One of the most famous and beautiful natural areas in the United States is Glacier National Park in northwestern Montana. The park, which is called the “Crown of the Continent,” has tall mountains, turquoise glacial lakes, alpine meadows, and old-growth woods. Every time you go, you can expect to have fun, relax, and connect with nature. But picking the correct spot to stay is important if you want to get the most out of your visit. Choosing the right spot to stay in Glacier National Park may make a good trip into an amazing one. There are many different types of places to stay, from historic lodges to private cabins, so there is something for everyone.
This guide will tell you about the best places to stay, the best time of year to go, the best treks, the airports near Glacier National Park, activities to do there and how to organize your trip, when you go for weekend getaways.
Best Time to Visit Glacier National Park
A lot of people who travel ask, “When is the best time to go to Glacier National Park?” The answer changes based on what you want from your trip.
1. Summer: Peak Season
July and August are the best months to visit Glacier National Park because most services are open. This is the best time to explore all parts of the park because roads, trails, hotels, and shuttle systems are all open. If you prefer warmer weather, fully open hiking paths, and the most beautiful views, this is also the finest time of year to visit Glacier National Park. Going-to-the-Sun Road, a must-see site, is open all the time during these months, so you may experience the park’s most famous vistas.
Summer is the busiest period, but it’s also the most convenient time. There can be a lot of people, so you need to book the best places to stay in Glacier National Park well in advance.
2. Shoulder Seasons: Late Spring and Early Fall
If you don’t like crowds, the ideal times to visit Glacier National Park are usually late May to early June and September to October. Trails and roads start to open up during these months, and animals are more active. September is a great time to see the fall colors, feel the cooler weather, and enjoy the peace and quiet. Many people think that September is the best month to go to Glacier National Park since the leaves change color and the park is quiet.
3. Winter and Early Spring
Winter is a peaceful time of year for people who want to be alone and do winter hobbies. A lot of roads are closed, and most of the park’s lodges aren’t open. But winter is a great time because of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and peaceful routes. For tourists who like to do new things, winter is the best season to go to Glacier National Park to get away from it all and see beautiful landscapes.
Best Accommodations in Glacier National Park
Picking a place to stay is an important component of arranging your trip. There are several places to stay in Glacier National Park, including historic lodges, backcountry chalets, and cabins beyond the park.
Historic Lodges
Lake McDonald Lodge
Lake McDonald Lodge is a historic lodge on the west side of the park that looks out over Lake McDonald. This lodge was built in the early 1900s and has a rustic appeal that is very comfortable. It is typically called one of the best locations to stay in Glacier National Park since it has views of the lake, comfortable fireplaces, and trails nearby.
Many Glacier Hotel
Many Glacier Hotel lies on the east side of the park and is recognized for its beautiful alpine architecture and location on the lake. It is one of the best places to stay in Glacier National Park for people who love to hike because it is close to paths like Grinnell Glacier and Iceberg Lake.
Backcountry Chalets
Sperry Chalet
Sperry Chalet is a great place to go if you want to have an adventure in the wilderness. This primitive cabin is only reachable by a 6- to 7-mile journey. It has meals, bunk-style accommodations, and amazing views of the Alps. For people who love the outdoors, this is one of the best places to stay in Glacier National Park.
Chalet in Granite Park
Granite Park Chalet is another alternative for backcountry camping. It is high up on the western slopes. It’s perfect for hikers who wish to see rural places and sleep in a nice but rustic place. This chalet is one of the best places to stay in Glacier National Park for people who want to be alone and have fun.
Cabins and Inns
West Glacier Cabins
These cabins are close to the west entrance and have everything you need for a comfortable stay. They are also convenient to get to via park trails. Families and travelers who want to be close to nature will find that these are some of the best places to stay in Glacier National Park.
Village Inn at Apgar
This inn has comfortable rooms close to Lake McDonald, making it convenient to get to hikes, boating, and ranger programs. It is a good alternative for anyone who wish to be close to park activities and be comfortable.
Choosing the Best Place to Stay by Region
Which side of Glacier National Park you want to see will frequently determine where the ideal spot to stay is.
- West Side / Lake McDonald Area: If you’re going to Going-to-the-Sun Road and Logan Pass, the West Side/Lake McDonald Area is the best place to stay. Lake McDonald Lodge and cabins near West Glacier are both great places to stay.
- Many Glacier / East Side: Great for hikers who want to get to Grinnell Glacier or Iceberg Lake. The Many Glacier Hotel is thought to be one of the best places to stay in Glacier National Park.
- Backcountry/Alpine Experience: Sperry Chalet and Granite Park Chalet are great places for trekkers who prefer to remain in the backcountry.
- Affordable Choices: Cabins near West Glacier or Apgar are nice and cheap places to stay that are still close to the park.
Best Hikes in Glacier National Park
People know Glacier National Park for its paths. If you know the top hikes in Glacier National Park, you can plan your trip and things to do.
1. Hidden Lake Overlook and Highline Trail
This famous trail has amazing views of the ridgeline, wildlife, and the mountains. People say this is one of the best walks in Glacier National Park, especially for people who have never been there before.
2. Avalanche Lake
This moderate walk takes you to Avalanche Lake, which is flanked by cliffs and waterfalls. Families and casual hikers will love this trip in Glacier National Park.
3. Grinnell Glacier Trail
The Grinnell Glacier Trail is a 10–11 mile round trip hike that is more difficult and has beautiful views of lakes and glaciers. If you’re looking for an adventure, this is one of the best walks in Glacier National Park.
4. Piegan Pass Trail
The trek to Piegan Pass is hard but worth it because you can see the mountains and glaciers from all sides. Many people think it is one of the best walks in Glacier National Park.
5. Iceberg Lake and Ptarmigan Tunnel
These far-off hikes take you to beautiful alpine lakes and rugged mountain scenery. They are some of the most difficult and beautiful walks in Glacier National Park.
6. Trail of the Cedars and Running Eagle Falls
These trails are great for families since they lead to waterfalls, woods, and simple paths. They are some of the best hikes in Glacier National Park for anyone who just want to have fun.
Things to Do in Glacier National Park
Glacier has more to offer than just hiking. Here are the best things to do at Glacier National Park:
1. Scenic Drives
For amazing views of the mountains and overlooks, you have to drive on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. One of the most popular things to do in Glacier National Park is to drive or take a shuttle down this road.
2. Boating and Kayaking
Taking a boat or kayak out on the lakes gives you a different view of the park. One of the most soothing activities to do in Glacier National Park is to paddle on Lake McDonald, Two Medicine Lake, or Swiftcurrent Lake.
3. Wildlife Watching
There are bears, mountain goats, moose, and other animals in the park. One of the nicest things to do in Glacier National Park is to go on early morning or evening trips to see wildlife.
4. Ranger Programs
Going on ranger-led hikes, talks, and educational events makes your vacation more enjoyable. These are some of the best things to do at Glacier National Park.
5. Photography and Stargazing
Because there is so little light pollution, Glacier is the best place to take pictures and look at the stars. Taking pictures of the sunrise over lakes, the fall leaves, and the mountains is one of the nicest things to do in Glacier National Park.
Airports Near Glacier National Park
When planning a trip, it’s important to know which airports are close to Glacier National Park.
- Glacier Park International Airport (FCA): The closest and easiest to get to. It is roughly 30 miles from the west gate.
- If there aren’t many flights to FCA, Missoula Montana Airport (MSO) is around 130 miles distant and is a good option.
- Great Falls International Airport (GTF): Around 140 miles from the park and is easy to get to from the east side.
- Calgary International Airport (YYC): About 180 miles away, it has cross-border connectivity for travelers from other countries.
Why Wideversa is a Useful Travel Site
Wideversa is a travel site that has thorough recommendations, insider advice, and planned trips. Wideversa can help you plan your trip to Glacier National Park by helping you choose the best time to go, the best places to stay, and the best things to do.
Conclusion
Glacier National Park is a great place to go since it has stunning natural beauty, fun activities, and things to do for all kinds of travelers. Whether you like historic lodges, cozy cabins, or wilderness chalets, choose the right spot to stay in Glacier National Park is important for getting the most out of your trip. It’s also crucial to plan your vacation well. Knowing when the best time to visit Glacier National Park or the best month to visit Glacier National Park will assist you have the best weather, open trails, and less people.
There are so many things to do in Glacier National Park that will make memories that last a lifetime. You can walk the best trails, go for beautiful drives, go boating, view wildlife, and go to ranger programs. Knowing how to get to Glacier National Park, including which airports are close by, can make planning easier. Choosing the finest places to stay in Glacier National Park will also make your stay more comfortable and convenient.
Wideversa and other resources like it offer extensive recommendations, insider insights, and useful travel information to help people plan their trips to Glacier National Park. These tools make it easy to figure out when to go and where to stay in Glacier National Park. Your trip to Glacier National Park may be truly unforgettable if you plan it properly and choose the perfect mix of activities, housing, and timing. The park has some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the world, and you can have both adventure and relaxation there.
FAQs
1. When is the ideal time to go to Glacier National Park when there aren’t many people there?
From late May to early June and in September, there are less people, but you can still go to numerous trails and sights.
2. Where is the best area to stay in Glacier National Park if you want to hike?
Hikers will love staying in backcountry cabins like Sperry Chalet and Granite Park Chalet. Many Glacier Hotel and other lodges also give you access to key paths.
3. How do I fly to Glacier National Park?
The easiest airport to go to is Glacier Park International Airport (FCA). Missoula (MSO) and Great Falls (GTF) are other regional choices.
4. What are the best trails to hike in Glacier National Park?
Some of the most popular walks are the Highline Trail, Avalanche Lake, Grinnell Glacier Trail, Iceberg Lake, and Piegan Pass.
5. What month is best to visit Glacier National Park to stay away from smoke?
Early July and early September are usually the best times because there is less smoke from wildfires than in late summer.
Summary
Glacier National Park is a place where you may see beautiful scenery, have fun, and relax. The ideal time to go to Glacier National Park depends on what you want to do. Summer has the most visitors, but September has less people and the colors of fall. The best places to stay in Glacier National Park include a mix of classic lodges like Lake McDonald Lodge and Many Glacier Hotel and more modern cabins and chalets in the wilderness. You can have a great time by hiking on hikes like Highline Trail, Avalanche Lake, and Grinnell Glacier, going for beautiful drives, boating, seeing wildlife, and taking pictures. If you know about airports near Glacier National Park and plan your trip wisely, you can get the most out of your time there. Wideversa.com is a great place to acquire information for your vacation and make sure your Glacier excursion goes off without a hitch.