Frommer's National Parks of the American West - Don Laine [156]
There are two ways to see the park's western boundary and to reach the Polebridge area, in the north; one is slow and uncomfortable, the other slightly faster and less uncomfortable. The North Fork Road (Mont. 486) from Columbia Falls takes about an hour to negotiate. It's a sometimes-paved (mostly gravel and pothole-filled) stretch that follows the North Fork of the Flathead River; spectacular views ameliorate the condition of the drive. Not much is there besides water and scenery, but the area around Polebridge is a popular spot for the outdoor crowd—an excellent location to experience Montana's natural beauty without modern-day distractions such as telephones and TVs.
The Inside North Fork Road, just north of Apgar, also runs to Polebridge. However, it's totally unpaved, takes an hour longer, and is much harder on driver, passenger, and equipment. Unless you are a glutton for punishment, take the faster route and spend that extra hour relaxing on a riverbank.
Organized Tours & Ranger Programs
Ranger-guided activities and evening campfire and slide-show programs run daily throughout the park. The park's Glacier Explorer publication—free upon entering the park and also available at visitor centers—is a thorough source for days, times, and locations of various educational programs. Local tribal members provide programs highlighting American Indian culture and history. Most programs are free; there may be a minimal charge for some of the American Indian programs and those including boat trips.
Glacier Park Boat Co., P.O. Box 5262, Kalispell, MT 59903 (☎ 406/257-2426; www.glacierparkboats.com), offers narrated boat tours from Lake McDonald, St. Mary, Two Medicine, and Many Glacier from mid-June to mid-September. These "scenicruises" combine the comfort of an hour-long lake cruise with a short hike or picnic to create an unforgettable experience. Spectacular views of Lake McDonald sunsets, the awe-inspiring Grinnell Glacier, and the panoramic rugged cliffs ringing St. Mary Lake are just a few of the possible photo opportunities you may have while enjoying a cruise. The boats typically depart every hour, usually seven times each day (although schedules are subject to change in late season or if the weather is inclement). Ticket prices top out at $15. Check ahead for a complete listing of prices and departure times. Listed below are seasonal phone numbers for cruises at the following locations: Lake McDonald (☎ 406/888-5727), Many Glacier (☎ 406/226-4467), Two Medicine (☎ 406/732-4480), and St. Mary (☎ 406/732-4430).
Unique "Jammer" coach tours run along Going-to-the-Sun Road and north to Waterton. Thirty-three classic bright-red coaches from the 1930s, long identified with Glacier, are in service after a restoration project that began in 1999. Drivers provide insightful commentary about the park and its history, and you don't have to worry about how close you may be to the edge of the often-precipitous road! Rates are about $30 to $80 for adults and less for children, with tours departing from both sides of the park. For schedules, contact Glacier Park Inc. (☎ 406/892-2525).
Historical-cultural 25-passenger motor coach tours of Going-to-the-Sun Road conducted by knowledgeable guides from the Blackfeet Nation originate from East Glacier, Browning, and St. Mary. Rates start at $65 for a 6-hour trip. Contact Suntours (☎ 800/786-9220).
Scenic helicopter tours are offered by Glacier Heli Tours (☎ 800/879-9310) and Kruger Helicopters (☎ 406/387-4565). Prices start at about $100 per person for four people for a half-hour trip.
The Glacier Institute, 137 Main St. (P.O. Box 1887), Kalispell, MT 59903
(☎ 406/755-1211; www.glacierinstitute. org), conducts summer field classes that examine Glacier's cultural and natural resources. These 1- to 5-day courses include instruction, transportation,