Essex, MT
Owner: Greg A. Stephens

Last Updated: January 2000

LOCATION:

Essex Montana - A small mountain community consisting of the Izzak Walton Inn and approximately 30 private residences. Essex is on the southwest corner of Glacier National Park—1/2 way between the East Glacier and West Glacier entrances to the Park.

WHAT TO DO

Hiking and fishing in GLACIER PARK is fantastic. Without even getting in the car, there are 2 great trails you can walk to from the caboose. One follows the Flathead River to Lookout Mountain, where a fire station lookout tower is located—unbelievable scenery. Another trail follows Essex Creek to it's head waters of Marion Lake—you will find some great fly fishing and most likely be the only ones there. A short drive down the road is West Glacier, where several outfitters will take you on a day trip of rafting or kayaking down the Flathead river (remember the River Wild with Meryl Streep—many parts of it were filmed on this river) Cross Country skiing in the winter is something we really enjoy. Start from the caboose and follow Essex Creek for some unbelievable winter scenery. Railroad buffs enjoy the location immediately adjacent to the main line of the Burlington Northern railroad. And guess what, the Amtrak Empire Builder does a "whistle stop" at Essex, with the loading platform literally in front of our caboose.

THE ACCOMODATIONS

The caboose has been completely re-furbished to accommodate our family of 2 adults and 4 children. Full kitchen, bath and sleeping facilities are arranged in a railroad and cabin motif for a relaxing atmosphere. The cupola on each side provides a daytime hangout for the kids and a great place to sleep at night. Evenings are spent relaxing by a bonfire in the yard or reading your favorite book by the vintage conductor's lamp over your bedside.

IF IT SOUNDS GOOD

This is our family vacation home. Due to the increasing cost of taxes and upkeep, 2 or 3 times a year guests outside of the family are able to rent the caboose for a once in a lifetime family vacation that you will always remember.