Every turn in the Glacier National Park reveals a breathtaking picture, from the glacially blue waters to the snow-capped mountains leaving tourists who are preparing to visit it unsure of where to start. The park visitors will have the chance to get there by driving scenic drives, and once there, they will enjoy hiking marvelous trails and exploring off-the-beaten-path. The expansive, varied environment of Glacier is a nature lover's paradise. The difficulty is how to make the most of their time while in the park, given the abundance of sites to discover. The Glacier Park Collection's reservations team has assisted numerous visitors in planning their ideal vacations. This Glacier National Park guide will help tourists in knowing some tips that will help them during their visit and the best time to wander through this mesmerizing Montana national park.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Glacier National Park?
Each season in Glacier National Park has its own splendor and offers an exceptional experience to its visitors: Spring in Glacier is an appealing destination for bike riders and tourists seeking a little more peace and calm. The alpine routes are easiest to reach during the summer when all facilities are open, and road closures are at their lowest. Additionally, this is the busiest time of year in Glacier. Fall is a beautiful time to travel since it is quieter and the foliage is changing, but because facilities are starting to close for the year, travelers must be more independent. The longest season in the wonderful park is winter, but devoted tourists can take advantage of fantastic cross-country skiing and snowshoeing chances.
The period between June and mid-September is the ideal time to explore Glacier National Park. With average daytime temperatures in the mid-70s (24 °C) and low-40s (4 °C) at night, this is the busiest time of year for tourists. The upper elevations of the park may even get snow in June or July; the east side of the park is often cooler and windier than the west. While the west's valleys receive most of the rainfall, the east side is similarly dryer. The majority of facilities will be operational, and the free shuttle service will be operating, even if hotel costs and admission prices will be higher during peak season. Additionally, there will not be as many road and trail closures as in the fall, winter, and spring.
- Best months: July and August
- Opening days: Every day of the year, the park is open.
- Entrance fee: $35 for a 7-day pass.
Tips To Be Followed When Visiting Glacier National Park
First Tip: Visit For A Minimum Of Five Days
Many tourists return year after year because there is always something new to discover at the park, which offers a plenitude of things to see and do there, and because a weekend getaway is not enough to explore all the beauty of this park! They shall consider a four-night trip, spending two nights in East Glacier and two nights in West Glacier, to make the most of their time. Both sides of the park provide a variety of hotel choices, including Glacier Park Lodge on the east side and Motel Lake McDonald and West Glacier Village on the west. Visitors can also travel to Canada and stay at the Prince of Wales Hotel in Waterton Lakes National Park if they are feeling daring and have their passport on hand.
Second Tip: While You Are In Town, Load Up On Supplies
Large supermarkets in Columbia Falls and Whitefish make loading up for the visitors’ trip a snap. As soon as they enter the park, the shopping options drastically decrease. Therefore, it is advised to stock up before entering the park and getting the basic campfire necessities. At some point during their visit, tourists can stop by these quaint stores for a keepsake or a nice treat.
- Nearby supermarkets: West Glacier Mercantile, the St. Mary Grocery Store, etc.
Third Tip: Get Ready To Hike The Enchanting Trails
There are more than 700 miles (1126.5 km) of hiking paths in Glacier National Park, stretching from the wonderful Two Medicine Valley to the magnificent St. Mary Valley. If tourists have never walked a mountain trail before it is not an issue because One-mile (1.6-km) educational nature strolls to strenuous 20-mile (32.1-mile) hikes are all available in Glacier National Park. Summertime hiking is a very popular pastime, so visitors shall get there early to find a parking space before the lunchtime throng. When walking in Glacier National Park, hikers shall keep in mind to check the trail status report and to always have bear spray and extra water. It is recommended to spend more time on the most popular trails later in the day or very early in the morning. Parking lots in the busiest spots are too small to handle the throng during rush hour.
- Recommended times: Before 7:00 AM and around 6:00 PM
Fourth Tip: Register For Exciting Activities.
Visitors may take advantage of a variety of fun activities to explore the dazzling Glacier in a more structured manner. If they are searching for a fun activity for the whole family, it is suggested to enjoy horseback riding or spending the day on the ropes course. There is no doubt that sitting by the river is the best way to enjoy the park. Tourists can have a guided day with Glacier Raft Company on the Flathead River. The company has knowledgeable staff with more than 45 years of history.