# North Fork Hostel & Square Peg Ranch > Happiness in Exquisite Simplicity ## Posts - [quiet, inexpensive accommodation since 1979](https://nfhostel.com/quiet-inexpensive-accommodation-since-1979/): Located in the North Fork Valley just west of Glacier National Park, the North Fork Hostel offers guests a choice of accommodations in an old-fashioned, old world atmosphere. It’s a place to get away, relax, meet new friends and enjoy the beauty of Glacier National Park and the Flathead National Forest. Propane lights brighten your nights (there’s no electricity in Polebridge). Although the area is off the power grid, the hostel has a small solar system and allows recharging of  your devices during the power hour. A propane cooking range and refrigerators are available to make your food preparation easier after… Read more - [Big Prairie](https://nfhostel.com/big-prairie/): Today was an awesome ski into big prairie. You had to go early in the morning but it was well worth it: - [the Goat Chalet](https://nfhostel.com/the-goat-chalet/): It is called the goat chalet because, as the story goes, John used to house a couple of goats in there at one point, but today it is my most favored rental cabin at the hostel. It has a queen size bed, a potbelly stove for heat and a small table with two chairs. - [Square Peg Ranch North Cabin](https://nfhostel.com/square-peg-ranch-north-cabin/): (27′ x 21′) completed in 1955 The North Cabin offers full kitchen facilities and a fireplace. The master bedroom downstairs has a queen size bed and there are two full size beds in the loft upstairs. Only available May trough September. Occupancy up to 6 people, $100 + 7% tax ( for 4 people) a weeknight, add $20 for Friday and Saturday nights, $20 for each additional person and 3 nights minimum rental required! Pets are allowed for an additional fee. one master bedroom (9’x 10′) with a queen bed and loft (11′ x 20′) with two double beds “stuffed” easy… Read more - [Tipis](https://nfhostel.com/146/): For a little more plush camping we have a tipi available that sports a double bed but still has a dirt floor and lets you experience all the night sounds. A small fire is possible if we’re not in the middle of a forest fire season. Only available in July and August. - [Klondike Kate's Koffee House](https://nfhostel.com/klondike-kates-koffee-house/): Then, there is Klondike Kate’s Koffe House, not named for the building but for a business that John used to have up in Alaska in the old days. We used to call it the “mod” for modern since it is a frame structure that used to be towed around logging sites. Klondike Kate’s has a queen bed and a full size futon couch that functions as a second bed to make you comfortable and a table with two chairs. - [The North Fork of the Flathead: Paradise for a Late Bloomer](https://nfhostel.com/the-north-fork-of-the-flathead-paradise-for-a-late-bloomer/): by Kelly Edwards Eight or ten years ago, when I was around the fiftyish mark in my life, a small dream of mine became a reality, when complementary longings arose (no not that kind!), between me and a friend. He needed a little cash to buy a piece of his dream in Costa Rica, and I longed for an affordable foot hold anywhere near to the North Fork of the Flathead River. What resulted was my acquisition of his little cabin, which sat on an acre of land in the township of Polebridge, Montana . This is an area to which… Read more - [mixed dormitories](https://nfhostel.com/mixed-dormitories/): Facilities include thirteen bunks for men and women, the downstairs dormitory sleeps up to four people and the upstairs dormitory can sleep up to seven people. Then there are also three overflow beds in the hallway upstairs. - [activities](https://nfhostel.com/activities/): No matter what your activity, bring your camera and binoculars. Wildlife is plentiful here. You might see deer, moose, elk, mountain lions, wolves, eagles or bears from the hostel windows. Only wolverines have not been seen from the hostel windows yet. Hike or backpack along Glacier’s Continental Divide or the forested trails of the Whitefish Range. Ski Logan Pass in late June when Going-To-The-Sun Road opens. (Cross-country skis and boots may be rented at the hostel. Bicycle up from West Glacier on the inside park road to the hostel, then explore Polebridge and the surrounding area. Fish or swim the federally… Read more - [private rooms upstairs](https://nfhostel.com/private-rooms-upstairs/): Upstairs we have a private room, formerly known as the family room. It combines the convenience of being inside the main lodge and having your private space. The only challenge you have to face are the very steep stairs, especially on a nightly trip to the outhouse. This room has two full size beds, which means plenty of room for a couple or a two individuals!$80 + tax a weeknight for two, occupancy 2-4 people (add $30 for each additional person). Add $10 a night for Friday and Saturday nights. - [The outhouses](https://nfhostel.com/the-outhouses/): ¡Outhouses!: No plastic or hygiene products in pit please, they belong in trash. Human waste only Keep lid closed! And: It is OK to pee in the woods! Birds do it, bears do it, moose do it, why not you? Also: Remember: Changing toilet paper rolls does not cause brain damage! - [Bedding and towels](https://nfhostel.com/bedding-and-towels/): Sheets and Towels are normally not provided but can are available (Ask for help) for a small charge; Always use bedding or sleeping bags! Pillow cases (No charge) are next to the kitchen in the Hallway; Please return pillow cases and sheets to hamper after use. Hang towels to dry!   - [The shower](https://nfhostel.com/the-shower/): Shower hours: 7 AM  to 5 AM and 5 PM to 10 PM (Please, respect quiet times; hot water may not be available after hours) The shower has an electric light, you find the switch to the left of the light fixture above the sink. Conserve water: We are in a fragile environment: Low groundwater table & flood plain, so please limit your time and water use, be respectful to those after you and use squeegee after each use. Please prop door open with little stool so the room can air out.   - [The Green Zucchini](https://nfhostel.com/the-green-zucchini/): Another small little gem for the financially challenged is the “Green Zucchini” also called pickle by some. A homemade trailer from the ’50s that barely survived the ’95 flood. Because it has drafty windows and no heat it is only available during July and August. The bed just barely big enough for two has been my home for many summers during my early time but it still enamors special visitors. - [The kitchen](https://nfhostel.com/the-kitchen/): Kitchen hours: 7 AM to 10 PM (Please, respect quiet times) Clean up after yourself and be respectful to others; There are 2 guest refrigerators for your use in the kitchen, please mark and date all your food and let us know if you leave foodstuff behind, so it does not go bad. Please wash all your dishes and wipe counter and stove tops after use; Use blue tubs to do dishes in, fill the rinse tub first so hot water can reach the kitchen, then fill the wash tub (staff will fill the sanitizer tub), it helps to conserve water… Read more - [How to use propane lights properly](https://nfhostel.com/how-to-use-propane-lights-properly/): How to light propane lamps: Please familiarize yourself with them first and ask for assistance if in doubt: First light match (make sure you have a solid and big flame) hold it to the mantle (make sure only the flame, not the match is touching the mantle) and turn gas on (lever/ knob on side of lamp) For your safety, do not turn gas on first and do not blow light out! - [check in, check out](https://nfhostel.com/check-in-check-out/): Check in between 5:30 PM and 9 PM Make prior arrangements if you need a late check-in! Check out before 10 AM Please, leave room or cabin as you found it. Return pillowcases, etc. to hamper. Electricity: We get our power from the sun but our system is fairly small. We encourage you to use the electric lights (especially until you get used to the  propane lights) and prefer it in the wash and shower room. Please, always turn all lights OFF after use. Charging power for your devices only works during the power hour. (check with Oliver, usually between 7… Read more - [directions](https://nfhostel.com/directions/): The North Fork Hostel & Inn is located on the western edge of Glacier National Park, 1/4 mile (1/2 kilometer) southeast of the Polebridge Mercantile at the end of Beaver Drive (follow the signs). Taking Camas Creek Road through Glacier Park (except when the park is snowed in during the winter) avoids a rough section of the North Fork Road. The North Fork Road north from Columbia Falls to Polebridge is route 486, a gravel road with sections of pavement. In winter when coming from West Glacier, use Blankenship Bridge Road( call ahead for directions). It is a good idea to… Read more - [the hostel](https://nfhostel.com/the-hostel/): What you’ll find at the North Fork Hostel & Inn include twelve bunks for men and women, couples and family accommodations, washroom and a hot shower. A large downstairs shared living room, a warm and pleasant, fully-equipped community kitchen and the spiffiest outhouses on the North Fork. (The interior art is interesting — look for John’s college diploma.) Behind the Inn are small cabins that are private bedrooms. (Goat Chalet, Klondike Kate’s and the Green Zucchini) You still use the facilities in the hostel. The Goat Chalet has a queen size bed, perfect for a couple; Klondike Kate’s has a queen… Read more - [Background Image](https://nfhostel.com/17/): this is the background image I’m using on this website, a stormy spring day on Bowman Lake, June 1st 2009! - [Spring Serenity](https://nfhostel.com/spring-serenity/): SPRING SERENITY By LARRY KLINE – Independent Record – 03/26/09 POLEBRIDGE – I awoke to a thump-thump-thump sound of fresh spring snow blowing off the trees and landing on the metal roof. It was morning in North Fork Country. Situated next to Glacier National Park’s western boundary about 20 miles south of the Canadian border, Polebridge offers visitors a relaxed attitude and sweeping views of the Livingston Range to the east and the Whitefish Range to the west. And the North Fork Hostel, with its cheap beds and off-the-beaten-path ambiance, serves as an excellent base camp to explore the park’s west… Read more - [Polebridge hostel owner sells his keys to the world](https://nfhostel.com/polebridge-hostel-owner-sells-his-keys-to-the-world/): By MICHAEL JAMISON of the Missoulian POLEBRIDGE – His first impulse was to run, to turn tail and never look back at that ramshackle stack of logs the real estate agent kept calling a cabin. “But I was looking for something a little more exciting than Ohio, and the more I thought about it, the more exciting it seemed,” John Frederick said. Frederick wanted to live “somewhere on the rustic side,” and his future ex-wife wanted to run a hostel, like the European hostels in which she’d spent four years while traveling the continent. And there it was, the decrepit cabin… Read more - [grizzly wide past](https://nfhostel.com/grizzly-wide-past/): I don’t know who to credit with this, but it was on my old website and should be archived here!   GRIZZLY WIDE PASS — No one knows for sure when humans first discovered this impossible place.   Perhaps it happened on a warm summer evening like this one, an awe-struck group of backcountry travellers watching the mountain goats brave an amphitheatre of sheer rock atop southeastern B.C.’s Flathead Valley.   Then one billy goat breaks from the herd and adopts a methodical track along a barely perceptible switchback rising to the top of a hanging valley. Watching from a distance,… Read more - [Numa Lookout](https://nfhostel.com/numa-lookout/): All time favorite, a hike that you should  not miss! - [Rainbow Peak](https://nfhostel.com/rainbow-peak/): Flying the Rainbow flag from the top of Rainbow Peak! There are also some great views not to be missed! - [going over the top](https://nfhostel.com/going-over-the-top/): from Kintla Lake to Bowman Lake… - [Logging Lake paddle](https://nfhostel.com/logging-lake-paddle/) - [Solstice Lamb Roast](https://nfhostel.com/solstice-lamb-roast/) - [Kintla Lake and Brown Pass](https://nfhostel.com/kintla-lake-and-brown-pass/): This post features a photo of the head of Bowman Lake. The Columbines are seen on the way to Brown Pass as well as the tree hit by a good sized rock. Plenty of shots of the waterfalls coming out of Hole-in-the-wall plus the snow covered hanging valley it comes from. Also, on a recent bike ride to Kintla Lake, which was beautifully calm for a change I took some photos of sticky geraniums, balsam root, paint brush, lupines and the north fork river. - [and summer is just around the corner...](https://nfhostel.com/and-summer-is-just-around-the-corner/) - [A wintery morning in Polebridge](https://nfhostel.com/a-wintery-morning-in-polebridge/): How about waking up to some beautiful snow laden cottonwood trees and 5 inches of ground cover? After canoeing a couple weeks ago and biking last week should I get my skis back out? - [spring runoff](https://nfhostel.com/spring-runoff/):                     waterfowl in the front yard, a canoe trip circumnavigating the hostel, as of today we are a waterfront hostel! - [some wildflowers on the Rocky Mountain Front](https://nfhostel.com/some-wildflowers-on-the-rocky-mountain-front/): Here are a few examples of the Flower Garden you will find east of Rockies this time of the year… - [Back on River Time](https://nfhostel.com/river-time/): You won’t see me on the cold spring river water until the air temperature hits a least a comfortable 25 C, or for the metrically challenged in the mid-seventies! Today was just such a day and for a bonus there was a fine wolf print in the mud by the slough when I got back home to the hostel! - [A few things to know about The North Fork Hostel & Inn](https://nfhostel.com/north-fork-hostel-faqs/): …that are good to know: Check in between 5:30 PM and 9 PM Make prior arrangements if you need a late check-in! Check out before 10 AM Please, leave room or cabin as you found it. Return pillowcases, etc. to hamper. Electricity: We get our power from the sun but our system is fairly small. We encourage you to use the electric lights (especially until you get used to the  propane lights) and prefer it in the wash and shower room. Please, always turn all lights OFF after use. Charging power for your devices only works during the power hour. (check… Read more - [Ride to Kintla Lake](https://nfhostel.com/ride-to-kintla-lake-2/): If you don’t mind to hike a few patches of snow, which probably will be gone shortly, Kintla Lake makes a beautiful bike ride this time of the year. You can drive half way up if you prefer not to ride all the way from Polebridge, but that’s missing half the fun! - [Bike Riding season has begun](https://nfhostel.com/bike-riding-season-has-begun/): Camas Road has opened and other park roads are drying out. Big Prairie is dry half way up to Kintla Lake and full of elk and deer. It might open the 7 miles towards Kintla Lake by Monday Bowman Lake road is dry halfway up then snow covered also. - [Demers Ridge](https://nfhostel.com/demers-ridge/): Here are some views from Demers Ridge: First along the ridge to the south you can make out Huckleberry lookout; the north towards Winona Ridge and the upper north fork; in the third photo you can make out Rainbow and the north fork road and Demers trail head down below; then we are looking north again, you can make out home ranch bottoms, Winona Lake and Big Prairie in the park; and finally on the last photo we are looking south at the Camas ans McDonald Valleys and Camas Road. - [March on Cyclone Lookout](https://nfhostel.com/march-on-cyclone-lookout/) - [Deer leg on Bowman Lake](https://nfhostel.com/deer-leg-on-bowman-lake/): It was one of those days, way out of reach of the camera’s eye but well within reach of the binocular: I spent over an hour watching the instigators of this poor little deer’s demise; I watched the four where they were way down the middle of the frozen lake, napping and dozing, rolling in the snow and wrestling with each other, scratching and stretching, napping some more and another stretch for good measures. It was one of those days.. - [An early morning in March](https://nfhostel.com/an-early-morning-in-march/) - [Logging and Grace Lake](https://nfhostel.com/logging-and-grace-lake/): no words needed! - [Cyclone Lookout](https://nfhostel.com/cyclone-lookout/): Here is Oliver on a great outing to Cyclone Lookout, just a little south of Polebridge. Great views reveal the frozen Bowman Lake with little sleepy Polebridge in the Foreground. The view towards the south shows the lower part of the North Fork Valley and some more of the Glacier Peaks, all capped by the cloud ceiling. - [Polebridge Class](https://nfhostel.com/polebridge-class/): Photo Brenda Ahearn/The Daily Inter Lake By JIM MANN/The Daily Inter Lake   Through most of the long winter, the North Fork Flathead River drainage is a quiet snow-covered landscape of solitude for those who live there. But for just one week, it is stirred to life. The tiny townsite of Polebridge transforms as smoke begins to emerge from a collection of ice-box cabins, outbuildings and outhouses at the North Fork Hostel. The centerpiece Polebridge Mercantile, with its iconic red-and-white facade, exudes warmth as the baking ovens are rekindled. Next door, the Northern Lights Saloon reopens to serve meals and drinks.… Read more - [clear skies and good snow](https://nfhostel.com/clear-skies-and-good-snow/): Winter at its finest in the North Fork, clear skies and good snow! - [Live long and prosper! Happy New Year!](https://nfhostel.com/live-long-and-prosper-happy-new-year/) - [A White Christmas](https://nfhostel.com/a-white-christmas/): Some of the nicest powder at Christmas for a number of years for the North Fork: - [Happy Whatchamacallit!](https://nfhostel.com/happy-whatchamacallit/): I’ve been told that if you change your mind, you change the world – or at least the way you experience it. Let’s take a moment to examine that. The presumption is if you thought the world was a hostile, ugly place filled with awful people doing awful things, that is what you’d see. Your mind would naturally seek out confirmation for its preconceived ideas (e.g. if you’re intent on buying a red car, as you go about your day you’ll see lots of red cars). If, however, you were able to sincerely change your mind and see that we are… Read more - [Bowman Lake](https://nfhostel.com/bowman-lake-2/) - [winter in the North Fork](https://nfhostel.com/winter-in-the-north-fork/) - [... in time for the first fall storms to hit...](https://nfhostel.com/in-time-for-the-first-fall-storms-to-hit/) - [Roof Update!](https://nfhostel.com/roof-update/) - [Got Guts: Vote!](https://nfhostel.com/got-guts-vote/) - [Star trail with the Northern Lights at Polebridge, Glacier National Park](https://nfhostel.com/star-trail-with-the-northern-lights-at-polebridge-glacier-national-park/): this photo was taken in the hostel front yard – shame Terence didn’t wake everybody up;( - [Roofing!](https://nfhostel.com/roofing-3/):   - [Living room in high definition](https://nfhostel.com/living-room-in-high-definition/): Photo courtesy of Rick Schmidt! - [Kintla Lake to Bowman Lake hike](https://nfhostel.com/kintla-lake-to-bowman-lake-hike/): the other day in my backyard… - [A tour of the North Fork Hostel](https://nfhostel.com/a-tour-of-the-north-fork-hostel/): [tentblogger-youtube Rx_0sYYj9NY] - [Hostel front porch comes off](https://nfhostel.com/hostel-front-porch-comes-off/): [yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOazCCd7AF4′] - [Westside Waldorf School visiting the North Fork Hostel](https://nfhostel.com/westside-waldorf-school-visit/):   The independent, not-for-profit Westside Waldorf School serves Pre-K through the elementary grades.  Established in 1989, it is one of more than 800 Waldorf schools worldwide. A Waldorf education has been called “the world’s best kept education secret”.  Its curriculum seeks to nourish the emotions and imaginations of children as well as their intellect. - [a look back in time](https://nfhostel.com/look-back-time/): These are photos from George McFarland; the hostel building was still on big prairie inside the park, it only shows the corner of the building but you can easily recognize it if you are familiar with the place. I’m not sure on the dates of the photographs but would put them into the fifties. In the aerial photo the longer part o fthe T-shaped building is what is now the hostel. Guess we are all glad that airstrip is gone now! - [spring bucks in the front yard](https://nfhostel.com/spring-bucks-front-yard/): Two frequent early season visitors at the north fork hostel. Photo courtesy of Juergen Westermann. - [Trail Creek Road to Whitefish Divide](https://nfhostel.com/trail-creek-road-to-whitefish-divide/): It won’t take much longer and the road will be passable for cars also; we almost made it all the way to the divide on our ride yesterday, most avalanche slides are easy to ride around, a few need walking your bike… - [Bowman Lake tonight](https://nfhostel.com/bowman-lake-tonight/): Here is a photo of Bowman Lake that Mark Hufstetler took tonight during a beautiful sunset: - [Bowman Lake](https://nfhostel.com/bowman-lake/):  today open the roads to Bowman Lake, Kintla Lake and down to Logging Ranger Station.         - [The Inside Road from Polebridge to Fish Creek](https://nfhostel.com/the-inside-road-from-polebridge-to-fish-creek/): here is one of the white Glacier Lilies that grow along the inside road.       .. great day for a ride down the inside road. Bring your sandals to get across the south fork of Logging Creek. After that the tree hopping starts, I stopped counting after 50- but nothing bad, no clusters, just a few tight squeezes.  Saw several bull elk, a cinnamon colored black bear and a sand hill crane, all within the worst of the downfall, of course I was going slow enough not to miss anything.           - [Biking up to Kintla Lake](https://nfhostel.com/biking-up-to-kintla-lake/):     This must have been one of my earliest rides to Kintla Lake ever, the road was beautifully dry and smooth, what a treat! I was still huffing and puffing every little hill… Two elk bulls in Round Prairie- minus antlers!     Here is the new Kintla Creek Bridge under construction… to be finished before summer gets going…         - [floating the river with Mike and Ali](https://nfhostel.com/floating-the-river-with-mike-and-ali/): great weekend to head down the river, spring has finally sprung in the north fork!                             - [Ride to Logging Creek Ranger Station](https://nfhostel.com/ride-to-logging-creek-ranger-station/):   The south fork of  logging creek is on the move across the inside road again, I think I’ll wear sandals next time I head further south. Good bike riding so far this spring, roads are drying quickly, there is still the occasional ice patch and log to jump. Over the logs I actually get off and step over or around, unless I yearn for a busted clavicle. Happy spring riding! - [First Bike Ride into Big Prairie](https://nfhostel.com/first-bike-ride-into-big-prairie/): Here is a take of the restored McCarthy Homestead on Big Prairie. Excellent day for the first bike ride of the season, the inside north fork road is still very, very muddy and snow covered but sure beats what we had for the last couple of months as far as bike riding goes. There are also still plenty of snow and ice patches on the road, I didn’t make it past the turnoff to the juniper tree. It’s melting fast but in case you’re up for a muddy ride…  - [the other morning in the front yard...](https://nfhostel.com/the-other-morning-in-the-front-yard/) - [glacier view II](https://nfhostel.com/glacier-view-ii-2/): a good snowshoe trail leads up to glacier view now …         - [UofM mountains class in polebridge](https://nfhostel.com/uofm-mountains-class-in-polebridge/): As every year professors Sarah Halvorson and Rick Graetz bring a group of students to the north fork and pretty much take over the place…  - [glacier view on new year's day](https://nfhostel.com/glacier-view-on-new-years-day/): what a great day to start the new year- in the background you can see Stanton, Mt. Vaught and Heavens Peak and many more of the Glacier Park Peaks of course. Happy New Year to everybody! - [First ski of the season to Bowman Lake](https://nfhostel.com/first-ski-of-the-season-to-bowman-lake/): Use your beaters. Conditions are marginal to rocky. Cold temps and sunny day made it great day but the ski back during the full moon is one of my wintertime favorites. - [Paddle-boarding Bowman Lake](https://nfhostel.com/paddle-boarding-bowman-lake/): Marco couldn’t help himself paddle boarding on Bowman Lake, the swim had to be part of his plan all along… - [Mt Thompson-Seton II](https://nfhostel.com/mt-thompson-seton-ii/): Huckleberry Frostys all the way up to Semo Pass, what a treat! Probably the best ones I’ve ever had! There was up to 8 inches of snow on top with drifts significantly higher, it felt  a lot like winter up there but when the breeze stopped it was really pleasant!  - [Nasukoin Mountain](https://nfhostel.com/nasukoin-mountain/): While the alpine larch are turning and with some good October sunshine another of my all time favored north fork hikes… - [Kintla Lake](https://nfhostel.com/kintla-lake/): Another fall favorite is an outing to Kintla Lake on boats. Marco loves to play with the folbot sailing rig… - [more photos from Paul Maude ( thanks again, it was a great week)](https://nfhostel.com/more-photos-from-paul-maude-thanks-again-it-was-a-great-week/):           - [Photos Courtesy of Paul Maude](https://nfhostel.com/photos-courtesy-of-paul-maude/) - [Oliver's new Assignment](https://nfhostel.com/olivers-new-assignment/): Glacier National Park found a cozy little cabin for me to spend the rest of my days-  at least so I wish! - [Tuchuck](https://nfhostel.com/tuchuck/):    - [More on Hole in the Wall](https://nfhostel.com/more-on-hole-in-the-wall/): Your browser does not support the video tag - [More on Dutch lakes](https://nfhostel.com/more-on-dutch-lakes/): A look around upper Dutch Lake Your browser does not support the video tag - [good morning Polebridge](https://nfhostel.com/good-morning-polebridge/): a fox at the Polebridge looking for breakfast - [dutch lakes](https://nfhostel.com/dutch-lakes/) - [Hole-in-the-Wall III](https://nfhostel.com/hole-in-the-wall-iii/): no  words needed… - [as the summer is winding down...](https://nfhostel.com/as-the-summer-is-winding-down/):  I’ve been told to be a guy that wears many hats: here we go again…     here is the annual group photo with Dean, Jesse, Daniel, John and Miles - [north fork of the flathead river](https://nfhostel.com/north-fork-of-the-flathead-river/): these sunny August days are the best for floating the river… - [Longbow Lake](https://nfhostel.com/longbow-lake/): The long way to longbow… - [Brown Pass III](https://nfhostel.com/brown-pass-iii/):   Back  to Brown Pass, another Rocky Mountain High…     - [a night in a tipi](https://nfhostel.com/a-night-in-a-tipi/):   … no words needed… - [Maraton](https://nfhostel.com/maraton/): Oliver und Ich starteten früh am morgen. Bei starker Bewölkung um vom Logging Creek Campingplatz, in Richtung Grace Lake zu wandern, rund 21km. Dank seiner Anstellung bei der Parkverwaltung, sollten wir alle unterwegs liegenden Camp grounds begutachten. Ich wusste das es ein Langertag werden würde, freute mich aber auch auf den Grace Lake der durch einen Wasserfall völlig von außen Welt abgeschottet ist, und so seine ursprünglichen Artenreichtum erhalten konnte. Die Wanderung begann mit einer 30 min Fahrt über staubige Pisten von der Polebridge Ranger station, zu der Ranger station in der nähe des Logging Creek Camping grounds. Dort angekommen starteten… Read more - [Mt. Thompson-Seton](https://nfhostel.com/mt-thompson-seton/): the hike up to thompson-seton was not as challenging as I expected. There was a bunch of snow on the way and the ice ax was a handy tool to bring along. Plenty of trees down also, there were about a dozen from the trail head to Inuya pass and another dozen or so to the notch, beyond I couldn’t tell because the snow was seriously deep. Having said that, it was easy to follow the trail so far even given plenty of old snow drifts on the way, which were up to three feet deep. The creeks were also a challenge to cross… Read more - [Red Meadow Lake](https://nfhostel.com/red-meadow-lake/):         First time I got to the red meadow lakes this year, still had to hike the last mile or so over snow to get there, beautiful bike ride as always. This was the most tour divide riders I’ve ever ran into on this ride, first two Swiss guys, here seen crossing the last snow just before the lakes, another group of four heading up and after I got back to Polebridge a couple, Richard and Leah, who ended up camping at the hostel… - [Brown Pass II](https://nfhostel.com/brown-pass-ii/):    it was good to get back to brown pass and into hole in the wall. Another rocky mountain high! The photo of brown pass was taken from the Hole in the Wall trail, then we look at the plug that still blocks the Hole in the Wall trail and Hole in the Wall campground itself from the trail junction. Here are some more impressions from the trip back down.  - [polebridge parade](https://nfhostel.com/polebridge-parade/): Big Thanks to REGI for these great photos: - [Quartz Lake Loop](https://nfhostel.com/quartz-lake-loop/): here are some phots of last Wednesdays hike of the quartz lake loop: - [Brown Pass](https://nfhostel.com/brown-pass/): here we are at brown pass looking at some avalanche debris that came of chapman. Then a view from brown towards the waterton valley and cleveland in the back, more debris from the some avalanche. Then i have a few shots on the way up, here a picture of me and Rita Wirtz, the north fork back country ranger, on the scree bar after we crossed the first snowbirdge. Waterfall on the climb up, everything is certainly running big and high now! And finally a look at the waterfall coming out of hole in the wall; we both were wearing big smiles on our faces,… Read more - [rocky mountain high](https://nfhostel.com/rocky-mountain-high/): This is the outhouse on top of Numa Lookout, you get the idea on the amount of snow still up there, no doubt it is still winter up here.  - [north fork flora](https://nfhostel.com/north-fork-flora/):     here are some flowers and a shroom seen on the way up to Numa Lookout. the first was is a fairy slipper, an orchid, the comes a western clematis and a morel looking mushroom:  - [high waters receding at hostel](https://nfhostel.com/high-waters-receding-at-hostel/): the river waters peeked Wednesday afternoon and have been receding since… so far the temperatures are cool enough to slow things down enough to have a high but not unusually so runoff and keep the river in check… also it’s not quite over yet and still plenty of snow in the high country we will see what happens between now and the fourth of July!         - [high country news](https://nfhostel.com/high-country-news/): here are some photos from an outing into the high country… … maybe some of you know exactly where this is… - [¡Stop the Megaloads Now!](https://nfhostel.com/%c2%a1stop-the-megaloads-now/):             [yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoKW771tG_Q’] - [hay - spruce - red meadow loop](https://nfhostel.com/hay-spruce-red-meadow-loop/):   the spruce creek cut over from hay creek road to red meadow road is finally snow free and dry enough for a good ride. there is still plenty of snow past the red meadow gate and it might be a while.. latest rumor I heard was that the great divide race might be rerouted around the flathead this year…   - [ride to kintla lake](https://nfhostel.com/ride-to-kintla-lake/): Mostly dry road all the way to kintla lake but for one considerable puddle just before you get to the lake, however, that may drain quickly also. A bit cold for a swim, but plenty warm pebbles on the beach for a long nap before the ride back - [Glacier View II](https://nfhostel.com/glacier-view-ii/): One month later we are back on Glacier View, this time plus the view and still plenty of snow on top to have fun on the way down. The wildflowers: are getting started big time and it looks like an awesome summer for wildflower lovers! Things are warming up in general but this was an exceptionally warm day, even on top we were baking in the sun – which is a first this year. Here is Tony from Cleveland who joined me for the slog up to the top:  - [Avalanche Lake](https://nfhostel.com/avalanche-lake/): It was time to check out Avalanche Lake and Going to the Sun Road. There were only three miles of road allowed to bike past avalanche, but the views of the mountains made well up for it, as well as the goats and waterfalls, most of them still ice, at avalanche lake. Don’t miss an early bike ride on going to the sun road, it’s one of the best I can imagine! - [Glacier National Park Black Bear Climbing tree](https://nfhostel.com/glacier-national-park-black-bear-climbing-tree/):   [yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9MYPXUwboXs’] - [ford creek patrol cabin](https://nfhostel.com/ford-creek-ranger-station/): made it as far as the ford patrol cabin on the kintla lake road until I was pushing my bike through snow more than I was riding it, just have to try it again. there was also one gigantic puddle, wet feet a given:  - [ride to Bowman lake](https://nfhostel.com/ride-to-bowman-lake/): lots of dry road, some mud, puddles and snow… Great day for a bike ride up to Bowman Lake… it was nice and warm in Polebridge but windy and freezing cold up on the lake, no time to linger. here are some violets I found on the way up : - [inside north fork road](https://nfhostel.com/inside-north-fork-road/): the road is nice and almost dry to ride your bike down to the logging creek ranger station. there is still downfall and snow on the road past that, some other time… - [bowman lake road](https://nfhostel.com/bowman-lake-road/): Bowman Lake road is still covered with a rather solid layer of snow, ice or water once you get out of the burn into thicker timber. The inside road is open for cars to the end of Big Prairie, that’s also how far I rode it last week. To the south I made it about five miles before running into the same conditions as on the bowman lake road. I guess I’ll have to keep trying.. Out running this little glacier lily was brave enough to stick it’s head out and I hope there will plenty more to follow soon.. - [big prairie bike ride](https://nfhostel.com/big-prairie-bike-ride/): the bike riding is getting better as the roads start to dry out and the weather in general is improving. Bowman Lake road most likely still has a bunch of snow towards the end but i should try the north fork inside road towards Logging Lake today… - [Big Prairie](https://nfhostel.com/big-prairie-2/): Also all the snow has melted off the bottoms and a bluebird day makes us all smile. I bring my camera along now since I saw a bunch of elk bulls on my last run, no such luck today but still not bad, right? - [Muddy Paw](https://nfhostel.com/muddy-paw/): This print I saw this morning out running in Big Prairie is not very big, sorry I also didn’t have anything with me for comparison but as clear and sharp an indicator that the bears are out wondering about this beautiful place. - [Camas road...](https://nfhostel.com/camas-road-2/): .. is totally dry and a fun bike ride this time of year. There was no huckleberry ice-cream in Apgar however, a tea would have been more welcomed anyways. The Montana House was already open but otherwise peace and quiet at Lake McDonald.               today would have been a much better day for glacier view, I got at least good look at it during my ride 🙂   - [Spring in the Mountains](https://nfhostel.com/spring-in-the-mountains/): Blue, the dog and I headed up to Glacier View today while Oliver, the cat stayed home cleaning and minding the top bunk in the greenhouse. As spring days go in the mountains there was just enough snow to tease us out on the trail.. hardly hit the snow when we stumbled upon a trail made by some creature just woken from a lengthy slumber and ambling through the bright mountain-scape. As we kept on the skies darkened and Blue started to question my sanity: but once on top even the old lady is taking it in, even so there is… Read more - [Polebridge Mercantile opens for the season!](https://nfhostel.com/polebridge-mercantile/): Polebridge Mercantile Opening for the season on May 1, just a few short days away! Hours to be: May: 7am-close (6ish during the week and 9ish on weekends) June-August: 7am-10pm September-November: 7am-close (6ish during the week and 9ish on weekends) Cheers! - [still winter in Polebridge](https://nfhostel.com/still-winter-in-polebridge/): old man winter is hanging around this year and snow still is piling up. Were it not for the birds and the long days I would not believe the calendar. On the other side : the fist greens are sprouting in the green house, so there is still hope… - [Glaicer View](https://nfhostel.com/glaicer-view/): Looking down on to the north fork of the flathead from glacier view mountain a few years back, the weather has been so wintery  this year that I start to wonder how long before I actually can put my hiking boots on. So far it is still skiing in the early mornings and post holing or getting stuck in the mud in the afternoons… and since it is raining even the early morning skiing became questionable. - [Montana](https://nfhostel.com/montana/): here is a great movie that Andi did on his trip to Montana last spring. Thanks Andi, hope you are doing well! the best of it all, while I’m posting this I’m watching from the hostel window a group of a dozen wandering elk passing by the river …     [yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J67iIVHAwNU’] - [What's new for Logan Pass in 2026](https://nfhostel.com/whats-new-for-logan-pass-in-2026/): Check the link at bottom Plan Ahead  Additional details about 2026 operations, summer planning tips, and shuttle updates are available online at Visiting Logan Pass in 2026 – Glacier National Park (U.S. National Park Service).    - [Glacier National Park Announces 2026 Summer Operations](https://nfhostel.com/glacier-national-park-announces-2026-summer-operations/): Date: February 18, 2026 Glacier National Park News Release Pilot Program to Ticket Going-to-the-Sun Road Shuttles and Timed Parking at Logan Pass February 18, 2026 – Glacier National Park today announced it will pilot a ticketed shuttle system to Logan Pass in summer 2026, including early morning express routes. Beginning July 1, weather permitting, private vehicle parking at Logan Pass will be limited to three hours. Vehicle reservations will not be required anywhere in the park in 2026. “With the new trial measures, we aim to improve the public’s ability to visit Logan Pass for short durations and allow the shuttle system… Read more "Front Page" - [Celebrating John](https://nfhostel.com/celebrating-john/): THE DAILY ROUNDUP | FEBRUARY 9, 2026 Greetings, Beacon Nation! In September 1988, the Red Bench fire exploded in the mountains above Polebridge and tore through the off-grid community on Glacier Park’s western edge, destroying more than two dozen homes and the ranger station before vaulting the North Fork Flathead River to the park’s interior. (In the photo below, longtime North Fork resident Larry Wilson captured the community’s namesake “pole bridge” burning.)At its peak, more than 1,600 people were assigned to fight the destructive wildfire or provide support. But on Sept. 7, 1988, when the fire made its most dramatic run through the remote… Read more "Front Page" - [Streets of Minneapolis](https://nfhostel.com/streets-of-minneapolis/): Our hearts go out to the people of Minneapolis. - [What's new in 2026](https://nfhostel.com/whats-new-in-2026/): No official word yet, but rumor has it there will not be any reservation or timed entry for park entrance. Restrictions will apply as you can imagine! Talk is of parking time limits at Logan Pass and shuttle reservations, not sure how that will work out. More to come… Here at the hostel most things continue as usual except reservations for the Tipi and the Square Peg Ranch. Both the Square Peg Ranch Cabin and the Tipi are only available by special arrangement and are NOT bookable online. You can still check availability on the online calendar but have to contact… Read more "Front Page" - [2025 Season ends](https://nfhostel.com/2025-season-ends/): See you in 2026 As another summer is coming to an end, I reflect on the good, the bad, and the ugly that this season has brought my way. The long, sun-soaked days were filled with laughter and unforgettable moments, where friendships blossomed and memories were created under the warm glow of the sun. Yet, alongside those cherished experiences, there were challenges that tested my resilience—those moments of doubt and hardship that seemed to cast shadows on the brighter days. It’s essential to acknowledge the complex tapestry of emotions, where both joy and sorrow intertwine, reminding me that life is a… Read more "Front Page" - [Timed Entry Vehicle Reservations open February 13](https://nfhostel.com/timed-entry-vehicle-reservations-open-february-13/): Reservations Required June 13 through September 28, 2025 Glacier Park Press Release: Date: February 7, 2025Contact: Autumn Sifuentes, 406-888-7921 WEST GLACIER, Mont. [February 7, 2025] – Glacier National Park reminds visitors that 120-day advance timed entry vehicle reservations become available on Recreation.gov starting February 13, 2025, at 8 am Mountain Time.  This is a correction from a previous announcement that stated reservations would be released on February 12. The correct date, February 13, is exactly 120 days prior to June 13, the first day timed entry vehicle reservations are required. A timed entry vehicle reservation is required from June 13 to… Read more "Front Page" - [Glacier National Park announces a timed entry vehicle reservation pilot for 2025](https://nfhostel.com/glacier-national-park-announces-a-timed-entry-vehicle-reservation-pilot-for-2025/): Date: November 7, 2024 Contact: Gina Icenoggle, 406-888-5838  WEST GLACIER, Mont. [November 7, 2024] – Glacier National Park will once again implement a pilot vehicle reservation system in 2025, from June 13 to September 28, 2025, for the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road and the North Fork. Visitors can begin making advance reservations on February 12, 2025. Reservations will be required from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. As in previous years, visitors may enter reservation areas without a reservation before or after reservation hours.   New in 2025, the park will be piloting timed entry reservations for the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road and the North Fork. Visitors will enter the park according to the time… Read more "Front Page" - [Glacier National Park 2024 Construction Updates](https://nfhostel.com/glacier-national-park-2024-construction-updates/): Here is Glacier's latest construction update for coming summer. North Fork Updates are all the way at the bottom of this news release:WEST GLACIER, Mont. [April 1, 2024] –Glacier National Park has announced plans for construction areas during the 2024 spring and summer season. Visitors are encouraged to plan and prepare for traffic delays  Park Headquarters In August a rehabilitation project of the park headquarters complex roads and parking lot will be taking place into the fall. Be aware of construction vehicles, workers and possible wait times if entering headquarters.  Going-to-the-Sun Road Rehabilitation  The west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road will undergo the last phase… Read more "Front Page" - [Glacier National Park 2024 Vehicle Reservations Opened January 25](https://nfhostel.com/glacier-national-park-2024-vehicle-reservations-opened-january-25/): Here is the press release from Glacier National Park that came out this week. Hope this is helpful: Date: January 23, 2024 Contact: Autumn Sifuentes, 406-888-7921  WEST GLACIER, Mont. [January 23, 2024] – Glacier National Park reminds visitors that advance vehicle reservations become available on Recreation.gov starting January 25, 2024 at 8 a.m. Mountain Time.    Vehicle reservations will be available on Recreation.gov through two types of booking windows; A portion of vehicle reservations will be available 120 days or approximately four months in advance on a daily rolling basis, beginning January 25 at 8 a.m. Mountain Time. Next day vehicle reservations will be available at… Read more "Front Page" - [Glacier National Park Announces a Pilot Vehicle Reservation System in 2024](https://nfhostel.com/glacier-national-park-announces-a-pilot-vehicle-reservation-system-in-2024/): News Release Date: November 9, 2023 Contact: Gina Icenoggle, 406-888-5838 WEST GLACIER, Mont. [November 9, 2023] – Glacier National Park will implement a pilot vehicle reservation system in 2024, beginning May 24 for the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road and North Fork and on July 1 for Many Glacier. “Our balanced approach for the 2024 pilot reflects feedback from Tribes, the public, partners, and stakeholders, particularly regarding access to the Apgar Village area and Two Medicine,” said Glacier National Park Superintendent Dave Roemer. “We also heard that knowing what park operations and access will look like sooner, rather than later, is important.” West EntranceOne reservation per vehicle will be required to travel Going-to-the-Sun Road beyond the Apgar Village area from May 24 through Sept. 8, 2024, from 6 a.m.… Read more "Front Page" - [2023 Major Construction Areas in Glacier](https://nfhostel.com/2023-major-construction-areas-in-glacier/): Here is a Glacier Park News Release – very relevant this summer. On top of reservations there will be a lot of construction going on. I highlighted the relevant parts for visitors to the North Fork. This year it is especially important to plan ahead! Please don’t hesitate to send a message to the hostel with questions regarding your stay and I try to answer them as good as I can. Your trip might not be a smooth one this summer but I promise it will be an adventure! News Release Date: March 20, 2023  Contact: Gina Kerzman, 406-888-5838 WEST GLACIER, Mont. [March… Read more "Front Page" - [Vehicle Reservation 2023](https://nfhostel.com/vehicle-reservation-2023/): Please follow the link below to Glacier Park’s website for current information on the vehicle reservation system for the coming season: https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/gtsrticketedentry.htm - [Ticketed Entry/ Vehicle Passes for North Fork](https://nfhostel.com/ticketed-entry-vehicle-passes-for-north-fork/): Here are a few excerpts from Glacier National Park press release regarding ticketed entry and vehicle passes for the North Fork. Please go to Glacier’s website to get more details. The North Fork also saw record-setting visitation. By August 2021, visitation to the North Fork was 20% higher than in 2019. In contrast to GTSR, the North Fork is managed as a “wilderness threshold zone” with emphasis on solitude, a sense of history, difficulty of access, and limited support facilities. In order to maintain these values, the park will manage North Fork visitation levels to eliminate the need to temporarily restrict… Read more "Front Page" - [Evacuation warning lifted for Hay Creek Fire](https://nfhostel.com/evacuation-warning-lifted-for-hay-creek-fire/): Big Relief! - [Fire Update August 9, 2021](https://nfhostel.com/fire-update-august-9-2021/): Hay Creek Fire Flathead National Forest, Montana STATISTICS • Location: 4 miles west of Polebridge, MT Date of Origin: July 21, 2021 Cause: Lightning Total fire acres: 2,894 acres Containment: 23% August 9, 2021 INFORMATION Phone: (406) 219-1013, 8 am to 8 pm Email: 2021.HayCreek@firenet.gov InciWeb:https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7712/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/discovertheflathead Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlatheadNF RESOURCES • Engines: 14• 1 Type 2 Crew• 2 Heavy Equipment Task Forces (dozers, skidgines, excavators, water tenders) • Helicopters: 2• Personnel: 210 • Total gallons of water dropped: 754,940• Fixed-wing flight hrs: 32 • Helicopter flight hrs: 110 INCIDENT UPDATE An inch of rain fell across the fire over the weekend. Crews are using mechanical equipment to reduce fuels along the Spruce Creek Road and reinforcing shaded fuel breaks being used as… Read more "Front Page" - [Hay Creek Fire](https://nfhostel.com/hay-creek-fire/): The North Fork Hostel & the Square Peg Ranch are under an Evacuation Warning (pre evacuation) by Flathead County due to the Hay Creek Fire. More can be found here: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7712/ - [VISITING THE NORTH FORK HOSTEL DURING A GLOBAL PANDEMIC:](https://nfhostel.com/visiting-the-north-fork-hostel-during-a-global-pandemic/): Lower Your Expectations! We are open by reservation only until September 15. Please maintain Social Distancing while on Premises at all times. Because of CoViD19 please read and follow these guidelines while at the North Fork Hostel: No Walk-ins, reservations only Only registered guests are allowed on premises Always maintain social distance (6 feet or 2 meters) Back out of a situation if that cannot be maintained or you feel uncomfortable Wash or sanitize hands frequently Wear face mask in common areas if there are other guests around Limit your time in common areas Bring mask, gloves and sanitizer in addition… Read more "Front Page" - [The North Fork Hostel and the Pandemic](https://nfhostel.com/the-north-fork-hostel-and-the-pandemic/): These are strange times calling for strange measures. I am still not quite sure how to deal with the new situation regarding the hostel. Here are my ideas so far and that is, of course, all depending on the situation and latest developments: This year, 2020, the North Fork Hostel will probably reopen for the summer season on June 15 and close September 15. We will be open for reservations only. These reservations have to be made at least 3 days in advance. There will be no shared sleeping arrangements; if one party has booked into a dormitory it will essential… Read more "Front Page" - [Skiing trips to Bowman Lake](https://nfhostel.com/skiing-trips-to-bowman-lake/): Here are some photos from my trips up to Bowman Lake this winter. - [Hostel Frontyard last fall](https://nfhostel.com/hostel-frontyard-last-fall/) - [Charlie Wise Homestead Fire](https://nfhostel.com/charlie-wise-homestead-fire/): The Charlie Wise Homestead Cabin will not be available for the foreseeable future. Unfortunately there was a fire at the homestead cabin on October 5 last year. The damage is extensive, it destroyed the roof and its supporting structure and everything inside was lost. Reconstruction will start this summer. I think the main log structure is salvageable but I don’t know yet which direction it will go. I was working in and around the cabin, cleaning up the yard, stocking the woodpile, replacing beds, armchairs and tables. I did lite the wood stove for some heat and late afternoon while working… Read more "Front Page" - [More Smoke in the North Fork](https://nfhostel.com/more-smoke/): Controlled burns in the National Forest just outside Polebridge are signaling the end of another long Fire Season. Traditionally these fires help to restore a more historical fire regime to the ecosystem, improve wildlife habitat and reduce hazardous fuels to reduce wildfire risk and aid in potential future fire suppression efforts and improve wildlife habitat. - [Polebridge Air Quality Monitoring Station](https://nfhostel.com/polebridge-air-quality-monitoring-station/): Link: Polebridge Air Quality Monitoring Station - [Fire Closure Map](https://nfhostel.com/fire-closure-map/): Howe Ridge Fire Map as a PDF         - [Hostel closed for the Season](https://nfhostel.com/hostel-closed-for-the-season/): Due to smoke and threats from area wildfires the North Fork Hostel and Square Peg Ranch will close for the 2018 Season. Smoke has lead to poor air quality and fires have prompted several evacuation orders and warnings on the west side of Glacier Park and the North Fork. No significant rain has fallen and is not in the immediate forecast. - [Numa Lookout](https://nfhostel.com/numa-lookout-3/): Hiking Season has started for me in Glacier: Besides all the good biking on Going to the Sun Road, snow is disappearing fast in some places and it’s time to hit the trails again. Be aware, there are lots of downfall since the big storms we had since last season: On the Numa Ridge Trail I counted 4 to 5 dozen downed trees on the trail! - [Bowman and Kintla Lakes](https://nfhostel.com/bowman-and-kintla-lakes/): The roads to both lakes are now almost snow free! - [Where the plow's at](https://nfhostel.com/where-the-plows-at/): Camas Bridge to where the Plow is: Photos along the way:     - [Good Bye Social Sharing](https://nfhostel.com/good-bye-social-sharing/): This will be the last blog post shared across multiple media services. In light, actually more like, in growing shadow of recent events we won’t share any more hostel posts on social media. My blog post are still accessible on the hostel’s website: nfhostel.com The snow finally is starting to melt and post-holing and mud is on the agenda now. Although Camas Road already makes for an early season bike ride!   - [John Frederick Memorial](https://nfhostel.com/john-frederick-memorial/): We are celebrating John’s life here at the North Fork Hostel coming May 19, 2018 at 1 PM. Everybody is welcome. We will tell John stories and share memories, there will also be music and mementoes. Bring a chair, lounger or hammock. Don’t forget an umbrella if it rains. We will have a BBQ after we’re done with the remembering. Bring a side or dessert if you want to stick around for it. Please join us! - [Winter views from Demers Ridge](https://nfhostel.com/winter-views-from-demers-ridge/): Glorious Day, near perfect conditions, enjoyable every which way you look.     - [Still Skiing every day ;)](https://nfhostel.com/still-skiing-every-day/): Thank you Bill for the picture - [Early March at Bowman Lake](https://nfhostel.com/early-march-at-bowman-lake/): The sun is already pretty strong this time of the year and there were three wolves taking a nap in the sun way out on Bowman Lake, I mean way, way out there! Unfortunately you can’t make them out in the photos, even with binoculars they were barely recognizable for what they are. We also saw a raven feeding on what looked like a kill on the north shore of the lake. - [Bowman Lake](https://nfhostel.com/bowman-lake-6/): Clouds can be quite dramatic on Bowman Lake. Snow has been crusty on top most of this month but there has been plenty enough to ski over most downfall and brush. Not a lot of fresh tracks on my skies this year so far but for the usual suspects: deer and elk. - [Happy New Year 2018](https://nfhostel.com/happy-new-year-2018/): May 2018 bring us all a little bit closer! Best Wishes! -22ºF or -30ºC this morning at the hostel: - [Jelle Amsterdam](https://nfhostel.com/jelle-amsterdam/): Out and over the bridge to Big Prairie, at least headed that direction, on a cold and sunny morning in the North Fork: - [Out Skiing](https://nfhostel.com/out-skiing/): Skiing before the big dump in the Prairie and up Moran Creek. The river and around the hostel are great now also, it’s just a slog to get around! Happy Solstice and Merry Christmas to all you folks out there in the wide and wonderful world! - [This morning at the Hostel](https://nfhostel.com/this-morning-at-the-hostel/): 30″ ( 80 cm) of fresh snow: - [Founder of the North Fork Hostel, John Frederick, dies](https://nfhostel.com/founder-of-the-north-fork-hostel-john-frederick-dies/): John Frederick, champion of the North Fork and a founder of the North Fork Hostel and the North Fork Preservation Association, died today following a long illness. John passed away peacefully, his final weeks filled with the affection, laughter and tears of friends, family and well-wishers. Here is John’s obituary, written by long-time friend and North Fork historian Lois Walker. We’ll post additional information as it becomes available . . . Long-time Polebridge resident and champion of the North Fork, John Frederick, Jr., passed away on November 15. He was 74. He was born in Columbus, Ohio, in 1943, to John… Read more "Front Page" - [Early Season Visitor](https://nfhostel.com/9631/):   He’s been feeding on the lush greens in the yard; When it comes to keeping bears and people safe, hopefully I did the right thing? bird feeders have been taken down hummingbird feeders are hanging high and safe no livestock electric fence around compost pile no trash, groceries, animal feed, coolers or any odorous item in cars or outdoors Always keep a clean camp!     - [Bike Rides to Bowman, Kintla and Logging](https://nfhostel.com/bike-rides-to-bowman-kintla-and-logging/): All the North Fork Park Roads are bike ridable, little patches of snow but they are probably gone by today! The Ktunaxa name for glacier lily is maxa. - [Spring Ride and Float](https://nfhostel.com/spring-ride-and-float/): Easter Sunday has been the best day so far this spring! Camas Road is still closed for cars and GTTSR at Lake McDougall Lodge. The bike ride turned out to be 70 miles (112km) to the end of the road and back- made for a happy day! The river is running beautifully. I think I might be done skiing! - [after digging out...](https://nfhostel.com/after-digging-out/): ..more is on the way! Yeah! Oh, a total of 42″ over the weekend, don’t you love it? - [a taste of winter](https://nfhostel.com/a-taste-of-winter/): It never gets old to go out on cross country skis and explore some of my back yard, especially in a winter that you can call just that! - [Bowman Lake](https://nfhostel.com/bowman-lake-5/): Calypsos and Clematis were out all along the Bowman Lake Trail - [Bike Rafting](https://nfhostel.com/bike-rafting/): There are very few other things I’d rather do on a hot spring day than to ride my bike past the road closure and hop on the river to float back to the Hostel. The Hostel will be open next month: Time to Play! - [Bowman, Kintla and GTTSR](https://nfhostel.com/bowman-kintla-and-gttsr/): The first bike rides of the season are always a treat! - [Glacier Views](https://nfhostel.com/glacier-views/) - [Hiking and Biking season has just started](https://nfhostel.com/hiking-and-biking-season/): There is still plenty of snow patches and lots of mud around but the hiking is going and riding a bike into Big Prairie makes me appreciates spring and the coming summer. A truly beautiful weekend to be outdoors. - [More winter photos](https://nfhostel.com/more-winter-photos/) - [Dreams](https://nfhostel.com/dreams/): The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. Eleanor Roosevelt - [Winter in the North Fork](https://nfhostel.com/winter-in-the-north-fork-2/):   - [Lake McDonald Jr.](https://nfhostel.com/lake-mcdonald-jr/):   - [Thanks for a great season!](https://nfhostel.com/thanks-for-a-great-season/): we are wandering of into the snow and will see you again net summer, thank you all for a wonderful summer season!   - [It's fall in the woods](https://nfhostel.com/its-fall-in-the-woods/) - [winding down](https://nfhostel.com/winding-down/): After a fun and hot summer we can’t wait for things to cool off and the season to wind down. Here are a few pictures of the mostly water related activities of this summer… - [a bit of history](https://nfhostel.com/a-bit-of-history/): The North Fork Hostel & Inn has a lot more than dorm rooms available. Ranging from an entire homestead ($85/night, up to 6 people), to a White Tipi complete with a double bed ($50/night), the North Folk Hostel strives to provide a rustic feel with a modern twist of electricity and lighting. And whatever accommodations you choose, make sure to find some time to explore the many adventures Montana has to offer. - [Going-to-the-sun IV](https://nfhostel.com/going-to-the-sun-iv/): Another great ride up the sun road that last weekend in May. I dragged Philipp from Germany along. He had fun getting out of the cleats when we stopped 🙂 No Bears, Bighorns or Marmots along the road during this ride but we saw a Mama Black Bear with her three cubs on our way back on the Camas Road. - [Numa Lookout](https://nfhostel.com/numa-lookout-2/): Really a cold breeze up by the lookout but a beautiful early hike this year. Only a little bit of snow left.         - [GTTSR The Third](https://nfhostel.com/gttsr-the-third/): This time around I almost didn’t make it to Oberlin Bend, where the plows were parked: one of my chain links broke just below Haystack Butte. I was looking at the prospect of limping my trusted Tourmallet back, not worried about the downhill but I had parked way back at Lake McDonald Lodge 🙁 As it happens first guy I asked for a chain breaker had one along and the ride and day was saved! Thank you Mike! Besides bumping into friends I saw my share of flowers, sheep and a marmot.       - [GTTSR #2](https://nfhostel.com/gttsr-2/): Another great weekend for riding the Going-to-the-sun road. Besides Glacier Lilies this          time around we saw Trilliums, Spring Beauties, Paintbrushes and lots of varieties of violets. Three Bighorn Rams crossed the road just above the Weeping Wall, heading up, where else? Photos of the equipment, Clements Moutain and looking north up into the McDonald Valley and over Flattop Mountain. - [It makes me weep](https://nfhostel.com/it-makes-me-weep/): all the way to the weeping wall, which wasn’t weeping at all. Can’t help it but Going-to-the-sun road is probably the best bike ride around. Glacier Lilies are out, a small brown black bear was feeding alongside the road just below the tunnel by the loop and likeminded people all around riding their bikes. I busted my rear derailleur on my mountain bike during the last ride to Bowman Lake so it is road biking for a bit and I don’t mind it at all. Here is a panorama from just around the corner of the weeping wall and some other shots,… Read more "Front Page" - [First bike ride up to Bowman Lake](https://nfhostel.com/first-bike-ride-up-to-bowman-lake/): there is still some snow cover on the road, especially in the shaded sections past the ’88 burn but the riding is fast and fun, most of it has dried up already! - [Big Prairie in the spring](https://nfhostel.com/big-prairie-in-the-spring/): Bluebirds, Killdeer, Redtails, gobs of elk and deer, that’s big prairie this time of year. You can see Rainbow rising back to the left - [Kintla Lake](https://nfhostel.com/kintla-lake-2/): Kintla’s ice was groaning! Sorry that I didn’t catch the sound effect- just imagine it! - [Glacier View](https://nfhostel.com/glacier-view-2/): There is nothing like winter excursion onto Glacier View. Here with Mike and Larry who were sharing the hike with me! Thanks for another great day in the North Fork! - [Bowman Lake Forever](https://nfhostel.com/bowman-lake-forever/): It’s icy, it’s rutted, it’s not great skiing- However, Bowman Lake is still there! - [Another beautiful day at Bowman Lake](https://nfhostel.com/another-beautiful-day-at-bowman-lake/) - [Redoing the website](https://nfhostel.com/redoing-the-website/): As always this time of the year I’m doing some ” maintenance ” on the hostel website besides doing some on the proper place- so be patient with me if some things won’t work! Hopefully I can get it figured out before May… Happy New Year! - [Alle Jahre wieder...](https://nfhostel.com/alle-jahre-wieder/) - [Autumn colors](https://nfhostel.com/autumn-colors/): Nasukoin - [Joff's Journey- Call of the Road](https://nfhostel.com/joffs-journey-call-of-the-road/): The Penny Farthing World Tour continues.. http://calloftheroad.smugmug.com/Site-files/Current-Journey   I bumped into Joff on his first go around the world, eastbound in 2008 just outside of San Francisco and rode as far as the Grand Canyon with him. Joff is now on his second go around, this time westbound and made to Polebridge! It was fun catching up with him and I wished I’d be riding with him towards Mexico now! - [Siyeh Pass](https://nfhostel.com/siyeh-pass/): Hiking over Siyeh Pass I came across a billy goat just below the pass and some bighorn sheep below the rim rock. Views down Boulder Creek, St. Mary Lake and Sexton Glacier made it a pretty nice east side hike! - [Coal Ridge](https://nfhostel.com/coal-ridge/): Al ways a pleasant hike up to Coal Ridge! Thte cabin has gotten some use and work done by the looks of it. Made my way over to Moran Peak from where I could see down to Polebridge! - [Naukoin Mountain](https://nfhostel.com/naukoin-mountain/): Earlier this summer with Amie and Mike: Some good hiking and Oliver is testing some new beds for the Hostel!   - [On river time](https://nfhostel.com/on-river-time/):   Amie and Mike in the “Rubber Duckies” floating on the North Fork south of the hostel… - [Chain Lakes](https://nfhostel.com/chain-lakes/): Easy, quick and dirty hike with wolf in the Whitefish Mountains up Red Meadow Lakes… Prefect escape on a day like today…. - [Huntsberger Lake](https://nfhostel.com/huntsberger-lake/): Here are a couple shots of Huntsberger Lake in the Whale Creek Drainage. Looks like there is still a bunch of snow in the backcountry. Time to enjoy glissading! - [Riding Going-to-the-sun Road](https://nfhostel.com/riding-going-to-the-sun-road/): The plows are parked on top of a pile of snow in the switchback just before Logan Pass. Most of the debris has been cleared off the road way. We rode up from Lake McDonald Lodge, but riding down was the real treat… - [Red Meadow Road](https://nfhostel.com/red-meadow-road/): Came across this guy on my ride down red meadow road. I was curious how far you can get and I turned around a little past the 8 Mile marker where the snow started to cover the whole width of the road. One probably could get as far as the bridge or even further pushing through some snow… To be tried again! - [North Fork Park Update](https://nfhostel.com/north-fork-park-update/): Glacier National Park swung two gates open yesterday morning; – One will get you full access to everything Bowman. – the other will get you as far south as Logging Creek along the Inside NF Road. The Bowman CG remains in primitive status ($10/night) until the water gets turned on Thursday ($15/night). The lake water is “up”. Expect 3+ miles of post-holing snow along the Quartz Loop. The last two miles of the Numa LO Trail will also grant you a post-holing experience. The Logging Creek Trail is in pretty good condition. Bowman Head, Quartz, Lower Quartz, Logging Foot and Adair… Read more "Front Page" - [Going to the sun road](https://nfhostel.com/going-to-the-sun-road-2/): Great bike ride with Mike Oppenheimer up towards Logan Pass. The plows were parked just below Triple Arches! - [Spring bear](https://nfhostel.com/spring-bear/): @ Square Peg Ranch - [Going to the sun road](https://nfhostel.com/going-to-the-sun-road/): It’s just under 100 klicks from the Camas Bridge to Logan Creek round trip. That’s where the Hiker/ Biker closure was. The plows have made it about a mile plus past the loop. A good sunburn was the reward of this first day of May and my first daffodil flowered out! There were some good slides along the road, I’m excited to go further up now. - [Spring Floating](https://nfhostel.com/spring-floating/): The river is inviting again, there was a prescribed burn on Big Prairie, oh, and some northern lights last night… Life is good. - [Spring Bike Riding](https://nfhostel.com/spring-bike-riding/): Going-To-The-Sun road is still only open to Lake McDonald Lodge, the Hiker/Biker closure is at Logan Pass. Camas Road is open for car traffic as well as the Kintla Lake Road from the Polebridge Entrance to the end of Big Prairie. Ranger word is that the Bowman Road will not open until May 22nd and the Kintla Road above Big Prairie is not scheduled to open until June 8th. So, the pavement makes some good road riding with little traffic this time of the year and then, there is always Bowman Lake! - [Bowman Lake](https://nfhostel.com/bowman-lake-4/): One just never gets tired of it: - [Skiing the river](https://nfhostel.com/skiing-the-river/) - [Still winter in the North Fork](https://nfhostel.com/still-winter-in-the-north-fork/): Snow is piling up on the hostel front porch - [Ski to Bowman with Erna and Janice](https://nfhostel.com/ski-to-bowman-with-erna-and-janice/) - [Seven Years University of Montana's Polebridge class!](https://nfhostel.com/seven-years-university-of-montanas-polebridge-class/): Photos courtesy of Sarah Halvorson and Suzie Graetz. - [Glacier View](https://nfhostel.com/glacier-view/): Always a great hike/ snowshoe up the mountain: - [Happy Holidays,](https://nfhostel.com/happy-holidays/): and a happy New Year! - [Bowman Lake](https://nfhostel.com/bowman-lake-3/): The snow is still a bit skimpy and you have to watch out for some boney spots on your way up the road to Bowman Lake, but, as always, there is nothing like it. - [This morning on the river](https://nfhostel.com/this-morning-on-the-river/): Looks like Yellowstone Park, the North Fork on a -30° F or -35° C degree morning. - [Winter has arrived!](https://nfhostel.com/winter-has-arrived/) - [Mt. Thompson-Seton](https://nfhostel.com/mt-thompson-seton-2/): some exceptional October weather kept me going to the Whitefish Mountains… - [Nasukoin Mountain](https://nfhostel.com/nasukoin-mountain-2/): on an October Outing to the Whitefish Mountains.. - [High Country](https://nfhostel.com/high-country/): Great views on a fabulous day from one of our “home” mountains; you are looking straight down Brown Pass, along Bowman Lake at Polebridge! Life is good: Smoking a big ol’ cigar on top of Chapman Peak! ## Pages - [Accommodations overview](https://nfhostel.com/accommodations-overview/): Goat Chalet It is called the goat chalet because, as the story goes, John used to house a couple of goats in there at one point, but today it is my most favored rental cabin at the hostel. It has a queen bed, a potbelly stove for heat and a small table with two chairs. $100 + tax a night, occupancy 1-2 people. 4 and more nights $80 + tax a night. Klondike Kate’s Koffeehouse Klondike Kate’s has a queen bed and a full futon couch; a table with two chairs. Bring sleeping bag, no heater in cabin. $100 + tax… Read more "Front Page" - [Find Us](https://nfhostel.com/find-us/): LAND LINE+1 406 888 5241 MOBILE PHONE+1 406 253 4321 EMAILplease use Contact Form ADDRESS80 Beaver DrivePolebridge, MT 59928 2026 SEASONMemorial through Labor DayCheck In between 5 and 7 pmCheck Out before 10 AMHostel closed 10 AM – 5 PM DIRECTIONSThe North Fork Hostel & Square Peg Ranch is located on the western edge of Glacier National Park, 1/4 mile (1/2 kilometer) southeast of the Polebridge Mercantile at the end of Beaver Drive (follow the signs). Taking Camas Road through Glacier Park avoids a rough gravel section of the North Fork Road, you do not need a reservation to access the… Read more "Front Page" - [Happy Customers](https://nfhostel.com/testimonials/) - [My Account](https://nfhostel.com/my-account/) - [Privacy Policy](https://nfhostel.com/privacy-policy/): Privacy Policy Last updated: December 02, 2021 This Privacy Policy describes Our policies and procedures on the collection, use and disclosure of Your information when You use the Service and tells You about Your privacy rights and how the law protects You. We use Your Personal data to provide and improve the Service. By using the Service, You agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with this Privacy Policy. This Privacy Policy has been created with the help of the Privacy Policy Generator. Interpretation and Definitions Interpretation The words of which the initial letter is capitalized have meanings… Read more "Front Page" - [Cancellation Policy](https://nfhostel.com/refund_returns/): Terms and Cancellation Policy A 30% non-refundable deposit is required on all reservations. The rest is due before arrival, we accept cards or mobile payments. You can pay cash at arrival. You can cancel your reservation at any time but will loose your deposit. No shows loose their entire reservation. A cleaning deposit of $200 is required for Square Peg Ranch Guest Cabin and will be refunded if cabin is left clean and in good order. Check in between 5 PM and 7 PM; Check out before 10 AM; Shower and Kitchen hours: 7 AM to 10 AM and 5 PM to 10 PM;… Read more "Front Page" - [Payment Request](https://nfhostel.com/payment-request/) - [Transaction Failed](https://nfhostel.com/booking-confirmation/transaction-failed/): Unfortunately, your transaction cannot be completed at this time. Please try again or contact us. - [Reservation Received](https://nfhostel.com/booking-confirmation/reservation-received/) - [Booking Canceled](https://nfhostel.com/booking-confirmation/booking-canceled/): Your reservation is canceled. - [Booking Confirmed](https://nfhostel.com/booking-confirmation/booking-confirmed/): You should get a confirmation email shortly, don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. - [Booking Confirmation](https://nfhostel.com/booking-confirmation/) - [Booking Cancellation](https://nfhostel.com/booking-cancellation/) - [Search Results](https://nfhostel.com/search-results/) - [Search Availability](https://nfhostel.com/search-availability/) - [Accommodations](https://nfhostel.com/accommodations/) - [Founder of The North Fork Hostel, John Frederick, dies](https://nfhostel.com/founder-of-the-north-fork-hostel-john-frederick/): John Frederick, champion of the North Fork and a founder of the North Fork Hostel and the North Fork Preservation Association, died November 15, 2017 following a long illness. John passed away peacefully, his final weeks filled with the affection, laughter and tears of friends, family and well-wishers. Here is John’s obituary, written by long-time friend and North Fork historian Lois Walker. We’ll post additional information as it becomes available . . . Long-time Polebridge resident and champion of the North Fork, John Frederick, Jr., passed away on November 15. He was 74. He was born in Columbus, Ohio, in 1943,… Read more "Front Page" - [Happy Hostelers](https://nfhostel.com/happy-hostelers/) - [Where to stay](https://nfhostel.com/where-to-stay/) - [Front Page](https://nfhostel.com/): The North Fork Hostel: quiet and rustic accommodations in Polebridge, Montana since 1979 We are closed for the 2026 Season – See you in 2027! Our mission is to provide the best possible experience and create a sanctuary for all people within our planetary boundaries and educate and inspire our guests with solutions to our environmental and social crisis. “Growth for the sake of growth is the ideology of the cancer cell“ ~ Edward Abbey “A man is rich in proportion to the number of things he can afford to let alone.” ~ Henry David Thoreau Overview Hostel Rules Availability & Reservations - [About Us](https://nfhostel.com/about-us/): Located in the North Fork Valley just west of Glacier National Park, the North Fork Hostel offers guests a choice of accommodations in an old-fashioned, old world atmosphere. It’s a place to get away, relax, meet new friends and enjoy the beauty of Glacier National Park and the Flathead National Forest. No cell service or wifi internet. Propane or solar lights brighten your nights (there’s no electricity in Polebridge). Although the area is off the power grid, the hostel has a small solar system to recharge your devices. A propane cooking range and propane refrigerators are available to make your food… Read more "Front Page" - [The Hostel](https://nfhostel.com/where-to-stay/the-hostel/): A large downstairs shared living room, a warm and pleasant, fully-equipped community kitchen and the spiffiest outhouses on the North Fork. (The interior art is interesting — look for John’s college diploma.) - [Camping](https://nfhostel.com/where-to-stay/camping-and-tipis/): You set up your own tent and still have access to all amenities. - [Oliver's Blog](https://nfhostel.com/blog/) - [Square Peg Ranch](https://nfhostel.com/where-to-stay/square-peg-ranch/): The log home rental is just north of the “Polebridge Intersection” on the left. Look for the sign “Square Peg Ranch”. From this rustic cabin, you can view the majestic Livingston Range in Glacier National Park, with Spring Creek just outside the cabin’s doors. The log home is one mile (1.6 km) from the Polebridge entrance to Glacier National Park. - [just a few things...](https://nfhostel.com/a-few-things/): …that are good to know: Check in between 5 PM and 7 PMMake prior arrangements in advance if you need a later check-in! Check out before 10 AMPlease, leave room or cabin as you found it or there will be a cleaning fee. Return pillowcases, etc. to hamper. Electricity: We get our power from the sun but our system is fairly small. We encourage you to use the electric lights (especially until you get used to the  propane lights) and prefer it in the wash and shower room. Please, always turn all lights OFF after use. Charging power for your devices… Read more "Front Page" - [Accommodation overview/ Rates](https://nfhostel.com/hostel-rooms-cabins/): Square Peg Ranch Cabin The Square Peg Cabin offers full kitchen facilities and a fireplace. The master bedroom downstairs has a queen size bed and there are two full size beds in the loft upstairs. Available Memorial Day through Labor Day Weekend. Reservation for this cabin is by special request only; Occupancy up to 6 people, $140 + tax a night; 4 nights minimum! Discount for 7 plus nights. This is the only cabin where Pets are allowed for an additional fee and by special request only. Goat Chalet It is called the goat chalet because, as the story goes, John… Read more "Front Page" - [Contact Us](https://nfhostel.com/contact-us/): Reservationrequested 3 days in advance advised Welcome in 2026! ## Optional - [Agent (MCP protocol)](websites-agents.hostinger.com/nfhostel.com/mcp) [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)