Flathead Lake History
Flathead Lake is the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi; over 28 miles long, up to 15 miles wide and 386 ft deep in some areas! In the beginning - 10,000 years ago - glacial ice scoured the Flathead Valley leaving behind moraines and outwash as the ice retreated. As the last ice age ended, a huge collection of stagnant ice remained and glacial deposits filled the valley around it. When the ice finally melted it left a depression that the lake filled.
Before roads and railroads the only way to get around was by boat, barge and steamers. Flathead Lake served as the only “highway” by which to travel and transport goods and people. As well as a water route it doubled as a food source. With many different types of fish, including trophy sized lake trout, yellow perch and pike and over 75 species of birds that fly overhead, Flathead Lake is a huge life source to its surrounding neighbors. Every lake has to have a little mystery and Flathead Lake has a “Flathead Lake Monster” that has been regularly sighted since 1889.
Flathead Lake Facts
Covers 125,250 surface acres
Has 128 miles of coastline
Maximum depth of 386 feet
Average depth of 165 feet |
