Glacier Country Montana, USA Travel Guide
Please note: A 24-hour layover itinerary is not applicable for Glacier Country. Journey time from major airport hubs and distances to main attractions preclude it. Glacier Country is best with at least a few days of exploration.
Get the most from your visit with these suggested time frames.
Detailed plans for various trip durations, from weekend escapes to extensive explorations.
Focus on West Glacier & Lake McDonald. Arrive at FCA, pick up rental car, explore Apgar Village, Lake McDonald, and consider a portion of Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Emphasize the Crown Of the continent (West & East), Whitefish, Flathead Lake. Begin exploration from West Glacier, covering park features.
Week 1: Deep dive into Glacier National Park, covering both West and East sides, including challenging hikes and potentially backcountry camping. The SECOND week: Broader Montana, exploring Whitefish, Flathead Valley, Missoula, and Western MT.
For extended visits, immerse yourself in the Montana pace of life. Experience different seasons, and capture advantage of local amenities. This offers the most flexible approach to Glacier Country.
Tailor your Glacier Country journey to match your specific interests.
Conrad Mansion, St. Ignatius Mission, Gallery of the Plains Indian, historic park lodges.
Farmer's markets, huckleberries, cherry orchards, local breweries, bison/elk/trout dining, Polebridge bear claws.
Challenging hikes (Highline, Grinnell Glacier), river rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, zip-lining, fly-casting.
Craft your perfect Glacier Country journey based on your unique passions.
Engage in easy hikes like Trail of the Cedars or Running Eagle Falls. Enjoy boat tours on park lakes. Flathead Lake activities include swimming and seasonal cherry picking.
Explore art galleries in Bigfork and Whitefish. Visit the Hockaday Museum of Art in Kalispell, which focuses on local art. Tour the Conrad Mansion for its Architecture from the victorian era.
Center on the serenity of The Crown Of the continent. Engage in early morning meditative walks in quiet areas. Consider a short yoga or meditation retreat near Flathead Lake.
Travel Glacier Country comfortably, irrespective of your budget. Options from backpacking to luxury experiences are available.
Travel during the off-peak season (May-June or September-October) for lower prices and fewer crowds. Spring (April-May) is for lower-elevation hikes, wildlife viewing, and Flathead Lake activities. Fall (October-November) has brilliant larch colors and a quieter park.
Summer (June-September) is peak season for park exploration, with full access to Going-to-the-Sun Road. Winter (December-March) offers skiing/snowboarding at Whitefish Mountain Resort, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in The Crown Of the continent.
Make the most of your Glacier Country adventure by planning according to season and budget.
Travel in shoulder season (May-June or September-October) for lower prices and fewer crowds. Pack lunches and snacks for long walks to save on dining.
Summer (June-September) is the most popular time for exploring the park, with full access to Going-to-the-Sun Road. Winter (December-March) has skiing/snowboarding at Whitefish Mountain Resort, and snowshoeing in Glacier National Park.
Tailor your Glacier Country adventure to match your specific interests.
Prioritize challenging hikes like the Highline Trail or Grinnell Glacier. Go whitewater rafting on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River. Enjoy going kayaking or paddleboarding on park lochs or Flathead Lake.
Focus on the serenity of Glacier National Park. Engage in early morning meditative walks in quiet areas. Consider a short yoga or meditation retreat near Flathead Lake.
Always check the National Park Service (NPS) website for exact seasonal opening and closing dates for roads like Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Vehicle reservations for Going-to-the-Sun Road and other regions may be required during peak season. Book accommodations and popular tours well in advance.
