+2 more
1 / 5
Polebridge
Last Updated: January 2026
⚠️ Temporarily Closed
Overview
About This Town
Last gas before Glacier; rustic cabins and off-grid vibe; escape the crowds for a true backcountry experience.
The Vibe
Polebridge is a working-hub outpost, not a resort town. You’ll need a car; nothing is truly walkable. Staying in Polebridge saves money but expect minimal services; for more vibes and amenities, drive 30–40 minutes to Whitefish or Kalispell.
Stock Up Here
Big Box Stores: None. The nearest are in Columbia Falls or Kalispell. Gas is available at the Polebridge Mercantile but is limited and expensive; fill up elsewhere before reaching Polebridge (Kalispell/Columbia Falls). Gear needs should be stocked in Whitefish/Columbia Falls; REI/Cabela's not in town.
Late Night Intel
Mercantile deli serves 7 AM–9 PM in summer; most kitchens die by 9:30 PM; Northern Lights Saloon offers meals but hours vary; plan early dinners and consider nearby options in Whitefish or Kalispell if you’re rolling in late.
Town at a Glance
Town Type
Ghost Town / Quiet Outpost
Population
14
Distance to Park
28 miles (about 1 hour) to West Glacier Entrance Station
Highlights
Known For
Polebridge Mercantile’s baked goods (huckleberry bear claws, macaroons, cinnamon rolls); rustic cabins; Northern Lights Saloon; Home Ranch Bottoms; Sasquatch Grill.
Main Attractions
Polebridge Mercantile hub, Northern Lights Saloon, Home Ranch Bottoms, Sasquatch Grill, cabin rentals
What Makes It Special
No electricity after dark; limited services; dirt North Fork Road; bears common in the area.
Seasonal Planning
Peak Season
May–October
Shoulder Season
May and September
Winter
Winter: largely shuts down; heating limitations; small population; Mercantile typically closed outside May–Oct
Best Time to Visit
May–October when the population swells and the Mercantile and cabins operate; winter is a shut-down, off-grid scene.
Tips & Advice
- Gas at Polebridge Mercantile; hours aren’t guaranteed 24/7—plan ahead.
- Kitchens likely close early; meals should be arranged by 7–8pm.
- Bring cash; no documented banks/ATMs.
- Parking can be tight in peak season; arrive early and don’t block access.
ℹ️ Data Sources
censusdots.com kiddle.co visitmt.com glaciermt.com polebridgemerc.com nps.gov myitchytravelfeet.com homeranchbottomsmt.com riverhausglacier.com travelmontananow.com youtube.com vrbo.com expedia.com hotels.com expedia.ca montanaredbarn.com dirtinmyshoes.com coveragemap.com cellularstatus.com signalchecker.com coveragecritic.com myperfectweather.com glacierparkcollection.com salary.com localconditions.com realtor.com blogspot.com smokybear.com wirefly.com point2homes.com globalair.com missioncountrymarket.com Google Reviews YourNPGuide Editorial
Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →