Flying into Kalispell, staying in Duck Lake - groceries?

Hi

Trying to plan our itinerary and after doing some research it sounds like the East side of Glacier is more isolated than the West, which is perfect!! I'm hoping to get some advice on where is the best spot to stop on our way in and get some groceries for our stay?

Breakfast items, lunch meat, bread, adult beverages, etc. Nothing fancy just the basics. We plan on going out for dinner in the evening after hiking all day but need Breakfast and Lunch items

It sounds like you have a great trip planned for Glacier National Park, and it's awesome that you're staying on the East side near Duck Lake! As you've mentioned, the East side of the park is more remote, so it's essential to plan ahead for groceries before you head into the park. Here are a few great options for picking up your groceries, including breakfast and lunch essentials, before you get too far out in the wilderness.

For basic groceries, you'll want to stop in the town of Kalispell, which is the closest larger town to the park and offers a variety of grocery stores. There are also smaller towns along the way where you can stock up if you’re coming from the West side.

  • Kalispell (about 30 miles from Duck Lake):
    • Super 1 Foods: A large grocery chain with all the basics, including breakfast items, lunch meat, bread, and beverages. They also carry a selection of local Montana products, which can be a nice touch to your trip.
    • Albertsons: Another good option for picking up groceries. Albertsons has a variety of deli meats, snacks, and all the standard grocery items you'd need. The store also offers a good selection of adult beverages.
    • Costco: If you have a membership, Costco in Kalispell is an excellent place to stock up on large quantities of items at a good price, especially if you plan to spend several days in the area.
  • Hungry Horse (about 45 miles from Duck Lake, near the West entrance):
    • Super 1 Foods (in Hungry Horse): If you're coming from the West, this is a convenient stop for groceries. It’s a smaller store compared to the one in Kalispell, but they carry most basic items like breakfast foods, sandwich supplies, and beverages.

Once you're out near Duck Lake, options for last-minute grocery stops become limited, so it’s best to get everything you need before heading in. If you're looking for some variety, Kalispell is your best bet for a larger selection. If you're driving in from the West side, Hungry Horse offers a good, smaller selection for a pit stop, though I’d recommend stocking up in Kalispell before heading further into the park.

Grocery List Suggestions:

  • Breakfast: Cereal, oatmeal, eggs, yogurt, bread, butter, jam, fruit (bananas, apples).
  • Lunch: Sandwich bread, lunch meats, cheese, deli salads, granola bars, chips, crackers.
  • Snacks: Trail mix, nuts, dried fruit, energy bars.
  • Adult beverages: Beer, wine, or spirits (available in Kalispell).

Once you're in Glacier National Park, remember that the East side has fewer services and amenities, so having a solid supply of groceries before you head into the park will ensure that you have everything you need. Enjoy your trip and the stunning beauty of Glacier National Park!


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