Private is one word to describe Whitefish Hills, a gated community in the recreational heart of northwest Montana.
Quiet another: The homes, which were built in various phases, sit on 2-, 5-, 10-, 20-, 40- and 60-acre sites. Eagles crisscross the sky above.
Serene would be a third: Equestrian and walking trails weave through open meadows and forests. Views take in mountain ranges.
Despite the wilderness setting, it is convenient: Downtown Whitefish is roughly a 10-minute drive away. Glacier Park International Airport is less than 20.
Among luxury residences currently for sale in the private community is a three-bedroom home set on 20 acres with fenced pastures and towering pines. Built in 2003 and expanded over the years, the 1.5-story home features a recently remodeled and updated primary bedroom, kitchen and office.
An eat-at center island and a peninsula create separation between the kitchen and a sun-filled seating area.
Also within the more than 3,000 square feet of interior space is a living room with a corner fireplace, an office, two full bathrooms and a three-quarter bathroom.
To make the most of indoor-outdoor living in the four-season climate, a heavy beam-supported vaulted roof with skylights tops a screened deck of about 450 square feet that contains a stacked-stone fireplace, heating and built-in barbecue.
A long paved driveway circles at the front of the house, which has a snow-shedding multigabled roof. The two-car garage is attached.
An unexpected bonus is the barn-turned-guesthouse. Two never-used indoor stalls have been turned into sleeping quarters and a guest apartment.
Parker Nitopi of National Parks Realty is the listing agent for 1195 Whitefish Hills Drive in Whitefish. The asking price of the property is US $3.95 million.
Whitefish Hills residents have access to a homeowners’ park and Blanchard Lake, home to largemouth bass, northern pike and yellow perch to name a few. Mountain lions, foxes, deer, bears and elk are among the neighbors.
Nearby are Whitefish Mountain Resort, Glacier National Park and the Great Bear Wilderness.