Horseback Riding in Bigfork: The Best Springtime Trails to Explore

By Heidi Lane

Spring in Bigfork brings that welcome shift when the snow melts back and the landscape comes alive again. If you ride or care for horses, you know this is the season when everything starts to open up—weather, footing, and that desire to be out on the trail. Many of my clients prioritize land, flexibility, and access to open space when looking for property in our area. While Bigfork doesn’t have a formal trail system for horseback riding, there are still some meaningful ways to enjoy riding in spring—and smart things to look for if you're thinking about buying property that fits your lifestyle.

Key Takeaways

Bigfork offers limited but valuable opportunities for spring horseback riding
Most riding happens on private land, rural roads, or forest access routes
Only one public trail near town permits horses: the Swan River Nature Trail
Horse-friendly properties with usable acreage remain in high demand

What Spring Riding Actually Looks Like in Bigfork

Unlike resort areas with structured equestrian trails, Bigfork’s riding culture is built around private land use, quiet roads, and creative access to public land. That’s especially true in spring, when higher elevation trails are still snow-covered and most horse owners are focused on short conditioning rides, not all-day treks.

Spring also brings better footing, mild weather, and lighter traffic—all ideal for getting horses back in motion after winter.

Realistic Spring Riding Options Around Town

Flat, Rural Roads: Many riders use lightly traveled areas like Ferndale or north of Echo Lake
Private Acreage: Owning your own land is the most reliable way to ride here
Forest Access Points: Some forest roads outside Bigfork are suitable for early-season use
Multi-Use Paths: Only select public areas permit horses—always verify before riding

Because equestrian infrastructure is limited, most local riders focus on space and access, not trail density.

The Swan River Nature Trail: Bigfork’s Only Confirmed Public Option

Of all the publicly accessible trails near Bigfork, the Swan River Nature Trail is the only one officially open to horseback riding. It’s relatively flat, well-maintained, and offers about 4 miles of peaceful scenery along the river—ideal for spring rides when other terrain is still muddy or snowbound.

What to Expect From This Trail

Horse Access Is Permitted: This is currently the only trail in Bigfork where horses are allowed
Spring-Friendly Terrain: Low elevation and gravel surface make it a good early-season choice
Multi-Use Etiquette: You’ll likely share the trail with walkers and cyclists
Convenient Location: Just minutes from town, with easy trailer parking nearby

For buyers looking at homes near downtown Bigfork, proximity to this trail can be a unique lifestyle bonus.

Forest Roads and Public Access Areas for Horses

Many riders in the Bigfork area rely on forest service roads or backroads—not designated hiking trails—for spring conditioning and daily rides. While Bigfork sits close to Flathead National Forest, it’s important to note that not all areas allow horseback use.

Areas farther outside town, particularly to the south and west, offer more opportunities for permitted equestrian access.

Where Public Riding Is More Likely

Unpaved Forest Roads: Some allow riding where motorized traffic is also permitted
Low-Traffic Access Points: Look for less-developed roads, not marked hiking areas
Avoid Restricted Zones: Places like Jewel Basin prohibit all horse use
Check with Local Offices: Flathead National Forest ranger stations can confirm legal access

If you’re not sure where to ride legally, it’s always better to ask than assume.

Guided Horseback Riding Experiences Near Bigfork

If you don’t own horses or simply want to enjoy a trail ride without the logistics, guided horseback rides are available in the greater Bigfork area—especially as the weather warms up. Local outfitters operate seasonally and offer scenic experiences tailored to both beginners and experienced riders.

What to Expect from Local Outfitters

Bar W Guest Ranch: Located in nearby Whitefish, Bar W offers trail rides and packages throughout the Flathead Valley, including areas within reach of Bigfork.
Swan Mountain Outfitters: This outfitter runs guided trail rides based out of Glacier National Park and surrounding public lands during spring and summer.
Seasonal Availability: Most guided trips begin in late spring, once trail conditions are dry and safe for horses.
Great for Visitors: These rides are ideal if you’re visiting Bigfork or exploring the lifestyle before buying property.

While Bigfork doesn’t have year-round stables offering daily rides from town, these nearby options give you easy access to the experience without owning land or equipment.

Buying Property With Horses in Mind

If horseback riding is part of your lifestyle—or something you’re planning for—your property search in Bigfork should focus on more than just the house. The right land makes all the difference, especially when public trail systems are limited.

What to Look for in Horse-Friendly Homes

Zoning That Allows Livestock: Not all areas permit horses—check local regulations
Flat, Usable Acreage: At least 5 acres is typical for one or two horses
Access to Water: Wells, ponds, or irrigation rights can make land more usable
Trailer-Friendly Driveways: Hauling in and out requires wide, navigable roads
Proximity to Rural Roads or Open Land: Daily ride access matters more than trail networks

Areas like Ferndale, Foothill Road, and north of Echo Lake often offer the kind of space and access horse owners need.

FAQs

Can I Ride Horses on Hiking Trails Around Bigfork?

No. Most hiking trails—including Jewel Basin and Crane Mountain—do not permit horses. Always check access rules before riding.

Is There a Public Equestrian Trail Network in Bigfork?

No. The only confirmed public trail that permits horses near town is the Swan River Nature Trail. Most riding happens on private land or rural roads.

Where Do Most Horse Owners Ride in Spring?

On their own property, in low-traffic areas near their homes, or on accessible forest roads outside town. Early-season rides are typically short and local.

Contact Me Today

If horseback riding is part of your daily life—or your dream for the future—I’d love to help you find property in Bigfork that makes it possible. I work closely with buyers who need space, access, and the right kind of land to support a rural, equestrian lifestyle.

Reach out to me, Heidi Lane, and let’s explore your options together. Whether you're looking for flat pastureland or a wooded property with trailer access, I’ll help you find the kind of place where your lifestyle—and your horses—can truly thrive.

About the Author

Heidi Lane, a Montana native, is dedicated to making real estate transactions smooth and personal, treating clients like family. She loves Montana’s landscapes and lifestyle, enjoying outdoor adventures, sailing on Flathead Lake, and spending time with her four children.