and rental cabins located around the shoreline, as well as public campgrounds. Kalispell, Bigfork, and Polson, the three largest population areas around the lake, all provide a full range of foods, supplies, and information.