The largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, Flathead Lake in northwest Montana is a gorgeous sight. Take a boat cruise and enjoy the lake’s ethereal beauty. Whether you choose a family friendly pontoon rental or a luxury charter, this beautiful lake will capture your heart and imagination. You will have the opportunity to see stunning shoreline architecture, the historical painted rocks and Wild Horse Island as well as the majestic Mission Mountains and Swan Mountain Range on a scenic tour of Flathead Lake.
Rent a boat at one of the many rentals in Bigfork or Whitefish and explore the 2,000 acre lakeshore playground. Sail, fish, or try water skiing and wakeboarding. You can even climb the nearby Mount Aeneas or go on a horseback ride. There’s so much to do and you won’t want to leave!
In the early morning, visit Wayfarers Unit of Flathead Lake State Park for a view of the cliffs and sunset over the lake. It’s best to arrive before the sun rises so you can have this secluded spot all to yourself. Do a few stretches in the pristine air and enjoy breakfast at one of the local eateries.
When you return to the Flathead Lake Lodge for dinner, treat yourself to a culinary experience. Chef Rob Clagett is always working to wow the guests with new dishes and experiences. He loves to create unique culinary delights from scratch using the freshest ingredients that the region has to offer.
For some do-it-yourself recreation, you can also rent sailboats or motor boats from various locations around the lake. Kayaks and stand up paddleboards are also popular for a more passive recreation. You can even hike on the trails or explore Glacier National Park. Just remember that the southern portion of Flathead Lake is tribal lands and requires a joint state/tribal recreation permit.
You can also hire a guide or sign up for a lesson with Sea Me Paddle and explore Wild Horse Island, a 2160 acre island within the Flathead Lake State Park that is crisscrossed with hiking trails and home to five wild horses. This is a great way to learn more about the culture and history of this iconic Montana destination.
If you’d like a relaxing way to end your day on the lake, you can reserve a seat aboard the luxury charter yacht The Shadow. This spectacular boat accommodates 140 people, and is a perfect venue for weddings, corporate retreats and family reunions. The Shadow is operated by Flathead Lake Tours and is available for charters, public cruises and private events. Call or book online for more information. flathead lake cruises