The Fourth Up North

A holiday weekend in & around Polebridge. 

There are plenty of great ways to spend the Fourth of July here in Montana. You could visit one of our spectacular national parks or assemble a group of friends for a multi-day float down a renowned section of river. Maybe you’re more interested in watching a parade or catching some live music with your family. With so much to do, it’s difficult to decide, let alone pack it all in. But it just so happens that all those activities and more converge right along the North Fork of the Flathead River. So if you’re looking to do it all, set your sights north and head up to Polebridge, Montana.

If you didn’t know, Polebridge is a special place. It’s about an hour north of Columbia Falls (six hours from Bozeman), and you’ll know you’re close when the road turns to dirt. Driving along the North Fork of the Flathead River, you may find it difficult to keep your eyes on the road, tempted to catch a glimpse of the momentous mountains inside Glacier National Park. Before you know it, you’ll reach the few proud establishments that make up Polebridge—where the bulk of the Fourth of July festivities take place.

Whether you’re in it for the river, the revelry, or just a break from cell service, there's something for everyone in Polebridge. Just show up ready to have a good time and go with the flow.

The first thing on the agenda for travelers in the know is the Polebridge Parade. What began as a humble caravan with only a handful of trucks has grown into a community staple and a must-see for anyone in the area. Residents from near and far make their way over with decorated rigs, golf carts, and side-by-sides to throw candy and trinkets to excited onlookers. In true western fashion, the parade starts at high noon, outside of the Northern Lights Saloon, where the festivities carry on late into the night. As the procession makes its way through town, stop by the saloon for some tasty margaritas, Bloody Marys, a bite to eat, or whatever it is that suits your fancy that day.

Fourth of July at the Saloon

Northern Lights Saloon

All weekend long, Northern Lights will host live music, starting with Dan Dubuque playing slide guitar the evening of the Fourth, followed by more musicians on the 5th and 6th. Just pick a day that works with your plans and you’re sure to be met with a good time.

But that’s not all—there’s even more to pack in if your schedule allows it. Just down the road at Home Ranch Bottoms you’ll also find live music throughout the weekend. You can even grab some food and get a room for the night if they're not all booked out.

If you’re looking for more than just live music and libations, you’re in luck. With Glacier Park and the one of the most beautiful river valleys in Montana—the North Fork of the Flathead—right outside of town, there’s plenty to do aside from drinking and dancing. Here are a couple ideas to get the adventures flowing.

Visit Bowman Lake in Glacier National Park
This classic alpine lake just 30 minutes outside Polebridge has everything you’d expect from northwestern Montana: crystal blue water for swimming, forested trails for hiking, and crisp mountain air for taking in the expansive views.

Bowman Lake

Float the North Fork of the Flathead
Aside from the Park, this is one of the main reasons most folks make the trek up here. You can float all the way from the Canadian border back to the confluence in Columbia Falls. It’s a laid-back float—mostly mellow water—leaving ample time for you to do as you wish. There’s trout, wildlife, and postcard views to keep you company, though you likely won’t find it too hard to pass the time. If you’re looking to spend a night or two, pitch camp along the riverbank or on one of the many islands. If you can only spend one day on the water, just float from the border down to Polebridge.

North Fork of the Flathead River

So whether you’re in it for the river, the revelry, or just a break from cell service, a Fourth of July weekend in Polebridge offers a little something for everyone. Just show up ready to have a good time and go with the flow.