Bigfork, Montana Weather by Month

Located in the picturesque Flathead Valley of northwestern Montana, Bigfork is a charming village known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and vibrant arts scene. Located on the northeastern shore of Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, Bigfork offers residents and visitors alike a tranquil escape amidst the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains. With its small-town charm, friendly community, and abundance of outdoor activities, Bigfork is a destination worth exploring.

Geography

Bigfork is located in Flathead County, Montana, approximately 30 miles south of the city of Kalispell and 50 miles northeast of Missoula. Its geographical coordinates are approximately 48.0656° N latitude and 114.0733° W longitude. The village is located on the northeastern shore of Flathead Lake, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Swan Range to the east and the Mission Mountains to the west. The region’s stunning natural landscapes, including forests, mountains, and lakes, make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Affiliation and Population

Bigfork proudly affiliates with the United States of America as one of its many vibrant communities. As of the latest census data, the village has a population of approximately 1,500 residents. Despite its small size, Bigfork is known for its tight-knit community, artistic flair, and active participation in local events and initiatives.

Area and Famous Establishments

Bigfork encompasses a total area of approximately 1.3 square miles (3.4 square kilometers), including both land and water. The village is home to a variety of local businesses, including art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and outdoor outfitters, that cater to residents and visitors alike. One of Bigfork’s most famous establishments is the Bigfork Summer Playhouse, which has been entertaining audiences with live theater productions for over 60 years.

Major Landmarks

In addition to the Bigfork Summer Playhouse, the village is home to several other notable landmarks and attractions. These include the Bigfork Bay, a picturesque marina and waterfront area where visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and waterfront dining. The nearby Swan River Nature Trail offers scenic hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities, while the Jewel Basin Hiking Area provides access to miles of trails through pristine wilderness. Visitors to Bigfork can also explore the town’s art galleries, attend local events and festivals, and experience the beauty of Flathead Lake and the surrounding mountains.

Climate and Weather Overview

Bigfork experiences a continental climate, characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, dry summers. The region’s climate is influenced by its elevation, geography, and proximity to the Rocky Mountains. To provide a comprehensive understanding of Bigfork’s weather, the following section outlines average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month of the year.

Monthly Climate Data

The table below presents average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month in Bigfork:

Monthly Weather Details

January

January in Bigfork is characterized by cold temperatures and moderate precipitation, with an average temperature of 29°F and 1.70 inches of rainfall. The region experiences occasional snowfall and icy conditions, making it ideal for winter activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Indoor activities such as visiting art galleries, attending live theater performances, and cozying up by the fireplace offer alternatives for those seeking warmth and entertainment during the winter months.

February

February sees similar weather patterns in Bigfork, with cold temperatures and moderate precipitation. With an average temperature of 34°F and 1.36 inches of rainfall, the region experiences occasional snow showers and freezing rain. Sunny days become more frequent, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cross-country skiing, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore the town’s scenic trails, visit local shops and restaurants, and attend community events and festivals.

March

As spring approaches, March brings milder temperatures and increasing precipitation to Bigfork. With an average temperature of 42°F and 1.44 inches of rainfall, the region experiences frequent rain showers and occasional snowmelt. Sunny days are still prevalent, however, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as birdwatching, photography, and nature walks. Visitors can explore the town’s parks and nature reserves, visit local farms and orchards, and attend spring festivals celebrating the season’s arrival.

April

April heralds the arrival of spring in Bigfork, with warmer temperatures and moderate precipitation. With an average temperature of 52°F and 1.28 inches of rainfall, the region experiences occasional rain showers and gusty winds. Sunny days become more common, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. Visitors can explore the town’s parks and recreational areas, visit local gardens, and attend outdoor concerts and events.

May

May brings balmy temperatures and increasing rainfall to Bigfork, with an average of 62°F and 2.40 inches of precipitation. The region experiences frequent rain showers and occasional thunderstorms, but sunny days are still prevalent. Outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking are popular during this time, as the region’s rivers and lakes offer scenic beauty and abundant wildlife. Visitors can also explore the town’s parks and trails, visit local orchards, and attend May Day celebrations and festivals.

June

June marks the onset of summer in Bigfork, with warm temperatures and moderate precipitation. With an average temperature of 71°F and 1.87 inches of precipitation, the region experiences occasional rain showers and thunderstorms. Sunny days are still common, however, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as swimming, kayaking, and camping. The region’s parks and recreational areas offer ideal conditions for outdoor recreation, while local farmers’ markets provide fresh produce and artisanal goods. Visitors can also explore the town’s historic landmarks, visit local artisans, and attend summer festivals celebrating the season’s arrival.

July

July brings sunny skies and hot temperatures to Bigfork, with an average of 81°F and 0.85 inches of precipitation. The region experiences occasional rain showers and thunderstorms, but sunny days are still prevalent. Outdoor activities such as picnicking, barbecuing, and outdoor concerts are popular during this time, as the region’s parks and recreational areas offer ideal conditions for summer fun. Visitors can also explore the town’s scenic countryside, visit local breweries, and attend Fourth of July celebrations and fireworks displays.

August

In August, Bigfork experiences continued warmth and sunshine, with temperatures averaging 80°F and moderate precipitation. Sunny days are abundant, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. The region’s parks and nature reserves offer scenic beauty and wildlife viewing opportunities, while local festivals and events provide entertainment for residents and visitors alike. Visitors can also explore the town’s historic landmarks, visit local wineries, and enjoy summer concerts and performances throughout the month.

September

As summer transitions to fall, September brings slightly cooler temperatures and decreasing precipitation to Bigfork. With an average temperature of 69°F and 1.21 inches of precipitation, the region experiences occasional rain showers and gusty winds. Sunny days are still prevalent, however, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as leaf peeping, apple picking, and hiking. Visitors can explore the town’s scenic trails, visit local cider mills, and attend fall festivals celebrating the harvest season.

October

October heralds the arrival of crisp autumn weather in Bigfork, with cooler temperatures and moderate precipitation. With an average temperature of 56°F and 1.68 inches of precipitation, the region experiences occasional rain showers and foggy conditions. Sunny days are still common, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as pumpkin picking, corn mazes, and hayrides. Visitors can explore the town’s scenic countryside, visit local orchards, and attend Halloween events and festivals.

November

November brings cool temperatures and increasing rainfall to Bigfork, with an average of 40°F and 1.84 inches of precipitation. The region experiences frequent rain showers and occasional snow flurries, but sunny days are still prevalent. Outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography are popular during this time, as the region’s forests and wetlands offer stunning fall foliage and migratory bird sightings. Visitors can also explore the town’s historic landmarks, visit local artisans, and attend Thanksgiving celebrations and events.

December

December marks the onset of winter in Bigfork, with cold temperatures and moderate precipitation. With an average temperature of 32°F and 1.76 inches of precipitation, the region experiences occasional snow showers and icy conditions. Despite the wintry weather, sunny days are still common, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding. Visitors can explore the town’s festive decorations, visit local holiday markets, and enjoy seasonal events and performances throughout the month.