HI - Brownie's Hostel

HI - Brownie's Hostel is not a wilderness hostel, as there is electricity and plumbing. Dorm rooms contain eight beds, the community showers/restrooms function well but feel a little rundown, and a common room and full kitchen with electric stove and microwave round things out. The front porch balcony facing west to watch sunsets is probably the hostel's best feature.

Joe is a most helpful host, and is always willing to answer most any question about the hostel, town, or park. The hostel itself has a somewhat woodsy feel, but not quite on the level of other wilderness hostels, and it's difficult to pinpoint why.

Located just three blocks from the Amtrak depot, this hostel couldn't be better situated for the backpacker coming to Glacier National Park sans vehicle. Shuttle services can get these travelers to St. Mary's Lake (pictured) and the park's trailheads to let the real fun begin. And then there's always a hot shower and a real bed waiting at Brownie's! There are a couple of bars and casinos in East Glacier Park for some nightlife -- and there's always the random fireworks blast as the 4th of July nears.

If you're coming to Glacier to see glaciers, this is the hostel for you -- it is nearest to the park entrances with access to most of the remaining glaciers. Scientists anticipate they will be gone by the end of the century -- what in the world are you sitting around waiting for?

-- Exclusive Hostelz.com Review