Located one mile from the northwestern entrance to Glacier National Park, the Polebridge Mercantile is an oasis for the weary traveler. Besides amenities such as gas and groceries, the “Merc” offers world-class pastries and a custom roasted Polebridge blend of coffee. “The furthest we’ve had anyone come from is Israel to try our pastries,” Deb Kaufman, co-owner of the mercantile, said. According to Kaufman, her husband, Dan Kaufman, also makes legendary huckleberry beer bread.
Built in 1914, the mercantile is a part of Montana history. “People come to Montana for the experience,” said Kaufman. “And this is a place to get that experience.” The area offers fishing, hiking, camping, cycling, water sports and snowmobile areas. Cabin rentals are available by the night or weekly.
How to get there: If you have a pass to Glacier, from the west entrance take Going-to-the-Sun Road to Camas Road. Take Camas Road north to U.S. Highway 486. Take Highway 486 north for about 14 miles to Polebridge. You can take Highway 486 from Colombia Falls to circumvent the park. Portions of the highway are unpaved.