Kintla Lake Campground in Polebridge Montana is a campground / RV park that has easy access for cyclists looking to ride bikes. To get to Bowman Lake, you leave and then reenter the park past Polebridge. Click for Privacy Policy / Disclosure Policy. Discover a selection of 18 vacation rentals in Bowman Lake, West Glacier that are perfect for your trip. The Polebridge Mercantile, originally established by William and Jessie Adair, has been serving the North Fork community in remote Northwest Montana for over 100 years. Instead we brought a blanket and had a picnic lunch and then jumped in the water for a little while (it was freezing!). There is no electricity or water at the sites. Whether you are looking to shop, dine out, work on a home project, or have a stay-cation, we have you covered! The Flathead Valley has much to offer. For the last 6+ years they have explored all over North America and share their top tips on things to do in locations with kids, along with road trip ideas and tips on RVing. In the summer, the North Fork Saloon serves up remote gourmet dinner nightly and boasts a full bar where beer is kept cold by generator. Later I would learn that the literature describes the road as primitive. This resort community primarily consists of the Polebridge Mercantile and Northern Lights Saloon. Bowman Lake is a camper paradise and the campground is located close to the lake. The tiny community of Polebridge sits on the North Fork of the Flathead River about 22 miles south of the Canadian border and on the western boundary of Glacier National Park. Peak District National Park. When you visit Glacier National Park you will want to add this to your itinerary! The road is about 6 miles long, but given the condition of the road it will take a while to get there. The Polebridge Ranger Station is basically the gateway to the Bowman Lake Area and Kintla Lake Area of Glacier National Park. Once at the lake, we took the lakeside trail about 3.5 miles out, hoping to not turn a corner and find a hungry grizzly bear waiting for us. Over a decade ago, a huge forest fire burned through this area, and today the views are open to the northwestern peaks in Glacier National Park. We asked for directions to Bowman Lake, and the ranger explained that we turn left from the station, and then right. Bowman Lake Trail is a 26.2 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Polebridge, Montana that features a lake and is rated as difficult. The Polebridge Ranger Station has cancellation stamps for people with national park passport books, and they also had running water and flushing toilets. You cannot park by the lake, but you can drive down there to drop off a kayak or your family but you cannot leave your car there. The big dayhike at Bowman is the Numa Ridge Lookout It's about 12 miles round trip with a fair amount of elevation gain (3000 ft at least) You need to take plenty of water up as after you leave the lake it's dry the rest of the way. The Polebridge Mercantile is open 9am to 6pm every day it is about 42 minutes from West Glacier and 53 minutes from Columbia Falls. Stay at this historic cabin in Polebridge. From Polebridge you can cross the North Fork of the Flathead River and head into Glacier, where you can make your way six miles to Bowman Lake, or 15 miles to Kintla Lake which accesses some of the most remote land in the Park. We asked for directions to Bowman Lake, and the ranger explained that we turn left from the station, and then right. Stay with it! After filling up on pastries and other goodies in the town of Polebridge, you can get back in your car and head down the narrow and windy dirt road (If you are facing Polebridge Mercantile, it is the road to your left. Polebridge Mercantile was the outpost for the first explores to Glacier National Park. Also, don’t miss our post on Hiking With Kids in Glacier National Park, Going To The Sun Road and Many Glacier as well as these other fantastic destinations when near Glacier: Whitefish Mountain Resort and Montana Raft! Discover genuine guest reviews for Gorgeous 2 Br Log Cabin 3 Miles From the Bowman Lake Entrance Into Glacier Park along with the latest prices and availability – book now. This page shows the elevation/altitude information of Polebridge, MT, USA, including elevation map, topographic map, narometric pressure, longitude and latitude. You don't want to miss the Magnificent Bowman Lake and Polebridge Mercantile. Our information, reviews and data show that this destination either has bike trails passing through the park or the surrounding area is suitable for bicycle riding. Lake and and surrounding area are stunning. It really is out in the middle of nowhere but so beautiful that it shouldn’t be missed. To get there you’ll get onto Inside North Fork Road and take it to Bowman Lake Road. Travel. Bowman Lake is located well within the borders of Glacier National Park, like many of Montana's best bodies of water. That road would end at Bowman Lake. This site uses cookies. Taking in Mountain Views at Bowman Lake (Glacier National Park) Bowman Lake. Hiking With Kids in Glacier National Park, FULL TIME RV LIVING: 99 Things We Have Learned After 6+ Years, RVing With Dogs – 23 Things You Will Want To Know, 18 Top Things To Do In Yellowstone National Park. Chuck gave us fair warning about the roads leading to Bowman Lake. Complete the Online Form or Read Additional Details. Plus fresh picked fruits and vegetables. From Polebridge you can cross the North Fork of the Flathead River and head into Glacier, where you can make your way six miles to Bowman Lake, or 15 miles to Kintla Lake which accesses some of the most remote land in the Park. Turn right onto North Fork Road and drive for about 14 miles until you reach the town of Polebridge, MT. Bowman Lake Campground is located in the North Fork area of Glacier National Park, approximately 32.5 miles north of the West Entrance. Polebridge, MT . View all the live videos and prize winners for 2020 here. However, the parking lot is small and does fill up, so there is a chance you can drive all the up there and not get to the lake. What? On a visit to Polebridge Montana, discover beautiful Bowman Lake in Glacier National Park. Gorgeous 2 Br Log Cabin 3 Miles From the Bowman Lake Entrance Into Glacier Park. You don't want to miss the Magnificent Bowman Lake and Polebridge Mercantile. By continuing to use this website, you agree to their use. There is plenty to explore in Polebridge, an original homestead from the late 1800’s, you will find the most amazing off-grid pastries, and some necessities in the mercantile. At Polebridge Mercantile, they offer some of the best pastries we have tired. However, the parking lot is small and does fill up, so there is a chance you can drive all the up there and not get to the lake. Rentals are available during spring, summer, and fall. We were definitely planning to make it at least to the bakery and back (we're staying @ Fish Creek). After following the North Fork Road up to the tiny town of Polebridge, which has no electricity and one very unique store, a very bumpy and slow ride of an additional seven-miles awaits the traveler to reach Bowman Lake. Bowman Lake is located northwest of Polebridge Mercantile. Really all of their baked goods are delicious! Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or even pets, Vrbo vacation homes have the best amenities for hanging out with the people that matter most, including WiFi and kitchens. The Polebridge Mercantile is the only nearby store, so … Head Bowman Lake Camp (40.9) to Polebridge (55.2) 14.3 miles I woke up after one of the most peaceful nights I had in the Rocky Mountains so far. Please read my disclosure for more info. Polebridge to Bowman Lake via Pacific NW Trail Rd. Chuck gave us fair warning about the roads leading to Bowman Lake. Save A Little Peace of Heaven, Cabin #3 to your lists. One of the “must-do” activities when in Glacier is to travel up to Polebridge, MT, and partake of a delicacy called a bear claw. We actually went twice when we were in Glacier for the month of August because we enjoyed it so much! View details . We weren’t expecting this, but since we have a yearly pass it was no big deal. Oct 13, 2016 - This lesser known area of Glacier National Park is TOTALLY worth a visit! Our information, reviews and data show that this destination either has bike trails passing through the park or the surrounding area is suitable for bicycle riding. Bowman Lake Campground is located in the North Fork area of Glacier National Park, approximately 32.5 miles north of the West Entrance. Answer 1 of 2: I've seen info about the notoriously bad roads past Polebridge. The Polebridge Mercantile is excited to offer four completely refurbished rental cabins. The building has been around for over 100 years! And there are ledges, bumps, and tight spots. Polebridge Mercantile. Bowman Lake is often considered to be one of the most beautiful lakes in Glacier National Park and its remote location along a dirt road in northwest Glacier National Park provides a pristine setting. North Fork Hostel in Polebridge would be a unique place to stay. Gorgeous 2 Br Log Cabin 3 Miles From the Bowman Lake Entrance Into Glacier Park See all 1461 properties in Polebridge Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a … Montana. Just be prepared for the roughness and pothole and it is a long, narrow and windy road. Along … We can’t wait for our paths to cross again, Jayne and Bernadi and we wish you many years of phenomenal adventures and anniversaries in A-Frame cabins! Bowman Lake Campground in Polebridge Montana is a campground that is managed by a government agency. This is also the road to the campground. Also truck and trailer combinations are not recommended at Bowman Lake due to the nature of the long windy roads getting in. For those who don’t know, it’s basically a sweet bread shaped into the shape of a claw and stuffed with huckleberry preserves. This tool allows you to look up elevation data by searching address or clicking on a live google map. The Polebridge entrance is only a few miles south of us, and provides access to miles of trails, dozens of beautiful lakes, and infinite photo opportunities! Bowman Lake Campground is located at the foot of Bowman Lake in the northwest corner of the park, 6.3 miles northeast of Polebridge. Capping it all off with an adventure up to Bowman Lake and huckleberry bear claws from the Polebridge Mercantile, these two were a complete treat to spend a gorgeous morning with. – which doesn’t look like a road you should be driving on, but it is. I’m hopeful that one year I’ll be able to return, camp at Bowman and kayak that lake. You do not go back on the road you drove into the Mercantile on.) It sounds like an amazing trail but you have to be ready to hike 26+ miles! The food was good and so were the drinks. Promotion runs May 15th-Dec 31st 2020. Quartz Lake, Glacier National Park. 2012 DSC_263161. Photos: Lindsey … It was a little pricey which is to be expected when you are out in nowhere! I Must Have Been Sleeping . The intermittent washboard and potholed/paved road gives you a chance to reflect while your passengers gawk at the scenery. When we went in early August there were a lot of people there. The Bowman Lake can be reached by following along the Glacier Route 7 north to junction with Bowman Lake Road, just north of Polebridge. bowman lake, sunset view. If you want a hike, the Numa Ridge Fire Lookout is an absolute must! After the entrance, we were back on dirt roads, but they weren’t too bad that a low AWD could make it. Travel. The tiny community of Polebridge sits on the North Fork of the Flathead River about 22 miles south of the Canadian border and on the western boundary of … Just getting to Polebridge is an adventure. A Little Peace of Heaven, Cabin #3. If you follow the winding gravel roads through Polebridge and into Glacier, you can visit Bowman Lake, one of the most stunning parts of the national park. Now more than ever we need to support our local economy. The water is super clear for snorkeling! Remember to always wear a helmet and check with the locals on trail and road conditions. The Polebridge Ranger Station has cancellation stamps for people with national park passport books, and they also had running water and flushing toilets. You may think no one will care, but a ranger did show up one of the times we were there. Bowman Lake Campground in Polebridge Montana is a campground / RV park that has easy access for cyclists looking to ride bikes. Bowman Lake. You don't want to miss the Magnificent Bowman Lake and Polebridge Mercantile. Check out these local specials/discounts our local businesses are offering for Montana residents: (Show the coupon, digitally or printed, with your local ID to receive the discount. 16 mi from Kintla Lake. The trail is primarily used for hiking, nature trips, and bird watching and is best used from March until October. Answer 1 of 2: I've seen info about the notoriously bad roads past Polebridge. Montana. This northwest corner of the park is much less-visited than the crowded portions to the south and east. We had a great visit at Richard's home in Polebridge. This is a 26.2 mile trail that is marked as difficult. Stop to pick the huckleberries, and don’t forget the bear spray! I had put in some ear plugs to keep the noise of the nearby creek at an acceptable level, maybe that’s why. Bowman Lake Near Polebridge. The road up has a large burn area, very different from the east side of the park. Be prepared, this is a 2 lane road that is really about 1 1/2 lanes wide. Gorgeous 2 Br Log Cabin 3 Miles From the Bowman Lake Entrance Into Glacier Park. Cell phone signals are nonexistent, and visitors should be self-sufficient and prepared to enjoy the area without the need of modern conveniences. station. On a visit to Polebridge Montana, discover beautiful Bowman Lake in Glacier National Park. Xoxo- The Elope Montana Team. Get Your Jingle On – Support a Chamber Businesses between Dec 2nd-20th and have a chance to be reimbursed up to $100! Capping it all off with an adventure up to Bowman Lake and huckleberry bear claws from the Polebridge Mercantile, these two were a complete treat to spend a gorgeous morning with. Of course with Huckleberry and without if you don’t like huckleberry. Nov 17, 2018 - This lesser known area of Glacier National Park is TOTALLY worth a visit! This location is a public park. Driving in the North Fork requires careful attention. Once you get there (you’ll start seeing signs for the Bowman Lake campground) you can find a place to park either by the campground parking lot or the picnic area and then you walk to the lake. Our guests praise the WiFi and the comfy rooms in our reviews. Snaus Cabin View. station. Bowman Lake is located in the North West part of Glacier near Polebridge. Explore. You don't want to miss the Magnificent Bowman Lake and Polebridge Mercantile. Bryanna has been full time RVing with her husband and 4 kids since May 2014. A Little Peace of Heaven, Cabin #3. The Polebridge Mercantile: Best Place to Stop for a Cinnamon Roll before Bowman Lake - See 197 traveler reviews, 82 candid photos, and great deals for Polebridge, MT, at Tripadvisor. Peak District National Park. The location is perfect for anyone looking to explore the west side of Glacier National Park, Bowman and Kintla lake areas. North America Travel . The only services in this area are available outside of the park in the community of Polebridge. And a selection of souvenirs. Glacier National Park – Polebridge and Bowman Lake. One of the “must-do” activities when in Glacier is to travel up to Polebridge, MT, and partake of a delicacy called a bear claw. I love a drive up the North Fork, which will easily fill your entire day. Most visitors arrive by one of two routes. Our visitors have loved beautiful Bowman and Kintla Lakes. Polebridge is an isolated community named for the log bridge that connects the North Fork Road in Glacier National Park to Highway 486, over the Flathead River. Bowman is the place to get it. From Polebridge you can cross the North Fork of the Flathead River and head into Glacier, where you can make your way six miles to Bowman Lake, or 15 miles to Kintla Lake which accesses some of the most remote land in the Park. If you choose not to go into the Park, there are several Forest Service Cabin rentals farther north, “up the North Fork”. Enjoy onsite parking, a garden, and barbecue grills. – which doesn’t look like a road you should be driving on, but it is. Polebridge Mercantile. Posted on August 3, 2012 by rkbetz. At 1,706 acres (690 ha), Bowman Lake is the third largest lake in the park, after Lake McDonald and Saint Mary Lake. That road would end at Bowman Lake. North America Travel . But it is worth it. Plus, the outside picnic table area was perfect with the kids. If you want grab a few things or bring your own packed lunch then get a pastry for desert and head to one of the outdoor picnic tables to enjoy a peaceful lunch. If you choose not to go into the Park, there are several Forest Service Cabin rentals farther north, “up the North Fork”. You don't want to miss the Magnificent Bowman Lake and Polebridge Mercantile. bowman lake, afternoon view. Bowman Lake Road is a 9 km blue dirt/gravel road family friendly trail located near Polebridge Montana. Europe Destinations . Allow all day to drive to and from Kintla and Bowman Lakes, and pack a lunch. Cell phone signals are nonexistent, and visitors should be self-sufficient and prepared to enjoy the area without the need of modern conveniences. Bowman Lake, Akokala Lake and Quartz Lakes The road from Polebridge to Bowman Lake Camp-ground is a six-mile, winding, narrow, bumpy road. When visiting Glacier we highly recommend adding the off the beaten path location of Polebridge and Bowman Lake to your list of places to visit! This is a great place to get a lot of great information from the really nice rangers who are stationed here. A Meadow View to Take in some Mountains (Glacier National Park) Huh? I had put in some ear plugs to keep the noise of the nearby creek at an acceptable level, maybe that’s why. After the entrance, we were back on dirt roads, but they weren’t too bad that a low AWD could make it. After following the North Fork Road up to the tiny town of Polebridge, which has no electricity and one very unique store, a very bumpy and slow ride of an additional … Bowman Lake campground is located in the North Fork area of Glacier National Park approximately 32.5 miles from the west entrance, and 30 miles from the Canadian border. This road takes you to a park entrance where you will have to pay or show your pass. The drive to Bowman Lake is along a rough, dusty, dirt road with blind curves and limited pullouts, and passes through the tiny community of Polebridge and sections of the park that burned in 1988. We were definitely planning to make it at least to the bakery and back (we're staying @ Fish Creek). Allow all day to drive to and from Kintla and Bowman Lakes, and pack a lunch. Once at the lake, we took the lakeside trail about 3.5 miles out, hoping to not turn a corner and find a hungry grizzly bear waiting for us. Celebrating 15 Years: Bailey’s Bed ‘n’ Bale, Celebrating 25 Years: MontanaSky Networks, Celebrating 35 Years: Dream Adaptive Recreation, Celebrating 60 Years: Montana House Inc – Apgar Village. Usually the forest service, a national park, BLM, Corp of Engineer, or the like. Bowman Lake Campground in Polebridge Montana is a campground that is accessible for reservations or more information at Recreation.gov. 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