Bigfork, Montana has just over 4,000 residents and sits on the shores of pristine Flathead Lake, the largest lake in the state. Bigfork, Montana offers fresh air and expansive views over the water and into the mountains.

Visitors here enjoy recreating on the water, strolling the cozy downtown streets, walking cherry orchards, visiting the theater, and much more. 

If you’re thinking about visiting Bigfork, Montana, read this guide for a complete list of all of the wonderful things you can experience there, plus holiday events. 

In this article

• What is Bigfork, Montana known for?
• Is Bigfork, Montana a good place to live?
• Why is Bigfork called Bigfork?
• What is the elevation of Bigfork, Montana?
• 10 things to do in Bigfork, Montana
• What to do in the evening in Bigfork, Montana
• Christmas in Bigfork, Montana
• How to get there and where to stay
• Bigfork, Montana hotels 
• Bigfork, Montana camping

What is Bigfork, Montana known for?

Bigfork, Montana is known for its pleasant setting on the shores of Flathead Lake and its fine art, dining, and theater. The town has been designated “One of the 100 Best Small Art Towns in the West”.

Is Bigfork, Montana a good place to live?

Bigfork is a very safe place to live.

Bigfork, Montana has an overall crime rate of 12 per 1,000 residents, which is extremely low. This makes Bigfork, Montana one of the safest towns in Montana.

It is full of fun activities and thanks to its location between Flathead Lake and the Flathead National Forest, residents and visitors have a wide variety of recreational activities to choose from.

Why is Bigfork called Bigfork? 

There’s no conclusive answer to this question. However, “Bigfork” was the name used when Everit and Lizzie Sliter founded the township on May 17, 1902. 

The name “Bigfork” likely derives from the two rivers, Flathead River and Swan River, which flow into Flathead Lake on either side of town, drawing what looks like an actual “big fork”.

What is the elevation of Bigfork Montana? 

Bigfork, Montana sits at an elevation of 3,000 feet (914 m), at the north end of Flathead Lake, west of Flathead National Forest.

Let’s take a look at the top 10 things to do in Bigfork, Montana.

10 things to do in Bigfork, Montana

What to do in Bigfork Montana – here are the top 10 things to do in Bigfork, Montana.

1. Kayak, boat, picnic, or swim at Flathead Lake

Bigfork lies on the shores of the largest lake in Montana – Flathead Lake (191.5 mi², or 495.9 km²). Flathead Lake is notorious for its enormous size, crystal-clear waters, and its beautiful scenery. 

There are many areas for picnicking, swimming, kayaking, hiking, boating, and much more.

Consider exploring the shores all around the lake. There are several pleasant coves, bays, and state parks, such as Wayfarers, all of which are pleasant areas to spend the afternoon resting on the shore or enjoying the water.

2. Explore Wayfarers State Park

One of the most unique areas in Bigfork, Montana is Wayfarers State Park. This park sits just south of town, past the Bigfork Harbor on the shores of Flathead Lake. 

Wayfarer offers a range of hiking trails, many of which run across unique rock formations along the shore, offering excellent views over the lake. All summer, Wayfarers abounds with wildflowers. 

It’s also an ideal place for camping. We cover some top camping locations around Bigfork later in this article.

Other reading: Montana’s nicknames and the stories behind them

3. Go golfing

If you are a fan of golfing, you may have heard of Bigfork’s Eagle Bend Golf Club, a beautifully manicured 27-hole championship golf course located on the north end of Flathead Lake. It offers exceptional golfing with great mountain and lake views.

Other golf courses in Bigfork, Montana include Buffalo Hill, Village Greens, and Northern Pines.

Golfing most of the courses near Bigfork, Montana is a unique experience because of the incredible lake, forest, and mountain views available as you play a round.

4. Go camping

Whether you want to put up your tent or you have an RV, you can do it all near Flathead Lake! The only problem you’ll face is choosing which campsite to settle in.

You can find both public and commercial campsites located nearby Bigfork and all along the shores of Flathead Lake. There are several campgrounds near Bigfork, Montana, located just south of town, across the Bigfork Harbor, and others are within a 10 to 25 minute drive south of town. There is also a nice campground on Swan Lake, just a few minutes east of Flathead Lake. 

Some of the campgrounds around Bigfork sit atop dramatic, rocky shorelines, while others are nestled into forested shorelines.  Need I say more?

Skip to the campgrounds section of this article.

5. Explore a bygone era at The Barn Antiques

If you’re looking to take a break from downtown Bigfork or the lake for an afternoon, The Barn Antiques is worth a stop. This large barn is something like an antique second-hand gift store with numerous stores inside, each specializing in something different.

A variety of items are also on display out front, and the numerous indoor shops offer an enormous selection of antiques and second-hand gems.

Other reading: Which snakes live in Montana? Know before you go  

6. Tour art galleries

As we mentioned earlier, Bigfork, Montana is widely known for its fine art and art galleries. You could spend days and days wandering in and out of them all, taking a bit of inspiration from each.

For example, Art Fusion offers work from different artists from a variety of disciplines, some of which fuse various styles, such as fauvism, cubism, and serigraphy-inspired oils. They also offer traditional pieces. 

Eric Thorsen’s Fine Art Gallery offers bronze statues of various animals created by Eric himself. The gallery also serves as his studio. 

Many of Bigfork’s art galleries and studios are located downtown, just a few blocks from the Swan River, around Electric Ave. Consider taking an evening stroll along the banks of the Swan River and stopping in a studio or two. 

7. Go hiking

There are more than 15 hiking trails to explore near Bigfork. Some are near town, while others lie outside of town in the multiple state parks, bays, coves, and other landscapes around Flathead Lake and the Flathead National Forest. 

Two popular trails are the Swan River Trail and Mount Aeneas Summit Trail:

• Swan River Trail is a relatively easy in-and-out 4 mi (7 km) trail that takes about 1 hr and 17 minutes to complete. It makes for a pleasant stroll along the river. Swan River Trail is popular trail among hikers and birders, but it’s still possible you’ll find some peace and quiet here.
• Mount Aeneas Summit Trail is an advanced in-and-out 6 mi (10 km ) trail that takes you across wooded hillsides and past mountain lakes to the summit of Mount Aeneas in the Jewel Basin. 

Regardless of where you hike, don’t forget to bring bear spray and bear bells. 

Other reading: 20 most stunning mountains in Montana 

8. Visit a local cherry orchard

The Flathead Lake area is well-known around Montana for its cherries. Consider visiting a local cherry orchard, where you can stroll through the rows of cherry trees, taking in the colors of the blossoms and picking cherries. 

Bigfork Orchards, located on Montana Hwy 35, which is a 5-minute drive south of Bigfork, welcomes visitors and lets you stroll through their variety of trees and pick cherries. Some of the cherries are rich, dark red, while others are a rose color mixed with yellow.

Visiting a cherry orchard can also be a quick pit stop if you’re just passing through the area. There are plenty to choose from around Bigfork.

9. Birdwatching

Bigfork is an excellent home base for birders. Within a 30-mile (48 km) radius of Bigfork, there are multiple excellent birding locations. 

West Valley Ponds

The marshy, wetlands around West Valley Ponds between Kalispell and Whitefish hold migratory waterfowl throughout the spring, summer, and fall months, such as shorebirds, Sandhill Crane, and nesting grassland birds.

West Valley Ponds is about a 30-minute drive from Bigfork. 

Jewel Basin Hiking Area

This camping and hiking area at the north end of the Swan Range features 15,349 acres (6,211 hectares) of wild, natural landscape, with 27 alpine lakes and 50 miles of hiking trails. The entire area lies just 15 miles (24 km) west of Bigfork, but due to the winding latter portion of the road, it takes about 45 minutes to reach there by car. 

Here, birders can spot a variety of bird species, such as Cassin’s Finch and Olive-sided Flycatcher. Birders have also reported seeing 17 different species of migrating raptors here, including accipiters, from late August to mid-October.

Other top birding locations in the area include Lower Valley, Lawrence Park, and the Owen Sowerwine Natural Area. From the summer fledglings to the winter finches, the migration corridor around Bigfork is the best place to enjoy nature and actually see, with your own eyes, its seasonal changing.

Other reading: 10 weird and wonderful things Montana is known for

10. Day Trip to Glacier National Park

Last but not least, from Bigfork, Montana you can get to Glacier National Park in under an hour. Here you can find some of the most stunning scenery in Montana.

Glacier National Park is home to the historic Going-To-The-Sun Road, which takes you across towering mountainsides above deep, flowered valleys below. 

As the park is subject to heavy snow, the best time to visit is during the summer, once all of the roads have opened up.

Discover more: 9 breathtaking national parks in Montana

What to do in the Evening in Bigfork, Montana

What is there to do in the evening in Bigfork Montana? Among the many things to do in Bigfork, Montana, there are plenty of activities for the evening. Let’s have a look.

1. Strolling around the city

Bigfork is a beautiful, picturesque, and artistic community. Many visitors enjoy strolling around the town or visiting the shores of the lake and gazing up at the stars.

2. Bigfork Summer Playhouse

As we briefly mentioned at the beginning of this article, the Bigfork Summer Playhouse is a highly reputable theater located right in Bigfork, Montana. Their mission is to bring the best of Broadway to the Rockies.

If you’re up for a night of theater while visiting Bigfork, the playhouse may be just for you. Their regular shows start at 8 pm, with additional performances at 2 pm, 7 pm, and 7:30 pm on select days. 

3. Take a line dancing class

The Bigfork Art & Cultural Center offers a range of events, workshops, and courses each week at various times.

Their line dancing classes often take place on Wednesday evenings from 5:30 – 6:30 pm. It makes for a great evening activity for anyone looking to move, spend some energy, and learn a traditional American dance.

Christmas in Bigfork Montana

If you decide to travel to Bigfork, Montana during the Christmas season, you’re in for a treat. Bigfork’s winter nickname is Montana’s Christmas Village. Each November, Bigfork starts transforming into a winter wonderland as the holiday season approaches. 

“Elves” appear on the streets to decorate the downtown Bigfork with festive ornaments and a range of festive events start taking take place. The holiday spirit seems to grow stronger as each year passes. 

Below are a few of the notable Christmas events in Bigfork, Montana.

1. The Bigfork Holiday Parade of Lights

The Parade of Lights is a yearly event celebrated on the first Saturday of December. This bright festive day ends with a big parade of floats. In the end, Santa arrives to wish “ Merry Christmas!” to Bigfork residents and take pictures.

2. Brunch with Santa!

Every year, Bigfork hosts what is called “Brunch with Santa!”. At Brunch with Santa! you can eat brunch and take pictures with Santa. 

In recent years, this event was hosted by Mountain Lake Lodge and Schafeur’s Restaurant.

3. Caroling at Lakeview

Each year, a group of carolers sings traditional Christmas carols and breathes joy and brightness into the day for residents of the Lakeview Care Center.

The event is open to anyone interested in joining. A top singing voice is not necessary! This is truly a wonderful event that is enjoyed by everyone who participates.

Lake View Care Center is located at 1050 Grand Drive, Bigfork, MT. Caroling usually starts at 5 pm.

Bigfork, Montana – How to get there and where to stay

Find Bighorn, Montana on the map above.

Below we outline the best ways to get to Bigfork, Montana, and provide a list of some top hotels and campgrounds in and near town.

Where is Bigfork, Montana located?

Bigfork, Montana is located on Flathead Lake in the northwestern region of the state. It is situated 40 minutes by car south of Whitefish and one hour and a half south from the Canadian border. 

How to get to Bigfork, Montana

Here are the main ways to get to Bigfork, Montana

• Car. If you’re driving from one of southern Montana’s major cities, you’ll likely take I-90, then turn onto one of the major highways (such as US-93 or MT-83), which takes you north to Flathead Lake.
• Train. Bigfork is a 45-minute drive from the Whitefish Amtrak Station. 
• Fly. Wondering what airport you fly into for Bigfork, Montana? Below is a list of public airports near Bigfork, Montana:
  • Glacier Park International Airport (FCA). 35 minutes away by car
  • Missoula International Airport (MSO). 2 hours away
  • Great Falls International Airport (GTF) (limited connections). 4 hours away
  • Spokane International Airport (GEG). 4.5 hours away
  • Lethbridge Airport (CYQL/YQL). 4 hours away (plus the border crossing)
  • Bert Mooney Airport (BTM). 4 hours away
  • Helena Regional Airport (HLN). 3.5 hours away

Bigfork, Montana hotels

Let’s look at where to stay in Bigfork, Montana. Below are some top recommended Bigfork Montana hotels. 

• The Inn on Bigfork Bay. Situated on Bigfork Harbor where the Swan River runs through downtown Bigfork. Three decks overlook the bay and their on-site playhouse puts on summer shows.
• The Islander Inn. Located a 10-minute drive south of Bigfork on Woods Bay, its bungalow-style accommodation allows you to connect with the relaxing elements of the outside world. Every suite is perfectly designed to host both couples and families. This is one of the best hotels in Bigfork Montana.
• Mountain Lake Lodge. Located just five miles south of Bigfork, perched above Flathead Lake near Woods Bay, this lodge offers splendid views across the lake and into the nearby Rocky Mountains. The lodge features a spa, pool, gym, and pleasant grounds for strolling.

Bigfork, Montana camping

Below are some of the top Bigfork Montana camping sites.

• Flathead Lake Resort. A resort motel, plus cabins and glamping with beach access
• Swan Lake Trading Post Camp. Rustic cabins, cozy yurts, and RV sites
• Wayfarer’s State Park. A state park on the southern edge of town on the shores of Flathead Lake. Features 30 campsites, hike-bike campsites with 9 tent pads, showers, one fully ADA-accessible site, RV sites, and bear-resistant storage lockers.
• Yellow Bay State Park. This state park lies 25 minutes by car south of Bigfork on the shores of Flathead Lake. It features 5 tent campsites available on a first-come-first-serve basis, equipped with bear-resistant storage lockers. 
• Blue Bay Campground. Located just 2 minutes south of Yellow Bay State Park on the shores of the lake, this no-frills campground features several spots to park an RV or pitch a tent by the lake, plus a few sites with electric are situated on a bluff above.
• Swan Lake Campground. Located about 25 minutes by car southeast of Bigfork on Swan Lake, this campground features 38 family-sized campsites with paved parking. Sites feature picnic tables and fire rings, plus drinking water and vault toilets. There is no dump station available. 

RV parks near Bigfork, Montana

In addition to the above campgrounds that also feature RV sites, here are several additional RV parks near Bigfork:

• Bigfork Motorcoach RV Resort. A “Class A” RV resort featuring 29 privately owned sites, some of which are available to rent. Located just south of town across Bighorn Harbor. 
• Outback Montana RV Park & Campground. An RV park that features 50/30 amp pull-thru RV sites as well as cabins, glamping, and tent sites. Some of the RV sites are winterized and available year-round. Located a 10-minute drive south of Bigfork near Woods Bay.
• Montana Basecamp RV Park. A 50-acre RV-only park. It’s open year-round, but bathrooms, showers, and laundry are closed from October to April. The summer fee includes a free firewood bundle, laundry, WiFi, a dog field, chairs, ping pong table, and a bike trail. Located an 18-minute drive north of Bigfork on the way to Kalispell.

These are just a few of the many RV and tent campgrounds near Bigfork, Montana. A quick Google search will reveal numerous others near town and around Flathead Lake. 

Bigfork, Montana – You won’t be disappointed

Bigfork, Montana offers small-town, lakeside living. 

Flathead Lake’s clear mountain waters at the edge of town offer numerous opportunities for summer recreation and the small town of Bigfork is bustling with energy year-round. 

A trip to Bigfork, Montana will not disappoint.