12 Best Places to Stay in Glacier National Park for an Epic Retreat

Explore the finest places to stay in Glacier National Park with our curated guide to the top 12 accommodations. Whether you seek the charm of a cozy cabin, the luxury of a lodge, or the uniqueness of glamping, we’ve compiled options for every taste and budget. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty and diversity of this natural wonderland. 

This blog post not only provides essential recommendations for your stay but also shares valuable insights and tips to enhance your Glacier National Park adventure. Don’t miss out on creating unforgettable memories. Let’s delve into the 12 best places to stay in Glacier National Park and make the most of your visit to this spectacular destination!

How to Decide Where to Stay in Glacier National Park?

Choosing places to stay in Glacier National Park is crucial for a memorable visit. The park offers diverse accommodations, including lodges, hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Availability varies, and some require advance booking.

With different regions and entrances, each with unique attractions, factors like season, location, and reservation requirements should guide your decision. Plan wisely to make the most of your Glacier National Park experience.

• Your budget and preferences: Do you want to splurge on a luxury lodge or save money on a simple cabin? Do you want to be close to nature or enjoy modern amenities? Do you want to have a private space or share it with others?
• Your itinerary and activities: What are the main sights and trails you want to see and explore? How much time do you have to spend in the park? How far are you willing to drive or hike to reach your destination?
• The season and weather: When are you planning to visit the park? What are the average temperatures and precipitation levels? Are the roads and facilities open and accessible?

Related: 15 Must-Know Tips Before Visiting Glacier National Park

Entrances to Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park boasts a total of seven entrances, with only three providing access to the renowned Going-To-The-Sun Road—a scenic route crossing the Continental Divide from west to east. These gateways include the West Glacier Entrance, the Saint Mary Entrance, and the Camas Creek Entrance.

The remaining four entrances, namely the Polebridge Entrance, the Two Medicine Entrance, the Many Glacier Entrance, and the Cut Bank Entrance, offer alternative ways to explore the diverse landscapes of Glacier Park.

West Glacier Entrance: Close to the West Glacier Entrance, numerous attractions await, such as Glacier View Golf Course, various whitewater rafting and floating companies, guides offering backcountry trips in Glacier Park, mini-golf courses, water slides, helicopter tours over Glacier Park, and additional options. Smoky Bear Ranch is conveniently just a 15-minute drive away from this entrance.

Camas Creek Entrance: This entrance to Glacier Park is open year-round, but vehicular access to the Going-To-The-Sun Road is limited to mid-June through mid-October, depending on snow conditions.

Take Camas Creek Road to reach the Apgar Visitor Center and access the trailhead for Huckleberry Mountain Lookout, offering breathtaking 360° views on a moderately strenuous hike. In winter, enjoy stunning snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Located about 20 minutes from Smoky Bear Ranch, this entrance provides diverse recreational opportunities.

Polebridge Entrance: To reach the secluded Polebridge Entrance of Glacier Park, drive 35 miles north from Columbia Falls on Hwy 486, a mostly gravel road. Turn left at Polebridge Mercantile and cross the river. The entrance is always open but vehicles can’t enter from mid October to mid May. 

Saint Mary Entrance: The Saint Mary Entrance is the primary entry on the eastern side of Glacier National Park. Although this entry is always open 24 hours a day, depending on the amount of snow, it is only accessible to cars from roughly mid-May to mid-October.

The Glacier Park entry can be reached by driving thirty miles north on Hwy 89 from Browning, MT to the town of Saint Mary, MT. The entry is situated immediately west of Saint Mary.

Two Medicine Entrance: On the east side of Glacier Park, the Two Medicine Entrance is situated a short distance north of East Glacier, Montana. After leaving East Glacier on Hwy 49 north for about 4 miles, turn onto Two Medicine Road to reach this entry.

This part of Glacier National Park is accessible year-round, however due to snow cover, Two Medicine Road is closed to traffic from mid-October to mid-May.

Many Glacier Entrance: The Many Glacier Hotel, one of the old, historic hotels constructed by the railroad in the early 1900s, is the most prominent feature in this area. You might access the trail that leads to Iceberg Lake, a stunning mountain lake, from this gate.

The Many Glacier Entrance is unrestricted, however since they don’t plow the snow on Glacier Route Three, it would be challenging to get from roughly mid-October to mid-May.

Cut Bank Entrance: The least frequented and least recognized entry is on Cut Bank. About 18 miles north of Browning, Montana, on Cut Bank Creek Road, a 5-mile dirt road off Hwy 89, is where you may access this entry. There is a basic campground, day hikes, and backcountry trail access from this entrance.

Because there are just 14 campsites in this campground, it’s a perfect option for anyone seeking seclusion, tranquility, and quiet. Due to snow cover, there is no vehicular access to this entry from around mid-October until mid-May.

Related: 5 Spectacular Hikes in Glacier National Park Under 5 Miles

Discover 12 Unmissable Places to Stay in Glacier National Park for an Epic Retreat

Explore the top 12 places to stay in Glacier National Park, ranked from most luxurious to budget-friendly. Sort by location, rating, or availability to find your ideal accommodation. Discover the perfect lodging options for your Glacier National Park adventure:

1. Lake McDonald Lodge

Situated on the banks of the main lake within Glacier National Park, this traditional Swiss chalet-style resort is 10 miles from the park’s west entrance along Going-to-the-Sun Road

Lake McDonald Lodge is one of the most iconic and historic places to stay in Glacier National Park. It is located on the eastern shore of Lake McDonald, the largest and deepest lake in the park. It was built in 1913 as a hunting lodge and features Swiss chalet-style architecture and rustic decor.

The three-story main lodge, a row of cabins, Snyder Hall, and the opulent Cobb House comprise Lake McDonald’s 82 guest rooms. The second and third floors house the main lodge rooms.

Adjacent to the lodge, along a walk surrounded by trees, are large and tiny cabin accommodations. It also has a restaurant, a lounge, a gift shop, and a boat dock. It is open from mid-May to late September and offers stunning views of the lake and the mountains.

The main lodge is a short stroll from both Snyder Hall and Cobb House. The Cobb House has three suites, each with a flat-screen TV, a sitting area, a private bathroom, and a queen bed. Eight hostel-style rooms with a double bed or twin bunk beds, an in-room basin, and access to a shared bathroom can be found in Snyder Hall, a renovated old dormitory.

Dining

• Jammer Joe’s Grill and Pizzeria
• Lucke’s Lounge
• Russell’s Fireside Dining Room

Shopping

• Lake McDonald Lodge – General Store
• Lake McDonald Lodge – Gift Store

2. Under Canvas Glacier

Under Canvas Glacier, which is only seven miles from the west entrance to Glacier National Park, provides visitors with an exclusive, high-end outdoor experience in Montana’s “Big Sky Country” 

Experience luxury camping at Under Canvas Glacier, Situated on a 40-acre property near Coram, just 7 miles from the West Entrance, this glamping site offers 50 safari-style tents. Each tent features a king-size bed, a wood-burning stove, and a private bathroom.

Some tents even boast extras like a deck, fireplace, or hot tub. With communal lounges, dining tents, fire pits, and concierge service, it combines hotel comfort with a camping adventure.

You can prepare your own food or eat at many eateries. Open from June to mid-September, it provides a secluded and serene setting surrounded by nature—ideal for those seeking a blend of convenience and romance during unique places to stay in Glacier National Park. Discover the allure of Under Canvas Glacier for an unforgettable experience in this pristine wilderness.

Dining

• Embers Café

3. Glacier Park Lodge

Situated outside the park, the lodge is situated on the southeast corner, right outside the entrance to the Two Medicine Lake region, which offers stunning boat rides and walks

Discover the historic charm of Glacier Park Lodge, one of the remarkable places to stay in Glacier National Park near East Glacier Park, just 2 miles from the East Entrance. Built-in 1913 by the Great Northern Railway, the lodge boasts a massive log structure and a grand lobby with 60-foot-high Douglas fir pillars.

Offering 161 rooms, including standard rooms, suites, and family rooms, the lodge provides a range of amenities such as a restaurant, lounge, gift shop, golf course, swimming pool, and spa.

Open from early June to mid-September, it serves as a convenient and comfortable base for exploring the park’s east side, making it an ideal choice for those seeking architectural and historical marvels. Experience the allure of Glacier Park Lodge during your Glacier National Park adventure.

Dining

• Great Northern Dining Room
• Empire Bar

Shopping

• Glacier Park Lodge Gift Shop 
• Country Corner convenience store

4. Apgar Village Lodge & Cabins

Warm accommodations, recognizable vistas, and an unrivaled setting within Glacier National Park

Apgar Village Lodge & Cabins is one of the most convenient and affordable places. It is located in Apgar Village, a small tourist hub near the West Entrance. It is the closest accommodation to the park entrance and the visitor center.

It offers 48 rooms, including motel rooms, cabins, and cottages. Some rooms have kitchenettes, fireplaces, or lake views. It also has a restaurant, a gift shop, a bike rental, and a boat launch.

It is open from mid-May to mid-October and offers easy access to the west side of the park, including Lake McDonald, Apgar Lookout, and the Going-to-the-Sun Road. It is one of the great places to stay in Glacier National Park if you want to be close to the park amenities and activities.

Dining

• Freda’s Bar

Shopping

• Cedar Tree Gift Shop
• West Glacier Mercantile

5. Many Glacier Hotel

The “Switzerland of North America,” or the northeastern region of Glacier National Park, is home to the Many Glacier Hotel. Magnificent, breathtaking outside. Inside, a grand, soaring lobby

Many Glacier Hotel is one of the most iconic and historic places to stay in Glacier National Park. It is located on the eastern shore of Swiftcurrent Lake, in the heart of the Many Glacier area. It was built in 1915 by the Great Northern Railway and features Swiss chalet-style architecture and a majestic setting.

Partially refurbished in 2016, this private five-story hotel features a total of 2 suites, 7 family rooms, and 205 guest rooms that provide various accommodation choices, including lakeside, deluxe, standard, and value options. It also has a restaurant, a lounge, a gift shop, and a boat dock.

It is open from early-June to mid-September and offers spectacular views of the lake and the mountains. It is a great place if you want to explore the east side of the park, including Grinnell Glacier, Iceberg Lake, and Ptarmigan Tunnel.

Dining

• The Ptarmigan Dining Room
• Interlaken Lounge

Shopping

• Many Glacier Hotel Gift Shop

6. Belton Chalet

At The Historic Belton Chalet, Travel Back In Time To An Era Of Elegance And Culinary Prowess

Belton Chalet is one of the most charming and elegant places. It is located near the town of West Glacier, about 1 mile from the West Entrance. It was built in 1910 by the Great Northern Railway and features craftsman-style architecture and a cozy atmosphere. It has 25 rooms, including standard rooms, deluxe rooms, and suites. It also has a restaurant, a taproom, a spa, and a garden.

It is open from mid-May to mid-October and offers a relaxing and romantic retreat away from the crowds. It is one of the great places to stay in Glacier National Park if you want to enjoy the fine dining and hospitality of the park.

Dining

• Belton Grill Dining Room

7. Great Northern Resort

Located just one mile from the West Glacier entrance to Glacier National Park, Great Northern Resort offers a comprehensive Montana vacation experience for visitors

Great Northern Resort is one of the modern and spacious places to stay in Glacier National Park. It is a family-owned and operated resort that offers 24 log cabins, each with a full kitchen, a living room, a fireplace, and a private deck.

The resort provides rafting, lodging, & fly Fishing. It is open from mid-May to mid-October and offers a comfortable and convenient base to explore the west side of the park. 

Dining

• Railway Cafe

Shopping

• West Glacier Farmer’s Market
• Columbia Falls Farmers Market

8. Paddle Ridge

Situated just beyond the West Entrance of Glacier National Park, this location offers convenient proximity to various activities in the area and stunning vistas of the park’s majestic peaks

Paddle Ridge formerly known as Glacier Outdoor Center Cabins is the most adventurous and fun place. The property comprises 12 log cabins with varying capacities, ranging from one bedroom (accommodating up to six people) to three bedrooms (accommodating up to ten people).

Additionally, there is the Ridgetop Retreat, which includes three bedrooms, three full baths, four queen beds, and two log trundles.

The retreat also offers a spacious conference room, suitable for accommodating extra guests (total sleeps 10), with the conference room providing space for an additional 20 individuals—ideal for youth groups.

It is open from April to October and offers a cozy and rustic setting surrounded by nature. It is one of the great places to stay in Glacier National Park, if you want to experience the thrill and excitement of the park.

Dining

• Backslope Brewing
• Blue Canyon Kitchen & Tavern

9. Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and Cabins

Located one mile from Many Glacier Hotel, is the perfect base for hikers exploring Glacier’s spectacular trails

Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and Cabins is one of the most scenic and convenient places to stay in Glacier National Park. It is located in the Many Glacier area on the eastern side of the park. It is the closest accommodation to the popular trails and sights of the east side, such as Grinnell Glacier, Iceberg Lake, and Ptarmigan Tunnel. It offers 95 rooms, including motel rooms and cabins. It also has a restaurant, a lounge, a gift shop, and a camp store.

It is open from mid-June to mid-September and offers a simple and comfortable lodging option in the park. It is a great place if you want to be close to the hiking and wildlife of the park.

Dining

• Swiftcurrent Restaurant

Shopping

• Swiftcurrent Motor Inn – Gift Shop & Campstore

10. Rising Sun Motor Inn and Cabins

Situated just 6 miles west of the St. Mary Visitor’s Center along the Going-to-the-Sun Road within Glacier National Park, Rising Sun Motor Inn & Cabins is a brief drive from the stunning St. Mary Lake, surrounded by majestic mountain peaks

Rising Sun Motor Inn and Cabins is the most scenic and convenient place built in 1940. It is located in the St. Mary area, on the eastern side of the park. It is the closest accommodation to the St. Mary Entrance and the Going-to-the-Sun Road. It offers 72 rooms, including motel rooms and cabins.

Some rooms have kitchenettes or private bathrooms. It also has a restaurant, a lounge, a gift shop, and a camp store. It is open from mid-June to mid-September and offers a simple and comfortable lodging option in the park. It is one of the great places to stay in Glacier National Park if you want to be close to the driving and sightseeing of the park.

Dining

• Two Dog Flats Grill

Shopping

• Rising Sun Motor Inn – Gift Shop & General Store

11. The Cottages at Glacier

The Cottages at Glacier, located near the eastern gateway of Glacier National Park in Saint Mary, offer top-notch lodging options. These well-appointed two-bedroom and three-bedroom cottages, perched on a hillside, provide stunning views of Saint Mary Lake and the majestic mountain peaks of Glacier National Park

The Cottages at Glacier is one of the most scheduled and peaceful places to stay in Glacier National Park. It is located near the town of Polebridge, about 12 miles from the North Entrance. It is a family-run business that offers 10 cottages, each with a full kitchen, a living room, a fireplace, and a private deck.

It also has a bakery, a general store, and a gas station. It is open from mid-May to mid-October and offers a quiet and rustic setting surrounded by nature. It is a great place if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy the solitude and beauty of the park.

Dining

• Snowgoose Grille 
• Johnson’s Cafe
• Serrano’s Mexican Restaurant
• Babb Bar Cattle Baron Supper Club
• Two Sisters Of Montana

12. Mountain Pine Motel

With quick access to the Two Medicine entrance of Glacier National Park and convenient routes to St. Mary and Many Glacier, this is an excellent starting point for your Glacier adventure!

Mountain Pine Motel is one of the most budget-friendly and cozy places. It is located near the town of East Glacier Park, about 3 miles from the East Entrance. It is a family-owned and operated motel that offers 25 rooms and 1 house available for guests. It also has a laundry facility, a playground, and a picnic area.

It is open from mid-May to mid-September and offers a clean and comfortable lodging option in the park. It is one of the great places to stay in Glacier National Park, if you want to save money and enjoy the hospitality of the park.

Dining

• Cattle Baron Supper Club
• Firebrand Pass Food & Ale
• Glacier Peaks Hotel & Casino

FAQ’s