Off Of the Market | Smith Lake Overlook | Fay Ranches

SMITH LAKE OVERLOOK

Lincoln, Montana

$3,500,000 | 104± acres

INTRODUCTION

The 104± acres of Smith Lake Overlook are located in the Blackfoot River Valley along the southern end of the diverse plant and wildlife interconnected ecosystem known as the Crown of the Continent. The home (Lake House), built in 2009, was located to minimize the impact on the existing biota while providing a spiritual setting, including a fantastic view of the privately held Smith Lake with the Lewis and Clark Mountain Range in the background. In 2019, an artist’s workshop was added 50 paces away, with a guest room on the bottom floor. This building (the Nest) has the same beautiful view as the Lake House in a quiet and peaceful setting.

A short walk to the boat house offers a closer view of the 23± acre Smith Lake, full of life with aquatic insects, fish, muskrats, turtles, ducks, cranes, and geese until the nesting pair of trumpeter swans chase the geese off. Eagles, hawks, owls, and osprey are often in the area. The habitat around the lake and the 65± acres south of the house support the presence of meadowlarks, woodpeckers, mountain bluebirds, and various other wild birds, moose, deer, and elk.

Less than a mile north of the property, public land is available for numerous recreational activities both in the summer and winter. A few miles further, the Scapegoat Wilderness is known for never-ending exploration by hikers, horseback riders, or skiers. The Blackfoot River offers additional fishing and recreation adventures two miles south of the Lake House.

The Lake House and the Nest both highlight the sanctuary of the Blackfoot Valley, while the boat house and Smith Lake provide a special place to play and relax in and around the water as the surrounding property provides the habitat needed for the area wildlife.

QUICK FACTS

• 104± acres in the Blackfoot Valley

• Conservation easement with one additional building envelope

• Non-motorized boating on and fishing in the 23± private acres of Smith Lake

• Waterfowl, including swans, geese, and ducks; birds of prey, including eagles, owls, osprey, and hawks; wading birds; and many other birds, including meadowlarks, robins, bluebirds, sparrows, and hummingbirds

• Elk, deer, moose, and many other wildlife species inhabit and traverse the property

• Blackfoot River with renowned fly fishing within 2± miles

• Close to the Helena Lewis & Clark National Forest, Bob Marshall, and Scapegoat Wilderness areas

• Beautiful views of Smith Lake with a mountainous backdrop from the custom home and separate artist’s workshop with guest floor

• A stunning two-level custom home with heated flooring throughout and an attached, heated two-car garage with an integrated dog kennel, small equipment room, and two additional bonus rooms

• A separate boat house with a covered deck on the shore of Smith Lake

• Located 3± miles northwest of Lincoln, Montana, and the Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild International Sculpture Park

• Situated 56± miles from Helena, Montana, and 80± miles from Missoula, Montana

ACREAGE

Smith Lake Overlook features a balanced landscape of native grass, sagebrush, cottonwood, willows, aspen, and wetlands habitat on 104± acres. A well-maintained yard with native plants awaits family, friends, barbecues, and games while blending with the natural scenery.

6 Smith Lake Overlook | Lincoln, Montana

IMPROVEMENTS

P rimary H ome | L ake H ouse

The turn-key primary home (Lake House) lies discreetly off a well-maintained county road. With 3,337± square feet on the main level, the two-floor Lake House offers large open windows, four bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, and an attached garage with an ingenious dog kennel system. Natural wood finishing and custom built-in cabinets and bookcases balance high open-beam ceilings. Heated flooring featuring cork and ceramic tile on the main level and lower-level painted concrete ensures that quiet elegance and comfort are critical design elements in this home. This home supports active lifestyles and peaceful repose with expansive dream-inspiring office space, two custom rock fireplaces, and a large deck with an underlying walk-out rock patio overlooking Smith Lake. (Additional improvement photographs available upon request.)

Primary home main level kitchen

Primary home main level dining room

Primary home main level office

Primary home main level foyer

home main level master bedroom Primary home main level master bath Primary home main level garage and indoor kennel Primary home main level guest room

Primary home stairway between levels

Primary home lower level recreation room

Primary home lower level wet bar

Primary home lower level recreation room

The lower floor of the cabin (the Nest) hosts a two-bed guest room with large picture windows facing Smith Lake, a deck, desk, sink, small refrigerator, microwave, and full bathroom. The separate upper-level open-plan artist’s workshop also boasts large picture windows facing the lake and a sink, bathroom, and deck. The Nest, built in 2019, awaits visitors and provides a haven for artistic, musical, or intellectual retreats.

Cabin upper level artist’s workshop

Cabin upper level kitchen

Cabin lower floor living room

Cabin lower floor kitchenette

A boat house shelters non-motorized watercraft and offers a peaceful setting for connecting family and friends on its covered deck.

A heated and enclosed tool and equipment shed (Lake Shed), with additional open bays, is located near the county road and 300 yards from the Lake House.

Boat house

Equipment shed

Tool shop

Equipment shed

RECREATION

W i L d L ife

At the southern end of the Crown of the Continent, which includes over 10 million acres of some of the most intact wildland on the North American Continent, this property enjoys a vast array of wildlife and native plant species. Consistent sightings of moose, deer, elk, and their young offspring indicate this property’s healthy ecosystem.

Smith Lake hosts many species of migratory fowl within the Pacific flyway and is an annual nesting place for one of the Blackfoot Valley’s magnificent trumpeter swan pairs. Bald eagles, osprey, and other raptors commonly grace the skies with aerial acrobatics as a great blue heron poises quietly on the shore awaiting its next catch. The unique call of sandhill cranes guarding their nests alerts observers to the sight of these leggy creatures on the surrounding land. A quiet kayak float on the lake will delight as turtles happily sunbathe on the logs near two small islands.

Anglers of all ages can privately fish from the bank or float the 23± acres of Smith Lake. Meandering across the valley within a short distance, the Blackfoot River, as celebrated in the book A River Runs Through It, persists as a blue ribbon fishery and stunning ecosystem. Additionally, many lakes and streams offer excellent trout fishing and hiking opportunities, as the national forest and wilderness areas closely neighbor Smith Lake Overlook.

H unting

In Montana Hunting District 281, Smith Lake Overlook is bordered to the south and east by restricted hunting. Most big-game hunting opportunities exist north of the property in the Helena Lewis and Clark National Forest.

o t H er r e C reation | f ami L y a dventures

The Bob Marshall and Scapegoat Wilderness Areas comprise a vast network of trails that offer hiking, camping, and exploring opportunities. With over one million acres of protected land, this complex is a nature lover’s paradise, featuring stunning mountain vistas, pristine lakes and rivers, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can choose among trails, from easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips. A short drive over Roger’s Pass unveils the splendor of the Rocky Mountain Front and the eastern slope of the Bob Marshall Wilderness.

WATER SOURCES | WATER RIGHTS

As a high point of Smith Lake Overlook, Smith Lake provides for non-motorized water activities on its 23± acres. Multiple water rights, including domestic wells, will transfer with the property.

MINERAL RIGHTS

All mineral rights appurtenant to the property and owned by the seller will convey to the buyer at closing. Mineral rights are not guaranteed. It is suggested that the buyer conduct a mineral search with a title company.

CONSERVATION | STEWARDSHIP

Smith Lake Overlook carries a conservation easement with one additional building envelope within the property boundary. Five Valleys Land Trust administers the conservation easement.

Each of us at Fay Ranches loves the land and wants to see it remain a productive agricultural ground and a quality fish and wildlife habitat. Through promoting thoughtful land stewardship, Fay Ranches has guided owners toward a legacy of conserving wide-open spaces, enhancing and creating fisheries and wildlife habitats, and implementing sustainable agricultural operations. Fay Ranches is proud to say that since our company began in 1992, our clients’ conservation ethics and land-use practices have significantly enhanced our work landscape.

AREA HISTORY

Traditionally a gathering place for multiple Native American tribes over thousands of years, the Blackfoot Valley in western Montana has a history rooted in mining, logging, ranching, and tourism. The area is named for its Blackfoot River, a world-renowned trout fishery. In the heart of the Valley, Lincoln was founded in the late 1800s as a gold-mining town, subsequently seeing the proliferation of logging, sawmills, and ranching. Outdoor and artistic-based tourism ensued, and outfitting businesses flourished to support wild-game hunting and guided fishing excursions. The decades since have spawned countless collaborative efforts between individuals passionate about how to thrive as residents of the area while supporting a healthy ecosystem into the future.

Blackfoot River: 2± miles from Smith Lake Overlook

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

History buffs can visit the nearby ghost town of Garnet or explore the Montana Historical Society Museum in Helena, Montana. Other popular attractions include the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Great Falls and the Old Montana Prison Museum in Deer Lodge. Additionally, visitors can take scenic drives to enjoy the stark beauty of the Rocky Mountains and Glacier National Park.

A northwest excursion through the stunning landscapes of the Seeley-Swan Valley leads to the Flathead Valley and Glacier National Park. The Going-to-the-Sun Road, which winds through southern Glacier National Park, is one of the most picturesque drives in the country, offering breathtaking views of mountain peaks, glacial lakes, and alpine meadows. Visitors can stop at viewpoints, hike to waterfalls, and even take a boat tour of the park’s famous Lake McDonald.

Glacier National Park: 2.5± hours from Smith Lake Overlook

LOCATION

Smith Lake Overlook lies 3± miles northwest of Lincoln, Montana. With a population of 1,000± individuals, Lincoln has all basic amenities, including a grocery store, post office, medical clinic, and restaurants. A historical museum and Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild featuring international and resident artists add to the unique culture which celebrates the limitless artistic interpretations of the surrounding natural beauty.

Located within Lewis and Clark County, Smith Lake Overlook is 56± miles from Helena, Montana. As the state capital, county seat, and home to the prestigious Carroll College, Helena maintains an active community of students, politics, and outdoor activities. Missoula, Montana, 80± miles to the west, calls visitors to enjoy its vibrant downtown shopping, restaurants, and events on the University of Montana campus.

Lincoln, Montana

Smith

Helena, Montana: 56± miles from Smith Lake Overlook

AIRPORT SERVICES

The closest commercial airport, Helena Regional Airport, accommodates direct flights to and from Salt Lake City, Seattle, and Denver via Alaska, Delta, and United Airlines. Executive Air services private aircraft. Helena Regional Airport is approximately 56± miles from Smith Lake Overlook.

Located 80± miles from Smith Lake Overlook, the Missoula Montana Airport is also a popular commercial airfield. Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, United, and others serve Missoula Montana Airport. The state-owned Lincoln Airport (S69) offers private pilots quick access to the area.

CLIMATE

Source: http://www.city-data.com/city/Lincoln-Montana.html

SUMMARY

Smith Lake Overlook spans over 104± acres and boasts a diverse ecosystem of plant and wildlife species from the regal moose to the elegant trumpeter swan to the serene turtle. Owners and friends can enjoy fishing on the nearby Blackfoot River or a quiet paddle on Smith Lake.

The Overlook’s location is near Lincoln, Montana, and its Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild International Sculpture Park. Bordering the southern end of the Crown of the Continent, this position invites exploration of over one million acres in the Scapegoat and Bob Marshall Wilderness areas. Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy snowmobiling and skiing on public lands outside the ranch. Family and friends will enjoy the warm embrace of the custom home or its guest cabin and studio which all offer stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges within the sanctuary of the Blackfoot Valley.

$3,500,000 Cash

Please contact James Esperti at (406) 581-4795 | jesperti@fayranches.com or Matt Henningsen at (406) 570-5072 | mhenningsen@fayranches.com to schedule a showing. This is an exclusive listing. An agent from Fay Ranches must be present at all showings, unless otherwise noted or other arrangements are made. To view other properties, fly fishing properties, and sporting ranches that we have listed, please visit our web page at www.fayranches.com .

PRICE TERMS CONTACT NOTICE

Offer is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change or withdrawal without notice, and approval of purchase by owner. Information regarding land classification, carrying capacities, maps, etc., is intended only as a general guideline and has been provided by the owners and other sources deemed reliable, but the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Prospective purchasers are encouraged to research the information to their own satisfaction.

RELATIONSHIPS IN REAL ESTATE

As required by Montana law, a broker or salesperson shall disclose the existence and nature of relevant agency or other relationships to the parties to a real estate transaction. The various relationships and description of duties are as follows:

1. SELLER AGENT

A “Seller Agent” is obligated to the Seller to:

Act solely in the best interests of the seller; Obey promptly and efficiently all lawful instructions of the seller; Disclose all relevant and material information that concerns the real estate transaction and that is known to the seller agent and not known or discoverable by the seller unless the information is subject to confidentiality arising from a prior or existing agency relationship on the part of the seller agent; Safeguard the seller’s confidences; Exercise reasonable care, skill, and diligence in pursuing the seller’s objectives and in complying with the terms established in the listing agreement; Fully account to the seller for any funds or property of the seller that comes into the seller agent’s possession; and Comply with all applicable federal and state laws, rules, and regulations.

Montana law permits a real estate agent, after providing written disclosure to a seller and obtaining a seller’s written consent, to represent multiple sellers of property and to list properties for sale that may compete with the seller’s property, without breaching any obligation to the seller.

A “Seller Agent” is obligated to the Buyer to:

Disclose to a buyer or the buyer agent any adverse material facts that concern the property and that are known to the seller agent, except that the seller agent is not required to inspect the property or verify any statements made by the seller; Disclose to a buyer or the buyer agent when the seller agent has no personal knowledge of the veracity of information regarding adverse material facts that concern the property; Act in good faith with a buyer and a buyer agent; and Comply with all applicable federal and state laws, rules, and regulations.

2. BUYER AGENT (cont)

A “Buyer Agent” is obligated to the Seller to:

Disclose any adverse material facts that are known to the buyer agent and that concern the ability of the buyer to perform on any purchase offer; Disclose to the seller or the seller agent when the buyer agent has no personal knowledge of the veracity of information regarding adverse material facts that concern the property; Act in good faith with a seller and a seller agent; and Comply with all applicable federal and state laws, rules and regulations.

3. DUAL AGENCY If a seller agent is also representing a buyer, or a buyer agent is also representing a seller with regard to a property, then a dual agency relationship may be established. In a dual agency relationship, the dual agent is equally obligated to both the seller and the buyer. These obligations may prohibit the dual agent from advocating exclusively on behalf of the seller or buyer and may limit the depth and degree of representation that you receive. A broker or a salesperson may not act as a dual agent without the signed, written consent of both the seller and the buyer.

A “Dual Agent” is obligated to a Seller in the same manner as a seller agent and is obligated to a Buyer in the same manner as a buyer agent, except

a dual agent:

Has a duty to disclose to a buyer or seller any adverse material facts that are known to the dual agent regardless of any confidentiality considerations; and May not disclose the following information without the written consent of the person to whom the information is confidential; The fact that the buyer is willing to pay more than the offered purchase price; The fact that the seller is willing to accept less than the purchase price that the seller is asking for the property; Factors motivating either party to buy or sell; and Any information that a party indicates in writing to the dual agent is to be kept confidential.

4. STATUTORY BROKER

A “Statutory Broker” is not the agent of the Buyer or Seller but nevertheless is obligated to them to:

Disclose to: i. a buyer or buyer agent any adverse material facts that concern the property and that are known to the statutory broker, except that the statutory broker is not required to inspect the property or verify any statements made by the seller; and ii. a seller or a seller agent any adverse material facts that are known to the statutory broker and that concern the ability of the buyer to perform on any purchase offer; Exercise reasonable care, skill, and diligence in putting together a real estate transaction, and Comply with all applicable federal and state laws, rules and regulations.

5. IN-HOUSE SELLER AGENT DESIGNATE Created when the agency holds both the listing on a property from the seller and a buyer broker agreement with the buyer, an in-house seller agent designate is a broker or salesperson employed by or associated as an independent contractor with a broker and designated by the broker as the exclusive agent for a seller for a designated transaction and who may not be considered to be acting for other than the seller with respect to the designated transaction.

6. IN-HOUSE BUYER AGENT DESIGNATE Created when the agency holds both the listing on a property from the seller and a buyer broker agreement with the buyer, an in-house buyer agent designate is a broker or salesperson employed by or associated as an independent contractor with a broker and designated by the broker as the exclusive agent for a buyer for a designated transaction and who may not be considered to be acting for other than the buyer with respect to the designated transaction.

BUYER AGENT

A “Buyer Agent” is obligated to the Buyer to: Act solely in the best interests of the buyer; Obey promptly and efficiently all lawful instructions of the buyer; Disclose all relevant and material information that concerns the real estate transaction and that is known to the buyer agent and not known or discoverable by the buyer, unless the information is subject to confidentiality arising from a prior or existing agency relationship on the part of the buyer agent; Safeguard the buyer’s confidences; Exercise reasonable care, skill, and diligence in pursuing the buyer’s objectives and in complying with the terms established in the listing agreement; Fully account to the buyer for any funds or property of the buyer that comes into the buyer agent’s possession; and Comply with all applicable federal and state laws, rules and regulations.

Montana law permits a real estate agent, after providing written disclosure to a buyer and obtaining a buyer’s written consent, to represent multiple buyers interested in buying the same property or similar properties to properties in which a buyer is interested and to show properties in which a buyer is interested to other prospective buyers, without breaching any obligation to the buyer.