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Montana
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Montana State Parks

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Montana
Glacier Country Region
Flathead Lake State Park - West Shore Unit
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Western Meadow Lark
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FLATHEAD LAKE STATE PARK - WEST SHORE UNIT
FLATHEAD LAKE STATE PARK - WEST SHORE UNIT
490 North Meridian Road
Kalispell, Montana   59901

Phone: 406-844-3066
West Shore is located in a mature forest overlooking Flathead Lake. The park's glacially-carved rock outcrops give spectacular views of Flathead Lake and the Mission and Swan Mountain Ranges. The shoreline is rocky, and fishing and boating are popular. The campground is located above the lake in a fir, pine, and larch forest on 129 acres at 2,892 feet in elevation. The park offers vault toilets, grills/firerings, firewood, picnic tables, trash cans, drinking water and interpretive displays. There are four golf courses and three museums located nearby in Kalispell. Campers are allowed to stay 7 days during a 30 day period. There are 26 sites at this park with an RV/trailer size limit of 36 feet.
Swimming
1. Flathead Lake State Park - West Shore Unit offers various swimming options.
2. The park features a designated swim area with clear, clean water for safe and enjoyable swimming.
3. Lifeguards are not present at the beach; swimmers should exercise caution when in the lake.
4. Swimming is free but there may be fees to access certain areas of the park or amenities.
5. Visitors can also enjoy snorkeling due to its crystal-clear waters and abundant aquatic life.
6. The sandy beaches provide an ideal spot for sunbathing after a refreshing swim in summer months.

Boating
The West Shore Unit offers a variety of boating options. It features two boat ramps, allowing visitors to launch their own vessels for fishing or recreational activities on the lake. Additionally, there are several mooring buoys available for use by those who wish to anchor offshore and enjoy the beautiful surroundings from their boats.
Fishing
Located in Montana, the park offers diverse fishing options. Anglers can catch species like Yellow Perch and Lake Trout.

The lake is also home to Bull Trout, Westslope Cutthroat trout, Northern Pike and Whitefish.

Fishing from a boat or shoreline are both possible here for an enjoyable experience.

Ice fishing during winter months provides another unique opportunity for anglers seeking variety.



Picnicking
Flathead Lake State Park - West Shore Unit offers picnic tables, fire rings and grills for a perfect outdoor meal.
Bicycling
Bicycling opportunities are available, but caution is advised due to potential wildlife encounters and uneven terrain.

Mountain biking trails offer scenic views; however, they can be challenging for beginners.

Paved paths provide a safer option for less experienced riders or families with children.

Always wear helmets while cycling in the park as safety should never be compromised.

Be aware that some areas may not permit bicycling - always check signage before proceeding on any trail.

Remember to respect other users of the path by maintaining appropriate speeds and yielding when necessary.

During peak season, cyclists might encounter crowded conditions which require extra care and patience.

Lastly, ensure your bike is well-maintained prior to visiting - breakdowns could lead you stranded far from help points.
Birding
The park offers birding opportunities with diverse species like ospreys, eagles and waterfowl. Birdwatchers can enjoy lake views while spotting birds from various trails or the shoreline.

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Directions
West Shore State Park is located 6 miles south of Kalispell on US Highway 93.

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Montana
12

Montana State Parks

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