glacier national park where to stay
Glacier National Park is an iconic jewel on the U.S. West Coast, famed for its soaring badlands, turquoise glacial lakes, and a network of 130-mile Going‑to‑The‑Sun Road that snakes over peaks and through valleys. Whether you’re planning a family road trip, a solo escape, or a romantic getaway, knowing where to stay is key to making the most of your visit.
Below you’ll find a curated list of lodging options inside the park, options in the surrounding towns, and practical tips for booking and staying safe in this rugged wilderness.
1. Why Stay Inside Glacier National Park?
| Proximity | 0–30 mins from the park’s most iconic peaks and lakes | Less travel time, more time exploring |
| Wildlife Encounters | Potential for sightings of bears, moose, and caribou | Often at the heart of the scene |
| Early Sunrise & Sunset | Wake up to sunrise over Berthoud Pass – a photographer’s dream | Capture daylight from multiple locations |
| Unique Atmosphere | Lodge rooms echo miles of pine and stone | Inside the park surprises you at every turn |
| Limited Availability | All in‑park lodging fills up fast, especially July‑Aug | Requires booking far in advance |
Mild weather, abundant wildlife, and the raw serenity of Glacier’s interior are compelling reasons to book Indiana style accommodation inside the park.
2. In‑Park Lodging: The Classic Glacier Experience
Glacier National Park has a fleet of historic lodges and cabins, each with its own personality. Here’s a quick snapshot.
| Lodge | Type | Price Range (per night) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake McDonald Lodge | 3‑star hotel cabins | $200–$450 | Best view of Two Medicine Glacier; on Lake McDonald shore |
| Many Glacier Hotel | 4‑star hotel | $350–$680 | One of the parks’ oldest lodges; close to the Many Glacier tram |
| Apocalypse Lodge | 2‑star lodge | $120–$250 | Historic western‐style cabin vibe; primitive, rustic feel |
| Ambergris Lake Lodge | 3‑star | $240–$380 | Tucked in the Bennett area; family‑friendly |
| Wolf Lodge | 1‑star hostel + cabins | $35–$70 | Rustic and affordable; Railway cabins |
| Hilton Lake Village | 3‑star | $150–$280 | Modern facilities, close to the lake and bus stops |
| McLeod & Cordier Cabins (Gables) | Forest cabins | $180–$300 | Full private amenities, near Avalanche Falls |
How to Book Inside the Park
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Deciding on a lodge | Use park’s reservation system (Parks Canada/Osprey) or third‑party sites like Kayak. |
| 2. Check availability | The “fifth‑day rule” tricks: you can book up to 110 days in advance for most lodges. |
| 3. Secure a deposit | Half the room’s price; the rest paid at check‑in. |
| 4. Print or download booking confirmation | Essential for check‑in and ID verification. |
| 5. Arrive on time | Check‑in time is around 3:00‑3:30 PM; early arrivals may need to park and stay in the “Guest Reception” area. |
3. Outside the Park: Towns, Comfort, and Connections
If you require more budget options or modern conveniences, the towns on either side of the park provide ample lodging choices.
Kalispell (East) – 15‑Minutes from the Park
| Hotel | Type | Price | Distance from Glacier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Historic Hotel Mgwashi | 3‑star hotel | $140 | 3 miles |
| Motel 6 Kalispell | Budget motel | $65 | 4 miles |
| The Ten Deer Lodge | Bed & Breakfast | $190 | 2 miles |
Tips:
- Book a reservation early; the town fills up during peak season.
- Consider a day pass to Park Straight‑To‑The‑Sun Road (no fee to use the toll road but no parking passes).
Whitefish (West) – 35‑Minutes from the Park
| Hotel | Type | Price | Distance from Glacier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whitefish Lodge | Boutique boutique hotel | $210 | 6 miles |
| Silver Peak Resort | 4‑star resort | $180 | 3 miles |
| Carousel Bungalows | Classic bungalows | $120 | 5 miles |
Tips:
- Whitefish is home to “Rippling Morning” – the park’s most famous trail, so make sure you’re ready for early hikes!
- Biking: The town operates a free daily bike shuttle to the park entrance between 6:30‑7:30 AM.
West Acres / West Glacier – Fifth‑Day Parking
- Essential: If you’re planning a day trip and don’t need accommodation, you can receive a free fifth‑day parking pass at the West Glacier entrance.
- Information: The pass is valid for the next 30 days and is ideal for exploring "Long Trail" or the "Lost Trail."
4. Camper-Friendly Options
Glacier welcomes both traditional campgrounds and over-40-night stays for RVs and tents.
| Campground | Capacity | Amenities | Cost (per night) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Many Glacier Campground | 65 sites | Water, pit toilets | $30 |
| Lake McDonald Campground | 63 sites | Water, composting toilets | $28 |
| Apocalypse Campground | 70 sites | Water, flush toilets | $26 |
| Avalanche Creek Campground | 13 sites | Water, pit toilets | $25 |
| Newell Campground (West) | 19 sites | Basic, no water | $20 |
Reservations at some sites:
- Many Glacier & Lake McDonald require reservations via the National Park Reservations portal.
- Alternatively, call (406) 444‑5782 for the "Last‑Minute" option.
Ideal for families, backpackers, and budget travelers; remember to bring bear‑proof gear and pack bugs out, bring in, and cut down!
5. Budget Alternatives: Hostels, B&Bs, and Boutique Lodges
| Accommodation | Location | Price | Why It’s Worth It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wolf Lodge | Inside the park, western corridor | $35–$70 | Close to most scenic drives, historic charm |
| Regal Mountain B&B** | Whitefish | $130 | In‑house breakfast, warm fireplace |
| Hartley Lodge | Oak Creek, just outside the park | $210 | Private cabin feel with gourmet kitchen |
| Riverview Cabins | Kalispell | $140 | Scenic river view, fully equipped kitchens |
These options provide a middle ground between the park’s historic lodges and budget motels, enabling a comfortable stay without overpaying.
6. Safety and Practical Tips for Staying in Glacier
6.1 The “S” Rules
| Rule | Explanation |
|---|---|
| S – Sit on a log | Pet your neighbor politely! (cute for kids) |
| S – Stay till dusk | Wildlife are most active after dark. |
| S – Stop at the guest reception | It’s free parking for 12‑hour stays. |
| S – Share the trail | Keep your steps right‑handed – colleagues share visible spots. |
| S – Seek shelter in case of storm | Your boots will keep you dry if you’re camp. |
6.2 Weather, Snow, and Roads
| Season | What to Expect | Travel Advice |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (April‑June) | Snow on peaks, meltwater; only West Glacier entry is open. | Pack layered clothing, bring crampon harness for sledding. |
| Summer (July‑August) | Peak traffic, daytime lift, spectacular glacier view. | Book early (in‑park and outside), arrive in the morning. |
| Fall (September‑October) | Cozy owls, fewer crowds, crisp air. | Check for early shutdown on west side of the last exit, 3 lane during daylight. |
| Winter (November‑March) | Sparse access; mostly East side closed. | Extreme preparation: snowshoes, cross‑country equipment, professional guides if you plan any driving. |
6.3 Ideal Travel Rules
- Check Internet: The park’s mobile coverage drops dramatically at “Glacial Fog.” Download maps offline.
- Leave No Trace: Keep trash in sealed containers; the park environment is fragile.
- Bear Safety: Store all food in a bear‑proof container. Keep cabins and vehicles lock‑tight.
7. A Sample Itinerary & Beddown
Day 1 – Calgary → Lake McDonald Lodge
- Arrival sunshine at "Red Rock Trail".
- Evening dinner at the 1st‑Floor restaurant (treat‑savory fishmandu).
Day 2 – Glacier Road around “The Big Skin, the Big Stone.”
- Mid‑day hike to Granite Canyon.
- Sunset Stroll on the "Glacier View Drive."
Day 3 – “Going‑to‑The‑Sun Road” extends to “Whiskey point.”
- Day’s end at “Apocalypse Lodge” – rustic fire pit experience.
Day 4 – Newell Campground for a True skeleton feel.
- Sunset “Lightning Hill,” followed by a star‑ry campfire shower.
Day 5 – Return to Whitefish for a relaxing spa day.
Each checkpoint offers a range in price and atmosphere, enabling travelers to pivot as they go.
8. FAQs
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is it required to reserve a parking spot? | No, but many parks restrict early Dharama. Reserve a parking spot via the park’s “Park Pass” system for high‑traffic days. |
| Do pets have a separate area? | Yes – Pets are allowed in many cabin accommodations but must stay on a leash in parks. |
| Is it safe to camp at night? | Most campgrounds are safe; bear patrol will be active. Keep all food sealed. |
| Will the park be busy on Christmas Eve? | Winter crowds are low, but many closure doors remain. |
9. Final Words
Glacier National Park is an ever‑changing masterpiece: each season paints it in its own hues. By choosing the right place to stay—inside the park for that ever‑present sunrise or outside for a little more comfort—you’ll weave unforgettable memories into your travel portfolio.
Book Early, Pack Smart, and Let the Fjord‑Lined Wilderness Guide You. Happy travels! 🚗🗺️🛶
