Hotels Near Glacier National Park: Your Guide to the Perfect Stay

Glacier National Park, a crown jewel of the American wilderness, beckons travelers with its majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and verdant forests. Planning a trip to this natural wonderland involves more than just packing your hiking boots; finding the right accommodation is crucial for a comfortable and memorable experience. This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at hotels near Glacier National Park, covering options both inside the park and in the surrounding gateway communities. We’ll explore a range of lodging types, from historic lodges and cozy cabins to modern hotels and budget-friendly motels, helping you choose the perfect base for your Glacier National Park adventure.

Understanding Your Accommodation Options: Inside vs. Outside the Park

One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to stay inside Glacier National Park or in a nearby town. Both options offer distinct advantages and disadvantages. Staying inside the park allows for unparalleled access to its natural beauty, while lodging outside the park often provides a wider range of amenities and price points.

Staying Inside Glacier National Park: Immersion in Nature

Opting for accommodation within the park boundaries means waking up to breathtaking views and being just steps away from hiking trails, scenic drives, and ranger-led programs. This immersive experience allows you to maximize your time exploring the park and minimizes travel time to popular attractions. However, lodging inside the park tends to be more expensive and requires booking well in advance, especially during peak season (June through August). Availability is limited, and the amenities may be more basic compared to hotels outside the park.

Some popular lodging options inside Glacier National Park include:

• Lake McDonald Lodge: A historic Swiss chalet-style hotel located on the shores of Lake McDonald, offering stunning views, dining options, and boat tours.
• Many Glacier Hotel: Another iconic hotel perched on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake, known for its stunning views of glaciers and opportunities for hiking and boat tours.
• Glacier National Park Lodge: Located in East Glacier Village, this lodge provides a comfortable base for exploring the park’s eastern side.
• Village Inn at Apgar: Situated in the Apgar Village, this inn offers comfortable rooms with lake views and easy access to shops and restaurants.
• Swiftcurrent Motor Inn: A more budget-friendly option near Many Glacier, offering basic rooms and cabins.

Each of these lodges and inns offers a unique experience, from the grandeur of the historic hotels to the rustic charm of the motor inns. Booking well in advance is essential, as these accommodations are highly sought after.

Staying Outside Glacier National Park: Convenience and Value

Staying outside Glacier National Park offers a wider variety of lodging options, often at more competitive prices. Gateway communities like Whitefish, Kalispell, Columbia Falls, and West Glacier provide a range of hotels, motels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds. These towns offer convenient access to the park, as well as restaurants, shops, and other amenities that may not be available inside the park. Staying outside the park also allows you to explore the surrounding region, including Flathead Lake and other attractions.

However, staying outside the park means you’ll need to factor in travel time to reach the park’s attractions, which can be significant, especially during peak season when traffic congestion is common. You’ll also miss out on the immersive experience of staying within the park’s boundaries.

Popular gateway communities for accessing Glacier National Park include:

• West Glacier: Located just outside the park’s west entrance, West Glacier offers a convenient base for exploring Lake McDonald and the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
• Columbia Falls: Situated south of West Glacier, Columbia Falls provides a range of lodging options and easy access to the park’s west side.
• Whitefish: A vibrant resort town north of Columbia Falls, Whitefish offers a wider range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and recreational activities.
• Kalispell: The largest city in the Flathead Valley, Kalispell offers a wide selection of hotels, restaurants, and shopping options.
• East Glacier Park Village: Located just outside the park’s east entrance, this village provides access to Two Medicine and St. Mary Lake.
• St. Mary: Situated inside the park on the east side, St. Mary offers limited lodging options with stunning lake views.

Choosing the Right Gateway Community: Factors to Consider

Selecting the right gateway community depends on your priorities and preferences. Consider the following factors when making your decision:

• Proximity to the park entrance: West Glacier and East Glacier Park Village offer the closest access to the park’s west and east entrances, respectively.
• Amenities and services: Whitefish and Kalispell offer a wider range of restaurants, shops, and recreational activities compared to smaller towns like West Glacier and East Glacier Park Village.
• Budget: Columbia Falls and Kalispell generally offer more budget-friendly lodging options compared to Whitefish and accommodations inside the park.
• Desired atmosphere: Whitefish offers a lively resort town atmosphere, while West Glacier and East Glacier Park Village provide a more laid-back, rustic experience.
• Specific attractions: If you plan to spend most of your time exploring a particular area of the park, such as Lake McDonald or Two Medicine, choose a gateway community that provides convenient access to that area.

Researching each gateway community and considering these factors will help you choose the best location for your Glacier National Park adventure.

Hotel Recommendations by Gateway Community

Now, let’s delve into specific hotel recommendations in each of the key gateway communities surrounding Glacier National Park:

West Glacier Hotels

West Glacier, situated just outside the park’s western entrance, is an ideal base for exploring Lake McDonald, the Apgar Village, and the Going-to-the-Sun Road. This charming town offers a range of lodging options, from cozy cabins to modern hotels.

• West Glacier Village: This complex offers a variety of accommodations, including hotel rooms, cabins, and vacation rentals. Its convenient location, within walking distance of the park entrance, makes it a popular choice.
• Great Northern Resort: Located on the banks of the Middle Fork of the Flathead River, this resort offers comfortable cabins and a range of outdoor activities.
• Glacier Guides Lodge: This lodge provides comfortable rooms and a convenient location for exploring the park’s west side. They also offer guided tours and outdoor adventures.
• Apgar Village Lodge: While technically inside the park in Apgar Village, it is very close to the West Glacier entrance. Offers stunning lake views.

Columbia Falls Hotels

Columbia Falls, located south of West Glacier, offers a more budget-friendly alternative while still providing easy access to the park’s west side. This town boasts a variety of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals.

• Cedar Creek Lodge: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a complimentary breakfast. Its location near the highway makes it a convenient base for exploring the park and surrounding area.
• Meadow Lake Resort & Condos: Offering a range of accommodations, including hotel rooms, condos, and vacation rentals, Meadow Lake Resort also features a golf course and other recreational amenities.
• Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Columbia Falls (Glacier Park): Provides standard hotel amenities and a comfortable stay.

Whitefish Hotels

Whitefish, a vibrant resort town north of Columbia Falls, offers a wider range of amenities and recreational activities. This town boasts a variety of hotels, from luxury resorts to boutique hotels, catering to different budgets and preferences.

• The Lodge at Whitefish Lake: A luxurious resort on the shores of Whitefish Lake, offering stunning views, fine dining, and a range of recreational activities.
• Grouse Mountain Lodge: A comfortable lodge with a rustic charm, located near Whitefish Mountain Resort, offering easy access to skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking and mountain biking in the summer.
• Hilton Garden Inn Whitefish: Provides a reliable and comfortable stay with standard Hilton amenities.
• Pine Lodge Whitefish, Ascend Hotel Collection: Offers a comfortable and unique experience in a convenient location.

Kalispell Hotels

Kalispell, the largest city in the Flathead Valley, offers the widest selection of hotels, restaurants, and shopping options. This city is a convenient base for exploring Glacier National Park and the surrounding region.

• Red Lion Hotel Kalispell: A well-established hotel with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a lounge.
• Hampton Inn Kalispell: Provides a reliable and comfortable stay with standard Hampton Inn amenities.
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Kalispell: Offers spacious suites with kitchenettes, making it a good choice for families or extended stays.
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Kalispell: Provides comfortable suites and a complimentary breakfast.

East Glacier Park Village Hotels

East Glacier Park Village, located just outside the park’s eastern entrance, is an ideal base for exploring Two Medicine, St. Mary Lake, and the Many Glacier area (though the drive to Many Glacier from here is significant). This village offers a more laid-back, rustic experience compared to the towns on the west side of the park.

• Glacier Park Lodge: A historic lodge with comfortable rooms and a restaurant, offering a convenient base for exploring the park’s eastern side.
• St. Mary Village: Located within the park, this complex offers a variety of accommodations, including hotel rooms and cabins.
• Looking Glass Inn: A smaller inn offering comfortable rooms and a personal touch.

St. Mary Hotels

St. Mary, situated inside the park on the east side, offers limited lodging options with stunning lake views and immediate access to the Going-to-the-Sun Road and St. Mary Lake.

• St. Mary Village: As mentioned above, this complex provides various accommodation types directly within the park.
• Going-to-the-Sun Road Motor Inn: Offers basic but conveniently located lodging options.

Beyond Hotels: Other Accommodation Options

While hotels are a popular choice, Glacier National Park and its surrounding areas offer a variety of other accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets:

Vacation Rentals

Vacation rentals, such as cabins, condos, and houses, provide more space and privacy compared to hotel rooms. They are a good option for families or groups traveling together. Websites like Airbnb and VRBO offer a wide selection of vacation rentals in the Glacier National Park area.

Bed and Breakfasts

Bed and breakfasts offer a more personalized experience compared to hotels, with comfortable rooms and homemade breakfasts. They are a good option for travelers looking for a unique and intimate lodging experience.

Camping

Camping is a popular and affordable option for experiencing Glacier National Park’s natural beauty. The park offers a variety of campgrounds, ranging from developed campgrounds with amenities like restrooms and showers to primitive campgrounds with limited facilities. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.

Popular campgrounds inside Glacier National Park include:

• Apgar Campground: Located near Lake McDonald, this campground offers easy access to hiking trails, boat tours, and other activities.
• Fish Creek Campground: Another popular campground near Lake McDonald, offering shaded campsites and convenient access to the lake.
• Many Glacier Campground: Located near the Many Glacier Hotel, this campground offers stunning views of glaciers and opportunities for hiking and boat tours.
• St. Mary Campground: Located near St. Mary Lake, this campground offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Camping outside the park is also an option, with numerous private campgrounds and RV parks located in the surrounding gateway communities.

Ranches and Guest Lodges

For a truly unique experience, consider staying at a ranch or guest lodge near Glacier National Park. These accommodations offer a taste of the Montana wilderness, with horseback riding, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

Tips for Booking Your Glacier National Park Accommodation

Booking your Glacier National Park accommodation in advance is crucial, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. Here are some tips to help you secure the perfect place to stay:

• Book early: Reservations for accommodations inside Glacier National Park and in popular gateway communities often fill up months in advance. Start planning your trip and booking your accommodation as early as possible.
• Be flexible with your dates: If your travel dates are flexible, try to visit during the shoulder season (May-June or September-October) to avoid the crowds and potentially find better deals on accommodation.
• Consider different locations: If you’re having trouble finding accommodation in your preferred location, consider staying in a different gateway community or exploring alternative lodging options like vacation rentals or camping.
• Check for cancellations: Even if your preferred accommodation is fully booked, check back periodically for cancellations. People often change their travel plans, so you may be able to snag a room that becomes available.
• Read reviews: Before booking your accommodation, read reviews from other travelers to get an idea of the quality of the accommodation and its location.
• Compare prices: Use online travel agencies to compare prices from different hotels and accommodation providers.
• Book directly: Sometimes booking directly with the hotel or accommodation provider can result in better deals or more flexible cancellation policies.
• Consider travel insurance: Purchasing travel insurance can protect you in case you need to cancel your trip due to unforeseen circumstances.

Planning Your Glacier National Park Itinerary: Maximizing Your Time

Once you’ve secured your accommodation, it’s time to start planning your Glacier National Park itinerary. Here are some tips for maximizing your time in the park:

• Prioritize your must-see attractions: Glacier National Park is vast and offers a wide range of attractions, from scenic drives and hiking trails to boat tours and ranger-led programs. Prioritize the attractions that are most important to you and plan your itinerary accordingly.
• Allow ample time for travel: Driving distances within Glacier National Park can be longer than they appear on a map, especially during peak season when traffic congestion is common. Allow ample time for travel between attractions.
• Check road conditions: The Going-to-the-Sun Road, the park’s iconic scenic drive, is typically open from late June or early July to mid-October. Check road conditions before you travel, as closures may occur due to snow or construction.
• Take advantage of ranger-led programs: Glacier National Park offers a variety of ranger-led programs, including guided hikes, campfire talks, and demonstrations. These programs are a great way to learn about the park’s history, geology, and ecology.
• Pack appropriately: Glacier National Park’s weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack layers of clothing, including a waterproof jacket, hat, and gloves. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks.
• Be bear aware: Glacier National Park is bear country, so be sure to take precautions to avoid attracting bears. Store food properly, carry bear spray, and make noise while hiking.
• Respect the environment: Pack out everything you pack in, stay on marked trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Consider booking tours in advance: Popular activities like boat tours and guided hikes often sell out, especially during peak season. Book your tours in advance to ensure availability.
• Download offline maps: Cell service can be unreliable in Glacier National Park, so download offline maps to your phone before you go.
• Be prepared for crowds: Glacier National Park is a popular destination, especially during peak season. Be prepared for crowds at popular attractions and consider visiting during the shoulder season to avoid the worst of the crowds.

Enjoying Your Glacier National Park Adventure

With careful planning and preparation, you can have an unforgettable adventure in Glacier National Park. Whether you choose to stay inside the park or in a nearby gateway community, be sure to immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty, explore its hiking trails, and take in the breathtaking views. Remember to respect the environment and be bear aware, and you’re sure to have a safe and memorable trip.

Glacier National Park offers something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers to history buffs and families. Take the time to plan your trip carefully, choose the right accommodation, and create an itinerary that suits your interests and preferences. With a little preparation, you can create memories that will last a lifetime.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the perfect hotel near Glacier National Park is a crucial step in planning your dream vacation. By considering the pros and cons of staying inside versus outside the park, evaluating the different gateway communities, and utilizing the tips provided in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision. Remember to book early, be flexible with your dates, and prioritize your must-see attractions. With the right planning and preparation, you can create an unforgettable experience in one of America’s most stunning national parks. Enjoy your adventure!