Montana’s pristine lakes offer an unparalleled swimming experience, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in crystal-clear waters surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. These water playgrounds suit every swimmer, from Flathead Lake’s wide beaches to the quiet coves of alpine gems. Sandy beaches provide perfect lounging spots for families, while remote mountain lakes offer serene escapes for adventure seekers.
The perfect swimming lake in Montana offers a mix of features that let you see crystal clear deep below the surface. It’s comfortably warm, especially in later summer. Many lakes also have convenient picnic areas, campgrounds, and boat launches.
Whether you’re seeking a refreshing dip on a hot day or a full day of water-based activities, Montana’s diverse lakes promise unforgettable swimming experiences. Before we dive into the 13 best lakes for swimming in the Treasure State, let’s review some essential safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Flathead Lake
At a glance:
- Location: 7 miles south of Kalispell, MT, USA
- Size: 27.3 miles long, 15.5 miles wide
- Unique Feature: Largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi
Flathead Lake is a premier swimming destination in Montana, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the Mission Mountains. With a surface area of 197 square miles, it offers numerous excellent swimming spots, including Wayfarers State Park, Big Arm State Park, and Yellow Bay State Park. The lake’s water temperature typically reaches a comfortable 65°F to 75°F by mid-summer, making it ideal for swimming and water activities.
Whitefish Lake
At a glance:
- Location: Whitefish, MT, USA
- Size: 5.2 square miles
- Unique Feature: Surrounded by the rugged peaks of the Rocky mountains near Whitefish Range and Lion Mountain
Whitefish Lake is a beautiful natural lake perfect for summertime water activities. The lake features a large sandy beach area called ‘City Beach’ with a roped-off swimming area, volleyball courts, and picnic facilities. Whitefish Lake State Park on the west side of the lake offers additional swimming opportunities with its own concrete boat launch and roped-off swim area. The lake’s clear waters and mountain backdrop create a picturesque setting for swimmers.
Seeley Lake
At a glance:
- Location: Seeley Lake, Montana, USA
- Size: 1,047 acres
- Unique Feature: Easily accessible from town with high shoreline development
Seeley Lake is a popular swimming destination known for its moderate levels of algae and plant growth, creating a balanced ecosystem for swimmers. The lake supports various fish species and offers easy access from the town of Seeley Lake. With a maximum depth of 125 feet, Seeley Lake provides diverse swimming experiences for visitors. Its central location and developed shoreline make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Holland Lake
At a glance:
- Location: Holland Lake, Montana, USA
- Size: 413.5 acres
- Unique Feature: Stunning backdrop of the Swan Range
Holland Lake offers an idyllic setting for swimming, with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking mountain scenery. The lake features a lovely day-use area and a sizable campground, making it perfect for a tranquil swim. With an average depth of 18m and a maximum depth of 48m, Holland Lake provides various swimming experiences. Its location at the foothills of the Swan Range creates a stunning backdrop for swimmers.
Swan Lake
At a glance:
- Location: Swan Lake, MT, USA
- Size: Around 1 mile wide and 8 miles long
- Unique Feature: Uncrowded angler’s and boater’s paradise
Swan Lake offers excellent swimming opportunities in a serene setting. The Swan Lake Swimming Site, located in the Swan Lake Day Use Area, features a beach open for public swimming. Facilities include restrooms, a boat ramp, dock, and picnic areas. The lake is perfect for various water activities, including swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Swan Lake State Park, located at the lake’s southeast shore, offers a swimming area and boat ramp for easy access.
Lake Mary Ronan
At a glance:
- Location: Lake Mary Ronan, Montana, USA
- Size: Roughly 1,500 acres in size
- Unique Feature: Family-friendly resort with various water activities
Lake Mary Ronan offers a range of family-friendly swimming opportunities. The lake features designated swimming areas marked by floating buoys near Kobayashi Bay. With a maximum depth of 47 feet, the lake provides diverse swimming experiences. Lake Mary Ronan State Park occupies 120 acres on the east side of the lake, offering 25 campsites and a boat ramp. The lake is known for its kokanee salmon and yellow perch populations.
Hauser Lake
At a glance:
- Location: Hauser Lake, Montana, USA
- Size: 3,200 acres
- Unique Feature: Popular for weekend boating and water skiing
Hauser Lake, a reservoir on the Missouri River, provides excellent swimming opportunities. The lake is known for its scenic public campgrounds and is a popular spot for water activities, including swimming and water skiing. With its large surface area, Hauser Lake offers plenty of space for swimmers to enjoy the water. The lake’s proximity to Helena makes it a convenient destination for both locals and visitors seeking a refreshing swim.
Lake Como
At a glance:
- Location: Lake Como, MT, USA
- Size: Not specified in the search results
- Unique Feature: Unique sandy beach in Montana
Lake Como offers a rare sandy beach swimming experience in Montana. The Lake Como Beach Swimming Site provides amenities such as picnic tables, accessible restroom and dressing facilities, and paved parking. The beach is particularly popular during summer months when the lake is full. Note that there are no lifeguards on duty, so be vigilant and follow safe lake rules. Lake Como’s sandy shores make it stand out among Montana’s lakes, providing a unique and enjoyable swimming experience for visitors.
Lake McDonald
At a glance:
- Location: Lake McDonald, MT, USA
- Size: 10 miles long
- Unique Feature: Clearest and warmest lake in Glacier National Park
Lake McDonald is the favorite swimming spot in Glacier National Park. Its crystal-clear waters allow visibility up to 20 feet deep, creating an incredible swimming experience. The lake’s water temperature peaks around 70 degrees Fahrenheit in August, making it the most pleasant for swimming. Apgar, at the foot of Lake McDonald, offers a relatively large beach popular among swimmers. The lake’s calm surface on windless days provides a perfect setting for floating and relaxation.
Ennis Lake
At a glance:
- Location: Ennis Lake, MT, USA
- Size: 3,691.8 acres
- Unique Feature: Shallow lake with warm water perfect for water sports
Ennis Lake, formed by a dam on the Madison River, is known for its shallow depth, averaging 8 feet with a maximum of 20 feet. This shallow profile allows the water to warm up quickly, making it ideal for swimming and water sports, especially in the morning before the wind picks up. The lake offers designated swimming areas marked by floating buoys near Kobayashi Bay. Its warm waters and various recreational opportunities make Ennis Lake a popular destination for swimmers and water enthusiasts.
Tally Lake
At a glance:
- Location: Tally Lake, MT USA
- Size: Over 1,200 acres
- Unique Feature: Deepest natural lake in Montana
Tally Lake, located in Flathead County, is notable for its great depth and unusual geology. With a maximum depth of 445 to 492 feet, it’s the deepest lake in Montana. Despite its depth, the lake tends to be warm in late summer due to high levels of tannins, which cause the water to absorb and retain more heat. This unique characteristic makes Tally Lake an interesting swimming destination. The lake is popular for various recreational activities, including swimming and cliff jumping.
Lake Elmo
At a glance:
- Location: Lake Elmo, Billings, MT, USA
- Size: 64 acres
- Unique Feature: Urban lake with designated swimming beach
Lake Elmo, located in Lake Elmo State Park, offers a convenient swimming spot within the city of Billings. The lake features a designated swimming beach with a roped-off area for safety. Amenities include picnic areas, restrooms, and a paved walking path around the lake. Despite its urban setting, Lake Elmo provides a refreshing escape for city dwellers seeking a quick swim. The lake is also popular for fishing and non-motorized boating activities.
Avalanche Lake
At a glance:
- Location: Glacier National Park, MT, USA
- Size: 9.7 acres
- Unique Feature: Surrounded by stunning glacier-carved cliffs
Avalanche Lake is a picturesque alpine lake located in Glacier National Park. It’s known for its crystal-clear waters and the dramatic backdrop of glacier-carved cliffs. The lake is accessible via a popular hiking trail, making it a perfect destination for those who enjoy combining hiking with swimming. While the water can be cold due to its high elevation, the breathtaking scenery and refreshing dip make it a favorite among visitors. The lake’s shoreline offers several spots for swimmers to enter the water and enjoy the pristine alpine environment.
Essential Safety Tips for Swimming in Montana’s Lakes
- Always swim with a buddy and supervise children closely at all times.
- Be aware of water conditions, including temperature and currents, before entering the lake.
- Wear appropriate safety gear, such as life jackets, especially when boating or in deep water.
- Stay within designated swimming areas and obey all posted signs and warnings.
- Avoid mixing alcohol with swimming activities.
- Be cautious of underwater hazards, sudden drop-offs, and changing weather conditions.
- Learn basic water rescue skills and CPR.
- Check local weather forecasts and be prepared to exit the water quickly if storms approach.
Now that you’re equipped with these essential safety tips, let’s dive into the 13 best lakes for swimming in Montana’s breathtaking landscapes.
Final Words
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Montana’s lakes, offering a diverse range of swimming experiences. Each lake has its unique charm, whether it’s the stunning mountain backdrops, crystal-clear waters, or excellent facilities.
When planning your Montana swimming adventure, consider factors such as water temperature, accessibility, and available amenities to choose the perfect spot for your preferences. Remember to always prioritize safety and respect the natural environment while enjoying these beautiful aquatic treasures.
From glacial waters to sun-warmed beaches, Montana’s lakes promise refreshing adventures for every swimmer.