One of the best things about Montana summer is also one of the worst things about Montana summers: Our beautiful lakes, rivers, water parks, and swimming holes become cool oases for locals and tourists alike. But if you prefer natural waters to public pools and you'd rather not deal with seasonal crowds, just head to Echo Lake near Bigfork. While it's far from unknown, if you go during the week, you'll probably have stretches of it to yourself.
Here's a fun fact about Echo Lake: it's one of the warmest lakes in the Flathead Valley.
It's filled by warm springs and a small amount of mountain runoff from Echo Creek, so it's typically pretty pleasant.
Surrounded by mountains, wildlife, and the unmistakable smell of fresh Montana air, the lake is a little piece of paradise.
While this is a popular place for boating, most of the lake is no-wake to protect swimmers, canoeists, and kayakers.
Echo Lake is just a few miles away from the town of Bigfork, but you'll feel like you're in your own little world.
There is a beautiful campground nearby, or you can book a vacation rental right on the lake if you'd like to make a weekend of it.
Like any Montana lake, this one does see its share of summer crowds... but luckily, most tourists tend to stick to the bigger lakes like Flathead.
If you go during the week or early in the day, you'll avoid the crowds and enjoy a nice, relaxing swim.
Some of our best swimming holes are in our nice, secluded bodies of water. If you're up for a little hike, this one is amazing.
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