Flathead Lake, an invigorating freshwater adventure
Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in Montana USA and a prominent family outing place for a refreshing treat during the holidays. Studies conducted at the Flathead Lake Biological Station shows that it is one of the cleanest among the 300 largest natural lakes in the western part of United States and water quality in Flathead Lake is among the best in the world considering its size and type. It lies in the shadows of Glacier National Park and Whitefish Mountain ski resort to the north.
The lake is ideal for swimming fun, boating and fishing as its major tributaries are Flathead and Swan Rivers. Several small streams flow directly into the Lake at its shoreline, particularly on the East Shore. Although the bays often have winter ice cover, the lake itself does not freeze over most winters.
Other sights to be seen are the National Wildlife Refuge on the North Shore, the Wildhorse Island noted for its herd of Rocky Mountain Bighorn sheep and several wild horses. Native grasses and flowers are abundant on the islands too. To enjoys sights of geese, osprey, herons, eagles and more, you can also visit the nearby Bird Islands which is famous as a bird refuge.
Different fish species can be found in the Flathead Lake ecosystem. The redside shiner, peamouth minnow, squawfish minnow, largescale sucker, longnose sucker, sculpin, bull trout, cutthroat trout, pygmy whitefish and mountain whitefish are its native species thus make fishing an exciting activity.
US Highway 93 on the west side and Route 35 on the east wind along the curving shorelines are two scenic highways parallel the lake which offer majestic views of the lake, mountains and the scenery that made Montana famous.
Note: pictures are not mine
One thought on “Flathead Lake, an invigorating freshwater adventure”
Wow! Certainly looks placid and serene, I would love to take photos of this lake with the boats in focus, ganda!