When you're staying in Bigfork, Montana, the entire Flathead Valley is at your doorstep. From Whitefish at the north of the valley, down to Polson at the south end of the lake, from Glacier at the east to Kalispell at the west, you have plenty to explore. Here are the best things to do during your stay in Bigfork.
Flathead Lake is more than a single activity. A day on Flathead is relaxing. A week is full of adventure on all sides. From birding along the shoreline to fishing, boating, kayaking, and watching the sunset on its shores, every corner of Flathead Lake has something enticing to experience. You can go with a guided kayaking trip to explore Wild Horse Island with Sea Me Paddle, or just go for a rental and self-guided paddle.
Across the Flathead Valley, you have breweries aplenty to sip your way through. In Bigfork, you have Flathead Lake Brewing, with the perfect patio to enjoy drinking a brew and eating dinner overlooking the lake. In Lakeside, you can try Tamarack Brewing, and Kalispell, Whitefish, and Columbia Falls have plenty more to taste.
You won't go hungry here in Bigfork. Whether you opt for elevated brewery bites at Flathead Lake Brewing and make a trip to Woods Bay to try the famous fare that features global eats at The Raven, you'll find a taste to fit your need. If you're looking for something less complicated, just pick up some quick grab-and-go from Grateful Bread Cafe and Bistro, you'll love the local and global flavor to find in our neck of the woods.
Antiquers can get excited for the wild west inspired shops where you can pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Find featured listings for antique stores in Glacier Country here. Shops for chic outfits, supplies for the outdoors, and special gifts are all across the valley, from Bigfork's quaint downtown to Kalispell's historic district, to Whitefish's charming streets.
If you love fly fishing, you can pick from spots all across the region, with the Flathead River taking top place for a float trip. It's also a prime spot for whitewater rafting on the Middle Fork, with wild water all around the area. The Swan River runs right through town, too, famous for its Wild Mile.
Bigfork is the gateway to the Swan Valley, a top spot for recreation. Go for a hike, a rugged ride up forest service roads, or sign on for a pack trip with Swan Mountain Outfitters (they have guided horseback rides and llama treks to choose from, not to mention hunting and fishing).
Right outside of Bigfork, the Jewel Basin is a top spot in the valley for hiking, with some of the best panoramas available. With 35 miles of trails crisscrossing this area, you have plenty of options without going far out of town.
Glacier National Park is just down the road from Bigfork, with plenty to encounter along the way. Stop for breakfast in Columbia Falls, head into the park, and then pause for a locally distilled beverage from Glacier Distilling in Coram as you head back. In between, you have the beauty and nature of Glacier to explore before returning for a good night's sleep in Bigfork.
Whether you are coming for an adventure, or just passing through, we have eight properties in Gardiner,Bozeman, and Bigfork to help you feel at home while you are on the road. Click here to book now.