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Where is Bigfork located?
- The pretty little town of Bigfork lies nestled on the edge of Flathead Lake, where its arty community offers visitors a warm welcome.
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Why is Bigfork known for its art scene?
- Named as one of the 100 Best Small Art Towns in the Nation, Bigfork has no fewer than 15 bustling art galleries and studios for you to visit.
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What performing arts can visitors enjoy in Bigfork?
- Staying with the arts, you can also enjoy live performing arts at the Bigfork Summer Playhouse, which hosts a full calendar of productions during the summer months.
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What outdoor activities are available in Bigfork?
- Outdoor activities include all forms of water sport on Flathead Lake as well as hiking, camping, and biking in the Wayfarer’s State Park.
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Bigfork Summer Playhouse
Big Fork Summer Playhouse was originally founded in 1960 to provide an artistic outlet for University of Montana Theatre students. Going from strength to strength, the Playhouse has brought a wonderful variety of performing arts to Big Fork for over 60 years. Many of the talented performers who have been seen on stage at the BSP have gone on win various accolades, including Oscar-winner J K Simmons, who appeared in many BSP shows. The Playhouse hosts a full season of live entertainment including dramas, comedy and musicals each year as well as hosting several shows for their Children’s Theatre, which brings the magic of live performance to thousands of children each year.
Big Fork Summer Playhouse, 526 Electric Ave, Main Street, Bigfork, MT 59911, Phone: 406-837-4886
Wayfarer’s State Park
Located less than a mile of Big Fork, Wayfarer’s State Park is the place to go to enjoy fun outdoor recreational activities and watch brilliant sunsets. The 67 acre park overlooks Flathead Lake, a popular spot for canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding. The lake has a boat ramp and both motorized and non-motorized boating is permitted. Other popular recreational activities in the park include sailing and water-skiing, lake fishing, bird watching and hiking. Day trippers are welcome to use the picnic areas and you can bring along your tent or RV and spend a few nights under the stars – the campground is open from mid-June through early-September. The park offers regular guided nature walks on weekends.
Wayfarer’s State Park, 8600 Mt. Hwy 35, Bigfork, MT 59911, Phone: 403-837-3041
Swan River
The Swan River is a 95-mile stretch of water which drains the isolated Swan Valley in western Montana. For adventure lovers the most interesting part of the river lies between Flathead Lake and Bigfork Dam, where the river drops a dramatic 30m over the course of a mile. This section is known as the “Wild Mile” and offers adrenalin junkies a truly exhilarating stretch of river for whitewater rafting, paddling and kayaking. This section hosts the annual Bigfork Whitewater Festival each May, when daredevils come from near and far to pit their skills against the Class IV and V+ rapids. The section of the river above Bigfork Dam is a lot more placid and is known to offer excellent trout fishing.
Swan River, Bigfork, MT 59911
Flathead Lake Brewing Company
Overlooking the picturesque shores of Flathead Lake, the Flathead Lake Brewing Company Pubhouse is your go-to destination in Bigfork for great food and even greater craft beers. The brewery was established in 2004 and in no time at all they were winning awards for their distinctive craft beers. When you visit the Pubhouse you will find at least 16 brews on tap, as well as a selection of wines, liquors and cocktails. There are two dining areas – the main floor serves freshly prepared seasonal dishes, with daily specials. On the lower level you can enjoy Chicago-style deep dish pizza and live music.
Flathead Lake Brewing Company, 116 Holt Drive, Bigfork, MT 59911, Phone: 406-837-2004
Bigfork Inn
Bigfork Inn is a prominent landmark which has welcomed weary travelers and loggers for almost 80 years. The original wooden structure burnt down during the Great Depression and had to be painstakingly reconstructed from scratch. These days the accommodation part of this historic old inn no longer operates as such and the inn is home to the popular Traditions Restaurant. French chef Francois serves up a fresh seasonal menu, using locally sourced ingredients to re-create fine Mediterranean-style dishes. You can dine indoors in the charming dining room or outside on the terrace. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday and Sunday Brunch.
Bigfork Inn – Traditions Restaurant, 604 Electric Ave, Bigfork, MT 59911, Phone: 406-837-6680
Riley’s Pub
Located on Wood’s Bay, overlooking Flathead Lake, Riley’s Pub is an ideal family dining destination which offers beautiful views. The pub has been pleasing Bigfork locals and visitors for over 15 years and continues to have a staunch following of fans. On the drinks side, you can look forward to tasting some of the 8 brews on tap, while you ponder the menu and wait for your dinner. Food choices include stone-baked pizzas, wood-smoked ribs, wings, burgers and other pub favorites, served with your choice of innovative sauces and sides. Other items on the menu include their famous fish and chips, a variety of salads and a few pastas. Remember to leave some room for a treat from the dessert menu.
Riley’s Pub, 14735 Sylvan Drive, Bigfork, MT 59911, Phone: 406-867-4263
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
Bridge Street Cottages – A charming riverside retreat in downtown Bigfork.
Explore Wayfarers State Park – Enjoy hiking trails and stunning views of Flathead Lake.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, perfect for outdoor adventures.
The Islander Inn – A cozy lakefront stay with great views.
Go boating or kayaking on Flathead Lake – Experience Montana’s largest natural freshwater lake.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, fall foliage, and fewer crowds.
Mountain Lake Lodge – A peaceful retreat with beautiful mountain scenery.
Take a scenic drive along Swan Highway – Enjoy breathtaking fall colors and mountain vistas.
Winter (December-February) – Snowy and ideal for winter sports.
Marina Cay Resort – A comfortable stay with easy access to winter activities.
Go skiing or snowboarding at Whitefish Mountain Resort – Just a short drive from Bigfork.
Plan Your Trip
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