Flathead Valley Montana, MT

Located in northwest Montana at the headwaters of Flathead Lake, Flathead Valley is a beautiful area with a total population of approximately 85,000 people.

In Flathead Valley the climate is very important to the area's economy. The mild springs and summers are perfect for growing cash crops such as cherries, fresh vegetables, barley, mint, and apples. The gentle winter is great for residents because heating costs are lower.

Flathead has a strong economy, mainly due to the diversity of the area. It boasts plenty of natural resources perfect for a growing agriculture sector, but it's also a major recreation and tourism destination, and has a foothold in the tech industry.

The warm summer temperatures and low humidity allow residents and visitors to enjoy the one of hundreds of rivers or forested lakes. Go waterskiing, windsurfing, fishing, and boating. Outdoor concerts and theatrical events are often held against the backdrop of nature. There are rodeos, garden tours, festivals, and even a cherry harvest along Flathead Lake.

In spring the warm afternoons are quite beautiful. Wildflowers adorn the meadows and mountainsides for an unparalleled view. Flathead Valley has three major rivers, favorite spots for rafters who have an adventurous spirit. In spring there is the occasional skier in the early morning, and golfer in the afternoon.

Fall has cool mornings that are perfect for playing golf at one of the many gorgeous local courses open until October. Watch the changing colors of the local trees as you play a round with your friends. Bicycling, canoeing, and hunting are other popular activities.

In winter there is no limit to what you can do. Montana is known for its harsh winters; luckily in the Flathead Valley temperatures rarely plummet below the mid 20's to 30's. Go skiing on Big Mountain, which offers over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain. Or visit Blacktail Mountain - this is the valley's newest ski area. Go snowmobiling on one of the hundreds of miles of trails through interesting terrain, which is also suitable for cross-country skiing, dog sledding, sleigh rides, and ice fishing.