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Secluded Riverfront Paradise-the Tailwater House: not the average rental...

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Private river front paradise.
3 Different Decks, Outdoor Space Designed to Be Used
This cutty was caught in from to of house. He was returned to the river.
Kitchen, opens to living room.
Your Own Private Riverfront

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 5

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Darby, MT
  • Bitterroot River
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Painted Rocks State Park
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Darby Park
    ‪28 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Single Bunk Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Secluded Riverfront Paradise-the Tailwater House: not the average rental...

The Tailwater House: A Magical Place! 5 Guests Maximum. No exceptions.

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Unlike many rentals, the Tailwater is not a low quality spec home of plywood and formica. It is not on the busy I-93 corridor. It is not located in parched, wind-blown country. It is a quiet, shaded, secluded custom home built of high quality, natural materials. The Tailwater is for those who desire a relaxing experience in a tasteful home, as opposed to a generic mass produced “cabin”. Our price reflects this experience. Please Note: there is no WiFi, and no cable tv. Never will be. This is meant to be an escape from the internet and the airwaves. Wifi is available close by at Darby Library.

Some recent reviews have lamented the small TV screen—if you want to watch a big TV this isn’t the place. Note also, one of the three bedrooms has a separate entrance on the Boulder Creek side of the house. This is the bedroom with the queen size bed. Again— McMansion dwelling wide-screen tv watching travelers: this isn’t your place. The Las Vegas holiday inn with speakers set to “river sounds” may be more suitable.

The Tailwater House offers first class accommodations in an unmatched natural setting. No dwellings are visible from the Tailwater; it is extremely private. The Tailwater offers all modern comforts and displays the hand-chosen accoutrements of a well-planned retreat. The Tailwater sits at the confluence of the West Fork of the Bitterroot River and Boulder Creek outside of Darby, Montana. Both watercourses flow out of the largest contiguous block of federally protected Wilderness in the lower 48 states, and meet one another at this very magical place. The Boulder Creek Trailhead into the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness is a short walk away.

From the Tailwater’s decks, patios, and picture windows, native westslope cutthroat trout, as well as rainbows, brookies, and browns may be seen plying the blue ribbon waters of the West Fork or returning to the cool waters of Boulder Creek to spawn. Kingfishers, mallards, hummingbirds, owls, ospreys, eagles, and many more avian species inhabit the forest in which the Tailwater House resides. Some of these birds may be fishing along side you! In the forests, meadows, and surrounding peaks, elk, moose, black bear, bighorn sheep, and intact ecological systems flourish in the Bitterroot and Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forests. Instream flows have been preserved on the West Fork for perpetuity. Deep pools abound in the waters surrounding the property. For flatwater enthusiasts, Painted Rocks Reservoir is a few miles away.

The Tailwater House offers pristine trout waters a few steps from the door (literally). It is a fly fishing Mecca, but moreover, it is a magical escape in which Boulder Creek’s gurgling rhythms and the West Fork’s deep songs will serenade your worries away--all day and all night. Writers and artists take note; inspiration is a year-round occupant at the Tailwater.

The Tailwater House is 20-30 minutes by car from Darby, MT; 40-45 minutes from Hamilton, MT; and 1.5 hours from Missoula International Airport and the University of Montana, Missoula. The Tailwater is approximately a one half-day drive to both Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, as well as to Idaho's world-famous Salmon River.

There are several lodges within minutes of the tailwater that offer informal as well as fine dining options. These include the Triple Creek Ranch and the West Fork Lodge--both 5-10 minutes from the Tailwater House. Please google for the websites of these businesses as VRBO limits the websites we can list here.

Tailwater House Amenities

The Tailwater sleeps 5 guests. (5 maximum, no exceptions.) It has 1 bathroom, 1 king size bed, 1 queen bed and 1 twin bunk bed, and 1 sleeper sofa (full). Appliances include telephone, flat screen HD tv/vcr, microwave and conventional ovens, washer/dryer, dishwasher, stereo, gas BBQ grill on porch, and other kitchen appliances. 100% cotton linens provided for use. No smoking. No pets. We don't make exceptions to these rules, as many (including our children) are in need of a smoke-free, or pet-hair free lodging environment due to allergies and other challenges. Please keep these restrictions in mind PRIOR to making any plans. House features large book, guidebook, and DVD/VHS library.

The Tailwater Tale

The Tailwater is a magical place. It will be love at first sight, cast, or swim for you--as it was for us.

We purchased The Tailwater in 2006, and manage it as a family business. Our philosophy is one of sharing this special place for a reasonable price, rather than maximizing occupancy and income. We try hard to be conscientious stewards of The Tailwater and the ecosystem in which it exists. We ask that our guests do the same. It is our pleasure to share this special place and its inimitable moods and sylvan magic with you. We send our warmest thanks for your patronage,

-The Tailwater House

*Minimum Stay is five nights during summer months (June- August). Two night minimum stay otherwise. Additional days will be pro-rated.

Payment is by certified check, personal check (with one month lead time prior to rental), electronic transfer, or credit card. No cash transactions. Payment via paypal may be possible (please call to inquire). Rental rates exclude a refundable $400 Security Deposit, to be returned after stay if property sustains no damage. There is an 8% bed taxed charged by Ravalli County that is due with payment.

The Tailwater House

West Fork Road
Darby, Montana

For more information, call or e-mail.

Keywords: Riverfront House

Property manager

Holly Sienkiewicz
Premier Host

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Outdoor space
Parking available
Mountain view

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Check-out time at 11 am is firm. We value and respect our caretaker's time. Charge is $100/hour for every hour house is occupied after 11 am.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Darby

Located in Darby, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Painted Rocks State Park and Bitterroot River, while Darby Pioneer Memorial Museum and Historic Forest Service Museum are cultural highlights. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Darby, MT

What's nearby

  • Bitterroot River - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Painted Rocks State Park - 20 min drive - 19.7 km
  • Trapper Creek Trailhead - 21 min drive - 15.5 km
  • Darby Park - 28 min drive - 28.2 km
  • Rock Creek Trailhead - 44 min drive - 39.8 km

Restaurants

  • ‪West Fork Lodge - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Secluded Riverfront Paradise-the Tailwater House: not the average rental... pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Secluded Riverfront Paradise-the Tailwater House: not the average rental...?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Secluded Riverfront Paradise-the Tailwater House: not the average rental...?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Secluded Riverfront Paradise-the Tailwater House: not the average rental... located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is 0.4 mi (0.6 km) from Bitterroot River and within 9 miles (15 km) of Painted Rocks Lake and Bitterroot Valley. Trapper Creek Trailhead and Watchtower Creek Trailhead are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 64 out of 68 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 68 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 68 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 68 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 68 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Barry B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Cabin!
Great place for a fishing getaway. Perfect location. Cabin had everything we needed. Comfortable and great outdoor spaces
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Father - Daughter Getaway
My daughter and I had a great stay at the house. Very clean and comfortable. We would definitely return and bring the whole family!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ken B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to stay
My wife and I are in Montana looking at property and found this great gem of a property to relax as we do our due diligence looking at properties. Doug has been great in the communication. Ken and Maureen
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Scott P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great spot
This a beautiful property, just as advertised
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Terrie R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
weekend
beautiful secluded cabin on the river. enjoyed cabin and area!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Andrea R., Denver, USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful setting
One of the most gorgeous cabins we’ve stayed. Lovely rivers and creeks, old growth pine, many great hikes within a short drive, town of Hamilton was quaint and charming. Lovely and accommodating hosts.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Charlotte A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely river getaway
Everything you could want. Mountains and river right outside your door. A few steps to fishing and relaxing at the river. Kitchen, living and dining areas just the right size. Enjoyed cooking out on the grill, relaxing on the deck and watching Ospreys, Kingfishers and Baldeagles fly by.
Stayed 13 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cador P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing vacation
The Tailwater house is absolutely beautiful - everything lives up to the descriptions. We had a small issue but Holly and Alex took care of it and made everything right. The caretaker Steve across the street was extra helpful. Thanks for everything!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kristi G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It's magical!
We loved our time at the cabin..the pictures do not do it justice. It's the perfect spot for a family vaca. We needed to unplug from work and just enjoy our time together. This was just what we needed. We will be back!! Darby is a charming little town.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

John T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A slice of Montana Heaven
This place is pretty magical, just wish the fish weren't smarter than me. My kids are already asking when we can go back. Bring a chainsaw if you drive to Horse Creek hot springs, FYI.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

james K.

Better then advertised
The Tailwater House far exceeded our expectations. Beautiful cabin and location on the river. The cabin is very well thought out and included the touches you would find at home. The fishing was great right out the back door, we caught some of our biggest fish within a few steps off the deck. The huge deck was great for relaxing on after a long day of fishing. The great cabin and beautiful location make the Tailwater House 5 stars.

10/10 Excellent

Charlotte A., Frederick Md USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Magical Montana Moments
Loved the privacy in the woods and on the river. Sat many quiet days on the many decks reading, birdwatching and watching my husband flyfish. The beds and furniture were comfortable, the cabin very clean, kitchen had everything you needed and grilled outside a lot. Well situated close to town, restaurants, shopping in Darby. Loved the pristine sounds of Gordon Lightfoot on the stereo! Will definitely return. Host was very good to us.
Stayed 13 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

John C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Never Slept So Well In My Adult Life
I’m serious, I haven’t slept that well in decades. The sound of Boulder Creek meeting the Bitterroot is the sound of heaven. The cabin is a true retreat and escape from the modern world, which we loved. The fishing was good and only feet from the deck. Want a well-stocked kitchen? This is your ticket. Overall a great place and experience.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Angela M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Private paradise
It was exactly what we were looking for. A secluded hideaway on the water. The cabin is the perfect size. Very clean. We loved all the decks/ porches. No internet. Small tv for a dvd before bed. We opened the window at night to listen to the water rush. What can i say., i hope we can return one day soon.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Krista D., Chippewa Falls, WI

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful and relaxing
Beautiful cabin surrounded by clear water and fresh air. The cabin was comfortable, clean and had a well stocked kitchen. The deck surrounding the cabin was a fantastic place to relax and watch the water flow. The covered porch was especially enjoyable during an afternoon rain storm. Many good places to throw in the fishing line just feet from the cabin, although could be difficult to navigate for someone with limited mobility. The beds were comfortable and the sound of the river made for some deep sleeping. Easy check in and check out. One of our favorite VRBOs!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Robert T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Gorgeous and very relaxing
The tail water house is an amazing place! The sound of the river and nearby wildlife will sooth your soul. It was a very clean and well kept property. I could sit by that river all day everyday and never get tired of it. We opened the windows at night to listen to the water rolling over the rocks and we slept better than we had in years. Tried fly fishing for the first time and had a blast even though I didn’t catch anything it was still a lot of fun to try. We about missed our checkout time because I lost track of time fishing and my wife was laying in the hammock reading a book. We both highly recommend this place to anyone that appreciates nature and beautiful places. I hope we are welcomed back again someday. Thank you to our hosts for giving us an anniversary vacation that we will always remember.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Chris O.

Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mark C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Eric L., Gallatin

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great property
This is a great property right on the Bitterroot River. Very comfortable accommodations with an awesome outdoor area and several large decks. It was a great place to disconnect but not too far from town. Definitely recommend this place.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

amy n.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Always peaceful and enjoyable.
5th year to visit the house. It is peaceful, serene, and an all wonderful time. Plenty of books to read on the deck, or just sit and watch nature. This year was hot and smokey so we were not able to do much outside. We will be back next year and cannot wait!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quaint and serene
Lovely cabin on the river. Everything we needed, nothing we didn’t. Close to excellent hiking and fly fishing. Wildlife watching from the deck. Perfect
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mark H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
West Fork Bitterroot Stay
Very nice location along river. Very relaxing and comfortable.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dimitri P., Hinteregg, Switzerland

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing
Magical
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mark L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Special Place
This was my second stay at Tailwater. This time to fish and hike a number of great rivers in the area with my son and son-in-law. Exactly as described in the listing. This is an exceptional cabin in a beautiful and secluded location. Hope to be back for a third time next year.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Shiloh D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Tailwater Cabin
Incredible location—you just can’t beat it. A great home base for exploring the Selway-Bitteroot Wilderness area. Quiet and relaxing. Our family loved the time spent at the cabin.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

About the host

Hosted by Holly Sienkiewicz

Host profile image

Why they chose this property

What makes this property unique

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests