Places To Stay On Flathead Lake
There are many places to stay on Flathead Lake. Here you will find a short list of some of them. Nearly all of the places to stay on Flathead Lake are included in the .
To begin with, Flathead Lake includes over 200 square miles of clear blue water. As well as 185 miles of shoreline. Most of the places to stay on Flathead Lake are contained within the main population centers in Bigfork, Lakeside, or Polson.
Each of the population centers boast a different experience based on what you are looking for. For instance, Polson will contain more of a commercial experience. There are over a dozen hotels and RV parks, a Wal-Mart and other box stores and Polson is the county seat of Lake County. Polson hosts many large scale events as well. Some of these events include, The Cherry Festival, Art in the Park, and many other options to choose from.
On the other hand, the Bigfork and Lakeside experience will be less commercial. No box stores, fewer franchises, more mom and pop type businesses. Both Bigfork and Lakeside alike have access to miles and miles of hiking trails. You might also include Big Arm in this list. Although not a population center, it is in close proximity to Big Arm State Park, Wildhorse Island, has a large campground and hosts Boat Rentals and Rides, .
Largest Jackpots In Montana
Western Montanas largest gaming facility has the highest payouts in the region, along with the most beautiful view of any casino. Approximately 200 of the most popular video gaming machines can be found at Kwaraonuk Resort & Casino.Kwaraonuk provides the friendliest gaming atmosphere in along the shores of Flathead Lake Montana. Popular game themes include: Cadillac Jacks: Ghost Bear, Spirit of the West, & Wicked Sexy Devil. Rockets: Million Dollar Gold Series, Dr. Dough, Lotto Gold. VGT: Red Ball Bingo, King of Coin, & Mr. Millionaire. Kwaraonuk Casino is the place for non-stop gaming entertainment!
The Best 10 Hotels In Bigfork
Swan River is located pretty centrally to downtown Bigfork, and is around 2 miles from the range of galleries and restaurants in the center. This hotel is slightly unique in that it offers themed guest accommodation tinged along the lines of Geisha, Country French, and Arabian Nights styles.
The rooms at the inn are spacious and feature a fireplace, an attached bathroom, and cable TV. There is also an on-site restaurant with both indoor and rooftop dining options, offering a variety of American cuisine.
J H Horn Memorial Park is just 1 mile away from the Swan Inn, and Eagle Bend Golf Club is within walking distance or around a 7-minute drive away.
The Islander is situated about 4 miles out from the center on Flathead Lake. The Inn comprises various island-theme suites, as well as bungalows. The Eagle Bend Golf Course is around 3 miles away from here, and Glacier International Airport is a half-hour drive away. It is quite close to Flathead National Forest, and local attractions like the Bigfork Summer Playhouse are just a short drive away.
The air-conditioned suites and bungalows feature island-inspired décor of various descriptions and include private bathrooms, cable TVs, free Wi-Fi, a refrigerator and coffee-making facilities, as well as a lounge area. Some units feature kitchens, and there is an outdoor picnic area provided for the use of guests.
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Best Hotels In Flathead Lake Area
There are five campgrounds in Flathead Lake state parks, each located at a different point around the lake: Big Arm and West Shore on the west side of the lake and Finley Point , Yellow Bay , and Wayfarers on the east shore. The phone numbers are operational only in summer. You can also call tel. 406/752-5501 for information on any of these state park campgrounds, most of which are open May through September, charging $15 per night.
Accommodations on and near the lake include guest ranches, water-oriented resorts with the gamut of recreational opportunities, and basic motels that offer clean but modest rooms. Of the last category, a good option is America’s Best Value Port Polson Inn, 502 U.S. 93 E., Polson, MT 59860 , with an excellent view of the lake. Rates run $89 to $129 double room and $300 to $350 for a family apartment with a kitchenette rates are lower in winter.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
About Flathead Lake Montana
Sometimes I’m such a nerd about outdoors stuff so I have to share what I thought was so cool about Flathead Lake! 🙂 It’s the largest natural lake in northwest Montana and is the largest natural freshwater lake by surface area that is west of the source of the Missouri River in the contiguous United States. It expands 30 miles long and nearly 15 miles wide. It reaches a depth of 300 feet, and boasts of 185 miles of shoreline! The lake can be VERY windy sometimes. A local told us waves can get up to 7-8 feet high like an ocean! When we were on the boat, the waves were chopping and winds were strong in certain areas.
There are multiple islands on the lake. Wild Horse Island is a 2,156 acre state park that is only accessible by boat. It’s home to wild horses, bighorn sheep, coyotes, deer and a variety of birds. We circled the island slowly by boat and unfortunately didn’t spot any wildlife. I think it’s a bit misleading because the island is so large and the animals could be hiding anywhere!
There are lots of activities to keep you busy on the lake including SUP, boating and water activities, fishing, snorkeling, kayaking, and sailing.
I especially enjoyed snorkeling along the edge of the glacier. The water is extremely clear and you can see it drop off into darkness.
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Plan A Day Trip To Kalispell
Kalispell is 10 miles north of the northern shoreline and is the largest city in the region. It makes for an excellent base camp during a vacation to Flathead Lake. The old west facade of Main Street invites shopping and dining throughout the day and into the evening, and its proximity to significant Montana landscapes encourages adventures beyond the city streets.
The Desoto Grill and Hops Downtown Grill are two of the most popular places to grab a bite to eat in Kalispell, and Sweet Peaks Ice Cream is by far the most popular spot for dessert. Among the things to do in Kalispell, the downtown area offers several museums to enjoy on a rare rainy day or an afternoon spent indoors.
Kalispell is also a good base camp for those interested in checking out Glacier National Park. It’s approximately a 45-mile drive to the West Entrance of the park, enabling easy day trips. Kalispell is also home to the expanding Glacier International Airport, where several flights land daily.
Welcome To Coyote Bluff Estate
Coyote Bluff Estate sits on 32 acres on a secluded mountaintop overlooking Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. The estate is about a two-hour drive from Missoula.
About that dramatic settingas our car crests the winding mostly paved road to Coyote Bluff, we can see the Mission Mountains looming over Flathead Lake and the valley. Thats what I call stunning.
The custom log home offers 9,000 square feet of luxury, including 27 varieties of wood on the floor, walls and woodworking. Exquisitely furnished, inside and out, Coyote Bluff Estate definitely meets our requirement for romantic lodging at Flathead Lake or anywhere else in Montana for that matter.
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Best Western Plus Kalispell/glacier Park West Hotel & Suites
Found in the Whitefish region of Montana, this beautiful accommodation is all that you might ask for on a holiday excursion. It is packed with all the luxuries needed for a memorable holiday. There is a fitness centre and an in-house restaurant and bar, so even if you are not willing to step out, you wont be missing out on fun. The establishment also features a spa and a wellness centre where you can get rejuvenating massages from trained experts.
The mesmerizing Flathead Lake is 25.8 mi away from the plush property.
Top Rental Accommodation Types In Flathead County
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Pro Tip: RentByOwner makes it easy to compare the best listings on RBO homes from online vacation rental OTAs, including Booking.com and more. Use the Advanced Filter feature at the top to easily flip between RBO homes, vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, private Airbnb-style rentals availability, eco-friendly properties, property type, cancellation policies, prices, and several different options. All these make it easier to find the perfect accommodation for your next vacation in Flathead County.
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The 10 Best Hotels In Bigfork Montana
Bigfork is a scenic little Montana town with a number of things that make it worth visiting. Like anywhere in Montana it is ideal for outdoor types and nature lovers, and as well as being a scenic lakeside resort, it is also a rather quaint and somewhat arty western stop-off.
Local accommodation options are not that vast compared to some of the larger towns, but they do cater to different tastes and budgets. You wont find much by way of huge 4 or 5-star affairs, but there are a few reasonable and welcoming hotels, motels, and guesthouses, as well as lodge-style accommodation near the lake.
The joy of Bigfork is that you have the option of choosing either accommodation overlooking the incredibly scenic Flathead Lake, or a hotel in the vibrant and artistic downtown region.
Downtown Bigfork is a friendly locale with all those classic Montana elements wrapped up in a small town guise, and youll find places like Electric Avenue have a plethora of interesting galleries, museums, and outdoor art exhibitions. Youll most probably appreciate the array of coffee shops and eating options in Bigfork too wherever you decide to stay.
Stay On Flathead Lake
Bigfork also hosts many summertime events. Some of those events include the Annual Bigfork Whitewater Festival in May, Saddle Up and Paint in July, and the Annual Festival of the Arts in August. Places to stay in Bigfork fill up quick for these popular events. You will want to make your reservations early.
In addition to Bigfork events on the east shore, Lakeside annual events include the Montana Spartan Race in May, the Lakeside Outdoor Concert Series all summer long, and the Flathead Lake 5K Blacktail Hill Climb in August. Again, places to stay on Flathead Lake fill up quickly during these summertime events. Make your reservations early.
In conclusion, here are some places to stay on Flathead Lake. For the complete list, consider purchasing the Flathead Lake Vacation Booklet.
Bridge Street Cottages309 Bridge St, Bigfork, MT 59911 837-2785
150 Flathead Lodge Rd, Bigfork, MT 59911 837-4391
50149 US-93, Polson, MT 59860 883-3120
7140 US-93, Lakeside, MT 59922 844-3644
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Just A Short Drive To Glacier National Park
Nestled above the north shore of spectacular Flathead Lake and ringed by the majestic Rocky Mountains, it’s no wonder the Outlook Inn is recognized as one of the “top ten places to stay” in Montana.
Built to be a bed and breakfast in 1997, our cozy Inn sits on seven private acres and offers all of the amenities, including high-speed wireless internet and scrumptious, home-made breakfasts, featuring locally grown and organic products!
Curl up in front of the river rock fireplace and watch the colors of the sky change and reflect on the lake. Enjoy bald eagles and osprey as they soar above the Outlook Inn Bed and Breakfast. Or step out the door and take a walk to Somers following the lake shoreline. Our accommodations are designed to help you unwind and let go of big city stressers…there is plenty of room to breath here!
When you’re not watching the sailboat races from the deck, or dipping your toes in the lake, Glacier National Park, Whitefish, Kalispell, Lakeside, and Bigfork are all within a short drive. Getting here is easy too with Glacier International Airport and Amtrak about 30 minutes away.
So come on out, the coffee’s always on and we’re open all year!
Five Montana themed guest rooms with spectacular views.
Super 8 By Wyndham Kalispell Glacier National Park
Address: 1341 1st Avenue East
Non-smoking roomsVending machine Linens, towels and laundry washed in accordance with local authority guidelinesFirst aid kit availablePhysical distancing in dining areasCashless payment availableBusiness centreTrouser press
An absolute favourite spot among couples who like to unwind in peace, this chic property invites you with all home-like amenities, such as free internet, private parking, and air conditioning. It features an indoor swimming pool where you can beat the summer heat for as much time as you want.
Being a pet-friendly property, it also lets you bring along your furry friend to your vacation. Rooms are spacious and designed with a hint of a contemporary decor. The spellbinding views of Flathead Lake from the rooms further add to the charm of the establishment, which lies merely 2.7 mi away from the lake.
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Welcome To The Best Western Plus Flathead Lake Inn & Suites Kalispell Montana
Whether you’re here to relax, work, or adventure in the stunning Flathead Valley, this hotel is perfect for you. We have a convenient central location between Bigfork, Kalispell, and Lakeside. Our location gives guests the opportunity to spend a day at Flathead Lake via a short drive, and also provides a reasonable drive to several hiking and tourist areas such as Glacier National Park and the Jewel Basin.
As for the hotel itself, the Flathead Lake Inn is newly renovated to provide a lovely Montana lodge ambiance. We take pride in a complimentary full hot breakfast with all regular breakfast items you could desire, along with our own special touch, such as Huckleberry Cheese Blintz, Fajita Scrambled Eggs, Biscuits and Gravy, etc., rotated daily.
We provide a comfortable indoor pool and hot tub, both open 24 hours. We love to give our guests the option of an early or late swim, and plenty of time to relax in our hot tub. For another place to let off some steam with the family, we have a large grassy area out back, excellent for playing catch, kicking a ball around, or even stargazing.
Are you in need of a fridge and microwave in the room? We’ve got you covered. Did you have a late night? Don’t miss our in-room mini coffee bar. We also have a guest laundry facility available at all hours for you to refresh completely.
Give us a call to speak to our front desk receptionists personally. We enjoy the opportunity to help you out however we can.
Get A Fresh Taste At The Flathead Cherry Festival
The sheer size of Flathead Lake has a significant effect on the local climate. The lake water helps regulate air temperature throughout the year, lending to prime growing conditions come summer. And while peaches, plums, and other stone fruits break through the soil near the shore, it’s Flathead cherries that receive the most acclaim.
Cherries begin to blossom in May, but the best time to go for fresh fruit is mid-to-late July through early August. Each peak season is a little different, but this timespan always delivers on a fresh bite.
Roadside stands tend to pop up at this time of year, offering cherries by the bagful. These local purveyors are often on the east side of the lake, alongside the largest collection of orchards. U-pick opportunities are also available on this side of the lake.
The fullest flavor of the cherry season is at the annual Flathead Cherry Festival in Polson. This two-day event typically occurs towards the end of July, and spans Main Street. It features several cherry stands and events like a cherry-pie eating contest. A growing collection of local artisans also set up stands with handmade goods.
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Experience Glacier National Park
The Crown of the Continent, Glacier National Park, is less than an hour’s drive north of Flathead Lake. The route to this internationally renowned park heads through the resort community of Whitefish. Both Whitefish and Glacier offer many days of exploring and adventure.
The West Entrance is the closest area of Glacier to Flathead Lake. Here, alongside the beginning of the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, the shimmering waters of Lake McDonald stand out with scenic appeal. This western side of the park is ripe for an overnight trip from Flathead Lake, with historic lodges and several hiking trails lining the roadside.
One of the highlights of Glacier National Park, the Going-to-the-Sun Road spans 50 miles across the park to Saint Mary Lake and the park’s east side. This route crosses the Continental Divide midway at Logan Pass, elevation 6,646 feet, with spectacular views the entire way.
Browse Lake Campsites: Flathead Montana
The temperatures are warming up and its time to spend some time by the lake! Montana is a wonderful place to do it. Browse the best lake campsites in Montana and start planning your MT family vacations and long weekend breaks from Great Falls. These private lake cabins are some of the very best places to go camping in the U.S. and with so many to choose from, first-time and veteran glampers will be spoiled for choice. When you stay at these luxury Montana rentals, guests will have the pleasure of enjoying both lake camping and national park camping with Flathead National Forest also on guests’ doorstep. These Flathead Lake campsites are the perfect destination for couples and families to relax and enjoy remote surroundings where crowds and chaos are completely out of sight. Looking for ‘private lake cabins near me’ in Montana? Take the opportunity to spend a week in your own lake cabin and away from the city centers where privacy and tranquility are hard to find. There are plenty of cabins near Flathead Lake, Montana that are just waiting to be enjoyed, so don’t miss out. Kalispell, MT cabin rentals are also available here and are perfect for a glamping getaway. Book yourself the best Flathead Lake, luxury resorts today and ensure your next vacation is unforgettable. The perfect Lakeside, MT lodging can be found right here and is guaranteed to have you feeling yourself in no time at all. Flathead, Montana lake camping awaits!
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