Planning a trip to Glacier National Park? Where you stay can shape your experience. Choose from hotels and vacation rentals in towns around the park. This post covers top places to stay in and near Glacier, organized by location and lodging type.
Places to Stay Inside Glacier National Park
For a close-to-nature experience, Glacier National Park offers in-park lodging. These spots provide full immersion in the park’s beauty. Keep in mind, they fill up fast, so book well in advance.
- Options: Lake McDonald Lodge, Many Glacier Hotel, Swiftcurrent Motor Inn
- Pro Tip: Booking in the park often means access to stunning views and prime locations, but amenities may be limited.
Places to Stay Near Glacier National Park
If in-park lodging is fully booked, or you’d like more options, there are plenty of towns around Glacier that offer excellent places to stay. Each town has unique qualities and can be ideal depending on the type of experience you’re seeking.
Towns Near Glacier National Park
Surrounding Glacier National Park are several welcoming towns that provide easy access to the park’s entrances. Here’s a quick rundown:
- West Side Towns: West Glacier, Coram, Columbia Falls, Whitefish, Kalispell
- South Side Towns: Essex and Highway 2
- East Side Towns: East Glacier Park, St. Mary, Babb, Browning
Each town offers different amenities and a unique atmosphere, whether you’re looking for a quiet cabin or a full-service hotel.
Top Places to Stay Near Glacier National Park
Each side of the park has its own set of accommodations, making it easy to pick a place to stay based on where you plan to explore in Glacier. Here, we’ve listed the best places.
Kalispell: The Gateway to Glacier National Park
Kalispell is often considered the primary gateway city to Glacier National Park. Located about 30 miles from the park’s west entrance, Kalispell is a bustling town with a blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities.
- Distance from Glacier National Park: ~30 miles
- Key Attractions: Hockaday Museum of Art, Lone Pine State Park, Flathead Lake
- Why Stay Here?: It’s close to Glacier, has ample lodging, and is rich in amenities.
With a variety of restaurants, galleries, and parks, Kalispell is an ideal choice if you’re seeking convenience and comfort. The Flathead Valley offers plenty of outdoor adventures, from fishing to boating, especially if you want to explore beyond the national park.
Whitefish: A Charming Mountain Resort Town
Whitefish is a vibrant resort town with year-round activities that make it a top choice for tourists visiting Glacier. It’s about 25 miles from the park, making it one of the closest cities to the western entrance.
- Distance from Glacier National Park: ~25 miles
- Key Attractions: Whitefish Mountain Resort, Whitefish Lake State Park, Downtown Whitefish
- Why Stay Here?: Whitefish offers a perfect mix of outdoor activities and a lively downtown scene.
Whether you’re into skiing in the winter or hiking and boating in the summer, Whitefish caters to outdoor enthusiasts. Its cozy downtown area is filled with unique shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it an excellent spot for dining and entertainment after a day of adventure.
Columbia Falls: A Family-Friendly Destination
Just 15 miles from Glacier National Park, Columbia Falls is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. This small town provides easy access to the park, along with numerous local attractions.
- Distance from Glacier National Park: ~15 miles
- Key Attractions: Big Sky Waterpark, Flathead River, Glacier Lanes
- Why Stay Here?: Columbia Falls is affordable and offers plenty of kid-friendly activities.
With attractions like water parks and bowling alleys, Columbia Falls is a great choice for families with children. It’s also close enough to Glacier National Park that you can easily head back to town for lunch or a quick rest before another round of exploring.
Bigfork: Artistic and Scenic
Bigfork is a charming village located on the northeast shore of Flathead Lake. Known for its thriving arts scene and beautiful scenery, Bigfork is about 40 miles from Glacier, making it an ideal day trip destination.
- Distance from Glacier National Park: ~40 miles
- Key Attractions: Bigfork Summer Playhouse, Flathead Lake, Wayfarers State Park
- Why Visit Here?: Bigfork offers a scenic, art-inspired retreat for travelers who appreciate culture.
Bigfork offers galleries, theater, and beautiful lake views. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed, artsy vibe. Perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking lakeside tranquility and creative inspiration.
Polson: Lakeside Relaxation on Flathead Lake
Further south from Glacier National Park, Polson is a laid-back lakeside town known for its access to Flathead Lake. While it’s about 60 miles from the park, Polson makes up for the distance with its beautiful lakefront setting and numerous water activities.
- Distance from Glacier National Park: ~60 miles
- Key Attractions: Flathead Lake, Miracle of America Museum, Kerr Dam
- Why Stay Here?: For those who want a relaxed, lakeside experience, Polson is an excellent option.
Polson’s serene setting is ideal for travelers who want to combine a Glacier visit with some time by the lake. From boating to fishing, Polson provides a refreshing escape where you can soak in Montana’s natural beauty.
East Glacier Park Village: Rustic Charm Right by the Park
East Glacier Park Village is located at the eastern edge of Glacier National Park, making it a convenient base for exploring the park’s east side. This small village is ideal for those looking for a rustic, quiet getaway.
- Distance from Glacier National Park: Right by the park’s east entrance
- Key Attractions: Glacier Park Lodge, Two Medicine Lake, Scenic Trails
- Why Stay Here?: For a rustic experience with unbeatable proximity to the park’s eastern attractions.
East Glacier Park Village is less developed than some of the larger towns, but it offers charm and accessibility. The historic Glacier Park Lodge is a must-see, even if you’re not staying there, and the scenic hikes in the Two Medicine area are exceptional.
Browning: A Cultural Gateway to Glacier
Browning is the headquarters of the Blackfeet Nation and is only about 13 miles from Glacier National Park’s east entrance. If you’re interested in learning about Native American culture, Browning is a meaningful addition to your itinerary.
- Distance from Glacier National Park: ~13 miles
- Key Attractions: Museum of the Plains Indian, Blackfeet Heritage Center, Native Art Shops
- Why Visit Here?: For a cultural experience with insights into the Blackfeet Nation’s history and traditions.
Browning has museums and cultural centers that showcase Blackfeet history and traditions. It’s a great place to learn about the cultural landscape around Glacier National Park.”
West Glacier: The Closest Access Point to Glacier
West Glacier is the town closest to Glacier National Park’s western entrance, so it’s often bustling with visitors in peak season. Despite its small size, it’s packed with conveniences and outdoor adventures.
- Distance from Glacier National Park: Adjacent to the park’s west entrance
- Key Attractions: Glacier Guides and Montana Raft, Apgar Village, Lake McDonald
- Why Stay Here?: For the easiest access to Glacier National Park.
If you want to be as close as possible to Glacier, West Glacier is a fantastic option. Many visitors choose to camp or book lodges here, giving them instant access to the park’s stunning landscapes and trails.
Hungry Horse: A Small Town with Big Adventure
Hungry Horse is a quaint town about 10 miles from Glacier, known for its outdoor attractions and nearby reservoir. It’s a peaceful place for travelers who want a more laid-back experience near the park.
- Distance from Glacier National Park: ~10 miles
- Key Attractions: Hungry Horse Reservoir, Dam Overlook, Fishing Spots
- Why Stay Here?: Ideal for fishing enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter stay.
Hungry Horse offers small, rustic places to stay and excellent fishing spots. It’s perfect for outdoor lovers who want to avoid crowds. Don’t miss the stunning Hungry Horse Dam and Reservoir.
St. Mary: Eastern Access with Spectacular Views
St. Mary is another excellent option on the eastern side of Glacier National Park. With jaw-dropping views and access to some of the park’s most famous trails, St. Mary is a favorite for hikers and photographers.
- Distance from Glacier National Park: Next to the park’s east entrance
- Key Attractions: St. Mary Lake, Going-to-the-Sun Road, Sun Point Nature Trail
- Why Stay Here?: Perfect for exploring the east side’s scenic viewpoints and hiking trails.
St. Mary provides direct access to the Going-to-the-Sun Road, one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the United States. The area’s trails are highly photogenic, making it ideal for those looking to capture Glacier’s beauty on camera.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Town for Your Glacier Adventure
Each town near Glacier National Park has something special. Whether you want outdoor fun, cultural experiences, or a quiet place to rest, you’ll find a nearby town that fits your style. Choose one that sounds exciting, and get ready for an unforgettable trip!
