Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
May-Sept.). Set in a classic Park Service-like building, the restaurant offers casual dining
with homemade soups, burgers, sandwiches, and yummy baked goods. An attached bar of-
fers a welcome selection of liquor, wine, and beer, not to mention sports on satellite TV for
those who are so inclined.
A long ways down a bumpy road in Glacier's North Fork Valley is a special spot that is
worth every bump and then some. The remote and wonderful
Polebridge Mercantile
(265
Polebridge Loop, 406/888-5105,
www.polebridgemercantile.com
,
8am-6pm daily May
1-Thanksgiving weekend) offers world-class baked goods—don't leave without at least a
couple of huckleberry bear claws—sandwiches, soups, and other goodies in addition to gro-
ceries.
Located on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation at the southeast corner of the park, East Gla-
cier (population 363, elevation 4,434 feet) has long been a primary entrance into Glacier
National Park. Early visitors from the east often arrived by rail at East Glacier and spent the
night in the grand Glacier Park Lodge before heading into the wilds of the park.
Today the town of East Glacier bustles year-round and is a hub of activity during the
summer months as visitors stream in and out of the park. There are numerous accommod-
ations, including the still-majestic Adirondack-style Glacier Park Lodge, several good res-
taurants, local outfitters, and a smattering of shops. There is also a tremendous amount of
wilderness to be explored both inside the park and in immediate proximity to East Glacier.
The stunning Two Medicine Valley is just a few miles away, and there are hiking, skiing,
and even snowmobiling trails within steps of the main drag.
Two Medicine Valley
Geographically, Two Medicine Valley is not at the heart of Glacier, but this remote south-
eastern corner is staggeringly beautiful and seemingly less known among the masses of
summer visitors. The rocky peaks and glacially carved valleys meet in clear alpine lakes,
and the area offers plenty of activity for any adventurer. There are boat tours that intersect
with hiking trails, numerous waterfalls to ogle, fishing, and a lovely campground.
