Montana is a place where you do not have to search far to find a lake. This beautiful city is home to almost 3224 lakes and reservoirs. During the peak winter season, some of these lakes freeze solid, transforming into a spectacular landscape. The moment you step onto these best lakes in Montana, you’ll realise how magnificent some views on this earth are.
Montana takes you on a trip to a frozen wonderland in winter when many of these lakes freeze completely. The breathtaking ice landscapes formed by these beautiful lakes in Montana look straight out of a postcard and steal your heart in no time. Beyond their visual allure, some of these frozen lakes also offer great opportunities for ice fishing and ice skating. Some of the most clear and beautiful Montana lakes that freeze over in winter are:
- Fort Peck Lake
- Georgetown Lake
- Whitefish Lake
- Seeley Lake
- Lake McDonald
- Saint Mary Lake
- Avalanche Lake
- Clark Canyon Reservoir
Frozen lakes in Montana perfect for your next cold-weather adventure
While lakes in Montana need no introduction, Montana’s frozen lakes top them all. From ice fishing and skating to photography and winter hiking, these lakes offer you a unique experience of exploring the state’s wild beauty. So, if you’re fascinated to experience more than just Montana’s ‘big sky’, explore these stunning lakes in Montana that completely freeze over the winter season. Without any further ado, let’s dive into the world of snow, ice, and blue lakes in Montana!
1. Fort Peck Lake
- Location: Northeastern Montana
- Ideal For: Ice fishing, camping, and photography
- Best Time to Visit: December to March
- Pro Tip: As ice thickness varies with the changes in wind and temperature, check with locals about the ice conditions before venturing out.
Fort Peck Lake is a large reservoir in eastern Montana, formed on the Missouri River. It is the fifth-largest artificial lake in the U.S. and a very popular destination for fishing, boating, and camping. It also has numerous free campsites and a Marina. Spanning over 245,000 acres, this lake freezes solid in winter, allowing tourists to embark on outdoor adventures in the vast white expanse.
What to do at Fort Peck Lake, Montana?
Firstly, you can try your hand at ice fishing for walleye and northern pike at Fort Peck Lake. After a fun adventure, explore Fort Peck Marina and nearby free campsites for sightseeing. If you have ample time, you can enjoy snowmobiling and cross-country skiing along the shoreline.
2. Georgetown Lake
- Location: Near Philipsburg, Western Montana
- Ideal For: Ice fishing, skating, and family trips
- Best Time to Visit: Late December to February
- Pro Tip: If you wish to have stunning photographs, visit during sunrise and sunset to witness the amazing reflection of snow-covered peaks on the ice.
Georgetown Lake is a reservoir located on the north fork of the San Gabriel River in central Texas in the United States. Surrounded by the Pintler Mountains, it is one of the most sought-after frozen lakes in Montana. It is a reservoir managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and is ideal for winter recreation.
What to do at Georgetown Lake, Montana?
The best part about exploring Georgetown Lake is that you can go ice fishing for rainbow trout and kokanee salmon. To ignite your dopamine, you can opt for snowmobiling and ice skating on the frozen lake. Lastly, you can visit the nearby Discovery Ski Area and enjoy skiing and snowboarding.
3. Whitefish Lake
- Location: Near Whitefish, Montana
- Ideal For: Winter sports enthusiasts and families
- Best Time to Visit: December to March
- Pro Tip: To maximise your Montana winter getaway, combine your lake visit with a day at the ski resort.
Whitefish Lake is a natural freshwater lake in Montana. It is located near the city of Whitefish, and can also be referred to as the lake of whitefish species, a popular freshwater fish found in parts of North America. It is known for its year-round accessibility, offering activities such as ice skating and fishing in winter as well as summer water activities.
What to do at Whitefish Lake, Montana?
You should go ice fishing for lake trout and northern pike for an ultimate experience. Then visit nearby Whitefish Mountain Resort for skiing and snowboarding. And you can also get your pictures clicked in the panoramic winter views while walking along the Whitefish City Beach.
4. Seeley Lake
- Location: Lolo National Forest, Western Montana
- Ideal For: Outdoor lovers, skaters, and nature photographers
- Best Time to Visit: December to February
- Pro Tip: Elk and moose are abundant here, so don’t miss out on wildlife sightings.
Seeley Lake is a natural glacial lake in Montana within the Lolo National Forest. It is one of the Clearwater River chain of lakes in western Montana. Surrounded by forests and mountains, the lake offers a wild winter escape. Seeley Lake is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, renowned for its rich ecological diversity.
What to do at Seeley Lake, Montana?
Seeley Lake is popular for ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, so try your hand at each one of these activities. You can also explore the nearby Seeley Lake Nordic Trails for scenic routes and wonderful photography spots. After a day filled with adventure and joy at the lake, you can explore local lodges and cafes for a cozy winter stay.
5. Lake McDonald
- Location: Glacier National Park
- Ideal For: Nature lovers, photographers, and families
- Best Time to Visit: Late November to early March
- Pro Tip: Click surreal photos when the colors of the sky blend with the icy surface of the lake during sunrise.
McDonald Lake is the largest lake and one of the clear lakes in Montana. It is a popular destination for activities like boat tours, kayaking, hiking, and staying at the historic Lake McDonald Lodge. It is also known for its clear blue waters and colorful, rainbow-like rocks. The lake is situated in a glacial valley.
What to do at McDonald Lake, Montana?
Check the seasonal availability at the Lake McDonald Lodge and try booking a stay there for the best experience. You should go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing around the lake and witness the iconic rainbow-colored pebbles beneath the ice of McDonald Lake.
6. Saint Mary Lake
- Location: Glacier National Park, East Side
- Ideal For: Sightseers and photographers
- Best Time to Visit: December to March
- Pro Tip: Consider checking the updates on Going-to-the-Sun Road, which may close in winter, before visiting.
Saint Mary Lake is the second-largest lake in Glacier National Park, Montana. It is a popular destination for scenic views, wildlife, and activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours. It is also a great place for sightseeing, especially for those who adore mountain scenery and the natural environment. Surrounded by snow-draped peaks, the frozen lake makes for a perfect spot for postcard-worthy photographs in winter.
What to do at Saint Mary Lake, Montana?
Don’t miss out on capturing the Wild Goose Island viewpoint, which looks magnificent, especially in winter. You should opt for snowshoeing or go on a quiet walk around the lakeshore to experience ultimate peace and calmness. However, be aware of wildlife such as bighorn sheep and elk.
7. Avalanche Lake
- Location: Glacier National Park (via Trail of the Cedars)
- Ideal For: Hikers and adventure seekers
- Best Time to Visit: December to February
- Pro Tip: The trail is slippery due to snowfall, so consider wearing crampons or microspikes for added comfort.
Avalanche Lake is a popular destination in Glacier National Park, Montana, renowned for its stunning blue waters and breathtaking surrounding scenery. You can reach there by a moderate 6-mile round-trip hike, which begins at the Trail of the Cedars and waterfalls from Sperry Glacier. This hidden winter gem also makes for a popular hiking spot among tourists.
What to do at Avalanche Lake, Montana?
Begin your scenic hike to the lake through snow-covered forests and enjoy snow photography. You can also consider winter picnicking if the weather permits. Last but not least, you can witness the magnificent beauty of the frozen waterfalls from Sperry Glacier feeding into the lake.
8. Clark Canyon Reservoir
- Location: Near Dillon, Southwestern Montana
- Ideal For: Ice fishing and peaceful winter retreats
- Best Time to Visit: December to March
- Pro Tip: Consider going fishing in early mornings as fish bite more actively before noon.
Clark Canyon Reservoir is a man-made lake in Montana, originally created to provide irrigation water and help prevent floods. Known for its historical significance, the lake has become a perfect destination for an uncrowded winter escape. Today, the reservoir is a recreational area for fishing, boating, and sightseeing.
What to do at Clark Canyon Reservoir, Montana?
You should go ice fishing for trout and kokanee salmon during your visit to Clark Canyon Reservoir. If you are a history enthusiast, consider visiting the Lewis and Clark historical sites nearby. You should also enjoy winter camping or go for scenic drives along the reservoir.
Tips for visiting Montana during winter
Montana in winter offers cold and snowy conditions, with temperatures often dropping below zero, making it ideal for winter sports like skiing. The season runs from approximately November to March, with January being the coldest month. However, temperatures as low as zero degrees can occur in December and February, as well.
Visitors can enjoy a snowy landscape, particularly in national parks like Yellowstone, and engage in activities such as visiting hot springs or exploring areas with milder weather, like the Bitterroot Valley.
Winter activities to try in Montana during your trip
Skiing and snowboarding
Many ski areas offer terrain for all skill levels, with both downhill and cross-country options. That said, frozen lakes in Montana are popular among tourists for skiing and snowboarding.
Dog sledding
The deep snow and cold temperatures make dog sledding a popular activity in areas like Yellowstone Country. Frozen lakes in Montana also make for an ideal destination for this adventure.
Winter hiking
National Parks such as Yellowstone provide beautiful winter scenery, including thermal pools set against a snowy landscape. If you are an adventure freak, winter hiking will be a great option for you.
Relaxing in hot springs
Some hot springs remain open year-round, providing warmth during the cold months. So, you can consider relaxing there during your trip to Montana.
Final Words
The beautiful frozen lakes in Montana are more than just scenic spots. They’re living proof of nature’s artistry on earth. From gliding across Whitefish Lake to fishing at Fort Peck, or hiking to Avalanche Lake, each destination ensures you enjoy an ultimate winter experience. So, when the temperatures drop and snowfall begins, pack your bags and head straight to Montana’s icy lakes and experience adventure in the heart of winter.
