Whether you’re fishing the depths of Flathead Lake or strolling its shoreline, this majestic body of water has so much to see. As the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, it offers a glimpse into the region’s enchanting beauty that is hard to forget. Enjoy a charming cruise on this stunning pond to uncover its alluring appeal from a new perspective.
A scenic Flathead Lake cruise is a great way to relax, especially for those who prefer an easygoing outing on the water. Pick up a pontoon boat rental in Polson, Bigfork, or Kalispell and set sail to catch glimpses of the spectacular homes and rustic cabins that dot the lakeshore. This dazzling lake also offers a chance to view the Mission Mountains that tower over this beautiful landscape.
Another popular choice is to take a scenic tour on Flathead Lake’s Shadow, which accommodates up to 140 guests for wedding receptions, family reunions, or business retreats. This luxury tour boat is available for charter from a number of locations, including Polson, Aanerud Landing Marina, and Flathead Harbor. The two-hour tour cruises around Big Arm Bay and up to Swan Point, offering a unique opportunity to see the beauty of this glacial lake from a new angle.
Other ways to experience the lake include renting a powerboat for watersports and taking a guided fishing trip. The lake’s chilly waters are home to huge lake trout, and there are many guides in the area who can help you reel one in.
If you love to explore the outdoors, hiking on rocky trails through ponderosa pine forests is another way to take in the scenery of the Flathead Lake area. The resort at Flathead Lake Lodge offers mountain bike rentals and a variety of hikes, but you can also set out on horseback rides to get a taste of Montana’s famously rugged terrain.
You can even set out on a two-hour cruise to see a sunset over Flathead Lake and twinkling lights in nearby Whitefish Lake. These captained cruises are available nightly from the marina at Whitefish Lake, and they offer a captain, narrated tour of the lake, and light beverages.
For a more active adventure on the water, you can sign up for a kayaking and paddleboard lesson from local experts Sea Me Paddle. You’ll be led by experienced instructors who can teach you the basics of paddleboard and kayak navigation. Then, you’ll head out on the lake to test your skills on Flathead Lake’s pristine shorelines. There’s nothing quite like being out on the water in a serene setting under a magnificent Montana sky. flathead lake cruises