Hidden In Montana's Rocky Mountains Is A Tranquil Year-Round Resort Town On A Pretty Lake

When it comes to quintessential lakeside towns, places like Lake Tahoe and Lake Placid may come to mind. However, this enchanting small town tucked within the Rocky Mountains of Montana offers stunning beauty without the fanfare. Bigfork, Montana is nestled on the shores of Flathead Lake, a vast freshwater lake encircled by snow-capped mountains and rugged forests. It is a haven of outdoor recreation all year round, with incredible arts, culture, shopping, and dining in the charming downtown district.

The town has received many accolades over the years, with honorable mentions in publications like National Geographic, The Great Towns of America, 100 Best Small Art Towns, and more. Travelers have also deemed Bigfork one of the best lake towns in America. As if the immediate surroundings are not enticing enough, Bigfork is also less than 40 miles away from Montana's largest state park, Glacier National Park, renowned for its natural beauty. While you're there, you can take a drive on one of America's most scenic roads.

There are so many reasons to pay a visit to this lesser-known small town in Montana's Rockies. The town offers something for everyone, from rugged backcountry adventures to fine dining and theater. Let's dive into the many attractions and must-do activities, so you can start dreaming up your next getaway.

Positioned on Bigfork Bay of the beautiful Flathead Lake, this acclaimed small town is surrounded by mountain ranges, towering trees, and pristine glacial waters. From outdoor adventure to world-class arts and culture, there is no shortage of fun to be had in Bigfork all year round.

Every fall, the valley becomes a breathtaking tapestry of colorful leaves. Immerse yourself in the landscapes on one of the countless hiking, cycling, and horseback trails throughout the region. The Swan River Nature Trail and Jewel Basin offer beginner-friendly hikes with extraordinary views of Montana's iconic scenery.

In the winter, the mountainous landscape becomes a playground for outdoor adventure. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on the North Shore Nordic Trails are quintessential winter activities in Bigfork. The frozen lakes offer abundant opportunities for skating and ice fishing.

The spring and summer are the busiest months in this picture-perfect lakeside town. Seasonal shops reopen their doors and the area is bustling with visitors enjoying the trails, as well as boating, swimming, and fishing on the lake and camping in the rugged wilderness. Although the town's top-rated resorts are especially busy during this time of year, the quieter months can be just as enchanting and memorable.

Despite the down-to-earth and wholesome way of life in Montana, those who enjoy the finer things in life will not be disappointed in downtown Bigfork. This town is home to exceptional destinations for fine dining, fine arts, and theater. The Bigfork Center for Performing Arts and the Bigfork Summer Playhouse are renowned for their excellent stage productions. The town is brimming with museums, galleries, and live music venues showcasing local talent.

Foodies will be spoiled for choice as there are a forkful of outstanding restaurants to try in Bigfork. Whether you're seeking a casual mid-day brunch spot or an upscale dinner locale complete with white table cloths, you are bound to find what you're looking for. The celebrated Bigfork chefs love to put flavorful twists on local cuisine, including elk, bison, and huckleberries.

The charming downtown district has an array of boutiques with unique locally-handmade items and artisanal products. Grab a beverage from one of the many cozy coffee shops and spend the afternoon browsing the local shops and markets. You are bound to find something one of a kind.