It’s summer time! Are you looking for the best vacation in the world? Go to Flathead Valley, Montana. From the boating on the gorgeous Flathead Lake, to visiting Glacier National Park, to huckleberry picking, you would be in for a treat. You could take a week or two and have the family vacation for the books. I grew up here, so this is my insider scoop of where you should visit.
1. Flathead Lake
It’s gorgeous, it’s huge and you can do everything from swimming to boating. Just stay away from the logs on the banks — you don’t want to catch the Flathead Itch.
2. Glacier National Park
You kinda just have to go here. Ride a Red Jammer, or hike Logan Pass. There’s more beautiful lakes you can recreate in. There aren’t a lot of places in the world where you can see the bottom of the lake. Yep, the water is that clear.
3. Wild Horse Island
This is an island in the middle of the Flathead Lake. You can rent a pontoon boat and park right in front of it. Bring lots of water because the island itself is rather hot. If you’re quiet, you might spot some of the horses that call this place home.
4. A Rodeo
It’s the Wild West, so you’re bound to run across a rodeo. No life is complete until you’ve seen bareback riding or barrel racing. Not to mention, rodeo clowns are pretty funny.
5. Huckleberry Picking
Yes, they are real, and quite good. Ask any local where the best place to go is. It varies depending on the year. Also, if you don’t make it to an actual patch, huckleberry candy sticks are divine.
6. Local Restaurants
There’s the vintage soda fountain Norm’s News in Kalispell, or you can visit Bigfork Inn in Bigfork. If you’re looking for a delightful breakfast, I highly suggest Echo Lake Cafe, also in Bigfork. There’s also many more!
7. Whitefish Lake
This is a bit smaller than the Flathead, but it is also beautiful. You can swim here or rent a boat.
8. Whitefish Mountain
In my day, this was called Big Mountain. It is quite literally a big mountain. If you go here in the summer, you can hike up the various peaks, or you can take a ski lift or gondola up. (I suggest the latter) If you venture out to Big Sky Country in the winter time, i.e. after August, go ahead and hit the slopes here, or at Blacktail Mountain.
9. Cherry Picking
Montana has really harsh winters, but for whatever reason, the cherries here are incredible. You can pick them or buy them from fruit stands. Just watch out for pits, and don’t wear a white shirt!
10. Bigfork Playhouse Summer Theater
No trip to the Flathead would be complete without seeing a show or two or three at this fantastic theater. In its 56th year of live theater, this place produces the highest quality live musicals in the Northwest. The company is quite talented. One notable alumnus includes 2016 Oscar winner, J.K. Simmons.
11. The Northwest Montana Fair
From rodeos to livestock auctions, from horticulture shows and quilt shows, this fair offers a quaint taste of Western life. It’s a definite must see.
12. Jewel Basin
One of my favorite hikes! You'll descend down rocky trails to a gorgeous lake. If you’re camping, beware of possible moose!
There's probably a lot more I am forgetting. Chances are, you'll find something cool to do. Make sure you visit!
