Growing up in Montana meant that I spent most of my summers enjoying time on one of the many incredible lakes that are available there. These lakes in Montana were part of my childhood and still remain a huge reason why I journey back there every summer--my family has a lake home on Flathead and we have to make the most of it!
The absolute most beautiful lakes in Montana to visit
You won't want to miss these lakes in Montana on your Montana road trip!
Flathead Lake
Potentially the most visited, and most famous, Montana lake, Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in the western US (by surface area) outside of Alaska and the largest lake in Montana.
With plenty of public access sites that provide boat ramps, camping sites, electricity, and utilities, there is no wonder why Flathead is one of the best lakes in Montana. I also recommend checking out Flathead Lake State Park if you need a free launch!
Surrounded by the Mission Mountains with over 187.6 total miles of water, there are no limits to activities and views on Flathead Lake. Grab your paddleboard, put your boat in the water in Somers, fish for trout, hike Wild Horse Island, or wade into the warm waters of "The Shallows" near Bigfork, Montana.
Although there is a fair amount of private property around the perimeter of Flathead Lake, there still are quite a few incredible public access points for locals and visitors alike.
These public lands around the lake include a National Wildlife Refuge on the North Shore, six Montana State Parks, and nine Certified Public Fishing Access Points.
Whitefish Lake
Born of a receding glacier 2,500 feet deep at the end of the Pleistocene Epoch 10,000 years ago, Whitefish Lake is now a regional draw for boating, fishing, swimming, RV camping, and countless other outdoor activities.
As one of the more clear lakes in Montana, some of the most common lake activities on Whitefish Lake include non-motorized recreation. Kayakers and canoeists prefer the early morning when the lake is the calmest. But, as the water warms up, you'll find an increase in motorized recreation out on the water like boating, water skiing, tubing, and fishing.
Whitefish Lake has two public boat launches for if you're planning on bringing your own boat. If you aren't planning on launching your own watercraft, boat rentals are available.
However, if you do launch your own boat, keep in mind, decontamination of your watercraft must be performed prior to launching in Whitefish Lake. This requirement has been put into place in order to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species within lakes in Montana.
Tally Lake
Rumored to be the second deepest of lakes in Montana, Tally Lake is a local favorite for its warm waters.
Tally Lake is fed from water from upstream Star Meadows, a large wetland which creates a tannic acid tint to the water. The water is perfectly clean and nice, but the dark coloration makes the water of Tally Lake darker than other lakes in the area.
Due to this darker coloration, this increases the absorption of light within the water. Tally Lake, Montana is substantially warmer than most lakes in the area. By comparison, Tally Lake has an average water temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit, whereas Flathead Lake's water temperature averages at 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
St. Mary Lake
Located on the east side of Glacier National Park along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, St. Mary Lake is an absolute must when visiting lakes in Montana.
This 10-mile long lake provides wonderful opportunities for wildlife viewing. Elk, mule deer, and both grizzly and black bears have been spotted along or near St. Mary Lake.
Personal motorized and non-motorized watercrafts are allowed on St. Mary Lake with public boat launch past Going-to-the-Sun at certain times of year. For more information on these dates, visit the National Park Service's website here.
But, if you don't have your own personal boat or watercraft, you can still experience St. Mary and Glacier National Park from the water! Glacier Park Boat Company provides tours of St. Mary Lake June through September. You can learn more about boat tours through Glacier Park Boat Company here.
Lake McDonald
Potentially the most iconic of all Montana lakes, Lake McDonald is the largest of all glacier lakes in Montana. In fact, its size and formation are a direct result of glacial carving.
The high peaks surrounding Lake McDonald all show evidence of the power of glaciers carving through even the hardest of rock.
Not only was the "u-shaped" valley that Lake McDonald now sits in carved by these glaciers, smaller hanging valleys featuring gorgeous waterfalls were also carved by these same exact glaciers.
The most colorful lake in Montana, one of the most beautiful aspects that you'll notice about Lake McDonald are the colorful rocks and pebbles that shine below the crystal clear water of the lake.
After spending the day hiking through, exploring, and recreating in Glacier National Park, Lake McDonald Lodge is available to visitors looking for a place to eat, stay, or shop. Learn more about the lodge's offerings here!
Seeley Lake
Roughly an hour's drive northeast from Missoula, Seeley Lake is the perfect marriage of adventure and relaxation.
Known as the most crystal clear lake in Montana, Seeley Lake allows motorized and non-motorized recreation for all to enjoy with fishing, water skiing, and canoeing the top activities of recreationists.
Boasting two Montana State Parks, Salmon Lake State Park and Placid Lake State Park, there truly are limitless opportunities for Montana lovers. Take a hike from Camp Paxon to meet "Gus," the world's largest western larch tree, or plan a gorgeous 4.5 mile round trip hike to Morrell Falls where you'll see true Western Montana forests.
No matter the interests of your group or your agenda, Seeley Lake will provide an incredible experience.
Fort Peck Lake
If you're looking for incredible Montana fishing, Fort Peck Lake is one of your best bets for fishing lakes in Montana with more than 50 different kinds of fish in its waters.
Fort Peck Lake is nearly 134 miles in length and has a maximum depth of 220 feet when full. This lake has over 1,520 miles of shoreline, which is longer than the California coast, making it an absolute dream for those who love to fish.
However, if you're looking for other activities outside of fishing Fort Peck Lake, surrounding this lake is the Charles M. Russell (CMR) National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge provides over one million acres of public land for fishing, hiking, hunting, camping, bird-watching, and other outdoor recreation.
Hebgen Lake
Highly sought after, Hebgen Lake has been called one of the premier stillwater fishing lakes in Montana. This man made lake located around 20 minutes west of West Yellowstone is a popular recreational lake--it's worth it to add to your Yellowstone National Park itinerary if you have the time!
With a healthy population of brown trout, cutthroats, and rainbows, fishing and boating are frequently enjoyed at Hebgen Lake.
And, if you're looking for a place to camp, Hebgen Lake has plenty of nearby campgrounds within walking distance from the water. Two of the most popular campgrounds near Hebgen Lake are Rainbow Point and Cherry Creek.
Rainbow Point is the largest campground on the lake, offering four "loops." Each loop contains approximately 20 campsites. Each campsite can accommodate a full-size camper and one or two vehicles.
Lake Koocanusa
A reservoir completed by the United States and Canada in an effort to provide flood protection and to generate hydroelectric power, this lake now offers a multitude of recreational opportunities.
As the winner of a naming contest, Alice Beers, from Rexford, Montana, combined the first three letters from KOOtenai River, and the first three letters of CANada and USA to form the name Koocanusa.
Lake Koocanusa is home to a variety of fish species and is a great location for those looking to fish for rainbow trout, west slope cutthroat, brook trout, kokanee salmon (blueback), burbot (ling), whitefish, and Kamloops (a strain of rainbow trout).
There are countless family activities at Lake Koocanusa, including boating, fishing, lakeshore camping, and picnicking.
Lake Elmo
Lake Elmo, a community staple of the Billings, MT area, is a 64-acre reservoir and a great place to swim, boat, paddleboard, fish, picnic, birdwatch or stroll on the 1.4 mile hiking/nature trail.
Unique to Montana lakes, Lake Elmo has a 200 square foot, fenced in dog park. This god park provides a water area along with plenty of space for your pooch to explore.
Also a Montana State Park, Lake Elmo provides plenty of accommodations and access points for public use. With countless amenities and the ability to recreate in a multitude of ways, Lake Elmo is a hot spot for locals and visitors alike.
Canyon Ferry Lake
One of the more popular lakes near Bozeman, Canyon Ferry Lake is located approximately an hour and a half north of the Gallatin Valley. With fishing, marina concessions, and a wildlife management area, Canyon Ferry Lake is a wonderful place to visit.
At Canyon Ferry, there are three marina concessions, Goose Bay Marina,Yacht Basin Marina, and Kim's Marina. These marinas reside on the reservoir, providing a variety of public recreation facilities and services such as boat launching, camping, rental docks, small stores, etc.
With campgrounds, day use and picnic areas, concrete boat launches, and a seasonal visitor center, Canyon Ferry is a wonderful spot to recreate and spend your summer.
Browns Lake
A fishing access and camping site, Browns Lake is located an hour almost directly east and is one the the best things to do in Missoula, MT.
With gorgeous views of the Rattlesnakes, the Missions, the Swans, and the mountains of the Bob Marshall Wilderness, Browns Lake is a favorite spot for both anglers and campers.
When camping at Browns Lake, a boat launch, toilets, and access for camp trailers is available to visitors. Just keep in mind, when visiting, there is a seven day stay limit.
If you love wildlife or love to birdwatch, marshy areas around the lake are excellent bird viewing areas due to the lake's close location to Blackfoot Waterfowl Production Area.
Dickey Lake
Just south of Eureka, MT, Dickey Lake is a wonderful spot for recreating, with hiking and biking trails, a boat launch, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Dickey Lake provides facilities such as public toilets, water, and parking. And, if you're looking for a quick hike, just before the parking lot you'll find an accessible trailhead. This trail, which is a little less than one mile long, makes its way to an observation deck overlooking Dickey Lake.
Whether you're planning on recreating on the lake, going for a bike ride, or taking your dog on a hike, Dickey Lake is the perfect, quiet location for Montana outdoor lovers.
Holland Lake
North of Seeley Lake, Holland Lake is known for its views of the Swan Range, a large campsite, and hiking trails.
The lake is open to motorized and non-motorized recreation, and is a calm lake that lends itself to swimming, waterskiing, tubing, kayaking, and more.
If you're looking for a rewarding hike, several hiking opportunities are available from nearby trailheads including a trail to Holland Falls. To get to the falls, look for Trailhead #416. This trail is 1.6 miles and climbs 750 feet. Trail #416 follows the shoreline of Holland Lake and gradually climbs to the base of the falls, where you'll get fantastic views of the lake, the falls, and views of the Swan Range.
Hidden Lake
Add this to your Glacier National Park itinerary: Hidden Lake is a very popular day-hike destination, with the Hidden Lake Overlook 1.5 miles from Logan Pass. Known for its views, crystal clear waters, and abundant wildlife, Hidden Lake is an absolute must when visiting lakes in Montana.
Hidden Lake has wildlife everywhere you turn, with bighorn sheep, mountain goats, marmots, and more. Although it can be tempting to want to get close to these animals, keep in mind, it is important to give them space and respect their habitat.
The hike up to Hidden Lake is not an incredibly strenuous one, with boardwalk making up the majority of the trail. Once you make it to the overlook, pop in the glacier lake water for a swim, snap some shots of the local wildflowers, listen to the prairie dogs chirp to one another, and soak in all that is this spectacular area of Glacier Park before heading back towards the visitor center.
Avalanche Lake
Another local and visitor favorite in Glacier National Park, Avalanche Lake is a two mile hike from the trailhead along the Trail of the Cedars.
Once you've reached the end of the trail, you'll find Avalanche Lake at the base of Bearhat Mountain, which rises almost 4800 feet above the lake towards the northeast.
The most prominent mountain within view is the Little Matterhorn. Additionally, if you look closely at the cliffs and mountains that surround the lake, you'll likely notice several long waterfalls. These waterfalls fall hundreds of feet down and make their way towards the shore of Avalanche Lake. An incredible location, this hike is an absolute must when visiting lakes in Montana.
Although generally lakes of Avalanche Lake's size and elevation do not have fish, Avalanche Lake is known for its Yellowstone cutthroat trout and is a popular fishing spot for anglers all over the world.
Bowman Lake
Bowman Lake, the third largest lake in Glacier, is located in the Northwestern portion of Glacier National Park and accessed through the small town of Polebridge, MT.
Once you've reached Bowman Lake via a six mile drive on an unpaved road, you'll find incredible views, a picnic area, and day hiking opportunities. Bowman Lake does allow motorized boats, as long as the motors have 10 horsepower or less.
If you're planning on non-motorized recreation, Bowman Lake is a beautiful, calm lake where canoers and kayakers can enjoy the recreational opportunities that Bowman Lake provides.
Georgetown Lake
If you're visiting Montana in hopes of incredible fishing, then Georgetown Lake should be at the very top of your list. Known as Fish Lake, Montana, USA, Georgetown Lake is home to large populations of trophy sized rainbow and brook trout as well as large numbers of kokanee salmon.
This blue ribbon fishery also boasts some of the best ice fishing in the state. Rated Montana's most prolific lake with more fish caught per person than any other lake in Montana, Georgetown Lake is the top lake for fishing in Montana.
And, if there are other members in your group not as keen on fishing, Georgetown Lake has something for everyone with hiking trails, incredible wildlife viewing, and three nearby golf courses.
When visiting Montana, Georgetown Lake is not only an absolute must for its activities, it's also one of the most beautiful areas within the state.
Echo Lake
A smaller lake residing in the Flathead Valley, Echo Lake is located five miles from Bigfork, MT and roughly 25 miles from Kalispell, MT.
Echo Lake is filled with groundwater with just a small amount of mountain runoff from Echo Creek. This formation of lake and small runoff makes Echo Lake one of the warmest lakes in the Flathead Valley.
Due to its warm water, Echo Lake is a common place for personal watercrafts and water sports. Additionally, this lake offers excellent fishing.
With views of the Swan Range and the Jewel Basin, Echo Lake is a relaxing and beautiful place to enjoy Montana.
Iceberg Lake
Another incredible lake located in Glacier National Park, Iceberg Lake has spectacular views of Iceberg Peak; towering 3,000 feet over the glacial lake. It's absolutely one of the best hikes in Glacier National Park worth checking out!
Known as a popular day-hike destination, Iceberg Lake is a 4.8 mile hike from Swiftcurrent Auto Camp Historic District in Glacier Park. Iceberg Lake is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Glacier National Park.
Due to its beauty and accessibility, the trail and lake may be highly trafficked. When visiting Iceberg Lake, remember to maintain proper trail etiquette. However, once you reach the lake itself, you'll find there to be plenty of room to go off on your own and take in the incredible scenery.
Swan Lake
Open for day-use swimming with beaches and incredible views of the Swan River Valley, Swan Lake is a wonderful place to bring friends and family for a relaxing day on or near the water.
One of the more difficult lakes in Montana to access, Swan Lake is nestled between mountains, national forests, and the Bob Marshall Wilderness Area. But, once you make your way back to Swan Lake, you'll want to keep its location a secret. With incredible views, gorgeous, clear water, and countless ways to recreate, Swan Lake is a must-see when visiting lakes in Montana.
Have you ever visited these lakes in Montana? Let me know your favorite in the comments!
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