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Lake and Flathead Counties
Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River. While much of its shoreline is heavily developed, the north shore remains a critical, wild delta where the Flathead River empties into the lake. This area is a dynamic environment of shifting sandbars, shallow bays, and riparian forest.
During the spring and fall migrations, the north shore acts as a massive funnel for waterbirds. It is a premier location for viewing migrating loons, grebes, and waterfowl. The shallow bays attract large flocks of Tundra Swans and Canada Geese. The mature cottonwoods along the river channel support one of the highest concentrations of nesting Osprey and Bald Eagles in the state. When the lake level drops in the late summer and fall, the exposed mudflats draw significant numbers of migrating shorebirds.
Visitor Access
The north shore is a mix of private land and public Waterfowl Production Areas managed by the USFWS. Access to the public areas is free. Birding is typically done by walking the shoreline where public access is permitted, or by scanning the lake from designated pullouts along Highway 82. The area is heavily hunted in the fall, and specific seasonal closures may apply to protect nesting birds.