BIGFORK

Big sky, big lake, big reputation: the small community of Bigfork is known for offering the best of both worlds, location and culture. Wrapped around the northeast corner of Flathead Lake, right between the outlets of the Flathead and Swan Rivers, Bigfork’s natural beauty is not subtle. It is inspirational; indeed, its artistic character owes much to local scenery. The name of Bigfork’s main street, Electric Avenue, comes from the town’s historical power plant but it’s also an apt description of life downtown. Everything grows well here. Cherries plump up like magic. A diverse dining scene flourishes. The stage at the Bigfork Summer Playhouse hosts unforgettable talent from local and world-class performers. Sitting right at the foot of the Swan Mountains, the eastern horizon stands high in the sky, providing a dramatic canvas for evening alpenglow. In the summer and winter, recreationists hike, hunt, ski, snowmobile, and more. Though small, this community is mighty when it comes to outdoor recreation, entertainment, and quality of life.

Quick Facts

EVERY SEASON IN THE SWAN: A RECREATIONIST’S GUIDE

Winter

With steep slopes and heavy snows influenced by Flathead Lake, the Swan Range is a popular (but not too popular) zone for skiers and snowmobilers. On an inversion day, clouds sit low in the valley and those who can travel into the upper elevations enjoy rarefied sunshine. For cross-country skiers, there are groomed trails for all abilities in Bigfork and Seeley Lake.

Spring

OLDEST BUILDING: STATE BANK OF BIGFORK

548 ELECTRIC AVE. BUILT IN THE EARLY 1900S

POPULATION: 4,733

Every May, professional kayakers take to the Wild Mile, a thrilling stretch of whitewater on the Swan River right above Bigfork. For paddlers who prefer a gentler experience, Swan Lake is easily accessed but being long and narrow, allows users to spread out and enjoy their own serene experience.

Summer

Don’t let the name deter you: the Camp Misery Trailhead offers ready access to some of the most enjoyable summer trails in Montana. With more than 20 small lakes, good fishing, and lavish wildflowers, the Jewel Basin Hiking Area is a classic among local hikers. The trailhead gets you pretty high into the mountains, so you’ll want a vehicle with good clearance.

Fall

LAND AREA: 31.26 MILES

Head into the wilderness for the opportunity to track trophy mule deer, bull elk, mountain goat, and other big game. And whether you’re walking through the forest with a bow, rifle, or just your camera, you’ll appreciate Montana’s famous larches: coniferous trees with needles that turn yellow. Gus, the largest western larch tree in the country, is just five minutes from the highway in Seeley Lake.

14551 ORVIS EVANS DRIVE, BIGFORK

Soak in spectacular views of the Swan Mountain Range from this custom home just minutes from Swan Lake and set up for horses! Tucked away off the road on a private drive, this home exudes class and rustic charm. Stepping through the double front barn doors, you’re greeted by a magnificent stone fireplace, knotty alder cabinetry, quartz countertops, and more beautiful finishes. Situated on a private well, there

588 RANCH ROAD, BIGFORK

This unrivaled 3-story home was handcrafted with love, quality, and reclaimed materials. The distinct craftsmanship and unparalleled character of this over 5,000-squarefoot home are reflected in the exposed posts, timbers, custom built-ins, reclaimed cabinets, moldings, flooring, wainscoting, and tin ceiling. Local timbers, Canadian cedar shingles, and interior wood colors are beautifully blended is RV parking/hookups, a whole house backup generator, five acres of fenced pasture, a 12x24 run-in shed, and a 16x48 hay shed.

5 BEDS, 4 BATHS // 2,404 SQ FT // 20.53 ACRES

$1,680,000 // MLS# 30002702 // UNDER CONTRACT

JENNIFER SHELLEY 406.249.8929 through multiple wood species. Nestled in the desirable Ranch subdivision on a forested lot, located south of Bigfork and above Flathead Lake, this home was meticulously constructed and designed by the owners over 30 years. www.588ranchroad.com

5 BEDS, 6 BATHS // 5,356 SQ FT // 1.02 ACRES

$1,495,000 // MLS# 22216531 // NATHAN MAY 406.300.2689