Hotels Near Glacier National Park: Your Gateway to Montana’s Majesty

Glacier National Park, a crown jewel of the American West, beckons travelers with its pristine lakes, towering mountains, and breathtaking vistas. Planning a trip to this majestic park requires careful consideration, particularly when it comes to selecting the ideal lodging. Whether you seek rustic charm within the park’s boundaries or modern conveniences in a nearby town, finding the right hotel is crucial for a memorable experience. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through the various hotel options available near Glacier National Park, offering insights and recommendations to suit diverse preferences and budgets. We will explore accommodations inside the park, in gateway communities like Whitefish, Kalispell, Columbia Falls, and St. Mary, and address important factors such as proximity to attractions, amenities, and seasonal availability.

Understanding Glacier National Park and Its Gateway Communities

Before delving into specific hotel recommendations, it’s essential to understand the geography of Glacier National Park and the surrounding towns that serve as entry points. The park is vast, encompassing over a million acres of wilderness, and access points vary depending on the season and the specific areas you wish to explore. Consider the following gateway communities when planning your lodging:

• Whitefish: Located west of the park, Whitefish offers a vibrant downtown area with restaurants, shops, and art galleries. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a balance of outdoor adventure and urban amenities. Whitefish is also home to Whitefish Mountain Resort, providing opportunities for hiking and mountain biking in the summer and skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
• Kalispell: The largest city in the Flathead Valley, Kalispell provides a wider range of lodging options and services, including a regional airport. It’s a convenient base for exploring both Glacier National Park and the surrounding area.
• Columbia Falls: Situated closer to the west entrance of the park than Kalispell, Columbia Falls offers a more relaxed atmosphere and easy access to attractions like the Hungry Horse Dam.
• St. Mary: Located on the east side of the park, St. Mary provides immediate access to the Going-to-the-Sun Road and the eastern portion of Glacier National Park. This area is particularly scenic and offers stunning views of the mountains and lakes.
• West Glacier Village: Located just outside the West Entrance of the Park, it has a few hotels and restaurants. Very convienent location to enter the park.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hotel

Selecting the right hotel near Glacier National Park involves considering several key factors. These include:

• Location: How close do you want to be to the park entrance? Do you prefer to be in a bustling town or a more secluded setting? Consider the specific attractions you plan to visit and choose a location that minimizes travel time.
• Budget: Hotel prices near Glacier National Park can vary significantly depending on the season, location, and amenities. Determine your budget beforehand and explore options that fit within your financial constraints.
• Amenities: What amenities are important to you? Do you need a swimming pool, a fitness center, or on-site dining? Consider your preferences and choose a hotel that offers the amenities you desire.
• Seasonality: Many hotels near Glacier National Park are seasonal, with limited availability or closures during the winter months. Book your accommodations well in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season (June-August).
• Reviews: Read online reviews from other travelers to get a sense of the hotel’s quality and service. Pay attention to both positive and negative feedback to make an informed decision.
• Accessibility: If you have mobility issues, ensure that the hotel offers accessible rooms and facilities.
• Pet-Friendly Options: Traveling with your furry friend? Confirm that the hotel is pet-friendly and inquire about any associated fees or restrictions.

Hotels Inside Glacier National Park: Immersed in Nature’s Embrace

For an unparalleled experience, consider staying at one of the historic lodges or hotels located within Glacier National Park. These accommodations offer unparalleled access to the park’s natural beauty and allow you to immerse yourself in its serene atmosphere. However, be aware that these options tend to be more expensive and require booking far in advance.

Lake McDonald Lodge

Nestled on the shores of the park’s largest lake, Lake McDonald Lodge exudes rustic elegance and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. This iconic lodge features historic architecture, comfortable rooms, and a variety of dining options. Built in the Swiss chalet style, it’s a truly iconic place to stay.

Highlights:

• Stunning lakefront location
• Historic architecture and ambiance
• On-site dining options, including the exquisite dining room
• Boat tours and rentals available
• Easy access to hiking trails along Lake McDonald

Things to consider:

• Higher price point
• Limited availability, especially during peak season
• Can be crowded during the day with visitors

Many Glacier Hotel

Perched on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake in the Many Glacier area, the Many Glacier Hotel is another iconic lodging option within the park. This grand hotel offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers, and provides access to some of the park’s most stunning hiking trails. It has a Swiss alpine look and feel to it.

Highlights:

• Spectacular views of Swiftcurrent Lake and the surrounding glaciers
• Access to popular hiking trails, including the Grinnell Glacier Trail
• On-site dining options, including a formal dining room and a casual café
• Boat tours available on Swiftcurrent Lake and Josephine Lake
• Historic ambiance and charm

Things to consider:

• Higher price point
• Remote location, with limited access to other areas of the park
• Limited cell phone service and Wi-Fi
• Requires significant driving to reach other areas of the park.

Village Inn at Apgar

Located in the Apgar Village, right on the shore of Lake McDonald, the Village Inn offers a variety of lodging options from traditional hotel rooms to lakeside suites with kitchenettes. It’s a less grand, more family-friendly option than the Lake McDonald Lodge or Many Glacier Hotel, but the location is fantastic.

Highlights:

• Lakeside location with stunning views
• Variety of room types to suit different needs
• Easy access to Apgar Village amenities, including shops and restaurants
• Boat rentals and water activities available
• Good for families.

Things to consider:

• Can be crowded during peak season
• Some rooms may be noisy due to proximity to the village
• Restaurant options limited to Apgar Village.

Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and Cabins

Located near the Many Glacier Hotel, Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and Cabins offers more affordable lodging options than the grand hotel. The cabins provide a rustic and comfortable retreat, while the motor inn offers standard hotel rooms. It’s a good option for those seeking a balance of affordability and access to the Many Glacier area.

Highlights:

• More affordable than the Many Glacier Hotel
• Rustic cabins and standard hotel rooms available
• Close proximity to the Many Glacier area and hiking trails
• Convenient location near the Swiftcurrent Lake boat tours
• Casual dining options.

Things to consider:

• Cabins can be basic and lack modern amenities
• Motor Inn rooms can be small
• Limited cell phone service and Wi-Fi.

Rising Sun Motor Inn and Cabins

Located along the Going-to-the-Sun Road on the east side of the park, Rising Sun Motor Inn and Cabins offers convenient access to popular attractions like St. Mary Lake and Wild Goose Island Overlook. The accommodations are simple but comfortable, and the location is ideal for exploring the eastern portion of the park.

Highlights:

• Convenient location along the Going-to-the-Sun Road
• Easy access to St. Mary Lake and Wild Goose Island Overlook
• Affordable lodging options
• Scenic views from the property
• Good starting point for hiking in the St. Mary area.

Things to consider:

• Simple accommodations with limited amenities
• Can be noisy due to proximity to the road
• Limited dining options.

Hotels in Whitefish, Montana: A Blend of Adventure and Amenities

Whitefish, located just a short drive from the west entrance of Glacier National Park, offers a vibrant downtown area and a wide range of lodging options. From luxurious hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, Whitefish provides a perfect base for exploring both the park and the surrounding area.

The Lodge at Whitefish Lake

Nestled on the shores of Whitefish Lake, The Lodge at Whitefish Lake offers a luxurious retreat with stunning lakefront views. This upscale hotel features spacious rooms and suites, a full-service spa, and multiple dining options. It’s the premier hotel in Whitefish.

Highlights:

• Luxurious accommodations with lakefront views
• Full-service spa and wellness center
• Multiple dining options, including a fine-dining restaurant
• Outdoor pool and hot tub
• Private beach access
• Close to downtown Whitefish and Whitefish Mountain Resort.

Things to consider:

• Higher price point
• Can be busy during peak season
• Requires a short drive to reach Glacier National Park.

Grouse Mountain Lodge

Located a short drive from downtown Whitefish, Grouse Mountain Lodge offers a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the area. This lodge features spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center. It’s a good option for families and those seeking a relaxing getaway.

Highlights:

• Spacious rooms and suites
• Indoor pool and hot tub
• Fitness center
• On-site dining options
• Close to downtown Whitefish and Whitefish Mountain Resort
• Shuttle service to Whitefish Mountain Resort during ski season.

Things to consider:

• Can be noisy during peak season
• Restaurant can be crowded.

Pine Lodge Whitefish

Pine Lodge Whitefish, Ascend Hotel Collection, offers a comfortable and affordable option close to downtown Whitefish. The hotel features a rustic decor and a variety of amenities, including an indoor pool and hot tub. It’s a good value choice for those looking for a comfortable stay without breaking the bank.

Highlights:

• Affordable rates
• Comfortable rooms
• Indoor pool and hot tub
• Complimentary breakfast
• Close proximity to downtown Whitefish
• Pet-friendly rooms available.

Things to consider:

• Rooms can be small
• Decor is a bit dated.

Hidden Moose Lodge

Hidden Moose Lodge offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere just a short drive from downtown Whitefish. This bed and breakfast features comfortable rooms, a delicious breakfast, and personalized service. It’s a great choice for couples and those seeking a more intimate experience.

Highlights:

• Cozy and intimate atmosphere
• Comfortable rooms
• Delicious homemade breakfast
• Personalized service
• Quiet location
• Close to downtown Whitefish and Glacier National Park.

Things to consider:

• Limited amenities compared to larger hotels
• May not be suitable for families with young children
• Booking in advance is highly recommended.

Kandahar Lodge at Whitefish Mountain Resort

Located directly at Whitefish Mountain Resort, the Kandahar Lodge offers ski-in/ski-out access in the winter and convenient access to hiking and mountain biking trails in the summer. The lodge features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a hot tub. It’s the best option for those who want to be close to the mountain activities.

Highlights:

• Ski-in/ski-out access
• Convenient access to hiking and mountain biking trails
• Comfortable rooms
• On-site restaurant
• Hot tub
• Great views of the surrounding mountains.

Things to consider:

• Can be expensive during peak season
• Located a bit outside of downtown Whitefish
• Limited dining options outside of the resort.

Hotels in Kalispell, Montana: A Convenient Base for Exploration

Kalispell, the largest city in the Flathead Valley, offers a wide range of lodging options and services. With its regional airport and central location, Kalispell serves as a convenient base for exploring both Glacier National Park and the surrounding area. From budget-friendly hotels to upscale resorts, Kalispell has something to offer every traveler.

Red Lion Hotel Kalispell

The Red Lion Hotel Kalispell offers a central location and a range of amenities, including an indoor pool, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. It is a comfortable choice for business and leisure travelers alike.

Highlights:

• Central location in Kalispell
• Indoor pool and hot tub
• Fitness center
• On-site restaurant and bar
• Close to shopping and dining options
• Free airport shuttle.

Things to consider:

• Can be noisy due to proximity to the highway
• Restaurant can be crowded during peak hours.

Hilton Garden Inn Kalispell

The Hilton Garden Inn Kalispell provides modern accommodations and a range of amenities, including an indoor pool, a fitness center, and on-site dining. This is a reliable choice for those who appreciate the Hilton brand.

Highlights:

• Modern accommodations
• Indoor pool and hot tub
• Fitness center
• On-site restaurant and bar
• Convenient location near shopping and dining
• Free Wi-Fi.

Things to consider:

• Can be pricey compared to other options in Kalispell
• Restaurant menu can be limited.

Hampton Inn Kalispell

The Hampton Inn Kalispell offers comfortable and affordable accommodations with a complimentary breakfast. This is a good budget-friendly option in Kalispell.

Highlights:

• Affordable rates
• Comfortable rooms
• Complimentary breakfast
• Indoor pool and hot tub
• Fitness center
• Free Wi-Fi.

Things to consider:

• Rooms can be small
• Breakfast can be crowded during peak hours.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Kalispell

The Fairfield Inn & Suites Kalispell provides comfortable accommodations and a range of amenities, including an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast. This is another solid option in the Marriott family of hotels.

Highlights:

• Comfortable rooms and suites
• Indoor pool and hot tub
• Fitness center
• Complimentary breakfast
• Free Wi-Fi.

Things to consider:

• Can be noisy due to proximity to the highway
• Breakfast can be crowded during peak hours.

Holiday Inn Express Kalispell

The Holiday Inn Express Kalispell offers a convenient location and a range of amenities, including an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast. This is a reliable option from the IHG hotels group.

Highlights:

• Convenient location
• Indoor pool and hot tub
• Fitness center
• Complimentary breakfast
• Free Wi-Fi.

Things to consider:

• Rooms can be small
• Breakfast can be crowded during peak hours.

Hotels in Columbia Falls, Montana: Close to the West Entrance

Columbia Falls, located closer to the west entrance of Glacier National Park than Kalispell, offers a more relaxed atmosphere and easy access to attractions like the Hungry Horse Dam. It’s a good choice for those who prioritize proximity to the park’s west side.

Cedar Creek Lodge & Conference Center

Cedar Creek Lodge in Columbia Falls offers a modern and comfortable stay with well-appointed rooms and suites, perfect for families and business travelers. It is also a popular venue for conferences and events, providing full service catering and a range of meeting facilities.

Highlights:

• Located close to Glacier National Park’s West Entrance.
• Modern, well-appointed rooms and suites
• Conference facilities for business travelers
• Onsite dining with a focus on local and regional cuisine.

Things to consider:

• Located in Columbia Falls, a quieter town with limited nightlife
• Prices might be higher due to modern amenities.

Meadow Lake Resort & Condos

The Meadow Lake Resort & Condos offer a range of accommodations from hotel rooms to fully equipped condos. Enjoy golf, a pool and other resort amenities.

Highlights:

• Golf course
• Swimming pool and hot tub
• Spacious condos with full kitchens
• On-site dining options
• Close to Glacier National Park.

Things to consider:

• Can be busy during peak season
• Some units may be dated.

The Western Inn – Columbia Falls

The Western Inn in Columbia Falls provides affordable and clean lodging options suitable for budget travelers. Enjoy the convenience of easy access to Glacier National Park and local attractions.

Highlights:

• Affordable and budget-friendly
• Clean and well-maintained rooms
• Easy access to Glacier National Park
• Close to local attractions and restaurants.

Things to consider:

• Basic amenities and limited frills
• Limited on-site services.

Hotels in St. Mary, Montana: Gateway to the East Side

St. Mary, located on the east side of the park, provides immediate access to the Going-to-the-Sun Road and the eastern portion of Glacier National Park. This area is particularly scenic and offers stunning views of the mountains and lakes. However, lodging options in St. Mary are more limited than in the western gateway communities.

St. Mary Lodge & Resort

St. Mary Lodge & Resort offers a variety of lodging options, from hotel rooms to cabins, as well as on-site dining and activities. Its location offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Highlights:

• Varied lodging options, including hotel rooms and cabins
• On-site dining options
• Activities such as horseback riding and guided tours
• Scenic mountain views
• Direct access to the Going-to-the-Sun Road

Things to consider:

• May be more expensive due to limited options in St. Mary
• Can be crowded during peak season.

Glacier Trailhead Cabins

Glacier Trailhead Cabins in St. Mary provides cozy and rustic accommodations ideal for experiencing the natural beauty of Glacier National Park. These cabins offer a comfortable and secluded retreat.

Highlights:

• Cozy and rustic cabins
• Secluded and quiet setting
• Close proximity to Glacier National Park trails
• Ideal for nature lovers and hikers.

Things to consider:

• Basic amenities and no frills
• Limited on-site services.

Going-to-the-Sun Road Hotels

There aren’t any “Going-to-the-Sun Road Hotels” in the strict sense of being directly *on* the road (except for those inside the park). The hotels described above in St. Mary and in the Rising Sun area are the closest to being considered “Going-to-the-Sun Road Hotels” because they offer the most convenient access to it.

Tips for Booking Hotels Near Glacier National Park

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Glacier National Park, keep the following booking tips in mind:

• Book Early: Hotels near Glacier National Park, especially those inside the park, fill up months in advance. Book your accommodations as early as possible, ideally six months to a year before your trip.
• Consider Travel Insurance: Unexpected events can disrupt your travel plans. Travel insurance can protect you from financial losses due to cancellations, delays, or medical emergencies.
• Read the Fine Print: Before confirming your reservation, carefully review the hotel’s cancellation policy, fees, and other terms and conditions.
• Confirm Your Reservation: A few days before your arrival, contact the hotel to confirm your reservation and ensure that everything is in order.
• Be Flexible with Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, consider visiting Glacier National Park during the shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October) to avoid the crowds and secure better deals on lodging.
• Utilize Online Travel Agencies: Websites like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com can help you compare prices and find the best deals on hotels near Glacier National Park.
• Check for Package Deals: Some hotels offer package deals that include accommodations, activities, and meals. These packages can save you money and simplify your travel planning.

Alternative Accommodation Options

Besides traditional hotels, you can also explore the following alternative accommodation options near Glacier National Park:

• Vacation Rentals: Websites like Airbnb and VRBO offer a wide selection of vacation rentals, including cabins, condos, and houses. Vacation rentals can be a good option for families or groups traveling together.
• Campgrounds: Glacier National Park has several campgrounds located throughout the park. Camping is a budget-friendly option, but reservations are required and can be difficult to obtain.
• Bed and Breakfasts: Bed and breakfasts offer a more intimate and personalized experience than traditional hotels. They often feature unique accommodations and homemade breakfasts.
• Guest Ranches: Guest ranches provide a rustic and authentic Montana experience. They typically offer horseback riding, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Hotel for Your Glacier Adventure

Selecting the perfect hotel near Glacier National Park is an essential step in planning your unforgettable Montana adventure. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, including location, budget, amenities, and seasonality, you can find the ideal lodging to suit your preferences and needs. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in nature’s embrace at a historic lodge within the park or enjoy the modern comforts of a hotel in a nearby gateway community, your choice of accommodation will significantly impact your overall experience. Remember to book early, read reviews, and be flexible with your travel dates to secure the best possible option. With careful planning and consideration, you can create a memorable and rewarding trip to Glacier National Park, surrounded by its breathtaking beauty and unparalleled natural wonders.