Community Overview

Polson lies in a natural amphitheater at the south end of Flathead Lake in Northwest Montana, and is located on the Flathead Indian Reservation. This charming lake shore community is the trading center for one of most fertile farming areas in Montana. This prime cherry growing region is home to dozens of orchards, which Polson celebrates with its annual Cherry Festival. Polson becomes a popular attraction in the summertime.

The broad, sweeping Mission Valley, south of Polson, is bordered by the rugged, snow-capped Mission Mountains. At the foot of the mountains is Flathead Lake. Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in the United States, west of the Mississippi River. Studies at the Flathead Biological Station show that water quality in Flathead Lake is among the best in the world. The Flathead River flows through Polson and features the Seli’š Ksanka Qlispe’, formerly Kerr Dam. The dam is located at the outlet of Flathead Lake in Polson.

Just south of Polson, visitors can see large herds of bison, elk, deer, antelope and barn sheep at the National Bison Range at Moiese. Bird watchers will enjoy the Ninepipes and Pablo Wildlife Refuges. Visit one of our museums, The Miracle of America, the Polson-Flathead Historical Museum, or the Peoples Center in Pablo. All offer many displays and historic memorabilia. Polson also has several city parks situated along the lake and the beautiful Polson Golf Course.

(Info from Polson Chamber of Commerce)