Bigfork is an amazing place. Living here, I have experienced most of the things to do in the area. Of course the one big highlight of Bigfork is its location to Glacier National Park, a must if traveling to northwestern Montana. Bigfork is a seasonal resort town. During the winter, the population is around 2,000 if not less. During the summer, the population grows to over 10,000. That's included for the area which is very spread out.
    During the summer, prices double for lodging. The most popular hotels in Bigfork are the Marina Cay Resort, the Mountain Lake Lodge, the Timbers Motel and the Bridge Street Cottages. There aren't many other hotels in Bigfork, but the area does have quite a few B&B's. The Mountain Lake Lodge is a beautiful, fairly new property located about 4 miles south of the village of Bigfork. Right around the hotel, there isn't much, but they do have beautiful views of the Flathead Lake (largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River). It's nicely landscaped and they have an infinity pool that flows over the edge. The rooms are fantastic and are large. The Marina Cay Resort is another hot spot in Bigfork. Mostly made up two and three bedroom condos, it's located on the Bigfork Bay within walking distance of the village. It is made up of many different buildings and are adding more. For the summer of 2007, rates will be about 30% cheaper due to the construction. They are adding new pools and facilities including a new restaurant, lounge and lobby. Nice location and views. The Timbers Motel is a basic but very clean and well kept motel just outside of the walking distance from the village. Located on a hill above the highway, they have a very nice outdoor pool, hot tub and spa. The rooms are basic, but again very clean.
     The most popular things to do during the summer include boating and swimming on the famous Flathead Lake. Note: The limited boat launches and parking on this side of the lake fill up very quickly during the summer and can sometimes be a little hectic. Hiking in the nearby Jewel Basin is also popular. Of course, Glacier Park is the most popular attraction. Don't just go to the west entrance and to Lake Mc Donald. go off on some of the trails and see beautiful sights. Most of the tourists go to the west entrance and can be VERY had to find parking at the Lake Mc Donald Lodge and parking is rare at the Avalanche Creek Area. Bigfork has many boutique shops in its small downtown area. Lots of very nice restaurants, a little deli and of course a bowling alley. The famous Eagle Bend Golf Course is just a mile or two from downtown and is a very elite area. The Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts is a big hit downtown and tickets are available in advance.
    The downfall of the Bigfork area is that after labor day, everything basically shuts down. Bigfork is VERY seasonal and can get kinda quiet and lonely. During Christmas time, most people from the area decorate the town a few days after Thanksgiving. This is a big tradition in Bigfork with free chili and hot chocolate from the local Bigfork Inn. The Chrismas time in downtown can be very pleasant, but the rest of the winter can be a little gloomy and slow.
    Hope this helps for those travelers seeking out a nice place to visit for the summer. It is easy to get to Bigfork. Only a 30 drive from the international airport in Kalispell. Enjoy!