Learn More about Our Resort

Why Is It Called "Lake Five"?

Why is it called Lake Five? Lake Five earned its name because, at some point in the past, someone thought it bore a resemblance to the number 5. Our map page provides accurate physical details, and a Google Maps link is available for reference. Take a look and see if you can spot the resemblance to the number 5. The name predates satellite imagery and airplanes, and although the lake's shape may resemble a V or the Roman numeral V, the story behind the name suggests otherwise. Despite being asked about its origin multiple times a day, the true reason remains a mystery. Perhaps that adds to the appeal of this intriguing location: Lake Five.

The Retiro Cabins

The Lake Five Resort was originally introduced to Montana's summertime recreationists in the early 1920s, operating under the name Retiro Cabins. James H. Ridenour and his wife, Oni Maude, homesteaded on the shore of Lake Five in 1915. They constructed a log home using wood from the area and cleared five acres for farming and gardening. As their garden produce gained attention from visitors to Glacier National Park and the Belton area (now West Glacier), two families from Great Falls expressed interest in summer lodging. Jim built a couple of log cabins, and in the summer of 1922, Retiro Cabins was established.

Lake Five Resort Today

That's how things began at this delightful vacation retreat over 100 years ago. The enterprise evolved with the addition of modern amenities, leading to the name change from "Retiro Cabins" to "Lake Five Resort." The business has been passed down through generations, with Jim and Maude Ridenour's children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren continuing to provide guests with quality service in the relaxed and peaceful setting of Lake Five.

Some families have been coming back for generations. One long timer said they wouldn't be vacationing at Lake Five one summer because of plans to travel to California, but the kids had a say in the matter, telling their parents that if going to California meant they couldn't go to Lake Five, they "didn't want to go to Disneyland."