A Cozy Hideaway in East Glacier Park, Montana: Brownies Hostel

Hostel:

Brownies Hostel & Bakery (a Hosteling International USA property)

Location:

East Glacier Park, Montana, just 8 miles from the Two Medicine entrance and 30 miles from the St. Mary entrance to Glacier National Park.

First Impressions:

The aroma of the bakery from the parking lot would have been enough to lure us in even if we weren’t already heading there. It didn’t look like a hostel to me when I first stepped inside, so I immediately felt like a special guest when we went to the back of the bakery and up the stairs. There was something very homey about it and I felt comfortable right away.

The property:

The hostel is located on the second floor of a rustic log building, while downstairs is a café/bakery/deli and a small convenience store. The rooms are situated in a long hallway, at one end are the shared bathrooms, and at the other end is a covered porch with couches and tables overlooking the street and the beautiful Rocky mountains.

There is a communal kitchen and sitting area in the middle of the hall, and everything was very clean and organized when we were there. The bathrooms are a bit small and don’t offer much privacy, but all of the guests seemed to get along just fine with the facilities. There are 35 beds available ranging from private double rooms to shared dorms, and the hostel also offers free wifi, lockers, and laundry.

What I loved:

My room felt like a cabin, and I LOVE cabins. It was cozy and comfortable, with heaters and blankets to keep warm. We spent some time on the covered porch while it rained, and that was a beautiful place to enjoy the fresh air and the view of the mountains.

What I didn’t love:

The walls are very thin so you can hear the conversations happening in the rooms next door, and the bakery ran out of huckleberry pie before we could get any!

What’s not to miss:

The bakery, of course. Not only is it conveniently located downstairs, it has some delicious options, as well as packable lunches to take with you into the park (BONUS). Also, definitely go next door to Whistle Stop restaurant (same owners). We ate dinner and breakfast there and were not only happy with the food, but we were really impressed with the staff, who all seemed to love their jobs. It is across the parking lot and couldn’t be more convenient.

Who should go:

Travelers of all ages are welcome at Hosteling International locations, although most travelers fall between the ages of 18-30. Technically, you must be a member of HI to stay at their locations, this will save you $3 per night during your stay. If you are not a member, you will simply be charged the $3 per night for “temporary membership.” It only costs $28 per year to be a member, which saves you money at all HI locations.

Anyone looking to stay in a cozy, affordable place in East Glacier Park between mid May and October should look into it!

How to book:

You can book online directly through the hostel, or via email at Brownies@hiusa.org or by calling them at 1 (406) 226-4426.