Top 10 things to do on the Flathead Indian Reservation

Did you know that the Flathead Indian Reservation is home to one of three wild bison populations in Montana? These majestic animals roam freely on the National Bison Range, a wildlife refuge established in 1908 by President Theodore Roosevelt. Today, it’s open to visitors.

The history, nature, and culture of the Flathead Indian Reservation in Montana are rich and varied, providing wonderful experiences for travelers. Read on to discover the top ten things to do on the Flathead Indian Reservation.

Top 10 things to do on the Flathead Indian Reservation

Visitors to the reservation enjoy visiting the wildlife of the National Bison Range, discovering the history of the region at the Three Chiefs Culture Center, viewing the murals of the St. Ignatius Mission, and more.

Here are the top six points of cultural and historical interest on the Flathead Indian Reservation followed by four recreational opportunities:

1. National Bison Range. The National Bison Range was established in 1908 to help conserve and regenerate the American bison population. It is one of the oldest wildlife refuges in the nation and covers roughly 18,800 acres of grassland, wetland, and forest. Visitors can see bison, elk, deer, antelope, and other wildlife on a scenic drive or hiking trails.
2. Three Chiefs Culture Center. A museum and cultural center that showcases the history, culture, and art of the Salish, Pend d’Oreille, and Kootenai people. It offers exhibits, workshops, events, and a gift shop with authentic Native American crafts.
3. St. Ignatius Mission. A historic Catholic mission founded in 1854 by Jesuit missionaries. It is known for its impressive murals painted by Brother Joseph Carignano, an Italian cook and self-taught artist. The mission offers self-guided tours and features a museum in the original log church and another small home dating back to the mid-19th century, which has served as a convent, school, and hospital.
4. Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge. A wetland complex named after Bitterroot Salish leader Joseph Ninepipes that provides habitat for hundreds of bird species, including bald eagles, ospreys, herons, and waterfowl. This refuge is a popular destination for bird watching.
5. Flathead Lake. The largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River. It covers 197 mi² (510 km²) and has a maximum depth of 370 feet (113.0 m). It is a recreational paradise for swimming, fishing, boating, and camping. The lake is also home to the Flathead Lake Monster, a legendary creature that has been sighted by many locals and visitors.
6. Garden of One Thousand Buddhas. The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas is a Buddhist center and public park located in the Jocko Valley, just north of Arlee. This unique architectural and natural delight features rows of Buddha statues arranged in a sacred formation. Visitors can walk through the garden on self-guided tours.  

Recreational opportunities on the Flathead Indian Reservation

The Flathead Indian Reservation in Montana offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities for visitors who want to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and cultural diversity.

Some of the outdoor activities you can enjoy here include:

1. Fishing. The reservation has many lakes, rivers, and streams that are home to trout, bass, perch, and other fish species. You can fish on the Flathead Lake, the Flathead River, the Ninepipe Reservoir, and other water bodies. You need a tribal fishing permit to fish on the reservation.
2. Boating. There are many lakes on the reservation for boating, picnicking, and swimming. However, scenic Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, is the most popular destination for water lovers. Rent a boat, kayak, canoe, or paddleboard from various marinas and outfitters on the reservation. Join a guided tour or a cruise to see the scenic views and wildlife of the lake or visit the mysterious Wildhorse Island.
3. Hiking. Hike on the National Bison Range, in the Mission Mountains Tribal Wilderness, and on other trails across the reservation. You can see bison, elk, deer, antelope, birds, and other animals along the way. You need a tribal recreation permit to hike on the reservation.
4. Camping. Camp on Flathead Lake, on the Flathead River, near the Ninepipe Reservoir, and at various campgrounds across the reservation. Campers enjoy clear, breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and mountains by day and Montana’s starry sky by night. You need a tribal permit to camp on the reservation.

Visit the Flathead Indian Reservation

The Flathead Indian Reservation in western Montana has a rich and diverse heritage and stunning natural beauty. While the reservation faces many challenges and opportunities in the 21st century, it continues to move forward honoring its past, embracing its present, and shaping its future.

Discover other Montana Indian reservations

• Top 10 Things to Do on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation
• How life works on the Flathead Indian Reservation – Politics, education, economy, health
• How life works on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation – Politics, education, economy, health

Header: Ken Lund, CC BY-SA 2.0