Glacier National Park, located in Montana, is a beautiful and vast natural area filled with mountains, lakes, and wildlife. This national park covers over a million acres, and offers more than 700 miles of hiking trails with fantastic views and peaceful surroundings. This place has many animals that include grizzly bears, mountain goats, and eagles. With its beautiful scenery and teeming wildlife, Glacier is the right place for nature lovers or adventure seekers. Whatever you are doing, looking around or even sitting and relaxing, the park provides an unforgettable experience for all.
Location
Photo: Tony Webster / Wikimedia Commons
Glacier National Park lies in the northern Rocky Mountains, within Montana State and close to the borders of Canada. This location can easily be accessed from towns that are nearby like Kalispell, in just a short drive. It is nearly 30 miles away from the west entrance at West Glacier. The park is surrounded by high, rugged mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and more than 700 miles of trails. These provide visitors with a perfect blend of remote wilderness and convenient access to local towns, making it a favourite spot.
How To Reach
Photo: Dave Sizer / Wikimedia Commons
Reaching Glacier National Park is straightforward, with several simple ways to get to this great destination. Here is how to reach Glacier National Park:
By Air: The nearest airport is Glacier Park International Airport, which is about 30 miles from the entrance of the park. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to the park.
By Rail: Amtrak’s Empire Builder line stops at two stations near the park, East Glacier and West Glacier. Both stations are well-connected to major cities which offers a convenient option for travellers.
By Road: Glacier National Park is easily reachable by car, with U.S. Highway 2 running along the southern border of the park. Once inside, the Going-to-the-Sun Road is a popular route, providing amazing views as you drive through the park.
Places To Visit In And Around Glacier National Park
There are many famous places to visit near Guindy National Park which can make your trip memorable:
1. Flathead Lake
Photo: William Neuheisel / Wikimedia Commons
Flathead Lake, located around 30 miles from Glacier National Park, is one of the biggest natural freshwater lakes in the United States. The clear blue water here with its lovely mountain views make this one of the prime destinations to relax. The visitors can do boating, fishing, kayaking, or have a nice picnic by the shore here. The surrounding area of the lake has great hiking trails for the visitors to enjoy the scenery. It is a beautiful place to visit near Glacier National Park for those who want both adventure and relaxation.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
2. Whitefish Mountain Resort
Photo: MARTINOPHUC / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Whitefish Mountain Resort is nearly 20 miles from Glacier National Park and is a year-round destination. In winter time, there is availability of skiing vacation or snowboarding, and in summers, one can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining. One of the famous things about this special place is the chairlift ride with a scenery view of mountains and valleys. Whether you are interested in winter sports or summer adventures, Whitefish Mountain Resort has something for all, making it a nice place to visit near Glacier National Park for outdoor enthusiasts.
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM (Winter); 10 AM – 6 PM (Summer)
Entry Fee: Free to access; additional fees for activities like chairlifts and skiing
3. Bad Rock Canyon
Photo: lyuqan / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Bad Rock Canyon is located about 10 miles from Glacier National Park. It is a beautiful natural area, famous for steep cliffs and views of the Flathead River. The canyon is well-known for unique rock formations shaped by thousands of years of water and weather action. It is a quiet place to stroll around and is perfect for hiking and photography. One of the most unique features of Bad Rock Canyon is its peacefulness, as it is less crowded than other nearby attractions.
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. The Museum Of The Plains Indian
Photo: Michelle_Raponi / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Museum of the Plains Indian is located about 45 miles from Glacier National Park in Browning, Montana. It shows the rich history and culture of Native American tribes from the Northern Plains. There are many traditional crafts, dresses, and utensils in the museum as exhibits which gives an idea about their lifestyle to the tourists. The museum has a collection of modern Native American art, which shows the creativity and talent of the artists. It is a fantastic place to know about Native American heritage in a peaceful environment.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: $5 / ₹422 for adults, $3 / ₹254 for children
5. Kalispell
Photo: Jeff the quiet / Wikimedia Commons
Kalispell, 30 miles from Glacier National Park, is a very lively town that combines natural beauty with some pretty exciting outdoor adventures. The place, known for its small-town feel, is a great place for people who want to spend some time in nature. It is basically a gateway for outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and skiing, making it an all-season destination. The historic downtown of Kalispell contains many unique shops, local art galleries, and restaurants that show the culture of the town.
Timings: Open year-round, accessible during daylight hours
Entry Fee: Free to visit the town
Where To Stay
Photo: StuBaileyPhoto / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
There is also a suitable range of accommodation available for people visiting Glacier National Park. Classic experiences can be found in Lake McDonald Lodge or Many Glacier Hotel, which provide nice scenery and a traditional park atmosphere. Further, more modern options exist in nearby towns, such as Whitefish, where the Lodge at Whitefish Lake and the Hampton Inn provide accommodation. There are also motels, cabins, and vacation rentals available in the locality, which provide a variety of choices for comfort and convenience.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: m01229 / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Glacier National Park is during the summer, from late June to mid-September. This period provides the best weather for hiking and outdoor activities, with most of the services of the park open. For people who enjoy winter activities, the park offers skiing and snowshoeing opportunities in the colder months. The summer season is ideal for sightseeing, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, making it the perfect time to explore the park’s natural beauty.
Average Cost Of The Trip
The cost of the trip to Glacier National Park would be typically between $50 – $100 / ₹4220 – ₹8440 for a day pass, covering entry and access to the park’s main attractions. Glacier National Park entry fee would be $35 / ₹2955 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. All of it on the type of lodging and services you choose.
Tips For Travellers
- Carry enough water to stay hydrated, especially during summer hikes.
- Wear comfortable footwear and clothing suitable for outdoor adventures.
- Book your accommodation and park activities early, especially during peak season.
- Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife and follow park regulations.
- Plan your transportation in advance, especially if visiting remote areas of the park.
Glacier National Park offers an incredible mix of adventure, scenery, and peace. This makes it an unforgettable destination for outdoor enthusiasts and travellers. With its beautiful lakes, towering mountains, and diverse wildlife, it is the perfect spot for hiking, sightseeing, or simply enjoying nature. Ready to discover Glacier National Park? Book your trip with TripXL today for a smooth and enjoyable adventure.
Cover Photo: Tobias Klenze / Wikimedia Commons