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Recreation

The Flathead National Forest contains three wilderness areas, two ski areas, impressive mountain ranges, lakes, wild and scenic rivers, campgrounds, picnic areas, and cabins. Hiking, wildlife viewing, whitewater rafting, snowmobiling, and skiing are just some activities enjoyed year-round. Whether you prefer the solitude of hiking in wilderness or the camaraderie found at popular boating and picnic areas, the Flathead National Forest offers a multitude of recreation opportunities for all.

Visit our maps & guides page to learn more about finding the right map for your visit.

Finding a recreation region or opportunity:

On the Flathead National Forest, recreation opportunities are organized by ranger districts. Click on the Recreation Regions tab or use the search box below to see which sites are managed by a certain district. 

The District Vicinity Map displays the district boundaries if you prefer a visual. To access contact information for each district, visit our offices page.

Recreation

Showing: 81 - 90 of 108 results

Spotted Bear Compound Day Use Site Fishing Site
Fishing Water Activities
The Spotted Bear Ranger Station is located 55 miles south of the town of Hungry Horse on the gravel East Side Reservoir Road #38. The Ranger Station is located at an elevation of 3,734 feet and is…

Star Meadow Guard Station Cabin
Biking Fishing Hiking Picnicking Scenic Drives
This 2 room historic Forest Service cabin is located 27 miles from Whitefish Montana accessed by a paved road. The cabin is heated by 2 electric wall heaters and multiple space heaters. The kitchen…

Summit House Snowmobile Trail
Winter Sports
The Summit House is part of the Canyon Creek Groomed system and ends at Big Mountain. The trail is open for over the snow motor vehicles

Summit Nature Center
Outdoor Science and Learning Biking Hiking
Hours and open dates can be found at Summit Nature Center. This education and visitor information center is located at the summit of Big Mountain Whitefish Mountain Resort in the lower level of…

Swan Front
Hiking Outdoor Science and Learning Biking Horse Riding and Camping
Area from Columbia Mtn south to Six Mile (Swan Lake Area)

Swan Guard Station
The Swan Guard Station is the oldest building on the Flathead National Forest. Constructed in 1909 as a remote ranger station, the cabin is located at the south end of Swan Lake near the Village of…

Swan Lake Boat Ramp
Water Activities Picnicking
The boat ramp is located within the Swan Lake Day Use Area. From Hwy 83, turn west near mile marker 72, just north of town. The campground is located across the street on the east side.This…

Swan Lake Campground
This recreation area is located near the village of Swan Lake at the north end of the scenic Swan Valley in northwest Montana, about 17 miles southeast of Big Fork. The campground consists of two…

Swan Lake Picnic Site
Picnicking
The Swan Lake Picnic Site is located in the Swan Lake Day Use Area. There are plenty of picnic tables and fire rings available. There are restrooms, water faucets, and trash containers at this site…

Swan Lake Swimming Site
Water Activities
The Swan Lake Swimming Site is located in the Swan Lake Day Use Area. There are plenty of picnic tables and fire rings available. There are restrooms, water faucets, and trash containers at this site…
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