Where to Stay Near Glacier National Park – Top Hotel Picks for 2025

admin4 weeks ago

0 8 11 minutes read

Glacier National Park Hotels: A Comprehensive Guide to Lodging in the Crown of the Continent

Glacier National Park, often referred to as the “Crown of the Continent,” is a breathtaking wilderness area in Montana, known for its majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Planning a trip to this natural wonder requires careful consideration of many factors, and perhaps none is more important than where you choose to stay. Your choice of accommodation can significantly impact your overall experience, providing a comfortable base for exploring the park’s diverse landscapes and engaging in its numerous activities. This comprehensive guide explores the various hotel options available both inside and near Glacier National Park, offering insights into their unique characteristics, amenities, and proximity to key attractions.

Understanding Your Lodging Options: Inside the Park vs. Outside the Park

When considering lodging for your Glacier National Park adventure, the first decision you’ll need to make is whether to stay inside the park boundaries or in one of the surrounding gateway communities. Both options offer distinct advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice will depend on your individual preferences, budget, and travel style.

Staying Inside Glacier National Park: Immersed in Wilderness

Choosing to stay within Glacier National Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of the wilderness. You’ll be surrounded by stunning scenery, have easy access to hiking trails and other recreational activities, and experience a sense of tranquility that is hard to replicate elsewhere. However, it’s important to note that lodging inside the park tends to be more expensive and books up well in advance, often months or even a year ahead of time. Also, amenities may be limited compared to hotels outside the park, and dining options may be fewer and more costly.

Some of the most iconic and historic hotels within Glacier National Park include:

Lake McDonald Lodge: A grand Swiss-style chalet located on the shores of Lake McDonald, offering stunning lake and mountain views, boat tours, and a range of dining options.
Many Glacier Hotel: Situated on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake in the Many Glacier area, this historic hotel boasts breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine meadows. It’s a popular base for hiking and exploring the park’s backcountry.
Glacier Park Lodge: Located just outside the park’s eastern entrance in East Glacier Village, this historic lodge is known for its massive timber construction and its proximity to Two Medicine Valley.
Apgar Village Lodge: Located in Apgar Village on the southern end of Lake McDonald, this lodge offers a variety of rooms and cabins, as well as easy access to shops, restaurants, and boat rentals.

Staying Outside Glacier National Park: Convenience and Amenities

Staying outside Glacier National Park in gateway communities like West Glacier, East Glacier, Whitefish, and Columbia Falls offers several advantages. You’ll typically find a wider range of lodging options, from budget-friendly motels to luxury hotels, and prices tend to be more competitive. You’ll also have access to a greater variety of dining options, shopping opportunities, and other amenities. However, staying outside the park means you’ll need to factor in travel time to reach the park’s attractions, and you may miss out on the immersive wilderness experience that comes with staying inside the park.

Gateway communities offer diverse options. West Glacier, just outside the park’s west entrance, provides proximity to Lake McDonald and the Going-to-the-Sun Road. East Glacier, near the eastern entrance, offers access to Two Medicine Valley and less crowded trails. Whitefish, a larger town further from the park, provides a wider range of amenities and activities, including skiing in the winter. Columbia Falls, situated between Whitefish and West Glacier, offers a balance of convenience and affordability.

Detailed Look at Hotels Inside Glacier National Park

For those seeking an immersive experience within the park’s boundaries, several historic and charming hotels offer unique lodging opportunities. These hotels provide unparalleled access to the park’s natural wonders and a chance to step back in time.

Lake McDonald Lodge: A Swiss Chalet on the Lake

Lake McDonald Lodge is perhaps the most iconic hotel in Glacier National Park. Built in the Swiss chalet style, it sits majestically on the shores of Lake McDonald, offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The lodge features a grand lobby with soaring ceilings, exposed timber beams, and a cozy fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Rooms and Amenities: Lake McDonald Lodge offers a variety of rooms, including standard rooms, suites, and historic rooms with original features. Amenities include:

Private bathrooms
In-room coffee makers
Complimentary Wi-Fi in public areas
On-site dining options, including the Russell’s Fireside Dining Room, the Lucke’s Lounge, and the Jammer’s Snack Bar
Boat tours on Lake McDonald
Gift shop

Pros: Stunning lakefront location, historic charm, convenient access to Lake McDonald activities, on-site dining options.

Cons: Can be expensive, books up far in advance, limited in-room amenities (no TVs or air conditioning in most rooms).

Many Glacier Hotel: The Gem of the Many Glacier Area

Located in the heart of the Many Glacier area, Many Glacier Hotel is another iconic hotel that offers breathtaking views of Swiftcurrent Lake, Lake Josephine, and the surrounding glaciers. This grand hotel is known for its Swiss chalet architecture, its stunning location, and its proximity to some of the park’s best hiking trails.

Rooms and Amenities: Many Glacier Hotel offers a variety of rooms, including standard rooms, suites, and rooms with lake views. Amenities include:

Private bathrooms
In-room coffee makers
Complimentary Wi-Fi in public areas
On-site dining options, including the Ptarmigan Dining Room, the Swiss Lounge, and the Heidi’s Snack Shop
Boat tours on Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine
Hiking trails accessible directly from the hotel
Gift shop

Pros: Unparalleled views of glaciers and lakes, convenient access to hiking trails, historic charm, boat tours available.

Cons: Can be very expensive, books up extremely far in advance, limited in-room amenities (no TVs or air conditioning in most rooms), remote location.

Glacier Park Lodge: A Timber Masterpiece in East Glacier

Glacier Park Lodge, located just outside the park’s eastern entrance in East Glacier Village, is a unique hotel known for its massive timber construction. The lodge’s lobby features towering Douglas fir logs, creating a truly impressive and rustic atmosphere. It’s a great base for exploring Two Medicine Valley and the eastern side of the park.

Rooms and Amenities: Glacier Park Lodge offers a variety of rooms, including standard rooms, suites, and rooms with views of the surrounding mountains. Amenities include:

Private bathrooms
In-room coffee makers
Complimentary Wi-Fi in public areas
On-site dining options, including the Great Northern Dining Room and the Empire Pizza
Swimming pool
Golf course
Gift shop

Pros: Unique timber construction, convenient access to Two Medicine Valley, swimming pool, golf course, more affordable than hotels inside the park.

Cons: Located outside the park boundaries (requires driving to reach park attractions), less dramatic scenery than hotels inside the park.

Apgar Village Lodge: Lakeside Comfort on Lake McDonald

Apgar Village Lodge is located in Apgar Village, a charming community on the southern end of Lake McDonald. The lodge offers a variety of rooms and cabins, as well as easy access to shops, restaurants, and boat rentals. It’s a great option for families and those seeking a more relaxed and casual atmosphere.

Rooms and Amenities: Apgar Village Lodge offers a variety of rooms and cabins, including standard rooms, suites, and cabins with kitchenettes. Amenities include:

Private bathrooms
Some rooms with kitchenettes
Complimentary Wi-Fi in public areas
Access to Apgar Village shops and restaurants
Boat rentals available in Apgar Village
Swimming beach on Lake McDonald

Pros: Convenient access to Apgar Village amenities, variety of room types (including cabins with kitchenettes), affordable compared to other hotels inside the park, swimming beach on Lake McDonald.

Cons: Can be noisy due to its location in Apgar Village, less secluded than other hotels inside the park, rooms may be dated.

Exploring Hotels in Gateway Communities

For travelers seeking a wider range of lodging options, more competitive prices, or a greater variety of amenities, the gateway communities surrounding Glacier National Park offer a diverse selection of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals.

West Glacier: Gateway to Lake McDonald and the Going-to-the-Sun Road

West Glacier is the closest community to the park’s west entrance and offers a range of lodging options, from budget-friendly motels to comfortable hotels. It’s a convenient base for exploring Lake McDonald and driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Notable Hotels in West Glacier:

Glacier Under Canvas: A glamping experience offering luxurious tents with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and stunning views.
Great Northern Resort: A family-friendly resort with a variety of rooms, cabins, and vacation rentals, as well as a restaurant and a gift shop.
West Glacier Village Inn: A comfortable and affordable motel with clean rooms and a convenient location.

Pros of Staying in West Glacier: Closest proximity to the west entrance, convenient access to Lake McDonald and the Going-to-the-Sun Road, variety of lodging options.

Cons of Staying in West Glacier: Can be crowded during peak season, limited nightlife, may be more expensive than other gateway communities.

East Glacier: Access to Two Medicine and the Eastern Side of the Park

East Glacier Village, located just outside the park’s eastern entrance, offers a more laid-back and less crowded atmosphere than West Glacier. It’s a great base for exploring Two Medicine Valley and the eastern side of the park.

Notable Hotels in East Glacier:

Glacier Park Lodge (described above): Convenient access to Two Medicine Valley.
Snooze Inn: A simple and affordable motel with clean rooms and a friendly staff.
Brownies Hostel & Bakery: A budget-friendly option with dormitory-style rooms and a delicious bakery on-site.

Pros of Staying in East Glacier: Less crowded than West Glacier, convenient access to Two Medicine Valley, more affordable lodging options.

Cons of Staying in East Glacier: Fewer amenities and dining options than West Glacier, requires more driving to reach other parts of the park.

Whitefish: A Vibrant Mountain Town with Resort Amenities

Whitefish, located about 30 miles west of Glacier National Park, is a vibrant mountain town with a wider range of amenities and activities than the smaller gateway communities. It’s a great option for those seeking a more lively atmosphere and access to skiing in the winter.

Notable Hotels in Whitefish:

The Lodge at Whitefish Lake: A luxury resort with a spa, a marina, and stunning views of Whitefish Lake.
Grouse Mountain Lodge: A comfortable hotel with a restaurant, a bar, and a swimming pool.
Firebrand Hotel: A boutique hotel in downtown Whitefish with stylish rooms and a rooftop bar.

Pros of Staying in Whitefish: Wider range of amenities and dining options, access to skiing in the winter, lively atmosphere, variety of lodging options (from budget to luxury).

Cons of Staying in Whitefish: Further from Glacier National Park than other gateway communities (requires more driving), can be more expensive than other gateway communities.

Columbia Falls: A Central Location with Affordable Options

Columbia Falls, situated between Whitefish and West Glacier, offers a balance of convenience and affordability. It’s a great option for those seeking a central location with easy access to both Glacier National Park and Whitefish.

Notable Hotels in Columbia Falls:

Cedar Creek Lodge & Conference Center: A comfortable hotel with a restaurant, a bar, and a swimming pool.
Super 8 by Wyndham Columbia Falls: A budget-friendly motel with clean rooms and a convenient location.
Meadow Lake Resort: A resort with a golf course, a swimming pool, and a variety of vacation rentals.

Pros of Staying in Columbia Falls: Central location, affordable lodging options, easy access to both Glacier National Park and Whitefish.

Cons of Staying in Columbia Falls: Fewer amenities and dining options than Whitefish, less charming than West Glacier or East Glacier.

Tips for Booking Your Glacier National Park Hotel

Booking your Glacier National Park hotel requires careful planning and advance reservations, especially if you’re traveling during the peak season (June-August). Here are some tips to help you secure your ideal accommodation:

Book well in advance: As mentioned earlier, lodging inside Glacier National Park books up months or even a year in advance. Start planning and booking your accommodation as early as possible to ensure you have the best chance of securing your preferred hotel and room type.
Consider traveling during the shoulder season: The shoulder season (May, September, and October) offers a balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. You may have a better chance of finding availability and securing better deals during these months.
Be flexible with your dates: If your travel dates are flexible, try adjusting them by a few days to see if you can find better availability or lower prices.
Check for package deals: Some hotels offer package deals that include accommodation, meals, and activities. These packages can often save you money.
Read reviews: Before booking a hotel, read reviews from other travelers to get an idea of their experiences. Pay attention to comments about cleanliness, service, location, and value for money.
Understand the cancellation policy: Make sure you understand the hotel’s cancellation policy before booking. Some hotels have strict cancellation policies that may charge you a fee if you cancel your reservation.
Consider travel insurance: Travel insurance can protect you against unexpected events that may force you to cancel your trip.
Book directly with the hotel: While online travel agencies can be convenient, booking directly with the hotel often gives you more flexibility and may result in better deals or the ability to request specific room preferences.

Accessibility Considerations

When planning your trip to Glacier National Park, it’s important to consider accessibility needs for yourself and any travel companions. Not all hotels and facilities within the park are fully accessible, so it’s crucial to research and confirm accessibility features before making your reservation.

Check hotel websites for accessibility information: Most hotels will have information about accessibility features on their websites, including details about accessible rooms, ramps, elevators, and accessible parking.
Contact the hotel directly: If you have specific accessibility needs or questions, contact the hotel directly to confirm that they can accommodate you.
Review the National Park Service website: The National Park Service website provides information about accessibility in Glacier National Park, including details about accessible trails, restrooms, and visitor centers.
Consider renting adaptive equipment: If you need adaptive equipment, such as wheelchairs or scooters, consider renting them in advance from a local provider.

Beyond Hotels: Other Lodging Options

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

Campgrounds: Glacier National Park has several campgrounds, offering a more rustic and immersive experience. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during the peak season.
Cabins and Vacation Rentals: Numerous cabins and vacation rentals are available in the gateway communities surrounding the park, providing more space and privacy than hotel rooms.
Bed and Breakfasts: Several charming bed and breakfasts offer a personalized experience and a chance to interact with local hosts.
Hostels: Hostels provide budget-friendly accommodation for travelers on a tight budget, with dormitory-style rooms and communal facilities.

Enhancing Your Glacier National Park Experience

Your choice of lodging is just one element of a successful Glacier National Park vacation. Consider these additional factors to enhance your experience:

Plan your activities: Research the park’s many hiking trails, scenic drives, and boat tours, and plan your itinerary in advance. Purchase tickets for popular activities ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
Pack appropriately: Glacier National Park’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers of clothing, including waterproof outerwear. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential.
Be prepared for wildlife encounters: Glacier National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, mountain lions, and elk. Learn about wildlife safety and take precautions to avoid encounters. Carry bear spray when hiking.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially when hiking, to avoid dehydration.
Respect the environment: Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife or vegetation.
Be patient: Glacier National Park can be crowded during the peak season, so be prepared for traffic delays and long lines. Relax, enjoy the scenery, and embrace the experience.

Conclusion: Choosing the Perfect Glacier National Park Hotel

Selecting the right hotel for your Glacier National Park adventure is crucial to ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience. Whether you prioritize immersive wilderness, convenient access to amenities, budget-friendly options, or a unique historic charm, there is a lodging option to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. By carefully considering your priorities, researching your options, and booking well in advance, you can secure the perfect base for exploring the breathtaking beauty and natural wonders of the Crown of the Continent. From the iconic Lake McDonald Lodge to the comfortable hotels in gateway communities like Whitefish and Columbia Falls, the possibilities are endless. So, start planning your Glacier National Park getaway today, and prepare to be captivated by the unparalleled beauty and majesty of this remarkable national park.