The Swan River flows into Flathead Lake at Bigfork, Montana.
There’s a lot that’s big about the northwestern Montana town of Bigfork, starting with its wild waterways. The 95-mile Swan River churns through the town and empties into Flathead Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the West.
It’s an outdoor lover’s paradise, without being too remote. The same is true of the 3,040-square-foot house built in 2008 at 214 River St. On one side, you thrill to the rush of the Swan River’s “wild mile”; on the other, you are steps away from restaurants and art galleries in downtown Bigfork. By the way, the wild mile nickname refers to the frenetic and challenging Class IV stretch of the Swan River that’s the star of the town’s annual whitewater festival in May.
Vertical board cladding and shingled upper stories add to the exterior charm of the residence.
The house comes with a rare amenity: a boat slip (No. 32) on Flathead Lake, which is almost 28 miles long and 15 miles wide in places. You can boat out to hike around Wild Horse Island State Park, which hosts feral horses on its 2,100 acres.
The property also has room to add an additional home or outdoor living space on a buildable front lot.
The stairs comes with a payoff: scenic views.
The trilevel home with three bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms is treehouse-style, meaning you see the river and trees as you climb up the winding wooden staircase (or take the elevator). The perfect buyer? Someone looking for “an easy escape, a come-and-go property for every season but especially in summertime,” says listing agent Bret Richmond of National Parks Realty.
Exposed brick on the walls and floor at the entry level lead to an informal den and bedroom. Sleek wooden floors and big windows at the next level follow an open-plan design. The kitchen flows seamlessly to the living room, anchored by a stone fireplace, and dining area.
Wood and stone lend the interiors a rustic contemporary vibe.
The spacious outside deck overlooks the river, with plenty of room for lounging and entertaining. The primary bedroom comes with a bathroom that features a stand-alone soaking tub. Rise another floor to find a media room plus a bedroom outfitted with bunk beds. The house also has heated floors and a full laundry room.
In summer, opportunities abound to hike in Jewel Basin about 15 miles away or Glacier National Park, just 40 miles north of Bigfork. Fly fishing during prime levels on the Swan River, whitewater rafting, kayaking, mountain biking and paddleboarding on the lake are also popular. In winter, you’ll find places to snowshoe, cross-country ski and dog sled in Bigfork.
Heavy ceiling beams and an alcove create visual interest in one of the home’s three bedrooms.
The property is listed for $2.4 million, including most furnishings. Bret Richmond of National Parks Realty is the listing agent.
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