Although there are some orchards on the west shore, the larger operations and most of the fruit stands can be found on the east shore.
Before early July, fruit sold at stands is likely from out-of-state. Wait for the local harvest for the best fruit.
Cherries in Montana?
The Flathead Lake Region of Montana offers an ideal climate for cherry production. It is approximately 3000 feet above sea level with beautiful, sunny, warm days, and cool evenings. Montana's rocky, well-drained soil and pristine, glacier-fed water supply is well suited for cherry tree growth. Long warm days with plenty of sunshine help develop outstanding fruit. Cool 40-50 degree evenings extend the growing season which allows fruit to mature over a longer period of time. These conditions contribute to the outstanding taste of Montana sweet cherries.
If you drive from Bigfork to Polson you will pass many beautiful cherry orchards, with most orchards on the east shore. While Mother Nature and pollination can influence each year's crop volume, the Flathead area has produced as high as 7 million pounds, but the normal average is approximately 3-5 million pounds. While Montana's crop volume is low in comparison to states like Washington, Montana's cherry reputation has spread across the United States. Our cherries can be found in large grocery chains as far away as California, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and the southeast U.S.
Local folks (Montanans) have enjoyed Flathead cherries since before the 1930s. Many Montana families, and now others from around the U.S. and Canada, plan their vacations around visiting their favorite orchards. http://flatheadcherryfestival.com/
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