Deep in Montana you’ll find it. Across the vast plains of the old west and through the high mountains sits Flathead Lake, the Last Best Lake in America.
Formed by glaciers thousands of years ago and sitting at the foot of the Mission Mountain range, it’s the largest natural freshwater lake in America’s west with over 200 square miles of surface area with crystal clear water along 185 miles of pristine shoreline. The lake itself is one of the cleanest in the world where you can see the vivid colorful rocks that make up its bottom.
The lake is actually so immense that it’s home to 12 primary islands and multiple little ones. The biggest being Wild Horse Island which encompasses 2,160 acres. It’s a protected state park and as the name suggests, there are wild horses which call the island home. Native American stories tell us that the Salish and Kootenai tribes would swim their horse herds over to the island to protect them and their valuable goods when warring with rival nations.
The natural beauty of Flathead Lake is spectacular and charmingly complemented by the availability of modern services. The entire lake can be driven around on well maintained highways and the two major population centers of Kalispell and Polson offer city-like convenience whilst smaller lakeside townships like Bigfork and Lakeside offer groceries, dining and other convenient services. Accommodations in the area is also plentiful from lodges and motels to Airbnb’s and numerous camping facilities
In the summer months the lake truly comes to life and turns into the ultimate freshwater playground with countless recreational activities available like fishing, swimming, boating, picnicking and camping. On the east shore, you’ll see roadside stands offering locally grown cherries, apples, plums and more. On the west shore you can visit award winning breweries and vineyards. Flathead Lake in summer is a very fun and active area.
When it comes to owning real estate on the lake, there is a wide variety of properties and sweeping views to soak in. In fact, most of the shoreline is privately owned and boasts a variety of different property types from income producing farms, quaint cabins to luxury condos and mega million dollar mansion estates. There’s also parcels of undeveloped land that could be turned into something special.
I invite you to come and see and experience it for yourself. Most likely you’ll sense this gorgeous area capturing your heart in a special way and agree that Flathead Lake is the Last Best Lake in America.
Written by Dalon Pobran
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Or email me dalon.pobran@engelvoelkers.com
