Somers

The tidy modern kitchenette cabins at Somers Bay Log Cabin Lodging (5496 Hwy. 93 S., 406/857-3881 or 888/443-3881, www.somersbaycabins.com [1], $129–189) are just south of town, across the highway from the lake.

Right next door, Mackinaw’s Grill (5480 Hwy. 93 S., 406/857-3889, dinner from 5 p.m. nightly, $15–28) is one of the very best places to eat along Flathead Lake [2]. This massive three-story log lodge serves mesquite-grilled fresh fish flown in from the Pacific, great steaks and prime rib, and a wide selection of stir-fries, pasta, and continental-influenced dishes. Service is prompt and professional while retaining Montana friendliness; the wine list is quite good and well-priced. Views from the dining room are stunning; there’s a lively bar on the main floor.

Another popular local place in a cool historic building is Tiebucker’s Pub & Eatery (75 Somers Rd., 406/857-3335, 5–9 p.m. Tues.–Sat., open until 10 p.m. in summer, $8–23), located in the former Great Northern Railroad depot. In addition to the pub, which offers Montana microbrews and sandwiches, the dining room specializes in Italian grilled and barbecued meats, including ribs, as well as fresh fish, steamer clams, and steaks.

Right behind Tiebucker’s is the southern terminus of a rails-to-trails bike and walking path, which goes four miles north, mostly rather close to Highway 93.

Lake cruises depart from a dock across from the Montana Grill. To reserve a daytime or sunset cruise on the 65-foot Far West, call 406/857-3203; you can also arrange a sailboat cruise at the same number.

Somers Bay is a good place to paddle a canoe. The water here is relatively shallow and warmer than the rest of the lake, and the lakeshore is dotted with old wharves and buildings, islands, and birds (keep an eye out for ospreys diving into the lake).