Lakeside has figured out something the bigger Flathead Valley towns haven’t quite managed: how to offer genuine Flathead Lake access, a good brewery, an alpine coaster, a ski area, and a beach — all within a mile of each other — without charging Whitefish prices.
The town of about 3,000 people hugs the northwest corner of Flathead Lake, 12 miles south of Kalispell, and it serves the lake experience more efficiently per dollar than any other community in the valley.
TL;DR
- Lakeside (~3,000) is on the northwest shore of Flathead Lake, 12 miles south of Kalispell and 20 miles south of Whitefish.
- Volunteer Park provides free public beach access and swimming on Flathead Lake.
- Montana’s first and only Alpine Coaster operates at Flathead Lake Lodge — a year-round family activity.
- Blacktail Mountain Ski Area is 8 miles up into the mountains — affordable, north-facing, with panoramic views of Flathead Lake and Glacier National Park.
- Tamarack Brewing Company is one of the Flathead Valley’s best breweries.
- Best for: families, budget-conscious Flathead travelers, and anyone wanting Flathead Lake access at Kalispell prices rather than Whitefish prices.
Lakeside at a Glance
Population | ~3,000
County | Flathead County
Distance to Kalispell | ~12 miles north (~15 min)
Distance to Whitefish | ~20 miles north (~25 min)
Distance to Bigfork | ~20 miles east (~25 min)
I-90 / US-93 | US-93 S, 12 miles from Kalispell |
What Makes Lakeside Different
Lakeside isn’t as polished as Bigfork or as resort-priced as Whitefish, but it punches above its weight on genuine Flathead Lake experiences. The public beach at Volunteer Park, the alpine coaster, Blacktail Mountain, and Tamarack Brewing together create a full-day activity portfolio at prices that reflect a working community rather than a destination resort.
The Alpine Coaster is a genuinely distinctive feature. Montana’s first and only alpine coaster — a gravity-and-motor-powered rail ride through forested terrain — operates year-round at the Flathead Lake Lodge area near Lakeside. Families consistently rate it the Flathead Valley’s best non-hiking family activity.
Blacktail Mountain Ski Area deserves more attention than it gets. Located 8 miles up into the mountains above Lakeside, the ski area is entirely north-facing — meaning consistent, well-preserved snow through mid-April even when other Montana resorts are spring-skiing on corn. Panoramic views from the top encompass Flathead Lake, the Mission Mountains, and on clear days, Glacier National Park’s peaks.
Top Things to Do
1. Volunteer Park Beach (Free)
The best free public beach on Flathead Lake’s west shore — grassy picnic area, dock, and clear lake swimming. Families congregate here on summer afternoons. The views of the Swan and Mission Mountains across the lake are excellent.
2. Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster
Montana’s first and only alpine coaster — a rail ride through forested terrain above Flathead Lake. Year-round operation. Families rate it highly; the combination of speed and scenery is distinctive.
3. Blacktail Mountain Ski Area (8 miles up into the mountains)
Blacktail is an affordable, family-friendly ski area with more than 13 miles of terrain, 24 named trails, and 70 acres of gladed tree skiing. Three chairlifts serve the mountain. The north-facing orientation preserves snow quality; summit views encompass Flathead Lake and Glacier National Park.
4. Tamarack Brewing Company
Year-round attractions include an alpine coaster, local brewery and cozy lodging options. Tamarack Brewing is one of the Flathead Valley’s most respected craft breweries — solid ales, good food, and a taproom that works for both locals and visitors.
5. West Shore State Park (south of Lakeside)
A quiet state park on Flathead Lake’s west shore — mature forest, rocky beach, and public camping. Less developed than other lake parks, with a peaceful atmosphere.
6. Legacy Bike Park
Mountain biking terrain above Lakeside — jump lines and flow trails for all skill levels.
7. Guided Boat Tours on Flathead Lake
Multiple charter operators depart from Lakeside — scenic tours, fishing charters, and sunset cruises.
8. Lavender Fields near Lakeside
Local lavender farm — late summer blooms, lavender products, scenic views.
9. Lakeside-Somers Trail
A multi-use trail along the west shore connecting Lakeside to Somers — walking, biking, lake views.
10. Day Trip to Kalispell (15 min north)
Conrad Mansion, Museum at Central School, full city services. See Kalispell guide.
Where to Stay
| Hotel | Vibe | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bayshore Resort | Lakeside, full service | $180–300 | Most travelers |
| Vacation rentals (west shore) | Lakefront homes | $200–500 | Families |
| Kalispell hotels (15 min north) | Chain options | $130–220 | Budget |
Where to Eat
- Tamarack Brewing Company — best food and beer in Lakeside
- Grouse Mountain Grille — dining in the Blacktail Mountain Lodge
- Lakeside Resort dining — casual lakeside meals
Getting There
US-93 South from Kalispell (12 miles, 15 min) or from Whitefish (20 miles, 25 min).
Personal Tips
Blacktail Mountain in April. Snow holds on north-facing slopes when everywhere else is melting. Late season skiing at Blacktail, with Flathead Lake visible below, is one of the Flathead Valley’s best experiences.
Volunteer Park on weekday mornings. Summers bring crowds to the beach by afternoon. Arrive by 9 a.m. for the best experience.
Quick Facts
Blacktail Mountain: 13+ miles terrain, entirely north-facing. Alpine Coaster: Montana’s first. Average summer high: 81°F.
FAQ
Is Lakeside Montana worth visiting?
Yes — Lakeside provides genuine Flathead Lake access (free beach at Volunteer Park), Montana’s only Alpine Coaster, the exceptional Blacktail Mountain Ski Area (north-facing, great views), and Tamarack Brewing — all at prices lower than Whitefish.
What is Blacktail Mountain Ski Area near Lakeside?
Blacktail Mountain is a ski area 8 miles above Lakeside with 13+ miles of terrain, 24 named trails, and entirely north-facing slopes. The north orientation preserves snow quality through mid-April. Summit views encompass Flathead Lake, the Mission Mountains, and Glacier National Park peaks.
