It might be getting colder, but that doesn't keep most Montanans indoors. Even for those who'd rather pass on chilly weather, this stunning excursion is the perfect day trip for whenever you next plan to brave the great outdoors. In a state with as much natural beauty as ours, it says something when a destination earns a superlative of any kind. Not only is Flathead Lake the state's most pristine lake, it's frequently called the “clearest lake in the world." So pack a thermos of something warm, throw on your hiking shoes, or mark this adventure on your calendar for next summer!
I'll come clean — no pun intended — Flathead Lake isn't technically the world's clearest body of water. That said, it's still considered the cleanest and clearest in Montana, an impressive achievement given the reputation of Big Sky Country for near-immaculate landscapes. Called člq̓etkʷ in the Salish language, and yawuʔnik̓ ʔa·kuq̓nuk by the Kootenai, this majestic attraction embodies a rich tapestry of local histories and the legacy of now-distant geological events.
Nestled at the southern end of the Rocky Mountain Trench, Flathead Lake comprises 185 miles of shoreline and plunges to depths of over 370 feet. Incredibly, it represents what remains of an ancient body of water called Lake Missoula. Though it was contained for thousands of years by a massive glacier, Missoula broke its icy barrier at the end of the last Ice Age. The resulting deluge tore across Washington and Oregon before reaching the Pacific, leaving behind rugged hills and valleys still visible in those states' eastern regions today.
Flathead Lake is naturally fed by the nearby Flathead River but grew slightly larger with the construction of the nearby Kerr Dam in 1930. Uniquely, this dam has been owned and operated by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes since 2015. Through the stewardship of their governments and other local municipalities, Flathead Lake has remained one of the cleanest lakes in the populated world.
There are numerous trails at Flathead Lake State Park, some of which climb into the nearby hills, providing visitors with staggering views of the water. Weather permitting, outdoor enthusiasts may also explore the area by boat. If you're interested in birdwatching, I always recommend kayaking, which is less disruptive to local species. Just watch out for the Flathead Lake Monster, an eel-shaped creature the length of a school bus who's been spotted in the water since 1889. Nicknamed "Flossie" by the locals, she's unlikely to cause you trouble, but her company will keep you vigilant nonetheless.
If you're looking for an outdoor adventure, I can't think of a better option than a day at Flathead Lake. Known as the state's cleanest lake, this gorgeous destination boasts jaw-dropping history, gorgeous hikes, and — if the rumors are true — a lake monster!
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