The Swan River flows into Flathead Lake near Bigfork, Montana.
There’s a lot of grandeur about the town of Bigfork in northwestern Montana, starting with its wild waterways. The 95-mile Swan River flows through the city and empties into Flathead Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the west.
It is an outdoor lover’s paradise, without being too remote. The same goes for the 3,040-square-foot home built in 2008 at 214 River St. On the one hand, the hustle and bustle of the Swan River’s “wild mile” makes you feel exhilarated; on the other hand, you’re steps away from restaurants and art galleries in downtown Bigfork. By the way, the nickname of the Wild Mile refers to the frenetic and challenging Class IV section of the Swan River, the star of the city’s annual whitewater festival in May.
Vertical panel cladding and clapboard upper floors add to the exterior charm of the home.
The home comes with a rare amenity: a dock (No. 32) on Flathead Lake, which is nearly 28 miles long and 15 miles wide in places. You can take a boat tour of Wild Horse Island State Park, which is home to wild horses on its 2,100 acres.
The property also has space to add an additional house or outdoor space on a buildable front plot.
The staircase has a payoff: scenic views.
The three-level, three-bedroom, 3.5-bath home is treehouse style, meaning you see the river and trees as you climb the wooden spiral staircase (or take the elevator). The perfect buyer? Someone looking for “an easy getaway, a come-and-go property for any season, but especially in the summer,” says real estate agent Bret Richmond of National Parks Realty.
Exposed brick on the walls and floor on the entry level lead to an informal den and bedroom. Sleek wood floors and large windows on the next level follow an open plan design. The kitchen flows seamlessly into the living room, anchored by a stone fireplace, and dining area.
Wood and stone give the interior a rustic contemporary feel.
The spacious outside deck overlooks the river, with plenty of room for lounging and entertaining. The master bedroom has a bathroom with a freestanding bath. Go up another floor to find a media room and a bedroom with bunk beds. The house also has underfloor heating and a full laundry room.
In the summer, there are plenty of hiking opportunities in Jewel Basin, about 15 miles away, or Glacier National Park, just 40 miles north of Bigfork. Top level fly fishing on the Swan River, white water rafting, kayaking, mountain biking and paddle boarding on the lake are also popular. In the winter, Bigfork is home to snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and dog sledding.
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 of the furnishings. Bret Richmond of National Parks Realty is the broker.
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