Deep within the woods of the small town of Essex, Montana lies relics from the past that may look abandoned at first glance. The Izaak Walton Inn was first built in 1939 at a price tag of $40,000 and the town expected many tourists at the time because Great Northern Railway placed a stop in Essex and plans to make a third stop as well.
Because World War II took place shortly afterward with the bombing of Pearl Harbour in 1941, plans for the third stop were shelved and it was never built. But over the next few decades, the Izaak Walton Inn thrived because of tourism from skiers and hikers. As a tribute to the railway days and the movement towards a house on wheels, they renovated train cars as hotel rooms that provide a unique glimpse into the past but the inside looks like a modern cabin.
This is the original caboose of the Great Northern X215 freight train that would pass through Essex in 1941 but it looks nothing like it did on the inside.
Inside, it is extensively remodeled as a cabin that comfortably can accommodate six people.
Essex is home to many log cabins and the interior design reflects the charm of a log cabin.
It has all the amenities of a modern dwelling and even includes a beautiful fireplace in the bedroom.
There are many other train cars that have been converted like the JJ, orange, and green train cars.
The living area has a great view of the tracks with trains rolling by often.
Every room has a rustic feel with beautiful birch walls and oak floors.
The conductor car is in excellent condition with all the original equipment. Young “conductors” love it too.
The orange car is the most romantic and accommodations include a king-size bed and loving touches throughout.
The green car, on the other hand, is for smaller groups but just as beautiful on the inside.
The kitchen is modern and rivals a kitchen you’d find in many homes or condos.
Each train car has its own distinctive character to make guests feel at home.
The Great Northern 441 is just one of the many other restored train cars on display at the Izaak Walton Inn.
H/t: LittleThings
Whether it’s a fishing trip, a beautiful hiking excursion, or sliding the slopes in the winter, staying at the Izaak Walton Inn will definitely make it a trip to remember. Please share these beautiful train car “cabins” at the Izaak Walton Inn in Essex, Montana with your friends and family.
