Echo Lake Cafe

07/27/2026

There are nearly 50 incredible people behind Echo Lake Cafe in the summer.

Every single one of them shows up, works incredibly hard, and pours everything they have into living up to the standards our guests have come to expect. We ask a lot of our team because we know our customers expect a lot.

During the summer, it’s not uncommon for us to serve 400–500 plates of food in a single day. That’s a lot of eggs, pancakes, burgers, coffee, smiles… and yes, a lot of moving parts.

The reality is that with that kind of volume, we aren’t going to get it perfect every single time. We’re human. But what I can promise is that our team genuinely cares. They hustle, they learn, they support one another, and they come back the next day ready to do it all over again.

My dad always used to say that owning Echo Lake Cafe was like holding a tiger by the tail… and we couldn’t agree more. Summer here is exciting, rewarding… and absolutely relentless. 😅

That’s why this stack of comment cards means so much to us.

There isn’t a single negative comment in the pile. Just kind words, encouragement, and appreciation for a team that gives everything they’ve got.

To everyone who has taken a few minutes to leave a kind note, thank you. Your words have more impact than you probably realize.

We’re incredibly grateful… for our entire hard working staff, for our community, and for every person who chooses to spend part of their day with us.

Thank you all for making Echo Lake Cafe such a special place. 🤍🤍🤍

06/13/2026

Did you know we have homemade cobbler daily?
Save room next time you come in and try a piece with a scoop of Sweet Peaks vanilla ice cream 😍

06/06/2026

Quick update for those asking:
(Please see previous posts for more background)

Donation Link:
https://www.echolakecafe.com/donate-copcar

After our retired police car was vandalized beyond repair, we honestly didn't plan on replacing it. We were so heartbroken and disappointed. The car was originally placed at the site of the fatal DUI crash that occurred on December 1, 2024, as both a tribute to the families and friends affected and as a reminder to slow down and drive safely through a notoriously dangerous intersection.

But what surprised us after it was destroyed was the response from this community. The messages, phone calls, comments, and offers to help made us realize the car meant much more to people than we ever knew.

Because of that support, we've decided to replace it!

Many people have asked how they can help. While we're committed to finding a replacement either way, we've created a page on our website for anyone who would like to contribute toward a replacement vehicle, as well as improved security monitoring, and long-term upkeep. There is absolutely no expectation to donate... we simply wanted to give those who have asked an opportunity to be part of helping us bringing it back.

***As for the investigation, we are continuing to work with the Flathead County Sheriff's Office. At this time, we are not releasing video footage, especially after learning juveniles may be involved... this may change if no progress is made in the coming weeks.

Parents, please talk with your kids. Based on the information we have, those responsible are most likely local teenagers, and at least one may live down Echo Lake Rd. If your child has heard anything, we would appreciate you reaching out!

Our goal is not to publicly shame anyone. We simply want those responsible identified and held accountable for their actions.

Most importantly, thank you all. The support we've received over the last few days has been incredible.

06/02/2026

Quick update:
We have decided to replace the cop car!! No pressure at all, but here is a link for those interested in donating:
https://www.echolakecafe.com/donate-copcar

First, thank you all for the incredible support. The comments, messages, phone calls, and offers to help have reminded us once again why we love this community so much. The response we’ve received has been overwhelming and a powerful reminder that a few individuals do not define who we are as a community.

Ken at Bigfork Pro Tow moved the car to a more secure spot, free of charge. We wanted to prevent further trespassing and preserve evidence if necessary.

As more information (including video and audio surveillance from neighbors) has come in, we believe those responsible may have been local teenage boys. We know the vast majority of teenagers in our valley are respectful, hardworking, and kind…especially kids from Bigfork. We employ dozens of them and couldn’t be more impressed! Unfortunately, it appears a few young people made a series of poor decisions that escalated far beyond a simple prank.

Parents, please ask your kids if they have heard anything. Most likely this was shared amongst friends in one way or another. The fastest way to find out who was responsible is if someone comes forward. Please message us if you have any information that may help.

Thank you again for your support, your kindness, and your willingness to help. We truly live in a special place.

06/02/2026

Update:
Because of all of you, we have decided to replace the cop car!
No pressure at all, but here is a link for those interested in donating: https://www.echolakecafe.com/donate-copcar

***Original Post***

Many of you have noticed the old police car parked near Echo Lake Cafe over the last year and a half.

What many people don't know is why it was there.

On December 1, 2024, a fatal drunk driving accident occurred directly in front of our restaurant. Like so many in our community, we were deeply affected by what happened. That evening, after leaving the scene, sitting at home trying to process the tragedy, we kept asking ourselves the same question: "Could anything have prevented it?"

The only answer we could come up with was that perhaps a visible police presence might have encouraged the drunk driver to slow down and think twice before making dangerous decisions.

A week later, we purchased a retired police car and parked it along the highway. Whether it made a difference or not, we felt it was a small way to encourage safer driving as well as pay tribute to Wyatt, Teressa, her daughter and all their friends and family.

For over a year, it sat there without incident.

June 2, 2026 that changed.

The vehicle was extensively vandalized. Every tire was slashed, every window was broken, the headlights, taillights and mirrors were smashed, the doors were heavily damaged and carved into, hateful words were carved into the hood, and much more. If it could be broken, it was.

Through audio and video provided we believe those responsible are a group of teenage boys. One most likely lives down Echo Lake Rd as they came and went from there multiple times. Parents, please asks your kids if they have heard anything. While the footage will be helpful, the fastest way to finding out who is responsible is if someone comes forward with information.

Thank you all for the kind words and encouragement.

05/26/2026

05/23/2026

Patio Season has officially begun ☀️ 🌼

05/23/2026

Last weekend for our Biscuits and Gravy/ Cowboy Benedict until the fall. Get it while you can!

05/19/2026

Patio season starts this Memorial weekend ☀️

03/31/2026

We have our wild caught smoked salmon specials this week

Get it now before it’s gone!