When it comes to planning a trip to West Glacier National Park, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. The right accommodations can greatly enhance your experience, providing a comfortable home base to rest and recharge after a day of exploring the park’s breathtaking natural beauty. In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of the best places to stay in West Glacier National Park, highlighting a range of options to suit different budgets, preferences, and travel styles.
Why Choosing the Right Accommodations Matters
Choosing the right place to stay in West Glacier National Park can make a big difference in your overall trip experience. A comfortable and convenient home base can help you make the most of your time in the park, allowing you to easily access the activities and attractions you’re most interested in. Additionally, the right accommodations can provide a range of amenities and services to enhance your stay, such as on-site restaurants, swimming pools, and concierge services.
Best Places to Stay in West Glacier National Park
Luxury Accommodations: The Lake McDonald Lodge
If you’re looking for a luxurious and historic lodging experience, the Lake McDonald Lodge is an excellent choice. Located on the shores of Lake McDonald, this iconic lodge offers stunning views, elegant rooms, and a range of on-site amenities, including a restaurant, bar, and gift shop. The lodge is also conveniently located near many of the park’s most popular attractions, making it a great home base for your adventures.
Mid-Range Accommodations: The West Glacier KOA
For a more affordable yet still comfortable and convenient option, consider the West Glacier KOA. This campground and RV park offers a range of accommodations, from tent sites to deluxe cabins, and is located just a few miles from the park’s west entrance. The KOA also offers a range of amenities, such as a pool, hot tub, and game room, making it a great choice for families and groups.
Budget Accommodations: The Glacier Campground
If you’re on a tight budget, the Glacier Campground is a great option. Located just outside the park’s west entrance, this campground offers tent sites and RV hookups at affordable prices. While there are no on-site amenities, the campground is conveniently located near a range of restaurants, shops, and other services in the nearby town of West Glacier.
Best Places to Stay in West Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is a stunning natural wonder located in Montana, USA. With over a million acres of wilderness, the park offers breathtaking views of towering mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests. If you’re planning a trip to West Glacier National Park, you’ll want to make sure you have the perfect accommodations to make the most of your stay. Here are some of the best places to stay in West Glacier National Park. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Frankfurt)
Lodges
If you’re looking for a classic national park experience, staying in a lodge is the way to go. Here are some of the best lodges in West Glacier National Park.
- Lake McDonald Lodge: This historic lodge, built in 1914, offers stunning views of Lake McDonald and is just a short drive from the park’s entrance. The lodge features a variety of room options, from cozy cabins to spacious suites, as well as on-site dining and activities such as horseback riding and boat tours.
- Village Inn at Apgar: Located on the shores of Lake McDonald, the Village Inn at Apgar offers comfortable rooms and easy access to park activities. The inn features an on-site restaurant, a gift shop, and a variety of outdoor recreational rentals.
Cabins and Chalets
For a more rustic experience, consider staying in a cabin or chalet. Here are some of the best options in West Glacier National Park.
- Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and Cabins: Located in the Many Glacier area of the park, Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and Cabins offers a variety of cabin options, from basic to deluxe. The inn also features a restaurant, gift shop, and a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking and boat tours.
- Rising Sun Motor Inn and Cabins: Located on the shores of St. Mary Lake, Rising Sun Motor Inn and Cabins offers cozy cabins with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The inn features a restaurant, gift shop, and a variety of outdoor recreational rentals.
Campgrounds
For a more immersive experience, consider staying in a campground. Here are some of the best campgrounds in West Glacier National Park.
- Apgar Campground: Located on the shores of Lake McDonald, Apgar Campground offers over 190 campsites, including tent and RV sites. The campground features flush toilets, potable water, and a camp store.
- Many Glacier Campground: Located in the Many Glacier area of the park, Many Glacier Campground offers over 100 campsites, including tent and RV sites. The campground features flush toilets, potable water, and a camp store.
Hotels Near West Glacier National Park
If you prefer to stay outside of the park, there are several hotels near West Glacier National Park that offer comfortable accommodations and easy access to park activities. Here are some of the best options.
- Glacier Park Lodge: Located just outside the park’s entrance, Glacier Park Lodge offers spacious rooms, on-site dining, and a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking and horseback riding.
- The Lodge at Whitefish Lake: Located in the nearby town of Whitefish, The Lodge at Whitefish Lake offers luxurious rooms, on-site dining, and a variety of amenities such as a spa, fitness center, and marina.
Key Points
Glacier National Park offers a variety of accommodations, from lodges and cabins to campgrounds and hotels near the park. Each option offers its own unique experience and access to park activities. Here are some key points to consider when choosing where to stay in West Glacier National Park: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Aspen In The Summer)
- Lodges offer a classic national park experience with on-site dining and activities.
- Cabins and chalets offer a more rustic experience with stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
- Campgrounds offer an immersive experience with easy access to park activities and amenities.
- Hotels near the park offer comfortable accommodations and easy access to park activities.
Recap
West Glacier National Park offers a variety of accommodations to suit every type of traveler. From historic lodges and cozy cabins to campgrounds and hotels near the park, there’s something for everyone. When choosing where to stay, consider the type of experience you’re looking for, as well as the amenities and activities you want to be close to. With the right accommodations, your trip to West Glacier National Park is sure to be unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Places to Stay in West Glacier National Park
Where is the best location to stay for easy access to West Glacier National Park?
The best location to stay for easy access to West Glacier National Park is the village of West Glacier, which is located just outside the park’s west entrance. Here, you’ll find a variety of lodging options, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals, as well as restaurants, shops, and tour operators.
Are there any luxury resorts near West Glacier National Park?
Yes, there are several luxury resorts near West Glacier National Park. The Resort at Paws Up, located about 30 miles from the park, offers luxury tents and private homes with upscale amenities and activities such as horseback riding, fly fishing, and river rafting. The Izaak Walton Inn, located just outside the park, offers upscale lodging in a historic lodge or cozy cabins, as well as a spa and restaurant.
Can I stay inside West Glacier National Park?
Yes, there are several options for staying inside West Glacier National Park. The park operates several lodges, including Lake McDonald Lodge, Glacier Park Lodge, and Many Glacier Hotel, as well as several campgrounds. Keep in mind that lodging inside the park can fill up quickly, so it’s best to book early. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Estes Park For Families)
What are the best budget-friendly options for staying near West Glacier National Park?
There are several budget-friendly options for staying near West Glacier National Park. The village of West Glacier has several motels and budget-friendly hotels, as well as vacation rentals. Additionally, camping is a popular and affordable option, with several campgrounds located both inside and outside the park.
Are there any pet-friendly accommodations near West Glacier National Park?
Yes, there are several pet-friendly accommodations near West Glacier National Park. Many vacation rentals and campgrounds allow pets, and some hotels and motels may have a limited number of pet-friendly rooms available. It’s always best to check with the accommodation directly to confirm their pet policy.