Welcome to Montana’s natural playground: Flathead Lake.
Ever dreamt of gliding across crystal-clear waters with stunning mountain views?
Discover the best places to paddleboard in Flathead Lake, MT, just waiting to be explored.
Set out on an adventure, and let’s conquer this captivating lake together. Are you on board?
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Flathead Lake
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Woods Bay
- ️Location Type: Lake
- Access Point: Woods Bay Fishing Access Site (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm water, gentle winds
- Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Fish, waterfowl, ospreys
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Flathead Lake’s eastern shoreline, mountains in the distance
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Adhere to fishing access site rules, be careful of boat traffic
Woods Bay is a popular spot on the eastern shoreline of Flathead Lake. Its calm waters and gentle winds make it an ideal location for paddlers of all levels.
The stunning mountain views and wildlife encounters add to the experience, making it a must-visit for paddleboarding enthusiasts.
#2 Wayfarers State Park
- ️Location Type: Lake
- ???? Access Point: Wayfarers State Park Boat Launch (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm water, occasionally windy
- Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Bald eagles, fish, deer
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Rocky cliffs, forested shoreline
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow state park regulations, be aware of boat traffic
Wayfarers State Park is a scenic spot on the northeastern shore of Flathead Lake. Its rocky cliffs and forested shoreline provide a beautiful backdrop for paddleboarding.
The calm waters and accessible boat launch make it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
#3 Somers Bay
- ️Location Type: Lake
- ???? Access Point: Somers Bay Boat Launch (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm water, occasional winds
- Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Fish, waterfowl, ospreys
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Flathead Lake’s northern shoreline, mountain vistas
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be careful of boat traffic, follow launch site rules
Somers Bay is located on the northern shoreline of Flathead Lake. Its picturesque setting, with mountain vistas in the background, makes it an appealing destination for paddleboarding.
The calm waters and easy access from the boat launch make it a suitable location for all skill levels.
#4 Yellow Bay
- ️Location Type: Lake
- ???? Access Point: Yellow Bay State Park (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm water, light winds
- Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Fish, waterfowl, ospreys
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Cherry orchards, mountains, Indian paintbrush wildflowers
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow state park rules, be cautious of boat traffic
Located on the eastern side of Flathead Lake, Yellow Bay State Park provides a tranquil spot for paddleboarding.
The calm waters and light winds make it a relaxing experience, while the cherry orchards, mountains, and wildflowers add to the natural beauty of the area. Don’t forget to follow state park rules during your visit!
#5 Big Arm Bay
- ️Location Type: Lake
- ???? Access Point: Big Arm Campground (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm water, occasionally windy
- Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Fish, waterfowl, deer
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Wild Goose Island, Flathead Lake’s western shoreline, mountains in the distance
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow campground rules, be cautious of boat traffic
Big Arm Bay rests on the western shore of Flathead Lake, offering stunning views of Wild Goose Island and the mountains in the distance.
The campground access point provides paddlers with an excellent spot to launch and explore the calm waters, while wildlife encounters add to the pristine experience.
#6 Finley Point State Park
- ️Location Type: Lake
- ???? Access Point: Finley Point State Park Boat Launch (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm water, occasional wind gusts
- Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Fish, waterfowl, deer
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Flathead Lake’s southern shoreline, mountain views
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow state park regulations, be aware of boat traffic
Finley Point State Park, located on the southern shore of Flathead Lake, offers paddleboarders calm waters and beautiful mountain views.
The state park’s boat launch provides easy access to the water, making it a convenient spot for a day of paddleboarding.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Flathead Lake?
Paddle boarding is popular at Wayfarers State Park, Yellow Bay State Park, and Big Arm State Park on Flathead Lake.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Flathead Lake?
No, paddle boards do not require registration in Flathead Lake.
When is the best time to paddle board in Flathead Lake?
The optimal time for paddle boarding in Flathead Lake is from late June to early September due to favorable weather conditions.
