Scenic drives in Flathead Lake

Scenic drives in Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake in Montana is a perfect destination for those who love scenic drives. The lake is nestled in the middle of the mountains and offers a breathtaking view. Visitors can explore the area’s beauty by taking a scenic drive along the lake’s shore and through the surrounding countryside. Here are some of the best scenic drives to take in Flathead Lake.

Around the Lake Drive

The most popular scenic drive in Flathead Lake is the drive around the lake. This drive will take visitors through the charming towns of Bigfork, Woods Bay, and Polson. Along the way, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The drive is approximately 87 miles long and takes about two hours to complete. It’s a great way to see the entire lake and experience the beauty of the area.

East Shore Drive

The East Shore Drive is a 35-mile scenic drive along the eastern shore of Flathead Lake. This drive takes visitors through the small towns of Rollins, Dayton, and Elmo. Visitors can stop at various viewpoints along the way and enjoy the stunning views of the lake and the Mission Mountains. The drive is perfect for those who want a shorter scenic drive but still want to experience the beauty of the area.

West Shore Drive

The West Shore Drive is a 24-mile scenic drive along the western shore of Flathead Lake. This drive takes visitors through the town of Lakeside and offers stunning views of the lake and the Flathead Valley. Along the way, visitors can stop at various parks and viewpoints to take in the scenery. The drive is perfect for those who want a shorter scenic drive but still want to experience the beauty of the area.

Mission Mountains Scenic Drive

The Mission Mountains Scenic Drive is a 52-mile drive that takes visitors through the heart of the Mission Mountains. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the mountains and the valley below. The drive takes visitors through the charming town of Swan Lake and ends in the town of Bigfork. Along the way, visitors can stop at various hiking trails and picnic areas to enjoy the scenery.

Swan River Scenic Drive

The Swan River Scenic Drive is a 56-mile drive that takes visitors along the scenic Swan River. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains. The drive takes visitors through the charming town of Bigfork and ends in the town of Seeley Lake. Along the way, visitors can stop at various hiking trails and picnic areas to enjoy the scenery.

Overall, Flathead Lake offers some of the most stunning scenic drives in Montana. Whether visitors want a long drive around the entire lake or a shorter drive along the eastern or western shores, they are sure to be awed by the area’s natural beauty. Visitors should plan to stop at various viewpoints and parks along the way to fully appreciate the beauty of Flathead Lake.