When planning a trip to Glacier National Park, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With its breathtaking mountain vistas, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife, Glacier National Park is a nature lover’s paradise. However, its remote location and limited accommodation options can make finding the perfect place to stay a challenge. That’s why it’s essential to research and book your accommodations in advance to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay.
Overview of Glacier National Park Accommodations
Glacier National Park offers a range of accommodation options, from rustic campgrounds to luxurious lodges, and from budget-friendly motels to cozy bed-and-breakfasts. Whether you’re looking for a secluded retreat or a convenient base for exploring the park, there’s a place to stay that suits your needs and budget. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to stay when visiting Glacier National Park, including options within the park, in nearby towns, and in surrounding areas.
What to Expect
In this guide, we’ll cover the pros and cons of staying within the park versus outside its boundaries, the best times to visit, and the essential amenities to look for when booking your accommodations. We’ll also highlight some of the top-rated hotels, lodges, and campgrounds in the area, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision and plan an unforgettable trip to Glacier National Park.
Best Places to Stay When Visiting Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is a stunning destination in Montana, USA, known for its breathtaking mountain scenery, glaciers, lakes, and abundant wildlife. When planning a trip to this beautiful park, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best place to suit your needs. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay when visiting Glacier National Park, including options inside and outside the park.
Inside the Park
Staying inside Glacier National Park offers the ultimate convenience and immersion in the park’s natural beauty. There are several options to choose from, ranging from rustic campgrounds to comfortable lodges.
Camping
If you love the great outdoors, camping is an excellent way to experience Glacier National Park. There are 13 campgrounds to choose from, each with its unique characteristics and amenities. Some popular options include:
- Fish Creek Campground: Located near Apgar Village, this campground offers 178 sites, flush toilets, and showers.
- Apgar Campground: Situated near Apgar Village, this campground has 194 sites, flush toilets, and showers.
- Many Glacier Campground: Located on the east side of the park, this campground offers 110 sites, flush toilets, and showers.
Keep in mind that camping reservations can be made through recreation.gov, and some campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served basis. (See Also: Best Places To Stay On St Lucia)
Lodges
If camping isn’t your style, Glacier National Park offers several lodges that provide comfortable accommodations and stunning views. Some popular options include:
- Many Glacier Hotel: This historic hotel is located on the east side of the park and offers 208 rooms, a restaurant, and a lounge.
- Lake McDonald Lodge: Situated on the west side of the park, this lodge has 100 rooms, a restaurant, and a lounge.
- Rising Sun Motor Inn: Located on the east side of the park, this motor inn offers 72 rooms, a restaurant, and a lounge.
Lodge reservations can be made through glacierparkinc.com, and it’s recommended to book well in advance, especially during peak season.
Outside the Park
If you prefer to stay outside Glacier National Park, there are many charming towns and cities nearby that offer a range of accommodations. Some popular options include:
Columbia Falls
Columbia Falls is a charming town located just 15 minutes from the west entrance of Glacier National Park. It offers a variety of accommodations, including:
- Columbia Falls RV Park: A convenient RV park with full hookups, showers, and laundry facilities.
- Glacier Park Lodge: A comfortable lodge with 100 rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant.
- The Inn at Columbia Falls: A cozy bed and breakfast with 10 rooms, a hot tub, and a gourmet breakfast.
Whitefish
Whitefish is a picturesque ski resort town located about 30 minutes from the west entrance of Glacier National Park. It offers a range of accommodations, including:
- The Lodge at Whitefish Lake: A luxurious lodge with 99 rooms, an outdoor pool, and a marina.
- The Pine Lodge: A comfortable lodge with 76 rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant.
- Good Medicine Lodge: A cozy bed and breakfast with 10 rooms, a hot tub, and a gourmet breakfast.
East Glacier Park
East Glacier Park is a small town located near the east entrance of Glacier National Park. It offers a range of accommodations, including: (See Also: Best Places To Stay Nassau Bahamas)
- Glacier Park Lodge: A historic lodge with 161 rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant.
- Brownies Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel with dorm rooms and private rooms, a kitchen, and a lounge.
- The Izaak Walton Inn: A cozy lodge with 33 rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant.
Tips and Considerations
When choosing where to stay when visiting Glacier National Park, consider the following tips and considerations:
- Distance and Accessibility: If you plan to explore the park extensively, staying inside the park or in a nearby town can be more convenient.
- Amenities and Services: Consider what amenities are important to you, such as Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, or a restaurant.
- Budget: Glacier National Park offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets, from camping to luxury lodges.
- Seasonality: If you’re planning to visit during peak season (June to August), be sure to book your accommodations well in advance.
- Wildlife and Safety: Be aware of wildlife in the area, such as bears and mountain lions, and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
Recap and Summary
In conclusion, Glacier National Park offers a range of accommodations to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you choose to stay inside the park or in a nearby town, consider the tips and considerations mentioned above to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Remember to book your accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season, and be prepared for the stunning natural beauty of Glacier National Park.
| Accommodation Type | Location | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Fish Creek Campground | Inside the park | Flush toilets, showers |
| Many Glacier Hotel | Inside the park | Restaurant, lounge, 208 rooms |
| Columbia Falls RV Park | Columbia Falls | Full hookups, showers, laundry facilities |
| The Lodge at Whitefish Lake | Whitefish | Outdoor pool, marina, 99 rooms |
| Glacier Park Lodge | East Glacier Park | Outdoor pool, restaurant, 161 rooms |
By considering the options and tips mentioned above, you’ll be well on your way to planning an unforgettable trip to Glacier National Park.
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Stay When Visiting Glacier National Park
What are the most popular areas to stay near Glacier National Park?
West Glacier, Columbia Falls, and Whitefish are popular areas to stay near Glacier National Park. These towns offer a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts, and are close to the park’s west entrance. Other options include East Glacier Park, St. Mary, and Many Glacier, which offer more secluded stays.
Are there any lodging options within Glacier National Park?
Yes, there are several lodging options within Glacier National Park, including the historic Many Glacier Hotel, Lake McDonald Lodge, and Rising Sun Motor Inn. These options offer stunning views and easy access to park trails and activities. However, they tend to fill up quickly, so be sure to book well in advance. (See Also: Waiheke Island Best Places To Stay)
What are some budget-friendly options for staying near Glacier National Park?
If you’re on a budget, consider staying in nearby towns like Columbia Falls or Whitefish, which offer more affordable options like motels, hostels, and vacation rentals. You can also look into camping within the park or at nearby campgrounds, which offer a more rustic experience.
Can I stay in a vacation rental near Glacier National Park?
Yes, there are many vacation rentals available near Glacier National Park, ranging from cozy cabins to spacious homes. Websites like VRBO, Airbnb, and HomeAway offer a wide selection of options. Vacation rentals can be a great choice for families or groups, as they often provide more space and amenities than traditional hotels.
Do I need to book my accommodations far in advance when visiting Glacier National Park?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to book your accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season (June to August). Glacier National Park is a popular destination, and lodging options fill up quickly. Booking early ensures you’ll have a place to stay and can plan your trip with confidence.