Why go
If you want to experience Montana from its original side, you should definitely plan a detour to Polebridge. The tiny settlement is located northwest of the Glacier National Park and still conveys today the feeling of the real Wild West. Dusty gravel roads, rustic wooden houses, hardly any mobile reception and an impressive natural backdrop ensure that time has apparently stopped here.
Polebridge is not a classic tourist destination. That's what makes it special. Here, travellers who are looking for peace and quiet, like to travel on side roads and want to get to know the authentic Montana.
For many, a freshly baked Huckleberry Bear Claw from the legendary Polebridge Mercantile is part of the Glacier experience as well as Going-to-the-Sun Road.
At a glance
Category | Information
Situation | Northwest of Glacier National Park
Inhabitants | Less than 100
Ideal stay | Half to whole day
Roads | Mainly gravel
Fifth-wheel access | Check your vehicle, specific campsite and approach road.
Nature | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Adventure | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Polebridge Mercantile
Polebridge Mercantile, which is over 100 years old, is the landmark of the village and one of Montana's most famous bakeries.
She is famous for her homemade baked goods, especially:
Huckleberry Bear Claw
Cinnails
Sandwiches
Fresh bread
Coffee
During the summer season, a queue often forms already in the morning.
Insider tip
Come by as early as possible. The most popular pastries are often sold out before noon.
North Fork Road
The trip to Polebridge is already an experience.
North Fork Road runs along the western border of Glacier National Park and offers fantastic views over:
Mountains
Forests
Rivers
Open valleys
With a little luck you will discover wild animals on the way directly at the roadside.
Bowman Lake
About 10 kilometers north of Polebridge is one of the most beautiful lakes in Glacier National Park.
Bowman Lake is thrilled by:
Crystal clear water
dense forests
impressive mountain scenery
significantly fewer visitors than Lake McDonald
Photo Tip
In the early morning, the lake is often mirrored and is perfect for landscape photography.
Kintla Lake
Kintla Lake is even more remote than Bowman Lake.
Those who accept the longer gravel road will be rewarded with absolute tranquility and a spectacular landscape.
Scenic Drive along the North Fork
One of the most beautiful side streets in Montana.
Plan enough time for spontaneous stops at vantage points and river banks.
Picnic at Bowman Lake
The lake is ideal for a relaxing lunch break.
Several picnic spots are located directly on the water.
Short hiking tours
Several hiking trails start around Bowman Lake.
Depending on the available time, short walks or more demanding day trips are possible.
Animal monitoring
The remote region is one of the best areas for wildlife observation.
Best animal observation
With a little luck you can see:
Grizzly bears
Black bears
Moose
White-tailed deer
Eagle
Osprey
The best chances are early in the morning or evening.
Shopping
Polebridge has only a very small offer.
Available are among others:
Snacks
Beverages
Bakery products
some foods
souvenirs
For larger purchases you should use Kalispell or Whitefish.
Polebridge Mercantile
The best address in town.
In addition to the famous baked goods are also:
Sandwiches
Pizza (seasonal)
Coffee
Cold drinks
==References==
Northern Lights Saloon
Rustic restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.
Known for:
Burger
Steaks
Regional specialities
Ideal after a day in Glacier National Park.
Bowman Lake Campground
Small, natural campsite directly on the lake.
Ideal for those looking for peace and nature.
Kintla Lake Campground
Very remote and simply equipped.
Perfect for nature lovers.
Glacier Rim RV Park
Located outside the park.
Good base for trips to Polebridge and Glacier National Park.
RV tip
The North Fork Road consists partly of gravel and can be in different condition depending on the weather. With large Fifth Wheels the ride is basically possible, but often not comfortable. Many travellers leave their team on the campground and drive with the pickup truck to Polebridge.
Insider tip
Connect Polebridge with a visit to Bowman Lake. This combination is one of the most beautiful but quiet excursions in Glacier National Park.
Photo Tip
The route along the North Fork offers countless photo motifs. Especially in the morning, light fog often lies over the river and provides a mystical atmosphere.
Avoid frequent errors
Drive with sufficient fuel – there are no petrol stations in Polebridge.
Download maps offline, because mobile reception is limited or not available at all.
Buy drinks and groceries before departure.
Drive slowly on gravel roads and keep enough distance to other vehicles to avoid rockfalls.
Our recommendation
Polebridge is not a place to visit because of its great sights. It's rather a destination for those who want to experience the original Montana. The combination of lonely streets, impressive nature and historic Mercantile makes this small place a real secret tip.