Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1018883
SiG MT 81 As you enter Polebridge, the iconic Polebridge Mercantile is easy to spot – a red general store built by homesteader Bill Adair over a hundred years ago that still manages to stay open much of the year, famous for its huckleberry bear claws and other scrumptious bakery as well as back country necessities from toilet paper to parachute cord. Next door you will find e Northern Lights Saloon, the former Adair homestead that now welcomes the hungry and the thirsty fresh off the trail – or maybe just off the road. Even though many of Polebridge's customers are park visitors, its uniqueness and quaintness inspires many to make it a destination. Views of the Canadian Rockies, snowcapped much of the year and a chance to see dancing northern lights are reason enough to make the drive. Owner Heather Mahews bought the saloon in 2015 aer years of visiting NLS. She says, "is place touches your heart. I wanted to be a part of its history." e tiny log bar sets a nostalgic tone with the sense that you have stepped back in time – while still enjoying the best of today's Montana cra beers and signature drinks made with locals spirits like the "Mountain Mama" huckleberry and vodka drink or a huckleberry sangria. It is important to Mahews that they support the local economy wherever they can, using local produce, wheat and buying from local meat distributors. e use of solar power is another way they are striving to take care of this precious resource. e menu has a homespun and Montana flair featuring Wednesday' homemade pizza night, prime rib on Saturday and a varied menu that includes hearty fare like elk meatloaf, bison burgers, chili fries, Mac 'n' Their menu features great Montana fare like this steak dinner. They use locally sourced products whenever they can such as the lettuce for their fresh salads. The Polebridge Mercantile is famous for baked goods like the huckleberry bear claw.