Lakeside, Montana, is a small community along the turquoise waters of Flathead Lake, surrounded by rocky beaches and evergreen forests. The town offers numerous outdoor recreational activities, including boating and jet skiing at Flathead Harbor Marina, skiing and hiking at Blacktail Mountain Ski Area, and swimming at Volunteer Park. The West Shore unit of Flathead Lake State Park provides a quieter retreat with campsites and fishing spots, while the Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster and Legacy Bike Park offer year-round excitement. The 2.4-million-acre Flathead National Forest, 25 miles east, and Glacier National Park, 50 miles away, provide additional outdoor adventures.
Residential options in Lakeside range from gated developments and suburban roads to condo complexes and large acreages by the lake or in the hills. Home styles include ranch-style homes, log cabins, New Traditional builds, mountain chalets, and lakeside mansions. The community is safer than the national average, offering a low crime risk.
Lakeside Elementary and Somers Middle are highly rated schools serving the area. Shopping and dining options are available along Highway 93, with big-box stores located 15 miles away in Kalispell. Local dining highlights include Mavericks grill and casino, Tamarack Brewing Company, and the Harbor Grille. Community events such as the Lakeside Fair, Winterfest, and holiday celebrations foster a strong sense of camaraderie among the 2,700 residents. Highway 93 connects Lakeside to Missoula, 107 miles away, and Kalispell, 15 miles north, with Glacier Park International Airport located 24 miles away.