You don't see a lot of "Top 17" lists, which is maybe why they settled on that rather attention-getting number.

But, when you're Number 1 in the nation, it really doesn't matter how many others are on the list. And that is what we have with one of Montana's best-known resort towns. Like they really need all the extra publicity, right?

Boatline is a massive online outlet for buying and selling boats of every style, shape and size, offered by private individuals and dealerships. Thousands of boats featuring photos and descriptions of each item for sale appear to be well planned out.

Boatline has released its Top 17 Boat Towns for 2022. And who should land in the top spot? None other than Bigfork, Montana!

According to Boatline, "Bigfork, situated along Montana’s Flathead Lake, offers a mix of outdoor recreation and Rocky Mountain charm. This year-round resort village is home to whitewater rafting in the spring, boating in the summer, fly fishing in the fall, and ice fishing in the winter. In town, you’ll fall in love with the storybook scenery, local artisan community, and annual events such as the Bigfork Festival of the Arts."

Boatline's methodology involves a comprehensive search for lake communities that offer ample opportunities for boating and water activities in general. Another requirement to be considered is how communities complement the lakes in terms of downtown areas and seasonal and year-round activities off the water.

The final list of towns is selected as preferred destinations for weekend visitors or for people searching for their next waterside residence.

Besides Bigfork at #1, Boatline's 2002 Top 17 list includes:

Burlington, Vermont

Chelan, Washington

Grand Lake, Colorado

Grand Marais, Minnesota

Greensboro, Georgia

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Lakeway, Texas

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Lake George, New York

Lake Havasu City, Arizona

Osage Beach, Missouri

South Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Summersville, West Virginia

Traverse City, Michiugan

Winter Haven, Florida

Wolfeboro, New Hampshire

Our thanks to Boatline for letting us know what we Montanans already knew: Bigfork is awesome!

14 Destinations to Visit With Direct Flights From Missoula

Here’s a list of places to visit (and things to do while you're there) with nonstop flights out of the Missoula Montana Airport.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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