Take a Hike in Bigfork, Montana
A quaint town surrounded by nature
Montana’s Bigfork is a picturesque town surrounded by natural beauty and recreation. Nick Thomas invites us to take a hike in Bigfork.
Bigfork is one of those quaint picturesque Montana towns that city folk visit once and never want to leave. Surrounded by Flathead Lake, the Swan River, and soaring mountain peaks, the town of just 5,000 attracts visitors throughout the year for its peaceful natural setting, boating, fishing, skiing, and its surprisingly vibrant cultural reputation. And of course, hiking.
Just minutes from downtown, the Bigfork Nature Trail (formerly the Swan River Nature Trail) is open year-round. The path is so wide in places, you could drive a school bus along the trail as it follows eastward, high above the Swan River. The trail is carved into the mountainside and overlooks the turbulent river on the right as the rushing water descends to the Bigfork Dam, about a mile from the trailhead.
There are no steep hills to climb along the main path. The easy gravel trail is level and provides spectacular views of the swift river. Heavy rains in the weeks before our spring visit created the proverbial raging torrent as the water rushed toward Flathead Lake.
Although more of a scenic walk than an adventurous hike, it’s perfect for seniors looking to burn some calories while enjoying nature surrounded by the soothing sounds of the fast-flowing river carving a path through the lush valley below.
There are some steep, primitive side trails along the way that lead down to a closer view of the water for the more adventurous. In particular, there’s a short, rough path by the spillway that cuts its way to the water’s edge offering a splendid eye-level view of the cascading, frothy water. Be cautious, however, as it can be slippery.
There is a restroom as well as benches along the way to relax and enjoy the view. And if you find yourself wanting more after reaching the spillway, you can continue for another mile to the Kearney Rapids Bridge making a round trip of about 4 miles.
The trail begins just a few blocks from downtown Bigfork, so be sure to explore the town’s quaint galleries, restaurants, and specialty stores. For example, Eva Gates Homemade Preserves on Electric Avenue is a source for all things berry – raspberry, strawberry and, of course, prized huckleberry. Peggy Ashley, who served us, took time to explain that the store is named after Eva Gates who began selling her homemade products in the 1950s (www.evagates.com). Today, her grandchildren carry on the tradition. During the summer months, visitors can watch the staff transform fresh berries into the preserves and syrups right there in the storefront.
Like much of Montana, Bigfork has seen a surge in population as people from congested urban areas across the country seek a more peaceful lifestyle in an inspiring mountain setting. This charming town is largely unspoiled and hopefully will remain that way.
FEATURE PHOTO CAPTION, TOP: The trail along Swan River is a soothing place to take a hike in Bigfork, Montana. CREDIT: Nick Thomas.
Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery in Alabama and has written features, columns, and interviews for many newspapers and magazines, including Boomer. His “Take a Hike!” column describes short trails, hikes, and walks from around the country that older adults might enjoy while traveling. See ItsAWonderfulHike.com.
