Did you know that lodging reservations for GNP open up 13 months in advance? Planning a trip to Glacier National Park can be an exciting but sometimes overwhelming process. One of the most crucial aspects of planning is figuring out when to book your accommodations, flights, and other travel arrangements to ensure you get the best deals and availability. This is why you should be planning your 2025 trip to Glacier NOW! Whether you’re visiting during the peak summer months or opting for a quieter off-season adventure, here’s a guide to help you plan your Glacier National Park trip.
Glacier National Park at a Glance
- Location: Northwest Montana, USA, bordering Canada.
- Established: May 11, 1910, as the 10th national park in the U.S.
- Size: Over 1 million acres, encompassing parts of the Rocky Mountains and more than 700 miles of trails.
- Highlights: Iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, over 130 named lakes, 26 active glaciers, and diverse ecosystems ranging from dense forests to alpine tundra.
- Wildlife: Home to grizzly bears, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, moose, and over 270 species of birds.
- Best Time to Visit: Late June to mid-September for full access to facilities and trails, though each season offers unique experiences.
- Popular Activities: Hiking, camping, boating, wildlife watching, and scenic drives.
- Unique Features: Known as the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier features historic lodges, backcountry chalets, and is part of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
1. When to Book Accommodations for Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the U.S., especially during the summer months. As a result, accommodations in and around the park can fill up quickly. Here’s what you need to know about booking accommodations:
Peak Season (June to September)
The Best Month to Visit Glacier National Park – Big Sky Explorer
The peak season for Glacier National Park is from late June through September, when the park’s roads, trails, and facilities are fully open, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. If you plan to visit during this time, it’s crucial to book accommodations as early as possible—6 to 12 months in advance is ideal.
Where to Stay When Visiting Glacier National Park – Big Sky Explorer
- Lodges within the park, such as Many Glacier Hotel and Lake McDonald Lodge, can sell out up to a year in advance. These iconic spots offer easy access to some of the park’s best sights and trails, but they are in high demand.
- Campgrounds within the park are also popular. While some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, others take reservations. Sites at popular campgrounds like Many Glacier and Fish Creek fill up quickly, so aim to book as soon as reservations open—usually around March. The Best Campsites in Glacier – Big Sky Explorer
- Hotels and vacation rentals in nearby towns like Whitefish, Kalispell, and Columbia Falls can also book out months in advance during peak season. Prices are higher during this time, but you’ll have a wider selection if you book early.
Shoulder Seasons (May and October)
Exploring Glacier in the Fall – Big Sky Explorer
If you’re visiting in the spring (May) or fall (October), you’ll find fewer crowds and slightly lower accommodation rates, but you’ll still want to book your stay at least 3 to 6 months in advance. Some of the park’s lodges and campgrounds may begin to close in early fall, so be sure to check availability before booking.
- Shoulder seasons offer a quieter experience and a good chance of seeing wildlife, especially in the fall. However, facilities inside the park may be limited, so many visitors opt to stay outside the park in towns like Kalispell or Whitefish.
Winter (November to April)
Winter is Glacier’s off-season, with most park lodges and campgrounds closed. However, if you’re visiting for activities like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, you can still find accommodations in the surrounding towns. Booking a few months in advance should suffice for winter stays, and you’ll find much lower prices compared to summer.
- Lodging in Whitefish or at Whitefish Mountain Resort can be a great option during the winter months, offering a cozy base for winter sports both in and around the park.
2. When to Book Plane Tickets to Glacier National Park
The closest airport to Glacier National Park is Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana. Other nearby airports include Missoula International Airport (MSO) and Spokane International Airport (GEG). Here’s when you should book your flights:
Best Time to Book for Summer Travel
Summer is the busiest time for both the park and the airlines. To get the best deals on flights, it’s wise to book 3 to 6 months in advance. Flights into Kalispell can fill up quickly, especially during July and August, so the earlier you book, the better your chances of finding a reasonable fare.
- Budget-conscious travelers may want to fly into Missoula or Spokane, where flights tend to be slightly cheaper, then rent a car and drive to the park. Missoula is about 2.5 hours from Glacier, while Spokane is about 5 hours away.
Booking Flights for Spring, Fall, or Winter
If you’re traveling in the off-peak seasons of spring, fall, or winter, you can often find better deals on flights. Booking 1 to 3 months in advance should be sufficient for securing a good price, though you’ll still want to monitor fares regularly, as prices can fluctuate based on demand.
- For winter visits, flights to Kalispell may be cheaper, as the area is popular with skiers and winter sports enthusiasts. However, booking earlier can help you avoid price spikes during the winter holiday season.
3. Other Travel Considerations
Car Rentals
If you’re flying into Glacier Park International Airport, renting a car is highly recommended to explore Glacier National Park and the surrounding areas. During peak season, car rentals can sell out quickly, especially for larger vehicles like SUVs. Aim to book your rental as soon as you book your flights and accommodations, typically 3 to 6 months in advance for summer travel.
- Rental prices tend to be lower in the shoulder and winter seasons, but it’s still a good idea to book early, especially if you need a specific type of vehicle. I’ve used the Turo app before to rent a vehicle and found it handy and convenient!
When to Visit to Avoid Crowds
If you prefer to avoid the summer crowds, consider visiting Glacier National Park in late spring (mid-May to early June) or early fall (late September to mid-October). While the weather may be cooler and some parts of the park may be less accessible, you’ll enjoy a more peaceful experience, and booking accommodations and flights may be easier and more affordable.
Tours and Activities
Many guided tours, such as the popular Red Bus Tours and boat tours on Lake McDonald, can also sell out early during the summer months. It’s best to book tours and activities around the same time you finalize your accommodations, especially if you’re visiting in July or August.
Glacier National Park Packing Checklist – Big Sky Explorer
To ensure you get the best deals and availability, booking accommodations, flights, and car rentals for Glacier National Park as early as possible is key, especially for summer visits. For peak season, aim to book 6 to 12 months in advance, while spring and fall travelers should aim for 3 to 6 months. Winter visitors will generally have more flexibility, but booking a few months ahead is still recommended for the best options. With proper planning, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy your trip to one of the most breathtaking national parks in the country.
Additional Resources:
Best Time to Visit Yellowstone
Hiker Injured in Bear Encounter
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