Christie A.
Yelp
After our previous motel, this felt like the Ritz!! I guess expectations are everything, or at least count for a good amount. I didn't look at Yelp before staying here (I didn't research or book the accommodations), and was surprised by the poor overall ratings when I just looked. I can only speak to my recent experience, and our room in the Great Bear Lodge seemed huge (compared to West Glacier Motel). Our room was updated, clean, and I was pleasantly surprised to have a second sink and mini fridge. Additionally, the room had an a/c unit that was more than adequate to cool the room, wi-fi, TV (nice surprise to be able to watch the Olympics in the evening), coffee maker, and a balcony with mountain and creek views! Luxury compared to the previous night. Felt quite roomy and comfortable, and fit all our luggage (we had to leave most of it in the car at our previous accommodations). It does look like prices have gone up even more since we booked, but while I know the room was more than twice as much as our previous place, it felt at least twice as nice too. Would be great if both were cheaper, but when there are limited options, I suppose we're all at the mercy of inflated prices... at least I felt when comparing the prices and accommodations, the increase was fair (comparatively) for the area.
Also loved that they had a recycle container in the room!! Coming from a place where I'm used to being able to recycle almost everything, I was holding onto what basic recyclables I could. I was so relieved to offload what we had collected, knowing all that plastic and paper wouldn't end up in a landfill!
We didn't have any major issues, and minor ones were promptly addressed and questions were answered pleasantly.
While a bit pricey, the ice cream shop offered yummy "themed" flavors ("moose tracks," "mountain mint," etc.) that were a welcome refreshment in the heat. Didn't try it here, but they also had huckleberry ice cream (we were told by a friend who grew up in Montana that it's a must to try something huckleberry when visiting). The grocery store had milk that fit in the little fridge. More offerings that we didn't need (souvenir shop, restaurant, gas, etc.) are all in one convenient place. Couldn't get closer to the east entrance of Glacier National Park.
If we ever visit Glacier again, I would definitely be happy to stay at St. Mary Lodge (at least in the Great Bear Lodge) again!