BIG ARM CANOE FIELD GUIDE
Paddle Out to Wild Horse Island: Canoes, Glass-Bottom Kayaks and SUPs from Big Arm
Day rentals from Boat Rentals and Rides on Flathead Lake let you paddle two- and three-person canoes or choose from a fleet of kayaks (including glass-bottom) and stand-up paddleboards to reach Wild Horse Island.
Paddle Out to Wild Horse Island: Canoes, Glass-Bottom Kayaks and SUPs from Big Arm.
There is little to compare to paddling across Flathead Lake from Big Arm to Wild Horse Island: an approximately 3.2 mile crossing that places you on serene water en route to nearby islands, with options that range from standard two- to three-person canoes to single and double kayaks, fishing and picnicking models, and glass-bottom kayaks—plus increasingly popular stand-up paddleboards.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Paddle to Wild Horse Island
The crossing to Wild Horse Island is roughly 3.2 miles from shore; paddlers can make routes next to other nearby islands on the way for added interest and ease of navigation.
Canoes and Specialty Kayaks
Boat Rentals and Rides offers standard two- to three-person canoes alongside several kayaks—single and doubles, fishing and picnicking models—and glass-bottom kayaks, letting you pick craft that suit party size and purpose.
SUPs and Easy Learning Curve
Stand-up paddleboards have grown in popularity at Flathead Lake; trying them is described as easy, and renters from this operator report no trouble learning to operate them.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
Launch from Big Arm and set a steady pace across Flathead Lake for an approximately 3.2 mile paddle to Wild Horse Island, weaving past neighboring islands as you go. Whether you choose a two- or three-person canoe, a single or double kayak, a glass-bottom craft for sightseeing, or a SUP, the outing combines a refreshing workout with stunning views and straightforward routes.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits—and why.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Several kayaks (single and doubles, fishing and picnicking models, and glass-bottom kayaks), standard two- to three-person canoes, and stand-up paddleboards are offered by the operator.
Boat Rentals and Rides operates rentals from Big Arm on Flathead Lake.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How far is the paddle to Wild Horse Island?
The paddle from shore to Wild Horse Island is approximately 3.2 miles.
What types of craft can I rent?
You can rent several kayaks (single and doubles, fishing and picnicking models, and glass-bottom kayaks), standard two- to three-person canoes, and stand-up paddleboards.
Are glass-bottom kayaks available?
Yes—glass-bottom kayaks are among the options offered and are noted as one of the most popular items.
Are stand-up paddleboards hard to learn?
Trying stand-up paddleboards is described as easy; renters from this operator report no trouble learning to operate them.
Who runs the rentals and where is the launch?
Rentals are run by Boat Rentals and Rides on Flathead Lake, launching from Big Arm, Montana.