| Quick Facts: | Flathead Lake |
|---|---|
| Countries: | USA |
| Catchment area: | 22.240 km² (8.587 sq mi) |
| Max. length: | 27.3 mi (43.9 km) |
| Max width: | 15.5 mi (24.9 km) |
| Surface area: | 510 km² (197 sq mi) |
| Avg. Depth: | 164.7 ft (50.2 m) |
| Max. depth: | 370.7 ft (113.0 m) |
| Water volume: | 5.56 cu mi (23.2 km³) |
| Type: | Moraine-dammed lake |
Located in northwestern Montana, in Flathead and Lake Counties, Flathead Lake is the largest natural lake in the state, about 30 miles (48 km) long and 14 miles (22 km) wide. It lies at an elevation of about 2,885 feet (879 meters) among forested mountains. The lake was formed by a moraine that caused the waters of the Flathead River to back up.
Flathead Lake is a popular recreational area; three state parks are situated along its shores. Polson, at the southern end of the lake, is the principal community. The region around the lake is known as the Flathead area, taking its name from the Flathead Indians who formerly inhabited this region.
