Adventure brief
Upper Deck 25' Slide Pontoon
Cruise Flathead Lake aboard Riverside Recreation’s 25' Slide Pontoon, a double-deck boat built for fun and relaxation. Perfect for family outings and memorable days on Montana’s biggest lake.
Flathead Lake, Montana’s largest natural freshwater lake, stretches over 190 square miles of pristine water framed by rugged forests and soaring peaks. It’s a destination cherished for its crystal-clear surface, abundant wildlife, and array of water-based recreation. Riverside Recreation, located in Polson, MT, captures the lake’s spirit through their standout offering: the Upper Deck 25' Slide Pontoon.
This spacious tri-toon boat elevates lake days into memorable aquatic adventures. The Upper Deck pontoon is a double-deck vessel designed for both relaxation and excitement. With a capacity of up to 13 passengers, it features a sun deck perfect for soaking in the expansive lake views and a built-in water slide that delivers spontaneous bursts of fun.
Its stable tri-toon hull offers smoother rides even in choppier water, allowing guests to comfortably cruise, swim, and socialize. The premium onboard stereo supports Bluetooth and USB connections, filling the air with your soundtrack as Flathead’s mountains and pine-draped shoreline roll by. One of the area’s defining traits is its combination of crystal-clear waters against a backdrop of ancient glacial geology and dense evergreen forests.
Wildlife such as osprey and bald eagles circle overhead, while underwater, the lake supports native fish species prized by anglers. Polson serves as the gateway city, blending small-town charm with outdoor access. Riverside Recreation’s Upper Deck Slide Pontoon offers 4-, 8-, and 12-hour rental options, accommodating flexible itineraries for families, friend groups, or solo wanderers seeking downtime or lively splash sessions.
Unlike many rentals, this pontoon provides a balance of slick and stable that suits varying skill levels and interests. Whether you’re here to glide across quiet coves, dive from the slide into cool waters, or simply anchor and take in Montana’s vast blue canvas, Riverside Recreation is a premier outfitter turning Flathead Lake boating into a signature adventure experience rarely matched in the region.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive Early for Best Rental Timesinfo
Booking morning slots provides the calmest waters and more daylight for extended lake time.
- 02Bring Water Shoesessential
Protect your feet on rocky shorelines and when using the slide ladder.
- 03Know Fuel Charges Upfrontwarning
Fuel costs are calculated after your rental; check with Riverside Recreation to budget accordingly.
- 04Plan for Limited Tow Sportsinfo
Waterskis, tubes, wakeboards, and kneeboards aren’t available with this pontoon rental, so plan alternate water activities.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Sun Hat
Protects against strong mountain sun during long hours on open water.
summerEssentialSunscreen
Essential to prevent sunburn when exposed to reflective lake surfaces.
summerEssentialSwimsuit
Allows easy access to swimming and sliding off the pontoon.
summerEssentialLight Jacket
Helpful for cooler mornings and breezes over the water.
springLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
The Wild Horse Island shoreline for quiet wildlife viewing, The calming coves near Finley Point with less boat traffic
Local fauna
Osprey, Bald eagle
Historic heritage
Flathead Lake is part of the ancestral lands of the Salish and Kootenai peoples, with a long history of fishing and cultural significance.
Mindful exploration
Riverside Recreation encourages responsible boating practices to protect Flathead Lake’s fragile ecosystem and water quality.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- From the pontoon’s upper deck for lake panoramas, Shorelines near Polson marina, Hidden coves around Wild Horse Island
- Subjects
- Water slide action shots, Surrounding Glacier-carved mountains, Waterfowl and eagles overhead
- Best times
- Golden hour at sunrise, Late afternoon for soft light, Clear midday for vibrant water colors
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Can we bring our own food and drinks on the pontoon?
Yes, Riverside Recreation encourages guests to pack snacks and beverages to enjoy on board, but glass containers are not allowed.
Is a boating license required to rent the Upper Deck Slide Pontoon?
No boating license is required, but renters must provide a valid ID and attend a safety briefing.
Are life jackets provided for all passengers?
Yes, the boat is equipped with enough Coast Guard-approved life jackets for every guest.
Is the water slide safe for children?
The slide is designed for safe use by children and adults, but children under 5 should be supervised closely.
Can we fish from the pontoon?
While fishing is allowed, the Upper Deck pontoon is mainly set up for recreational boating and sliding, not specialized fishing.
What happens if the weather turns bad during our rental?
Riverside Recreation monitors conditions closely; they will advise or reschedule rentals in case of unsafe weather.