Hotels Near Glacier National Park: Your 100-Mile Guide to Montana's Natural Paradise

Escape into the breathtaking wilderness of Montana's Glacier National Park, where towering mountains, pristine lakes, and roaring waterfalls await your exploration. To make your journey unforgettable, we've curated a comprehensive guide to the finest hotels within a 100-mile radius of this majestic park.

1. Glacier Park Lodge: A Historic Retreat on Lake McDonald (Inside the Park)

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Glacier Park Lodge transports guests to the golden age of park exploration. Situated on the shores of Lake McDonald, this lodge offers stunning views and direct access to hiking trails and boat tours.

• Rooms: 312 guest rooms, including family suites
• Amenities: Restaurant, bar, gift shop, indoor and outdoor pools
• Distance from Glacier National Park: 0 miles
• Rates: From $170 per night

2. St. Mary Lodge & Resort: Gateway to the Going-to-the-Sun Road (Near the Park)

Nestled on the eastern edge of Glacier National Park, St. Mary Lodge & Resort serves as a convenient starting point for your adventures. Overlooking St. Mary Lake, this lodge features a cozy atmosphere and a range of room options.

• Rooms: 156 guest rooms, including cabins and suites
• Amenities: Restaurant, bar, gift shop, outdoor pool, horseback riding
• Distance from Glacier National Park: 1 mile
• Rates: From $120 per night

3. The Machias Hotel & Conference Center: Comfort in Columbia Falls (12 Miles from the Park)

As you approach Glacier National Park from the west, The Machias Hotel & Conference Center in Columbia Falls offers a comfortable stop. This contemporary hotel boasts spacious rooms and convenient amenities, ensuring a restful stay.

• Rooms: 84 guest rooms, including king suites
• Amenities: Restaurant, bar, fitness center, indoor pool
• Distance from Glacier National Park: 12 miles
• Rates: From $100 per night

4. Hilton Garden Inn Kalispell: Convenience in the Hub City (15 Miles from the Park)

Kalispell, a bustling hub just outside Glacier National Park, hosts the Hilton Garden Inn. This modern hotel provides a convenient base for exploring the park and the surrounding Flathead Valley.

• Rooms: 150 guest rooms, including whirlpool suites
• Amenities: Restaurant, bar, fitness center, indoor pool
• Distance from Glacier National Park: 15 miles
• Rates: From $130 per night

5. Lodge at Whitefish Lake: Lakeside Serenity in Whitefish (20 Miles from the Park)

Embrace the charm of Whitefish, a captivating town nestled on the shores of Whitefish Lake. The Lodge at Whitefish Lake offers panoramic lake views and easy access to the park's west entrance.

• Rooms: 102 guest rooms, including fireplace suites
• Amenities: Restaurant, bar, fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools
• Distance from Glacier National Park: 20 miles
• Rates: From $150 per night

6. C'Mon Inn: Affordable Accommodation in West Glacier (30 Miles from the Park)

If you prefer a more affordable option closer to the park's western entrance, consider C'Mon Inn in West Glacier. This budget-friendly motel offers basic amenities and convenient access to Glacier National Park.

• Rooms: 35 guest rooms
• Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, coffee maker, cable TV
• Distance from Glacier National Park: 30 miles
• Rates: From $70 per night

7. America's Best Value Inn Apgar: Rustic Charm on Lake McDonald (Inside the Park)

For a rustic retreat on the shores of Lake McDonald, choose America's Best Value Inn Apgar. This lodge-style hotel exudes a charming ambiance, offering a memorable base for your park exploration.

• Rooms: 48 guest rooms, including cabins and suites
• Amenities: Restaurant, bar, gift shop, boat rentals
• Distance from Glacier National Park: 0 miles
• Rates: From $100 per night

8. Glacier Inn & Suites: Modern Comfort in Columbia Falls (12 Miles from the Park)

Another excellent choice near Columbia Falls, Glacier Inn & Suites combines modern amenities with affordable rates. This hotel offers a spacious indoor pool and convenient access to Glacier National Park.

• Rooms: 121 guest rooms, including whirlpool suites
• Amenities: Restaurant, bar, fitness center, indoor pool
• Distance from Glacier National Park: 12 miles
• Rates: From $80 per night

9. Glacier Park International Hotel: A Tranquil Oasis in Apgar Village (Inside the Park)

Immerse yourself in the serenity of Glacier Park International Hotel, located in picturesque Apgar Village. Surrounded by towering mountains and sparkling waters, this charming hotel provides a tranquil retreat within the park.

• Rooms: 62 guest rooms, including cabins and suites
• Amenities: Restaurant, bar, gift shop, boat rentals
• Distance from Glacier National Park: 0 miles
• Rates: From $150 per night

10. Fairmont Chateau on Lake Louise: A Luxurious Escape in Canada (Across the Border)

While technically located across the border in Canada, Fairmont Chateau on Lake Louise deserves a mention for those seeking an unforgettable luxury experience near Glacier National Park. This iconic hotel offers breathtaking views, world-class amenities, and a memorable stay.

• Rooms: 550 guest rooms, including suites and presidential suites
• Amenities: Multiple restaurants, bars, spa, golf course, ski resort
• Distance from Glacier National Park: 30 miles (via Waterton Lakes National Park)
• Rates: From $300 per night

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Hotel Near Glacier National Park

• Booking too late: Glacier National Park is a popular destination, so it's essential to book your hotel well in advance, especially during peak season (June to September).
• Assuming all hotels are created equal: Not all hotels near Glacier National Park are the same. Research each hotel carefully to find one that meets your specific needs and budget.
• Overlooking amenities: Consider the amenities that are important to you, such as a restaurant, pool, or fitness center. Make sure the hotel you choose offers these amenities.
• Ignoring location: While all the hotels on this list are within a 100-mile radius of Glacier National Park, the distance and location of each hotel can vary significantly. Choose a hotel that is convenient for your planned activities.
• Skipping reviews: Before booking your hotel, read reviews from other travelers to get an idea of the overall experience. This can help you avoid any potential surprises or disappointments.

FAQs

1. What is the best way to get to Glacier National Park?

The most common way to access Glacier National Park is by car. The park has three main entrances: the West Entrance near West Glacier, the St. Mary Entrance near St. Mary, and the Many Glacier Entrance near Babb. You can also fly into Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) or Kalispell City Airport (FCA) and rent a car.

2. What are the most popular activities in Glacier National Park?

Glacier National Park offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, backpacking, camping, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The park is home to over 1,000 miles of hiking trails, including portions of the famous Continental Divide Trail.

3. What is the best time to visit Glacier National Park?

The best time to visit Glacier National Park is during the summer months (June to September). However, the park is also open year-round, and visitors can enjoy activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice climbing during the winter.

4. How long should I stay in Glacier National Park?

The amount of time you need to fully experience Glacier National Park depends on your interests and activities. If you want to hike some of the park's most popular trails, you should plan to stay for at least three days. However, if you want to explore the park more thoroughly, you could easily spend a week or more.

5. How much does it cost to visit Glacier National Park?

The entrance fee for Glacier National Park is $35 per vehicle or $25 per person. If you plan to stay for more than seven days, you can purchase a Glacier National Park Annual Pass for $70.

6. What are the most common wildlife species in Glacier National Park?

Glacier National Park is home to a variety of wildlife species, including grizzly bears, black bears, moose, elk, deer, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and wolves. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid encounters with wildlife.

Conclusion

Glacier National Park is a breathtaking destination that offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. Whether you're seeking a historic retreat, modern comfort, or rustic charm, the hotels near Glacier National Park listed in this guide will provide you with a memorable and unforgettable experience.