Things to Do on Flathead Lake, Montana
There is a lot to do around Flathead Lake in northwest Montana: swim and picnic at state parks, take a boat to Wild Horse Island, fish, paddle, explore Bigfork and drive to Glacier National Park. This guide links to the official source for each idea. The Evergreen, our six-bedroom home in Somers that sleeps 14+, is about 8 minutes from the lake.
Flathead Lake state parks
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks manages several state parks on Flathead Lake. Somers Beach State Park, on the north shore, is about 10 minutes from The Evergreen and a natural first stop. Wayfarers, near Bigfork, has a boat launch, swimming and rocky shoreline. West Shore sits on the lake's west side, and other units include Finley Point, Big Arm and Yellow Bay.
Each park sets its own facilities, fees, seasons and rules. Montana residents and nonresidents pay differently, so check the FWP page for each park before you go.
Wild Horse Island
Wild Horse Island is the largest island in Flathead Lake and a state park you can reach only by boat. It is known for wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mule deer and a small number of wild horses, and for its hiking trails and views. There is no ferry run by the park, so you need your own boat, a rental or a guided trip.
FWP lists landing areas, rules and what to bring. Plan for limited facilities, and check wind and weather before crossing the lake.
Boat rentals and getting on the water
Boat, pontoon, kayak and paddleboard rentals operate from marinas and outfitters around the lake. Book directly with the operator and ask about life jackets, fuel and lake rules. If you bring your own boat, Montana requires aquatic invasive species inspections; plan time for an inspection station. The Evergreen's driveway fits three vehicles plus a trailer, but no boat, dock or slip is included.
Flathead Lake can get windy, and conditions change quickly. Check the forecast and stay close to shore on paddle craft.
Fishing Flathead Lake
Lake trout, lake whitefish and yellow perch are the most common catches. Rules differ between the northern part of the lake, managed by Montana FWP, and the southern part within the Flathead Indian Reservation, where a tribal permit is required. Bull trout are protected.
Our Flathead Lake fishing guide covers species, 2026 limits, licenses and the tribal permit with links to the official regulations.
Bigfork, Kalispell and Whitefish
Bigfork, on the northeast shore and about 30 minutes from Somers, has a walkable village, galleries, dining and summer theater. Kalispell, about 20 minutes away, is the valley's largest town. Whitefish, about 30 minutes away, has a lively downtown and Whitefish Mountain Resort above town.
Glacier National Park day trips
Glacier's west entrance is about 50 minutes from the house. In summer, the Going-to-the-Sun Road and vehicle reservation rules shape the day, and in winter many roads close. The National Park Service publishes current conditions and rules, so check them for your dates rather than relying on old advice.
Rainy days and quiet afternoons
Not every day suits the lake. On wet or windy days, many groups explore Kalispell's shops and restaurants, wander the galleries in Bigfork or spend the afternoon at the house. The Evergreen has a game room with arcade cabinets, a pool table, shuffleboard, foosball and air hockey, a private speakeasy with a poker table, a puzzle lounge and a kids climbing gym, so bad weather rarely spoils a trip.
The covered hot tub and barrel sauna work in any weather. A rainy afternoon in the sauna, followed by dinner around the long dining table, is a perfectly good day on Flathead Lake.
Ideas by season
In summer, focus on the lake: state parks, boat rentals, paddling, fishing and a Wild Horse Island trip, plus a Glacier day once you have checked the park's rules for your dates. In fall, enjoy quieter parks, colour in the valley and evenings at the fire pit. In winter, ski Blacktail Mountain or Whitefish Mountain Resort, snowshoe in Glacier after checking conditions, and spend evenings in the sauna. In spring, watch the valley wake up and check each park's season before you go.
The Evergreen has no private, deeded, direct or property-specific lake access. Flathead Lake is reached the same way everyone else does — nearby public beaches, public boat ramps, marinas and parks. No boat, dock or slip is included with the stay.
Plan your stay
- Check each state park's FWP page for fees and seasons.
- Book boat rentals or a Wild Horse Island trip with the operator.
- Plan watercraft inspections if you tow a boat.
- Read the fishing rules for the part of the lake you will fish.
- Check NPS conditions for Glacier day trips.
- Check dates and book direct at The Evergreen.
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to Wild Horse Island?
Only by boat. Bring your own, rent one or book a guided trip, and check the FWP page for landing areas and rules.
What state parks are on Flathead Lake?
Montana FWP parks include Somers Beach, Wayfarers, West Shore, Finley Point, Big Arm, Yellow Bay and Wild Horse Island.
Does The Evergreen have lake access?
No private or deeded lake access. The lake is about 8 minutes away, and guests use public parks, beaches, ramps and marinas.
Where should we stay to explore Flathead Lake?
Somers, at the north end of the lake, is central to Kalispell, Bigfork, Whitefish and Glacier. The Evergreen in Somers sleeps 14+ and is about 8 minutes from the lake.
Can we rent a boat on Flathead Lake?
Yes. Marinas and outfitters around the lake rent boats, pontoons, kayaks and paddleboards. Book directly with the operator and ask about lake rules and safety equipment.
