One of our beautiful local neighbors Laura O enjoying a bike ride through the Kootenai.
“We treasure this amazing property – an oasis filled with nature, beauty and peacefulness. ”
My first visit to Kootenai Lodge Estates is a memory I’ll never forget. When I first arrived in Montana, I was mesmerized by its fairytale setting. One particular morning, the apple trees were heavy with blossoms, the sun lit up the manicured lawn and fawns were frolicking across it. It was unreal to me that this heaven on earth was right outside the door.
One of my favorite things about Kootenai Lodge Estates is its rich history. The local Native Americans used to live on this lush land along the banks of the Swan River. They chose this place not only because it is rich with fish and game, but the river runs north here, a rare thing, I’ve been told, and because of that, they believed the water had special healing powers. It does. A swim in this pristine lake fed from the snow on the Swan mountain range leaves you feeling amazingly invigorated.
It is fascinating to learn how the Copper Kings (Cornelius Kelley and Orvis Evans) discovered the property and developed it as their summer home and hunting lodge. They brought their families and friends (Montana western artist, Charlie Russell; Charles Lindberg; Will Rogers, and others) here to hunt, fish, swim, boat, and enjoy music-filled dinner parties held in the Lodge on summer nights. That tradition still lives on here. My family and I have spent many days and nights dancing in the lodge dining room, enjoying cozy fireside chats and lively catered dinners and cookouts.
If you can tear yourself away from the beautiful surroundings of the Kootenai, a hike up Mount Aeneas, in the nearby Jewel Basin, is a breathtaking adventure. Once you reach the peak, you may be greeted by mountain goats as they pass you on the trail. Also, a float down the Swan River is always a fun, refreshing way to spend a summer afternoon.
Above all, what we appreciate most is the friendships we have made with the homeowners here. We look forward to growing these bonds even stronger in the years to come in one of the most stunning places on earth.
Laura xo
