There is no shortage of ways to enjoy a summer in Montana’s Glacier Country on Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. You can mountain bike on miles of single-track trails, fish up a storm for giant lake trout in the depths, and so much more on this 2,000-acre lakeside playground. If you want to sit back and relax, though, then a flathead lake cruise might be just the ticket.
Located just a short drive from the Mission Mountains and Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake offers predictable winds for amazing sailing experiences. The lake’s shoreline is also home to many state parks and public lands, so you can explore the area on foot or by boat for do-it-yourself recreation. Or, you can book a guided tour with local guides to get to know the region’s history and culture through the sights of a scenic boat tour.
If you’re interested in a relaxing tour, consider taking a sunset cruise around the lake. These tours depart from downtown Bigfork and last approximately two hours. They’re the perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring Flathead Lake and all it has to offer.
A more adventurous option is to charter a boat and head out on the water for a day of fishing. The lake is home to large populations of lake trout and whitefish. The best way to catch these massive fish is on a fishing charter or guided boat trip. You’ll find plenty of guides in the area to book a fishing adventure on Flathead Lake.
In addition to fishing, you’ll find a wide variety of recreational boats on the lake. Many of them are designed for watersports like wakeboarding and surfing, making this a popular destination for visitors who want to have fun on the lake.
You can also rent a powerboat and hit the water for a day of cruising. Many of the area’s rental agencies offer pontoon rentals, which are great for families and groups. Pontoons have lots of deck space, and you can easily jump overboard for a refreshing swim when the weather calls for it.
If you want to spend a few hours on the water, consider taking a tour around the lake on one of the lodge’s historic 51-foot Q-class racing sloops, Questa and Nor’Easter. These beautiful sailboats were built in 1928 and 1929 to be prototypes of America’s Cup boats. The Flathead Lake Lodge sailing staff are happy to take you out for a sail on the majestic vessels.
Guests can also try their hand at sporting clays at the resort’s elk preserve, where they can experience shooting from several towers that test their abilities. Other activities available on the property include golf, a horseback ride through the pristine wilderness, and a number of other hiking and mountain biking trails. flathead lake cruises