From Whitefish: Glacier National Park & Polebridge Day Tour

Discover the captivating wonders of Glacier National Park on this remarkable day tour from Whitefish. Set out on a journey through the park’s breathtaking landscapes, stopping at iconic destinations like the Hungry Horse Dam, Lake McDonald Lodge, and the charming Polebridge Mercantile. With a knowledgeable local guide by your side, you’ll learn about the park’s natural beauty, learning about its rich history and the importance of wilderness preservation. From scenic drives to photo opportunities, this immersive tour offers a truly unforgettable experience. But what else awaits you in this stunning corner of Montana? Uncover the answers as you delve deeper into the details of this Glacier National Park adventure.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best Tours In Whitefish Montana.

Contents hide

1 Tour Overview

2 Itinerary Highlights

3 Included Features

4 Experience and Learning

5 Customer Feedback

6 Pickup and Transportation

7 Exploring Glacier National Park

8 Visiting Polebridge Mercantile

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

Private day trip from Whitefish to Glacier National Park and the remote Polebridge area, covering scenic highlights and local culture.
6-hour tour with pickup, park entry, and a stop at the historic Polebridge Mercantile included.
Opportunities to admire Lake McDonald, explore Apgar Visitor Center, and learn about the park’s natural wonders from a local guide.
Chance to sample local pastries and soak in the atmosphere of the remote Polebridge community.
Tour rated highly by previous customers for its scenic beauty, knowledgeable guides, and access to unique locations within the park.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This private day trip from Whitefish to Glacier National Park and Polebridge lasts 6 hours and costs from $450.84 per person.

Travelers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Due to limited availability, it’s recommended to book early.

The tour includes pickup from the Whitefish area, a private local guide, and entry to Glacier National Park. Along the way, guests will walk across Hungry Horse Dam, visit Lake McDonald Lodge, and explore Apgar Visitor Center.

They’ll also travel up North Fork road and stop at the Polebridge Mercantile for lunch.

Throughout the tour, guests can expect to learn about the park’s history, wildlife, and attractions while enjoying panoramic views.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Whitefish Montana.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour kicks off with pickup at the traveler’s Whitefish hotel or accommodation, then heads to Hungry Horse Dam where guests can walk across and take in views of the Hungry Horse Reservoir.

Next, the group will enter Glacier National Park, stopping for a photo at the iconic park entrance sign. The scenic drive continues past Lake McDonald, with a stop at the historic Lake McDonald Lodge.

Guests will then explore the Apgar Visitor Center and charming Apgar Village. Traveling up the North Fork road, the tour will visit stunning waterfalls before arriving at the Polebridge Mercantile for lunch and local pastries.

Throughout the day, the knowledgeable guide will share insights about the park’s history, wildlife, and top attractions.

Included Features

The tour includes private transportation from the Whitefish area, as well as a private local guide to accompany guests throughout the day.

Travelers will enjoy entry to Glacier National Park, where they can take in the park’s stunning scenery and learn about its rich history and wildlife from the knowledgeable guide.

Light snacks and water are provided, though lunch isn’t included. However, the tour does stop at the Polebridge Mercantile, where guests can indulge in local pastries and other culinary delights.

An average tip of 20% for the guide is recommended, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience from start to finish.

Experience and Learning

Connecting with nature and exploring the wild beauty of Glacier National Park is at the heart of this day tour, as travelers enjoy the park’s captivating landscapes and learn about its history, wildlife, and local attractions from the knowledgeable guide.

Panoramic views and endless photo opportunities allow visitors to truly appreciate the stunning scenery, from the majestic mountains to the crystal-clear lakes.

Throughout the journey, the guide shares insights and stories that bring the park’s rich heritage to life, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the natural wonders that make Glacier National Park such a beloved destination.

This immersive experience leaves travelers with a newfound connection to the wilderness and a lasting appreciation for its preservation.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Feedback

Travelers who’ve experienced this Glacier National Park day tour overwhelmingly praise its exceptional value, with an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 9 reviews.

Positive comments highlight the tour’s many strengths:

Informative and knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with their expertise
Breathtaking scenery and photo opportunities throughout the journey
Ability to access remote and picturesque locations that would be difficult to reach independently
Excellent value for the price, with a seamless itinerary that maximizes time in the park
Overall satisfaction with the tour’s organization, accessibility, and memorable experiences

Travelers appreciate this guided tour as an efficient and enjoyable way to explore the wild beauty of Glacier National Park from Whitefish.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour’s pickup service commences from participants’ Whitefish hotels or accommodations, providing seamless transportation to Glacier National Park. A private driver and local guide will meet you at your location, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey.

The drive to the park’s entrance takes approximately 45 minutes, during which time your guide will share insights into the region’s history, ecology, and must-see attractions. You’ll cross the impressive Hungry Horse Dam, offering stunning views of the Hungry Horse Reservoir.

This private tour allows you to avoid the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads and lets you focus on enjoying the breathtaking scenery of Glacier National Park and the surrounding wilderness.

Exploring Glacier National Park

Upon arriving at the park’s entrance, the tour makes a stop for a commemorative photo at the iconic Glacier National Park sign.

From there, the journey continues along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road, offering breathtaking vistas of glacial-carved landscapes, towering mountains, and pristine lakes.

Guests will have the chance to:

Explore the Apgar Visitor Center and historic Apgar Village
Take in the stunning views of Lake McDonald and its surrounding mountains
Visit the iconic Lake McDonald Lodge, a National Historic Landmark
Stop at scenic waterfalls along the North Fork road
Discover the unique character of Polebridge Mercantile and sample local pastries

Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guide shares insights into the park’s history, wildlife, and natural wonders, ensuring an enriching and memorable experience.

Visiting Polebridge Mercantile

One of the highlights of the tour is the visit to the Polebridge Mercantile, a historic general store nestled in the remote North Fork area of Glacier National Park. This charming outpost offers a unique opportunity to experience the rugged beauty and local culture of the region. Visitors can browse the shelves stocked with an eclectic mix of goods, from locally baked pastries to outdoor gear. The Mercantile also serves as a gathering place for the local community, providing a glimpse into the daily life of those who call this wilderness home. Whether you’re seeking a tasty treat or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the Polebridge Mercantile is a must-visit destination on this Glacier National Park tour.

Item	Price
Huckleberry Custard Pie	$5.50
Homemade Bread	$4.75
Glacier Blend Coffee	$3.25
Souvenir T-shirt	$18.99
Camping Supplies	Varies

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this private day trip is not specified. It’s likely a small, intimate group to provide a personalized experience and allow for easy mobility throughout Glacier National Park and Polebridge.

Are Hiking Boots Required, or Can I Wear Regular Sneakers?

Hiking boots are not required for this tour, as the majority of the activities are light walking on paved or groomed trails. Regular sneakers or walking shoes should be suitable, though hikers may prefer more supportive footwear for optimal comfort.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour allows for extensions. Clients can opt to extend the duration of the tour for an additional fee. This provides more time to explore Glacier National Park and Polebridge at a leisurely pace.

Can I Bring My Own Lunch, or Is It Provided?

Customers can bring their own lunch on the tour. Lunch is not included in the tour price, but the guide will provide recommendations for purchasing food at the Polebridge Mercantile during the stop there.

Do I Need to Bring Any Additional Supplies or Equipment?

The tour generally provides light snacks and water, but visitors may want to bring any additional supplies or equipment they need, such as sunscreen, extra layers, sturdy shoes, and cameras or binoculars to fully enjoy the scenic outdoor experience.