Overview

Located in northeastern Montana, Polson is a small town that is buzzing with activity. Sitting on the southern tip of Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the west, Polson is a prime location for outdoor recreation.

Don't let the legend of the lake monster keep you away as there is plenty of room for all to fish, boat, water ski, and swim in this 28 mile long lake. Can't make it to Polson in the summer, don't worry, winter is just as exciting.

Summer

• Swimming
  Although you can swim anywhere in the lake, try Polson's Boettcher Park beach. Cool down in the lake's chilly waters and run your feet through pebble bottom beaches.
• Fishing
  From Polson, the southern tip of Flathead Lake is a skipping stone's throw away. Tease the trophy sized trout, whitefish, and yellow perch or catch the elusive lake monster. Note that the southern portion of Flathead Lake, as well as the city of Polson, are located on the Flathead Indian Reservation. Therefore, you will need a tribal permit to fish in this area. Not a problem as the permits are sold at most sporting good stores.
• Boating/Kayaking
  It's no surprise that boating and kayaking are some of the most popular activities in the area. If you don't have your own boat, no problem. Rent a boat, kayak, canoe, or sailboat and enjoy a bit of time on the water. Marinas and boat launches are found around the lake.
• Boat Cruises
  Hop on the Princess for a tour of the southern end of the lake. The hour and a half long cruise launches three times daily.
• Hiking
  Wildhorse Island State Park, a 2,100 acre island in the middle of Flathead Lake, is a fantastic place for a bit of hiking. Keep your eyes out for wildlife that calls the island home, including three wild horses. No camping though, day use only.
• Golf
  Two golf courses in the area will help you pass the day.
• Painted Rock Petroglyphs
  On the western side of the lake, these petroglyphs and pictographs are only visible via boat.
• Festivals
  Summer wouldn't be complete without a festival. Polson is a meca for festivals year round. Catch the Polson Main Street Flathead Cherry Festival, usually in July, that celebrates the bountiful cherry harvest of the year or check out the 3-day Polson Festival Days.

Winter

• Ice Fishing
  With a moderate climate, angler's delight in the winter with a bit of ice-fishing on Flathead Lake.
• Downhill Skiing
  With three big mountain options, the skiing around Polson is fantastic and the perfect weekend trip for Missoulians itching for fresh powder. For easy access, check out Blacktail Mountain Ski Area just 40 miles north of Polson.
• Snowshoeing
  The fantastic part about snowshoeing is the freedom. Just strap on those shoes and traverse the snowy tundra. Blaze your own trail!
• Snowmobiling
  Enjoy the 200 miles of trails that cut through Flathead Valley.