Bigfork is a scenic little Montana town with a number of things that make it worth visiting. Like anywhere in Montana it is ideal for outdoor types and nature lovers, and as well as being a scenic lakeside resort, it is also a rather quaint and somewhat arty western stop-off.
Local accommodation options are not that vast compared to some of the larger towns, but they do cater to different tastes and budgets. You won’t find much by way of huge 4 or 5-star affairs, but there are a few reasonable and welcoming hotels, motels, and guesthouses, as well as lodge-style accommodation near the lake.
The joy of Bigfork is that you have the option of choosing either accommodation overlooking the incredibly scenic Flathead Lake, or a hotel in the vibrant and artistic downtown region.
Downtown Bigfork is a friendly locale with all those classic Montana elements wrapped up in a small town guise, and you’ll find places like Electric Avenue have a plethora of interesting galleries, museums, and outdoor art exhibitions. You’ll most probably appreciate the array of coffee shops and eating options in Bigfork too – wherever you decide to stay.
Staying in Bigfork – Travel Tips and Advice
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- Which areas in Bigfork are best: Downtown Bigfork for its vibrant art scene, music, and restaurants, and the surrounding Flathead Valley areas which include the scenic Flathead Lake.
- Getting Around: The best way to get around downtown Bigfork is definitely on foot, which gives you the best opportunity to peruse the galleries and boutiques, maybe catch a show at the famous Summer Playhouse, or explore some of the parks. Car rentals are available from Glacier National Park Airport and in the town if you fancy exploring a bit further afield.
- Attractions: The art galleries are definitely one of the main draws, and Bigfork was actually named as one of the ‘Best 100 Small Art Towns’ in the whole country at one point. There are also a variety of theatre performances – notably at the Summer Playhouse. On top of that there are plenty of boutique-style shops, and there is a 27-hole golf course. A bit more out of town is the Flathead National Forest and lake which provide a multitude of scenic outdoor activities.


