Flathead Lake is an enormous freshwater lake in the northwest part of the Treasure State that also happens to be the clearest lake in Montana — and one of the clearest lakes in the entire world! We’re lucky to have such a stunning lake in our state, especially since it’s one of the top vacation destinations for Montanans. If you’ve never seen it for yourself, perhaps these photos will convince you to visit Flathead Lake, the clearest lake in Montana!

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Have you ever visited Flathead Lake? There’s still a little time to add it to your summer bucket list!

Looking for more beautiful lakes to visit in Montana? Glacier National Park is full of lovely lakes (over 700, in fact!), including the ever-glorious Lake McDonald. This is the largest lake in Glacier and it is home to beautiful, colorful pebbles that make it wholly, wonderfully unique!

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Clearest lake in Montana

What are the most beautiful lakes in Montana?

The most beautiful lakes in Montana can be found in every corner of the state. Some of the best include:

  • Mystic Lake, Fishtail: Considered the clearest lake in Montana, Mystic Lake is the deepest lake in the Beartooth Mountains. It's about 300 feet deep and over two miles long, so it stretches as far as the eye can see — especially if you're standing at the eponymous Mystic Lake Overlook. You'll access this point via the Mystic Lake Trail, a 5.5-mile out-and-back hike with some of the most stunning scenery in the country. Although parts of the hike can be a bit strenuous and challenging, most people will be able to handle the climb, even beginner hikers. 
  • Avalanche Lake: This beauty can be reached via the Trail of the Cedars at Glacier National Park. While the route is not terribly challenging, it is a bit longer than others at 5.5 miles.
  • Lake McDonald, Glacier National Park: One of the 700 lakes within the national park, this one is known for the colored pebbles found on its shores.
  • Kintla Lake, Glacier National Park: Considered one of the most remote lakes in the state, you'll find Kintla in the uppermost northwest section of the park.

 

What are the most scenic places in Montana?

The most scenic places in Montana are all worth visiting. We recommend:

  • St. Mary Lake, Glacier National Park: The second largest lake in the national park, this one is always worth a visit when you're in the area.
  • Gates of the Mountains Wilderness, Glacier National Park: The best way to see this stunning natural feature is by boat down the river.
  • Kootenai Falls, near Libby: One of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state is always worth a visit.
  • Bighorn Canyon, Fort Smith: Straddling the border of Montana and Wyoming, Bighorn Canyon offers one of the most incredible views in either state.
  • Whitefish Mountain, Whitefish: Visit this spot for one of the most heart-pumping ziplines in the West!
  • Going-to-the-Sun Road: You can't miss one of the most scenic drives in the country while you're in Montana.

 

After seeing some of these, consider checking out more bucket-list-worthy places in Montana.

 

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