Perched on a steep hillside in Whitefish, Montana, this treehouse was built to create a place where friends, family, and grandkids could gather and soak in the view together. The Nelson Treehouse team designed and built the structure to nest naturally among the surrounding Douglas firs, while the warm and inviting interiors were thoughtfully designed by Hunter Interior Design.
Tucked among a grove of Douglas fir trees overlooking the lake, the treehouse sits about sixteen feet above the forest floor. The structure is supported by four trees along with posts that stabilize the build on the steep slope.
Nelson Treehouse hardware,including Heavy Limb TABs and two custom diamond-frame supports with cable backups, help the treehouse rest securely among the trees.
From the outside, the treehouse feels right at home in the Montana landscape. Board and batten Western Red Cedar siding, cedar decking, and alpine-style guardrails give it the look of a cozy mountain ski lodge.
Large Marvin windows bring the outdoors in, framing the lake and surrounding forest while filling the interior with natural light.
Cross the entry bridge and you arrive at the first pod, which houses the primary suite.
The bedroom feels quiet and tucked into the trees, with a queen bed positioned to take in the lake views.
A fireplace and reading chair create the perfect place to start the morning slowly or wind down in the evening while watching the light move across the water.
The suite also includes a bathroom with a toilet, sink, and shower, creating a comfortable and private retreat high in the canopy.
Step outside of the primary suite onto a quaint deck to take in the morning lake views.
A small covered bridge connects the first pod to the second, protecting guests from the elements as they move between spaces.
Step into the second pod and the view immediately takes center stage. The living room is wrapped in Marvin windows that capture sweeping, 180-degree views of the lake and forest.
The vaulted ceiling gives the space an airy, open feeling, while built-in bookcases and comfortable seating invite everyone to settle in and stay awhile.
Just off the living room, a small Juliet balcony allows guests to step outside and take in the view from above.
The interior design, thoughtfully created by the team at Hunter Interior Design, complements the natural materials of the treehouse while keeping the focus on the surrounding landscape. Warm textiles, layered textures, and comfortable furnishings bring softness and balance to the reclaimed wood interior.
Tucked beside the living space is a compact kitchenette designed for easy meals and morning coffee with a view.
Custom cabinetry pairs with wood slab countertops and open shelving, while the kitchen includes an oven, stovetop with range hood, sink, and dishwasher.
A mini split system keeps the space comfortable through Montana’s changing seasons.
A spiral staircase leads down to the lower level of the second pod, where a bunkhouse provides sleeping space for visiting family.
Custom built-in twin bunks create a cozy hideaway for kids and grandkids, with storage nearby for gear and overnight bags.
Just outside the bunkhouse, a deck extends out into the trees, offering one of the most unique perspectives of the entire build.
A Douglas fir rises right up through the center of the deck. From here, the lake opens up below with incredible views, while the first pod towers just off to the side giving you a new appreciation for the scale and structure of the build.
Inside the treehouse, natural materials bring warmth and texture to the space. The walls are finished in tongue-and-groove reclaimed Douglas fir with a resawn face, while the main floor features tongue-and-groove reclaimed fir flooring with a brushed finish. Hemlock interior trim highlights the craftsmanship throughout.
These materials, paired with the thoughtful interior design by Hunter Interior Design, create a space that feels both refined and relaxed, perfect for gathering after a day spent exploring the Montana outdoors.
At its heart, this Whitefish treehouse was built to bring people together.
Whether it’s grandkids piling into the bunkhouse, friends gathered around the living room windows, or someone quietly reading by the fire, the space was designed for moments that become lasting memories.
At Nelson Treehouse, we specialize in creating unique, handcrafted spaces that blend seamlessly with nature. Whether it’s a family retreat, a vacation home, or a vacation rental, we’d love to help you build your dream treehouse. Contact us today to get started on your custom project!
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