# 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… 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… Read more - [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… 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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… 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… Read more - [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… 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.… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… 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… Read more - [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… 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… 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… 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… 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… 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… 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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… 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… Read more - [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.… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… 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… 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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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.… Read more - [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… Read more - [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!                        … Read more - [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.… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… 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… 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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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,… 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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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.… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… 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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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… Read more - [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,… Read more - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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.… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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 +… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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 Welcome in 2026! 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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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… Read more "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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 "What’s new for Logan Pass in 2026" - [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)