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EXPLORE: Bowman Lake

By Beacon Staff

Bowman Lake is one of Glacier National Park’s hidden gems.

Located near Polebridge, the lake and campground is at the center of Glacier’s oft-overlooked northwest corner.

From here you can hike, boat, camp and relax.

Bowman is the third-largest lake in the park, behind Lake McDonald and Saint Mary Lake.

Due to its remote location, it’s a favorite among locals, but there are other reasons to like this area.

Bowman Lake is home to a ranger station and several trails in the area.

One winds along the lake toward the backcountry, while another heads up the Numa Ridge to a lookout that provides stunning views of the surrounding vista.

The campground has 48 sites and is on a first-come, first-serve basis. RVs and trailers are not recommended.

How to get there:

Take the North Fork Road north out of Columbia Falls (right off of Nucleus Avenue).

About 35 miles later, turn right into Polebridge.

Veer left at the mercantile.

Cross the Flathead River and enter the Polebridge Entrance Station to Glacier National Park.

Less than a mile later, turn right with a sign pointing to Bowman Lake.