Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the best way to experience Flathead Lake is by boat. The largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, it offers a scenic vista that is sure to take your breath away. You can tour the lake by taking a cruise with a local company, or you can rent a boat yourself and go on a self-guided cruise of your own. Either way, you will get a chance to experience the lake in its entirety and all of its beauty.
You can also enjoy a sunset or dinner cruise on one of the boats that operates on Flathead Lake. The Shadow Cruiser out of Polson offers both, and these trips are perfect for anyone who wants to spend a little time on the lake and relax after a long day on the water. The lapping waves, gentle rocking, and sunset over the horizon will help you relax and unwind from the stress of everyday life.
There are countless opportunities for fun on Flathead Lake. The 2,000-acre lakeside playground at Flathead Lake Lodge is filled with mountain biking, hiking, sailing, horseback riding, and much more. You can even summit nearby Mount Aeneas with the local mountain goats, or hop aboard one of the lodge’s two historic 51-foot Q-class racing sloops, Questa and Nor’Easter, for a sail around the lake.
For a relaxing cruise on Flathead Lake, you can hire one of the many tour companies that offer scenic lake tours. Most of these tours will take you to Wild Horse Island, where you can hike, picnic and watch for the wildlife that inhabits the island. They can also give you a background on the cultural and natural history of this important area.
Another popular activity on Flathead Lake is fishing. The lake is stocked with trout and other fish, and you can either rent your own fishing boat or join in on a guided trip with a local fishing guide. Depending on when you are there, you may also be able to catch the infamous sockeye salmon during their annual run up the lake.
The pristine Flathead Lake is a sailor’s dream. The lake is surrounded by the Mission Mountains and offers predictable winds for amazing sailing experiences. There are numerous bays on the north side of the lake where you can safely anchor, but be sure to read the local charts for the best spots. For example, Canal Bay is good for day anchorages and a protected spot from north winds. Skeeko Bay is also a good bay for sailors, but it’s not recommended to stay there overnight because of its sensitive flora and fauna. flathead lake cruises