There’s a reason Glacier National Park is called the Crown of the Continent. Inside the park’s 1 million acres you’ll find glacial-carved terrain, rushing waterfalls, snow-covered mountain peaks and 734 miles of trails, all perfectly complemented by the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which is a drive that can only be described as epic.
Traveling from Kalispell to Glacier National Park is easy, as it’s 32 scenic miles from downtown to the park’s west entrance. The park is open year-round, which makes it convenient to visit any time of year, with Kalispell as your home base. (Find the latest information on road and trail access here.)
From Kalispell, you’ll drive through Bad Rock Canyon, cruise past the Flathead River and see sneak peeks of the surrounding snowy mountain peaks. The west entrance, which is located in West Glacier, will take you directly onto the Going-to-the-Sun Road, as well as to Apgar Village and Lake McDonald. During the summer season, the Going-to-the-Sun Road is open in its entirety (exact dates fluctuate as it’s weather dependent) and the 52-mile-long road takes travelers through the heart of the park over Logan Pass before ending at the east entrance in St. Mary.
And while it’s safe to say that Glacier National Park’s top attraction is the Going-to-the-Sun Road, there are other amazing places that are prime for exploration, including Many Glacier, Two Medicine, Essex and the North Fork.
Accessible by a gravel road, the North Fork is home to the small community of Polebridge, which sits outside the park’s boundaries and is home to the iconic and historic Polebridge Mercantile. With an estimated population of 49, Polebridge serves as the gateway to Glacier National Park’s Bowman and Kintla lakes, as well as trails and campgrounds. Be sure to stop into the merc and pick up a cinnamon roll or huckleberry macaroon prior to heading into the park.
Inside the park’s 1 million acres, you’ll find visitor centers, guided hikes, ranger-led interpretive programs, bus tours, boat tours, horseback rides, historic lodges, restaurants and shops. Outside of the park’s boundaries, area outfitters offer incredible guided experiences, from horseback rides to whitewater rafting and fly-fishing trips to scenic floats.
And if you’re missing Glacier National Park? You can check in anytime on the park’s webcams, with views of Lake McDonald, Apgar Village, St. Mary and more.
THINGS TO DO IN MONTANA’S GLACIER NATIONAL PARK
From hiking to guided adventures and scenic drives to wildlife watching, there’s so much to see and do in the Crown of the Continent.
Red Bus Tours
There’s no doubt that one of the most iconic ways to see the park is on a red bus tour. Available during summer, the red buses take their passengers to various destinations within the Crown of the Continent. And, with a roll-back top, they give guests the chance to focus on the scenery while the experienced “jammers” (also known as the drivers) share insights and history into the park.
Interpretive and Naturalist Tours
From ranger-led offerings to guided tours that share the history of the area from the perspective of the Blackfeet Tribe, there are lots of ways to take a deeper dive into the park. A few of note: ranger-led tours, Native America Speaks presentations and events, Glacier Institute’s educational treks, Glacier Sun Tours, Glacier Guides, Glacier Adventure Guides and Glacier Park Boat Company.
Boat Tours
Since 1938, Glacier Park Boat Company has taken visitors onto the waters of Glacier National Park on guided tours in four different areas, including Lake McDonald, Many Glacier, St. Mary and Two Medicine. Tours are given on historic wooden boats that are well-maintained by the experienced crew at the boat company. Rentals are also offered at Apgar Village, Lake McDonald Lodge, Two Medicine and Many Glacier.
Hiking Trails
Inside Glacier National Park’s 1 million acres are 734 miles of hiking trails, from easy boardwalk treks that are accessible for users of all abilities along the Trail of the Cedars to high alpine hikes at Logan Pass and a wide array of trails in Two Medicine. While recreating, be sure to Leave No Trace.
YEAR-ROUND ACCESS TO GLACIER NATIONAL PARK
While the majority of visitors to the Backbone of the World visit during the summer, Glacier National Park is open year-round. Each season provides a distinct experience in the park and varying accessibility.
Spring in the Crown of the Continent
Ask any Montana local and they’ll tell you that spring is one of the most spectacular times to visit Glacier National Park. Prior to the Going-to-the-Sun Road opening for vehicle traffic, the park is a playground for hikers and road bikers who essentially have it all to themselves. The road is accessible from both the west entrance in West Glacier (and is plowed to Lake McDonald Lodge) and the east entrance in St. Mary. Glacier Guides and Montana Raft also offer interpretive, guided biking adventures on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, as well as a biker shuttle.
Summer in Glacier National Park
Most of Glacier National Park’s visitation happens during summer and the opening of the Going-to-the-Sun Road in its entirety signals the full start of the season in Montana. Gateway communities, from East Glacier Park to West Glacier, offer services and guided excursions in and around the park.
Fall in the Backbone of the World
Autumn has quickly become the favorite time of year for residents to adventure into our backyard national park. With crisp mountain air, colorful foliage and fewer people, fall is one of the most jaw-dropping times to visit. Depending on the weather, the alpine section of the Going-to-the-Sun Road is typically open to mid-October. Discover all that fall offers on the blog.
Winter in Glacier National Park
While winter is unlike any other season and has almost no amenities within the park’s boundaries, it’s also one of the most beautiful times of years. The Going-to-the-Sun Road transforms into a destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing and there are several ski trails along the road, as well as in other areas of the park. Before heading in during winter, make sure you have all the necessities, like water, food, boots and a warm jacket. Be sure to check out ranger-led tours, as well as guided tours from Glacier Institute.
Glacier National Park FAQs
How far is Glacier National Park from Kalispell?
Glacier National Park is just 32 scenic miles from downtown Kalispell to the park’s west entrance in West Glacier — about a 35-minute drive. That convenient location makes Kalispell an easy home base for exploring the park, with plenty of places to stay, eat, shop and explore when you’re back in town.
Do you need reservations to visit Glacier National Park?
Reservation requirements can change from year to year, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest National Park Service information before your trip.
In 2026, no vehicle reservations or timed entries are required for Glacier National Park, including the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier, Two Medicine and the North Fork. Even without reservations, popular areas can reach capacity, so plan for possible delays during peak visitation.
What is the best time to visit Glacier National Park?
Every season brings something different to Glacier National Park. Summer offers the most access and amenities, while spring brings rushing waterfalls, wildflowers and opportunities to bike the Going-to-the-Sun Road before it opens to vehicles. Fall is a local favorite for crisp mountain air, golden foliage and fewer crowds, while winter brings a quieter, snow-covered side of the park perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Is Glacier National Park open year-round?
Yes, Glacier National Park is open year-round, although access, roads and amenities vary by season. Summer offers the most options for exploring the park, while spring and fall can be especially rewarding for those looking for fewer crowds. In winter, the park becomes a peaceful snowy landscape, with opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
How many days do you need in Glacier National Park?
However much time you have, you can make it count. With a week, you can explore different areas of the park, from Many Glacier and Logan Pass to the North Fork. With one day, you can drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road and make a scenic loop through the park. Only have a couple of hours? Head to Apgar Village and take in the views of Lake McDonald. There’s no wrong amount of time — although you may find yourself wishing for more.
What is the Going-to-the-Sun Road?
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is Glacier National Park’s iconic 52-mile scenic drive through the heart of the park. Crossing the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, the road winds past towering peaks, waterfalls, forests and alpine landscapes before connecting West Glacier and St. Mary. It’s one of those drives where you’ll want to keep the camera handy — and maybe build in a few extra stops along the way.
When does the Going-to-the-Sun Road open?
There isn’t a set opening date. The Going-to-the-Sun Road opens in sections as snow is cleared and conditions allow, with the full road typically opening in late June or early July. The alpine section can remain open into early or mid-October, depending on weather. Before you go, check current road conditions with the National Park Service for the latest access information.
Can you visit Glacier National Park without hiking?
Absolutely. You don’t have to be a hiker to experience Glacier. Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road, take a historic red bus tour, cruise across one of the park’s lakes, explore Apgar Village or join a guided interpretive experience. There are plenty of ways to soak up the scenery without putting miles on your boots.
Resources:
Visiting in 2026, Everything You Need to Know
Things To Do Outside Glacier National Park
