Cut Bank Chalets

The Cut Bank Chalets on the east side of Glacier National Park were one of nine backcountry chalet complexes built by the Great Northern Railway during the second decade of the 20th Century. Located near the present day Cut Bank Trailhead, the railway constructed four structures between 1911 and 1912, including an 18x80 foot dining hall/kitchen, two single room cabins, and a two-story six-room cabin with a lounge area. The chalets officially opened in 1913, and were able to accommodate up to 42 guests during its heyday. As a result of its location near the North Fork Cut Bank Creek, the rustic lodge became a very popular destination for fishermen.

In 1917 the NPS constructed a ranger station near the chalet. This is the only building from that era that still remains in the Cut Bank valley. Due to declining business the lodge closed in 1933. By 1949 the structures were regarded as "beyond repair" and an "eyesore," and were dismantled by the park.

The historic photo below was taken by T.J. Hileman around 1925. Above the main building is Bad Marriage Mountain:

Here's a close-up photo of the main building, taken by George A. Grant in 1932:

Though the chalets are long gone, the somewhat remote Cut Bank valley still offers hikers outstanding hiking opportunities, including Medicine Grizzly Lake and Triple Divide Pass.



Jeff
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