WiFi is not mentioned and cell service is limited; not recommended for relying on online work.

Bowman Lake Review & Menu Tips | Glacier National Park

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Overview

About This Establishment

Bowman Lake's Huckleberry Bear Claw cracks with a crust that snaps, a jammy berry bite, and a warm crumb that lingers. Polebridge Mercantile pastries and sandwiches anchor the scene, best chased with a Mercantile drip coffee. In this remote, lake-side escape, every bite feels earned.

At a Glance

Best For

Vibe

What Makes It Special

Huckleberry Bear Claw cult favorite in a remote Glacier setting

Must-Try Items

Signature Dishes: Huckleberry Bear Claw; Pastries from Polebridge Mercantile; Mercantile sandwiches

Huckleberry Bear Claw; Polebridge Mercantile pastries; Sandwiches

Best Time to Visit

Arrive early or visit in spring/fall to avoid crowds; peak summer weekends are the busiest.

Tips & Advice

Arrive early or visit in spring/fall to dodge lines
Order the Huckleberry Bear Claw with Mercantile drip coffee for the classic pairing
Outdoor picnic seating is available; leash rules apply for dogs

Details

Menu & Food

Meals Served: Breakfast, Lunch

Signature Dishes: Huckleberry Bear Claw; Pastries from Polebridge Mercantile; Mercantile sandwiches

Local Specialties: Huckleberries

Insider Tips: Huckleberry Bear Claw is the move; Mercantile drip coffee pairs perfectly

Dietary Options:

Beverages

Bar: Basic coffee program at the Mercantile; beer at the adjacent Northern Lights Saloon

Happy Hour: Not applicable at Mercantile; beer specials may be found at the adjacent Northern Lights Saloon

Dining Experience

Service: Counter service

Reservations: Walk-in only for the Mercantile; North Fork entry vehicle reservations may be required during select windows

Dress Code: Casual

Noise Level: Low

Outdoor Seating: 1

Family Info: Outdoor seating; high chairs limited

Hours & Timing

Hours: Polebridge Mercantile's hours vary seasonally and are not year-round

Seasonal Hours: Seasonal hours vary; not year-round

Busiest Times: Peak summer weekends

Amenities & Services

Parking Available (Parking near the Mercantile and Bowman Lake; spaces can be tight during peak times)
Takeout Available
Dog-Friendly Patio

Accessibility:

Remote and rustic setting with uneven surfaces; no formal accessibility ramps mentioned; limited facilities

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.8 /5

Based on 45 Google reviews

Reviews from Google

Beautiful lake. The drive there is a little rough and be quite slow if you have a car in front of you that refuses to use a pull out to let you by, but the view is worth it.

The most beautiful lake I've seen throughout Glaciers besides Grinnell Lake. Shallow depth and extremely clear water. Be aware of bugs. Requires a permit to access the North Folk area.

One of the coolest places I’ve ever been to! Road to it is narrow and awesome! Lake was incredible.

Showing 3 of 45 reviews

FAQs

Is the Huckleberry Bear Claw the standout item?

Yes—the crust crack, jammy berry bite, and warm crumb make it the cult favorite.

Are there vegetarian options?

Is wifi available?

Is there indoor seating?

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Bowman Lake