Explore Local Communities

Flathead Valley

The Flathead Valley offers both peaceful relaxation and a range of exciting cultural choices.

• 360-degree views of mountains and lakes
• One of North America’s premier national parks
• Recreation options for every age and ability
• Two nearby ski resorts
• Nine excellent golf courses
• Charming, historic small towns
• World-class medical facilities

The “Flathead,” as locals call the valley, lies just west of the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains, amid the Swan, Mission, Salish and Whitefish ranges of Northwest Montana. In the middle lies the blue jewel of Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi.

Flathead Lake is also among the cleanest large lakes – perfect for sailing, cruising, kayaking, swimming, and fishing for trophy-size trout, yellow perch and whitefish. In spring, the fluffy white blooms of the cherry orchards along the shorelines promise luscious fruit in July and August.

Wild Horse Island, Flathead Lake’s largest island, is a wildlife refuge for more than 75 species of birds along with deer, bighorn sheep, coyotes, mountain lions and bears.

A surprisingly mild climate invites you outside all year. Typical winter temperatures are in the 20s and 30s. Summer temperatures usually range from the 70s to low 90s.

» Learn more about Montana’s Flathead Valley

Explore our local communities

• Bigfork’s “Village by the Bay” charm captures the hearts of art-lovers and theatergoers with its many galleries and unique shops.
  • Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts
  • Bigfork Summer Playhouse
• Kalispell, the largest city in the Flathead Valley, serves as the retail and business center of Northwest Montana. Kalispell has an old west charm that effortlessly coincides with modern-day arts and culture.
  • Kalispell Regional Medical Center
• Polson rests on Flathead Lake’s southern shore, inviting visitors to play on the lake, paddle the Flathead River, or explore the lovely Mission Valley to the south.
  • St Joseph Medical Center
• Whitefish, the long-time ski and summer resort town to the north, boasts a vibrant art community.
  • North Valley Hospital
• Columbia Falls, on the scenic Flathead River, is often called “The Gateway to Glacier National Park.” Murals on display throughout town depict the rich heritage of its bygone days.
• Glacier National Park is so naturally beautiful with lakes, plunging valleys and glacier-carved mountains that it is known as the “Crown Jewel of the Continent.” The park is designated a World Heritage site, an honor shared with India’s Taj Mahal, the Great Wall of China, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, and the Egyptian Pyramids.

Testimonials

"My Mom, Elaine Toole Adkins, moved to Rising Mountains Assisted Living as an independent resident last spring. She loves it there!! The staff and care is over the top! Kind, caring and accommodating. She loves her apartment and the safety of having help when she needs it! As she moved into assisted care, the transition has been seamless for her! Her apartment is well appointed, as is the entire facility! Best decision for her and us, she is closer and it's a lovely place to visit her, or take in a meal or two in the dining room!!" Cherie Toole Hansen

Enriched, Active Lifestyle for Seniors & Peace of Mind for Families