As they say, great things come in small packages. Lakeside is a perfect example. This tiny treasure of a community, wrapped along the west shore of Flathead Lake, looks out across the shimmering water to the Swan and Mission Mountain ranges. You couldn’t find a more picturesque setting for a home or vacation property. If lakefront living appeals to you, Lakeside should be at the top of your real estate list.

People who visit Lakeside and see Flathead Lake for the first time are bowled over by its awesome beauty. It’s an immense body of water 28 miles long that stretches to the horizon. Boat rentals, cruises and fishing charters are available that will take you all around the lake and down to Polson. In summer, you can sail, fish, swim and water ski all day and well into the evening (the sun sets late here in northwest Montana – don’t forget your sun screen).

Winter here is wonderful, too. Blacktail Mountain Ski Area, located in the mountains west of Lakeside, offers excellent skiing and sensational views that reach from Flathead Lake to Glacier National Park. Blacktail is a unique “upside-down hill”. You drive to the top and park, then ski down on wide, well-groomed slopes. You get a run in before you ever get on a lift. Blacktail Mountain features miles of forested trails – wide open for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, hiking and mountain biking.

Although Lakeside is miniscule as far as towns go, it does have several shops, bakeries, cafes, churches and a school. Annual festivals bring locals and visitors together to celebrate the season, whatever season it might be. You can also drive down to Dayton to the Mission Mountain Winery where vintage creations are offered for sale and sampling. As you’ll discover, this area has much to offer and Lakeside real estate is worth looking into. Don’t wait long.