The Best Lakes in Montana: Where to Swim, Fish, and Kayak Safely

Montana is home to some of the most beautiful lakes in the western United States. From massive freshwater lakes to quiet mountain reservoirs, the state offers incredible opportunities for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. However, not all lakes in Montana are ideal—or safe—for swimming. Water temperature, depth, wind, and elevation all matter.

This in-depth guide covers the best lakes in Montana for swimming, fishing, and kayaking, along with important lakes where swimming is unsafe or not recommended.

Why Montana Lakes Are Unique

Montana lakes range from warm, low-elevation reservoirs to icy alpine and glacial lakes. Many are surrounded by public land, making access easy, but conditions can change quickly. Knowing which lakes are best for each activity—and which to avoid—helps you stay safe and enjoy your time outdoors.

Best Lakes in Montana for Swimming

Whitefish Lake (Northwest Montana)

Best for: Swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking

Whitefish Lake is one of the best swimming lakes in Montana thanks to its relatively warm summer water and excellent access.

Why it’s great

• City Beach with designated swim areas

• Gradual entry and clearer water

• One of the warmer mountain-region lakes

Flathead Lake (Flathead Valley)

Best for: Swimming, kayaking, boating

Flathead Lake is the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi and one of the most popular lakes in Montana.

Why it’s great

• Clear water and long beaches

• Multiple state parks and access points

• Comfortable swimming conditions by late summer

Lake Elmo (Billings)

Best for: Family swimming

Lake Elmo is one of the warmest swimming lakes in Montana.

Why it’s great

• Shallow water

• Designated swimming areas

• Ideal for kids and beginners

Tiber Reservoir (North-Central Montana)

Best for: Swimming and water recreation

This prairie reservoir warms up faster than most mountain lakes.

Why it’s great

• Warmer water temperatures

• Fewer crowds

• Long shoreline access

Best Lakes in Montana for Fishing

Flathead Lake

Fish species: Lake trout, whitefish, perch

One of Montana’s top fishing destinations with year-round opportunities.

Fort Peck Reservoir

Fish species: Walleye, northern pike, Chinook salmon

Nationally known for walleye fishing.

Hebgen Lake (Near Yellowstone)

Fish species: Brown trout, rainbow troutA legendary fly-fishing lake in Montana.

Canyon Ferry Lake (Near Helena)

Fish species: Walleye, perch, trout

Easily accessible and productive for anglers of all levels.

Best Lakes in Montana for Kayaking

Lake McDonald (Glacier National Park)

Best for: Scenic kayaking

Surrounded by mountains, Lake McDonald is stunning—but extremely cold.

Seeley Lake

Best for: Calm paddling

A beginner-friendly lake with calm water, especially in the mornings.

Holland Lake

Best for: Peaceful kayaking

Smaller, scenic, and less crowded, making it ideal for relaxed paddling.

Flathead Lake

Its size allows for everything from short shoreline paddles to full-day kayak trips.

Lakes in Montana Where You Should NOT Swim (or Use Extreme Caution)

Lake McDonald (Glacier National Park)

• Extremely cold glacial water

• Risk of cold shock even in summer

• Better suited for kayaking with safety gear

Fort Peck Reservoir

• Sudden drop-offs

• Strong winds and heavy boat traffic

• Swimming conditions vary widely

Hungry Horse Reservoir

• Very cold, deep water

• Rapid water level changes

• Limited safe swimming access

High-Elevation Alpine Lakes

Many small mountain lakes are:

• Snowmelt-fed

• Near-freezing year-round

• Unsafe for casual swimming

  

Safety Tips for Montana Lakes

• Assume water is cold unless confirmed otherwise

• Enter slowly to prevent cold shock

• Wear life jackets when kayaking

• Watch weather conditions closely

• Swim only in designated areas

Frequently Asked Questions About Lakes in Montana

What is the best lake in Montana for swimming?

Whitefish Lake and Flathead Lake are considered the best lakes in Montana for swimming due to warmer summer water, accessible beaches, and designated swim areas. Lake Elmo is another excellent option, especially for families.

Are Montana lakes safe to swim in?

Some Montana lakes are safe for swimming, but many are extremely cold or deep. Lower-elevation lakes and reservoirs are generally safer, while alpine and glacial lakes can be dangerous even in summer.

Why are so many lakes in Montana cold?

Many lakes in Montana are fed by snowmelt or glaciers, keeping water temperatures cold year-round—even during hot weather.

What lakes in Montana should you avoid swimming in?

Swimming is not recommended in Lake McDonald, Hungry Horse Reservoir, and parts of Fort Peck Reservoir due to cold water, depth, wind, and boating hazards.

What is the warmest lake in Montana?

Some of the warmest lakes in Montana include Lake Elmo, Tiber Reservoir, and parts of Canyon Ferry Lake.

Is Flathead Lake warm enough to swim in?

Flathead Lake is cold early in the season but becomes comfortable for swimming by late July and August, especially near shallow beaches.

Can beginners kayak on Montana lakes?

Yes. Lakes like Seeley Lake, Holland Lake, and calm shoreline areas of Flathead Lake are beginner-friendly, especially in the morning.

Do Montana lakes have lifeguards?

Most Montana lakes do not have lifeguards. Some city beaches, such as Whitefish City Beach, may offer seasonal coverage.

Do Montana lakes get algae blooms?

Some lakes and reservoirs experience harmful algae blooms in late summer. Conditions vary each year, so check local advisories before swimming.

When is the best time to visit Montana lakes?

Late July through early September is the best time to visit Montana lakes for warmer water, open access, and stable weather.