Accommodations

These lodgings are actually quite close to Bigfork [1], and are good laid-back alternatives to staying in that more expensive town.

The attractive Laughing Horse Lodge (71284 Hwy. 83, 406/886-2080, www.laughinghorselodge.com [2], $75–145) has newer log cabin–style units furnished with massive log beds (but with no telephones, alarm clocks, or TVs). The lodge is run as a dog-friendly B&B, and rates include a good breakfast. The restaurant here is worth a stop, even if you’re not sleeping over, and kayaks and bikes are available for rent.

Up a steep rutted road from Highway 83 north of Swan Lake [3] are the Swan Lake Guest Cabins (406/837-1137 or 888/837-1557, $100–175), with newly constructed, nicely detailed log cabins. The cabins, tucked into the woods, all come with propane grills and comfy porch swings. Dogs are allowed.