At the southern end of Flathead Lake, Polson was the first community in the Flathead Lake area to be settled by "White folks". Incorporated on April 5, 1910, Polson was named after David Polson, a pioneer rancher and a fine fiddler. Each summer in late July Polson hosts the state's largest fiddling contest.
Situated halfway between Missoula and Kalispell on US Highway 93, Polson is your Gateway to Glacier National Park which is only a little over an hour away. Also located nearby is the National Bison Range. Take a day to drive the self guided tour where you will observe not only bison but elk, prong horned antelope, big horn sheep, deer and various other animals. Stop at the scenic overlook and see for hundreds of miles in all directions while you hear only the gentle breeze and birdsongs.
Not many places in the Rockies can boast of lakes big enough to allow real boating, but Polson can and does. Flathead Lake is 27 miles long. From Bigfork and Somers on the north to Polson on the south, Flathead Lake is the West's largest natural fresh water lake. Kerr Dam, located west of Polson maintains a 'full pool' in the summer. Flathead Lake is a natural lake and full pool has always been reached during the time of runoff. The addition of Kerr Dam has made it possible for full summer recreational use of the lake. Steamboats played a major part in early transportation of freight and passengers. The Lake supports Montana's largest sailing community as well as sizable fleets of motor craft and charter fishing boats. Flathead Lake is unrivaled as a prime fishery for trophy Mackinaw and lake trout. Boat tours are available for those who don't choose to fish. The Port Polson Princess, a 41 foot tour boat departs from Polson three times daily during the tourist season.
There is a reason why Montana ranks consistently with the upper Great Lakes in terms of non-resident fishing licenses. While other states still stock their streams and rivers with hatchery reared trout, Montana manages its thousands of miles of streams and rivers for wild trout. That means taking care of the land and water that support trout.
In addition to all the activities that the lake has to offer, there is the Flathead River nearby for White Water rafting and one of the valley's oldest and loveliest lakeshore golf courses.Polson is the largest city on the Flathead Indian Reservation.
There are almost as many Golf courses as there are majestic views of the mountains here in the area. Quickly becoming one of the area's top attractions, the challenging courses in the area take advantage of the landscape. You can golf beside the lakes, under a mountain or over a raging river. There are many golf ranges and practice putting courses. If a basic 18 holes isn't enough for you, many of the courses have full resort amenities other than golf.
There are many and varied activities for everyone who visits the Polson area. The town boasts of two excellent museums which have been written about in the Los Angeles Times and children (from 2 to 92) will enjoy the commercial activity center located here.
Polson has several multiple use city parks located on the lake. Visitors are advised to keep their eyes open and their cameras ready for the area's own "Flathead Monster". Sightings date back more than a hundred years.
Kerr Dam is situated on the Flathead River southwest of Polson The vista overlook and recreation area provide a spectacular view of the dam which is 54 feet higher than Niagra Falls.
Nearby you can enjoy the Native Ed-ventures at the Sqelix'u/Aq#smakni-k'-(the People) Cultural Center. 'Walk through time' where you will learn the general history and politics behind the establishment of the reservation. Visit the National Bison Range and learn about the bison and its role in the economic system of the plains and plateau Indians.
Enjoy fine dining in one of our varied restaurants and in the evening relax and enjoy Polson's live theatre which boasts several different plays during the summer season (some of the best off Broadway) or take in a movie.
No matter what your interests we have something for you here in Polson. Featured events throughout the summer are Crazy Days (where everything is a bargain and folks shop in the outdoors and enjoy a hot dog or cotton candy while they do so), Hoop fest (Sponsored by Larry Krystkowiak-play with the stars-in 1998 we hosted players and a coach from the Chicago Bulls), Fiddler's contest, rodeos, Pow-wows, Golf tournaments, Annual Clay Shoot, Concerts in the Park, Art Festival, Octoberfest.
The summer weather is some of the finest you will find anywhere with temperatures rarely exceeding 85*
Whether you want something to 'do' or just want to relax and enjoy the scenic views, fresh air and Big Sky, the friendly people of Polson are waiting to make your vacation a most memorable occasion.
Costumes and Customs of Polson
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Things to do in Polson
