List of lakes of Flathead County, Montana (A-L) facts for kids

Flathead County in Montana is a super cool place with tons of water! It's home to at least 269 different lakes and reservoirs. These watery spots are not just pretty to look at; they're also important for nature, wildlife, and fun activities like fishing and boating.

Lakes and Reservoirs in Flathead County

Flathead County, located in the beautiful state of Montana, is famous for its amazing natural landscapes. A big part of this beauty comes from its many lakes and reservoirs. You can find over 269 named bodies of water here, from huge lakes to smaller, hidden ones.

What are Lakes and Reservoirs?

A lake is a large area of water surrounded by land. Lakes are usually naturally formed, often by glaciers or rivers over many, many years. A reservoir is also a body of water, but it's usually created by people. Reservoirs are often made by building a dam across a river. They are used to store water for drinking, farming, or making electricity. In Flathead County, you'll find both natural lakes and human-made reservoirs.

Amazing Flathead Lake

One of the most famous and biggest lakes in Flathead County is Flathead Lake. It's not just big for Montana; it's the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River in the United States! This huge lake is partly in Flathead County and partly in Lake County. It's a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. The water is super clear, and the views of the mountains around it are incredible.

Other Cool Lakes to Explore

Besides Flathead Lake, there are many other interesting lakes in the county.

• Mountain Lakes: Many lakes, like Akokala Lake or Avalanche Lake, are high up in the mountains. These lakes are often crystal clear and surrounded by forests and tall peaks. They are perfect for hiking and enjoying quiet nature.
• Smaller Lakes: You'll also find many smaller lakes scattered throughout the county. Lakes like Ashley Lake and Lake McDonald are also very popular. Some are easy to get to, while others are hidden gems that require a bit of a hike. They offer great chances to see local wildlife and enjoy the outdoors.
• Reservoirs: The county also has important reservoirs, like Hungry Horse Reservoir. This reservoir was created by the Hungry Horse Dam. It's a huge body of water that helps control floods and provides electricity.

Why So Many Lakes?

You might wonder why Flathead County has so many lakes. A big reason is the history of glaciers. Thousands of years ago, huge sheets of ice (glaciers) moved across this area. As they moved, they carved out valleys and depressions in the land. When the glaciers melted, these hollows filled with water, forming many of the beautiful lakes we see today. This is why many lakes in the area are long and deep.

See also

• List of lakes in Montana
• List of lakes in Flathead County, Montana (M-Z)