Visiting Glacier National Park is a bucket-list adventure but deciding where to stay can significantly impact your experience. Here’s a guide to the best places to stay when visiting Glacier National Park, whether you want to stay inside the park for quick access to trails or in nearby towns for more amenities.
1. Staying Inside Glacier National Park
If you want the most immersive experience, staying inside the park is ideal. It allows easy access to the park’s famous hikes, scenic spots, and wildlife, and you’ll avoid the daily commute from nearby towns. Accommodations inside Glacier tend to book up quickly, so it’s important to reserve well in advance (6 to 12 months).
Park Lodges
Glacier National Park is home to several historic lodges, each offering a unique experience with rustic charm and stunning views.
- Many Glacier Hotel: Often referred to as the “Crown of the Continent,” this grand lodge offers spectacular views of Swiftcurrent Lake and surrounding peaks. It’s close to popular hikes like the Grinnell Glacier Trail, making it a prime spot for hikers.
- Lake McDonald Lodge: Located on the western side of the park, Lake McDonald Lodge offers classic charm with beautiful lake views. It’s a perfect base for exploring the Going-to-the-Sun Road and taking boat tours on Lake McDonald.
- Rising Sun Motor Inn: A smaller, more affordable option near the eastern end of Going-to-the-Sun Road. It’s convenient for those looking to explore both the east and west sides of the park.
- Swiftcurrent Motor Inn: Located in the Many Glacier area, this inn offers basic amenities with access to excellent hiking trails and is a good choice for budget-conscious travelers. (closed in 2025 for construction) Swiftcurrent Area Closes
Campgrounds
Camping inside Glacier National Park is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty. There are 13 campgrounds in Glacier, with many offering spectacular views and easy access to trails.
- Many Glacier Campground: Located in one of the most scenic areas of the park, this campground is perfect for hikers looking to explore the Many Glacier region. Reservations are highly recommended during peak season.
- Fish Creek Campground: Near the western entrance to the park, Fish Creek is a popular spot for visitors looking to explore Lake McDonald and the Going-to-the-Sun Road. It’s one of the few campgrounds that accept reservations.
- Apgar Campground: The largest campground in the park, located near the West Glacier entrance, Apgar offers easy access to Lake McDonald and is a great base for exploring the west side of the park.
Other campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early in the morning is essential to secure a spot, especially during the summer.
2. Staying in Nearby Towns
For those who prefer more modern amenities or couldn’t secure accommodations within the park, several charming towns just outside Glacier offer a range of options, including hotels, vacation rentals, and resorts. These towns are also convenient for those who want to explore more than just the park.
West Glacier
West Glacier is the gateway to the park’s west entrance and offers a variety of accommodations close to the action. You’ll find several lodges, vacation rentals, and campgrounds in this area, making it a great base for exploring the Going-to-the-Sun Road and the western side of the park.
- Glacier Guides Lodge: An eco-friendly lodge offering modern comfort with a rustic feel. Located just minutes from the west entrance, it’s a convenient spot for park visitors.
- West Glacier KOA: A family-friendly option with cabins and campsites. It’s located just outside the park, and amenities include a pool and playground, making it ideal for families.
- Belton Chalet: A historic hotel right at the west entrance, offering charming accommodations with views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a short drive to Apgar Village and Lake McDonald.
Whitefish
About 30 minutes from the park’s west entrance, Whitefish is a popular resort town known for its outdoor recreation and lively downtown. It’s a great option if you want to combine your Glacier trip with activities like shopping, dining, or exploring Whitefish Lake.
- The Lodge at Whitefish Lake: A luxury resort offering lakefront accommodations, a spa, and excellent dining options. It’s perfect for those looking for a relaxing escape after a day of hiking in Glacier.
- Grouse Mountain Lodge: A cozy lodge with mountain views, located near Whitefish’s downtown area. The lodge offers shuttle services to Glacier, making it a convenient choice for park visitors.
- Whitefish Mountain Resort: If you’re visiting Glacier in the winter or late spring, staying at Whitefish Mountain Resort offers easy access to both the park and skiing or snowboarding activities.
Kalispell
Just 35 minutes from the park’s west entrance, Kalispell is the largest town near Glacier, offering a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, and shops. It’s a good choice for budget-conscious travelers and those looking for modern conveniences.
- Homewood Suites by Hilton: A comfortable, mid-range hotel offering spacious rooms and amenities like complimentary breakfast, perfect for families or larger groups.
- Red Lion Hotel Kalispell: Located in downtown Kalispell, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to shopping, dining, and Glacier National Park.
Columbia Falls
A small town located about 20 minutes from Glacier’s west entrance, Columbia Falls offers more affordable accommodation options and is a great base for exploring the park.
- North Forty Resort: A collection of cozy cabins in the woods, offering a quiet and peaceful stay with all the amenities of home. It’s located just 15 minutes from the park entrance.
- Cedar Creek Lodge & Conference Center: A modern hotel with rustic charm, located in the heart of Columbia Falls. It’s a convenient spot for those looking to be close to Glacier while still having easy access to town amenities.
St. Mary and East Glacier Park Village
For visitors entering from the east side of the park, the small towns of St. Mary and East Glacier Park Village offer convenient access to the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier, and Two Medicine areas.
- St. Mary Village: Located at the eastern entrance to Going-to-the-Sun Road, this village offers various accommodation options, from basic motel rooms to cabin rentals. It’s the best spot for those looking to explore the park’s east side.
- Glacier Park Lodge: A historic lodge located in East Glacier Park Village, this iconic property offers beautiful views of the mountains and a cozy, rustic ambiance.
- Mountain Pine Motel: A budget-friendly option in East Glacier, offering simple, clean accommodations with easy access to the park.
3. Vacation Rentals
For larger groups or families, renting a cabin or vacation home near Glacier National Park is a great option. Websites like Airbnb and Vrbo offer a wide variety of homes ranging from rustic cabins to luxury estates, many of which are located in West Glacier, Whitefish, and surrounding areas.
Popular Vacation Rental Areas:
- West Glacier: Ideal for proximity to the park’s west entrance, offering a range of cabins and homes.
- Whitefish: A popular spot for those wanting a mix of outdoor adventure and downtown amenities.
- East Glacier and St. Mary: For visitors focused on exploring the park’s east side, these areas provide peaceful and scenic rental options.
Final Thoughts
Choosing where to stay when visiting Glacier National Park depends on what type of experience you’re looking for. Staying inside the park offers unparalleled access to nature and top attractions, but nearby towns like West Glacier, Whitefish, and Kalispell provide more amenities and flexibility. Whether you’re camping under the stars, staying in a historic lodge, or renting a cozy cabin, Glacier National Park offers unforgettable experiences for all types of travelers.
Additional Resources:
Glacier National Park for Beginners
Discovering the Highline Trail
Your Pets & Glacier National Park
Best Campsites in Glacier National Park
Bear Grass in Glacier National Park