Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake is a moraine-dammed body of water in western Montana, set between forested ridges and open slopes. The water surface stretches for many kilometers, with shallow bays along some shores and deeper areas farther out.

Glaciers from the last ice age left a terminal moraine that sealed the basin and allowed the present water body to form. In the 19th century, European settlers reached the area and founded communities along the shores.

The name comes from the traditional inhabitants of the region, the Flathead peoples, whose history is tied to these waters. Today, boat docks, lakeside vacation homes, and small marinas shape the look of the shoreline.

Visitors reach the shore along several small roads leading to public boat ramps and campgrounds. Those arriving in summer will find swimming spots and launch points for boat trips.

Wild Horse Island sits in the middle of the water and hosts bighorn sheep that visitors can watch from boats. The island once served as a protected grazing area for horses kept safe from raids.

Location: Lake County

Location: Flathead County

Elevation above the sea: 882 m

GPS coordinates: 47.90167,-114.10417

Latest update: December 14, 2025 22:42