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Polson, Montana

Polson is in Northwest Montana on the southern end of Flathead Lake. The town is within the boundaries of the Flathead Indian Reservation, home to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.

Polson was part of the region occupied for thousands of years by two major Salish-speaking Tribes by way of the Salish and the Pend d’Oreilles, as well as one band of the Kootenai Tribe.

The first non-native visitors to the Flathead Lake region were fur-traders, somewhere around the 1820s. The town developed as commerce in the region developed due to the convenient transportation offered by both the Flathead River and Flathead Lake.

The population of Polson is around the 5,000-resident mark, and this small northwestern Montana town is a decent spot from which to base yourself if you are intent on exploring the region.

Polson is something of a destination in its own right though and is home to various unique attractions like rushing dams and detailed, historic museums.

As the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, Flathead Lake serves as the primary backdrop for any Polson scenario–not such a tall order considering this huge body of water covers over 200 square miles or more.

Polson is an excellent provider of various outlets and access points to lakeside enjoyment, and as the town sits on the southern end of the lake, anyone driving in from Missoula soon becomes aware of the massive body of water as it comes into view, welcoming them to town with its unlimited potential for outdoor recreation.

flathead lake from polson

The Top 3 Hotels in Polson

Red Lion Inn & Suites
BEST FOR FAMILIES

Red Lion Inn & Suites

  • Hot Tub/Jacuzzi
  • Free WiFi
  • Pet Friendly
Cozy Cove
BEST BUDGET HOTEL

Cozy Cove

  • BBQ Facilities
  • ATM on Site
  • Fitness Center
Americas Best Value Port Polson Inn
BEST FOR COUPLES

Americas Best Value Port Polson Inn

  • Free WiFi
  • Business Center
  • Tennis Court