Experience Life on Flathead Lake

Ringed by the Rocky Mountains and nestled at the foot of Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. Named one of the cleanest lakes in the United States, at 30 miles long and 15 miles wide, there is plenty of room to play on this spectacular body of water. At depths of nearly 400 feet, and more than 160 miles of shoreline, it’s no wonder folks come from around the globe to dip their toes in its clear water.

The Outlook Inn Bed and Breakfast is located just south of Somers, Montana on the northwest tip of Flathead Lake. Life is slower in these parts, even on a busy summer day, you can get out on the lake and not see a soul. Views from every room at the Outlook Inn frame the vast expanse of the lake and mountains. And …as one of our guests put it as he walked into our place, “It’s not just a “nice” view…it’s like POW!! Right in the face with this view!”

The Outlook Inn Bed and Breakfast is a four-season destination:

Spring on Flathead Lake

Spring is truly a time of renewal around the lake. The Osprey arrive in March to herald in the changing seasons. Trumpeter swan and snow geese pass through on their way to summer grounds. As the snow recedes, wildflowers dot the hillsides. And planting season begins here at the Inn. Lowland hiking is popular for our guests as they venture out into the valley. And of course, the fishing is always good on Flathead Lake. Spring is also the only time you can safely walk or ride a bike up Going to the Sun Road in Glacier National Park as the road is closed to all motorized vehicles.

Summer Boating, Paddling and Fishing on the Lake

There is no other venue on the lake that offers the views we have. Guests linger over breakfast and bask in the sun while watching Bald Eagles and Osprey soar above the Lake.  Discussions revolve around what to do…” shall we rent a boat today?” “Let’s walk down to the lake and hop on paddleboards or kayaks or wave runners for a few hours.” “Maybe we will walk down and jump into the lake”. “Why don’t we charter a fishing boat?”. “Maybe we will spend the day driving around the lake and stopping at the many parks and roadside attractions.”

And of course, there is Wild Horse Island State Park. Guests love renting a boat and going to the 2,164-acre island for a picnic, hike, and a chance to see wild horses. Wild Horse Island is also home to trophy size bighorn sheep and deer.

Tuesday and Friday evening guests gather on our decks to watch the sailboat races while enjoying a beverage and some nibbles.

Whatever you choose to do, there is no shortage of fun in the sun on the lake.

Fall Fun & Foliage on Flathead Lake

As fall approaches the mornings are a little crisper, but the sun keeps us warm with temperatures in the 60’s and ’70s through September and into October. The crowds have thinned and you might find yourself having the lake all to yourself! Guests enjoy driving around the lake and stopping at the many fruit stands and parks. There are still many fun activities such as the Dragon Boat Races, outdoor concerts, farmers' markets, and watching the Tamaracks turn a brilliant gold in swaths on nearby hillsides. Fishing remains a popular attraction as well.

Winter Sports Around the Lake

Sunrises and sunsets over Flathead Lake during the winter months are some of the most spectacular of the year.  After a day of skiing at nearby Blacktail Mountain or Whitefish Mountain guests love to curl up in front of our river rock fireplace, sip hot cocoa and look out over the lake. Once the lake freezes over, you can x-country ski along the shoreline, or borrow a pair of our snowshoes and walk along the shoreline. Ice fishing is a popular pastime as well.