14 Best Lakes in Montana to Visit

Also known as the Treasure State, Montana is well-known for its natural beauty, vast rolling plains, and mountainous regions. This is one of the most visited US states for outdoor adventures. From Glacier National Park to Logan Pass to breathtaking lakes to other natural attractions, Montana offers endless opportunities to its visitors.

Montana is home to several artificial reservoirs or glacially-carved water bodies, adding to the state’s natural beauty. Combined with a range of recreational activities, all lakes in the state are must-visit attractions if you’re planning to explore Montana.

Since there are a bunch of beautiful lakes in Montana, this post has listed some of the best ones that can help you unwind and relax. Let’s take a closer look at some of Montana’s lakes.

Most Beautiful Lakes in Montana That You Can Visit

1. Fort Peck Lake

Located in the eastern prairie area of Montana, Fort Peck Lake is a man-made reservoir. About 134 miles in length, this lake is the largest existing water body in Montana. This is one of the popular tourist attractions of Montana, created in the 1930s by Fort Peck Dam on the Missouri River.

Fort Peck Lake is spread over 245,000 acres, making it the largest lake in Montana by surface area. With more than 1,500 miles of shoreline, this lake is famous for several activities, including fishing, swimming, and boating.

This lake is also surrounded by the beautiful and expansive Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge. Multiple back roads connect this water body to nearby wilds where visitors can enjoy additional recreational opportunities, like hiking, camping, and bird-watching. Rich in natural beauty, a trip to Fort Peck Lake is a must-visit in Montana.

See Related: Best Cheap Places to Travel in the US

2. Flathead Lake

Spread over 197 square miles of surface area, Flathead Lake is a natural lake in northwest Montana. Situated along the mainline of the Flathead River, this is one of the cleanest lakes in the world for its type and size.

Flathead Lake in Montana is accessible from either Highway 35 or Highway 93. You can swim, camp, bike, and hike around this beautiful lake among mature forests and breathtaking views of the Mission Mountains and the Swan Range. Flathead Lake is also one of the best lakes in Montana for boating and fishing.

Though there are several campgrounds around the lake, Flathead Lake State Park is one of the best camping areas. Also, communities, including Polson and Bigfork, connect the lake to nearby marinas, lodging, and restaurants.

On the whole, Flathead Lake is one of the most stunning Montana lakes. Visit this picturesque lake with your family or friends for a lifetime experience.

3. Canyon Ferry Lake

Canyon Ferry Lake might be the place for great lake fun. Covering 33,500 acres of land, this is one of the large lakes in Montana. This is an artificial lake near Helena and Townsend on the Missouri River.

Situated against the Big Belt Mountains of the gorgeous Rocky Mountains, Canyon Ferry Lake is the third-largest lake in Montana. Built with the Canyon Ferry Dam’s construction, it is around 30 miles long and 5 miles wide.

This outdoor destination offers a handful of opportunities for recreational activities, including boating, ice boating, picnicking, wildlife viewing, camping, and hiking. Cave Ridge Trail and Little Hellgate Gulch Trail are popular hiking trails near the lake.

Stocked with various fish species, including whitefish, trout, bass, yellow perch, burbot, and walleye, Canyon Ferry Lake is also perfect for fishing. Overall, it’s an ideal place for a weekend getaway.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Paradise Valley, Montana

4. Whitefish Lake

Nestled at the edge of Whitefish town, Whitefish Lake is a natural oligotrophic lake in Flathead County, Montana. Spread over 5.2 square miles of surface area, this freshwater lake is 5.8 miles lengthy, 1.4 miles wide, and 233 feet deep.

Whitefish Lake is famous for various recreational activities, including boating, kayaking, fishing, and water skiing. Nearby Whitefish Lake State Park offers opportunities for swimming and camping with gorgeous mountain views.

Some areas of this scenic lake have sandy beach stretches with popular swimming spots, bordered by picnic tables and gazebos. Along the south shore of this lake is Whitefish City Beach, the most visited section for swimming in the summer.

A trip to this lake and surrounding attractions is a must-visit if you’re in Whitefish town.

5. Swan Lake

Swan Lake lies at the northernmost point of the picturesque Swan Valley, close to the east of Flathead Lake. The lake is 1,000 meters above sea level and is encircled by the Flathead National Forest.

The area’s major lure is outdoor recreation. Tourists come here all year round to explore the nearby streams and fishing lakes of Montana, trek the trails, go boating, see some birds or other animals, and, in the winter, perhaps go backcountry skiing in the hilly terrain.

Visit the adjacent Swan River Wildlife Refuge if you want an exceptional bird-watching experience. You may spot several birds, including cranes, osprey, bald eagles, and ducks, to mention just a few.

Furthermore, the Swan Mountain Range’s snow-covered, sturdy-looking peak and a large portion of the Flathead National Forest surround the lake. The lake is around a mile wide and 8 miles long, making it a perfect spot for water-based activities, and it also has the added benefit of a campground.

See Related: Best Things to Do in Missoula, Montana

6. Avalanche Lake

You will find Avalanche Lake on the western side of the continental divide, encircled by enormous mountains. The avalanches that tumble down the mountains in the area gave rise to the name of this breathtakingly beautiful lake. These avalanches turn into waterfalls of different sizes, flowing down from the highest summits in the spring and early summer.

The wildlife in the lake’s vicinity is extensive, and it is pretty easy to spot bighorn sheep, mountain goats, grizzly bears, and deer. However, a fairly busy route surrounds Avalanche Lake, so don’t be worried about coming across one of these animals.

Hiking the Trail of the Cedars is one of the best ways to see the lake, and a decent trek to Avalanche Lake takes almost half a day to accomplish. You will also see several flowing waterfalls visible on your way and high cliffs surrounding the lake from three sides.

7. Holland Lake

The Flathead National Forest is home to the visually pleasing alpine water body known as Holland Lake. The lake sits on 400 acres of land, and the Swan Mountains surround the lake, adding to its scenic beauty.

One of Montana’s top hiking paths, the 3-mile-long surrounding terrain ends close to the lake’s shore. When the hikers head towards the spray of Holland Falls at the ends, they cannot believe their eyes while witnessing this picturesque setting.

Locals searching for adventure or leisure frequently travel to Holland Lake. This scenic lake is popular for boating and other water sports like water skiing and kayaking. It’s also a perfect place for fly fishing trout or salmon.

Around the lake, you will find many overnight lodging options, including campgrounds and beautiful lodges.

8. Hebgen Lake

A two-hour trip will take you to the town of Bozeman in southwest Montana, which is close to West Yellowstone and the man-made water body – Hebgen Lake. Despite being affected by a moderately strong earthquake in 1959, this lake has long been a popular resort and vacation spot.

Hebgen Lake is now a well-liked outdoor location for both visitors and locals, and it can accommodate several admirers who come for swimming, boating, fishing, and water skiing. You will find boat rentals, marinas, paddleboard, canoe, and kayak rentals on the lake’s shore.

Compared to other lakes of Montana, Hebgen Lake’s shore is not very big, but it offers access to some incredible fishing spots. The regional forestry department also manages a few campgrounds near the lake.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in the US

9. Lake Mcdonald

This classic lake is the largest of all glacier lakes in Montana, situated in Glacier National Park. Anyone passing through the area of Going-to-the-Sun Road, which follows the lake’s southern coast, must definitely stop at this location to take in the breathtaking view.

The lake Mcdonald is 10 miles long, about 500 feet deep, and is situated in an Ice Age glacier basin, giving it the traditional fjord Montana Lake appearance. Apart from the western side, the lake is practically covered by the Continental Divide, which not only enhances the lake’s picturesqueness but also acts as a rain barrier.

The area surrounding Lake Mcdonald also offers some incredible opportunities for animal viewing, making it possible to see elk, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, as well as the occasional black bear.

You can also book a luxurious Swiss-style chalet near the lake to complete your vacation and enjoy this magical location even more.

10. Seeley Lake

The spectacular mountain ranges of the Seeley-Swan Valley, where Seeley Lake is situated, are only an hour’s drive from Missoula. Located in western Montana, this lake covers around 1,000 acres of land. Apart from being right across from the Bob Marshall Wilderness, the surrounding area of Seeley Lake serves as a gateway to Glacier National Park.

The well-known Rainy Lake, Clearwater Lake, Salmon Lake, and Placid Lake are just a few of the 11 lakes that make up the Seeley Lake chain in the Clearwater River Valley.

Seeley Lake is one of the most picturesque locations and is a favorite spot for fishing, boating, and other water activities. On the lake, you will find several boat rentals and boat ramps. There are also a few excellent accommodations close to the lake.

Furthermore, the forestry service runs three different campsites close to the water. Not just that, you will find a swimming area, a beach, and around 30 camping spaces at the Seeley Lake Campground. However, if you don’t feel like pitching a tent, you can choose to stay in the lodges near the lake.

See Related: Best Things to do in Bozeman, Montana

11. Echo Lake

Are you dreaming of an isolated lake area far from civilization? We believe Echo Lake, a small water body in the Flathead Valley about 5 miles northeast of Bigfork, will serve as a natural sanctuary for you.

Even though Echo Lake is somewhat more distant and secluded, it is undoubtedly just as magnificent as its neighbor, the gorgeous and enormous Flathead Lake, with its many wildlife areas and state parks. And Echo Lake can be a better option for you and your traveling companions, depending on your social bandwidth and interests.

Beyond picture-perfect vistas, Echo Lake has its advantages despite being close to the Swan Lake mountain range and the breathtaking Jewel Basin hiking region. For instance, thanks to the mountain runoff from the adjacent Echo Creek and groundwater, it is one of the warmest lakes in the Flathead Valley. This further enables you to experience the entire range of summertime excitement or winter calm.

When it comes to recreational activities, you can participate in a bunch of things like biking, hiking, water sports, and lakeside swimming—this location is full of adventure. At Echo Lake, there is something for everyone!

12. Saint Mary Lake

St. Mary Lake is another example of the breathtaking natural splendor of Montana. You will witness some of the most beautiful vistas anywhere around this 10-mile-long lake in Glacier National Park. It is crucial to note that in the entire national park area, St. Mary Lake ranks second in size.

Bighorn sheep, elk, and bears, to mention a few, can be found in the pine woods that surround the base of the majestic and dramatic mountain peaks. Furthermore, you will find some of the best campgrounds in Glacier National, close to the shore. And there are also a few good hiking paths around the lake from where you can explore the region.

During the summer, boat tours are offered across St. Mary Lake. Summer is the most picturesque time of year for the lake since the wildflowers are in bloom.

See Related: Best Things to do in Gardiner, Montana

13. Quake Lake

Southwest Montana is home to Quake Lake, situated 30 miles northwest of West Yellowstone. It is mainly located on US Highway 287, which circles the lake and runs through the Gallatin National Forest. Many people consider it the perfect place to unwind among the aspen and fir trees far from the crowds of Yellowstone National Park.

As you approach the lake via this route, you will be able to observe some lingering effects of the landslide and massive earthquake that struck the region and resulted in the formation of the lake. The impacts of the earthquake are most noticeable as you travel from Ennis to West Yellowstone.

Quake Lake primarily draws tourists for brown trout and rainbow trout fishing, canoeing, boating, wakeboarding, jet and water skiing, and the Quake Lake Visitors Center. Not just that, there is a tonne of serene, natural beauty in this region of Montana, similar to several other surrounding areas.

14. Salmon Lake

The exquisite Salmon Lake is situated in the western part of Montana’s state park. In this stretch of Montana along the Clearwater River, there are just a few naturally-formed lakes, including Salmon Lake.

This is the perfect location to participate in leisurely water activities like boating, fishing, and swimming. It’s also a great place to encounter some wildlife.

As this lake is located within Salmon Lake State Park, a designated state park area, you will find plenty of things to do. For instance, the area boasts a campground, day-use amenities, and a boat launch immediately adjacent to the lake. The park also provides water, restrooms, picnic shelters, and many other facilities.

In the warmer months of June through early August, you can participate in ranger programs during the week and weekend in the park’s amphitheater. Salmon Lake State Park is conveniently located on Highway 83, making the area easy to access. If you need the exact location, the lake is between Highways 83 and 200, roughly 7 miles north of the Clearwater Junction.

See Related: Best Things to Do in Billings, Montana

Where to Stay in Montana

Whether you’re planning to explore Montana’s lakes with your family or friends, it is essential to book accommodation before visiting to ensure a comfortable experience. Since there are several hotels, resorts, or camping sites around these lakes in Montana, you should go through all the available options to choose the right place to stay. 

Here, we have mentioned the best accommodations near top lakes in Montana. Let’s take a quick look. 

Accommodations Near Flathead Lake

From guest houses to condos to villas to resorts, there are several properties of all levels for spending a night or two near Flathead Lake. Some top options are Lakefront Home, Modern Cottage, Waterfront Condo, Floating House, and Flathead Lake Resort. 

Accommodations Near Lake McDonald

Located in West Glacier, Lake McDonald offers a variety of lodging and accommodation options to visitors. Lakefront Cabin, Apgar House, Glacier Park Cabin, On the Shores Cottage, and Great Northern Resort are a few places to stay with varying amenities. 

Accommodations Near Whitefish Lake

You can also book your stay near Whitefish Lake, as it provides accommodation options of all types. From a basic condo to a luxurious lodge or a small cabin to a full-size house, you can rent any place as per your preference. Lodge at Whitefish Lake, Whitefish Condos, Lakefront Condo, Lakeside Condo, Downtown Condo, and Kandahar Lodge at Whitefish Mountain Resort are some top places to stay in Montana. 

Accommodations Near Saint Mary Lake

Saint Mary Lake is home to several cottages, country houses, cabins, villas, and other properties. When it comes to booking the right place to stay, there are countless options, including Montana’s Duck Lake Lodge, Cabin Near Glacier Natl Park, Duplex, and Cottage with Glacier National Park View. Go through all the available properties and book the one that meets your requirements. 

FAQs

Related Resources

• Best Breweries in Montana
• Best Hot Springs in Montana
• Best Places to Visit in Montana & Things to Do