A Local’s Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Glacier National Park (and Nearby)
Traveling to Montana and looking for where to stay in Glacier National Park or the surrounding areas? Take it from a local, you won't want to miss out on these hot accommodations and suite stays (pun intended 😉)! From the best resorts & hotels in Glacier National Park to unique stays and Airbnbs, I’m here to break down my favorite recommendations for every type of traveler based on location, vibe, and budget. Already know what type of accommodation you’re looking for? Skip to that section by clicking below!
- Resorts, Lodges, & Hotels Near Glacier National Park
- Historic Lodges & Hotels in Glacier National Park
- Glacier National Park Lodging: Backcountry Chalets (Hike-In Only)
- Glamping in Glacier
- Glacier National Park Airbnbs
- Camping in Glacier National Park
Resorts, Lodges, & Hotels Near Glacier National Park
As a local, I’ll always believe the best Glacier National Park lodging is actually around the park, not inside of it. Ultimately, it does depend on what you’re looking for (and don’t worry, I’ll list my favorite places to stay in Glacier Park after this), but here are a few reasons I’d recommend these places:
- While waking up to Glacier is pretty and convenient, it is also crowded. Staying 30-45 minutes outside the park allows for more room to "breathe" and explore other local favorites like restaurants and activities.
- Experience the local festivities in Whitefish and Bigfork. Both are relatively "small" towns with seasonal influx due to tourism, with lots of shops and unique eateries.
- Stay near two of the greatest lakes in Flathead Valley, Whitefish Lake and Flathead Lake. Rent a paddleboard, kayak, or boat and enjoy the fresh, pristine water that Montana has to offer.
Local tip: Don’t forget to explore outside of the Park when you’re visiting the Flathead Valley! And these are some perfect places to serve as your home base during your visit:
Great Northern Resort
Great Northern Resort is one of the most convenient places to stay near Glacier National Park if you want to be right by the West Entrance without camping. You can choose between rooms, cabins, and larger rentals, plus they have outdoor adventures like rafting, fishing, and more.
Location: West Glacier (minutes from the park entrance)
Vibe: Rustic, comfortable, classic Montana lodge feel
Perfect for: Families, couples, hikers, groups, early park access, road trips
Pricing: Rooms starting at $185/night in off-season, $359/night for peak season.
Cabins starting at $300/night in off-season, $469 for peak season.
Cedar Creek Lodge
Cedar Creek Lodge feels like a cozy mountain hotel with modern amenities, just outside the hustle of West Glacier, but with great walkability to downtown Columbia Falls. It’s a favorite for travelers who want comfort, easy parking, and a quieter home base after long days exploring the park. They also offer bus and boat tours for easy sightseeing!
Location: Columbia Falls, MT (about 20 minutes from West Glacier)
Vibe: Relaxed, family-friendly lodge
Perfect for: Families, couples, longer stays, travelers who want space to unwind but still be able to bop down a few blocks to restuarants, shopping and cafes
Pricing: as low as $78 per night, with average stays around $233 per night
Great Bear Inn
If you’re looking for something quieter and a bit more low-key, Great Bear Inn is a lovely option. It’s a bed and breakfast-style accommodation near Glacier, so not as fancy as some stays. But it’s calm, comfortable, and a great place to rest between exploring, as it’s about 10 minutes from the park entrance. The grounds are peaceful and beautiful, which you can soak in from their big deck!
Location: Columbia Falls, MT
Vibe: Peaceful, cozy, small inn surrounded by nature
Perfect for: Couples, slower-paced trips, travelers who value quiet evenings
Pricing: $255 to $500+ per night
Firebrand Hotel
If you like the idea of soaking in a rooftop hot tub after a day in the mountains, this one’s for you. Located right in downtown Whitefish, it has cute, modern rooms and easy access (walkable) to restaurants, shops, and drinks. One of the most stylish, modern options on the list!
Location: Whitefish, MT
Vibe: Modern, stylish, boutique hotel
Perfect for: Couples, anniversary trips, honeymoons, travelers who love dining and shopping
Pricing: $169 to $250+ per night
The Lodge at Whitefish Lake
If you’re celebrating something special (anniversary, honeymoon, a life milestone), this is one of the most luxurious options near Glacier and might be the splurge you’re looking for. Set right on Whitefish Lake, this lodge has it all—award-winning food, spa services, gorgeous lake views, and a great location (minutes from shops, skiing, and 25 miles to Glacier National Park’s West Entrance.
Location: Whitefish Lake, MT
Vibe: Classic lakeside lodge with upscale amenities, indulgent atmosphere
Perfect for: Honeymoons, anniversaries, relaxed luxury trips, weddings (you can host yours here)
Pricing: $200-$1,000+ per night
Flathead Lake Lodge
This one is less of a “hotel near Glacier” and more of a long-standing Flathead Valley experience. The lodge is an all-inclusive, ranch-style stay with meals, activities, and almost a classic summer-camp feel. It’s a bit farther from Glacier, but it’s a super unique experience as they book weeklong stays that are entirely all-inclusive. They’ll pick you up at the airport, feed you three from-scratch meals a day, saddle up horses for a ride, invite you to fly fishing, or charter a sailboat for sunset—anything you can think of. A dream if you ask me!
Location: Bigfork, MT (on Flathead Lake)
Vibe: Traditional Montana family-owned dude ranch, family-friendly and activity-packed
Perfect for: Families, multi-generational trips, travelers who want built-in activities
Pricing: All-inclusive week-long stays, for adults from $5,614, kids ages 6-17 from $4,585, and children (ages 3-5) from $2,611
Note: Mid-May to mid-October, often offering special events for spring and fall, but generally closed for guests in the winter season!
Glacier Park Lodge - East Glacier
Glacier Park Lodge is one of the most iconic and historic places to stay near Glacier National Park. Located in East Glacier Park Village near the Two Medicine entrance, this lodge was originally built in 1913 by the Great Northern Railway and is known for its stunning architecture featuring massive Douglas fir columns and a grand lobby often nicknamed the “Big Tree Lodge.” The property blends classic national park charm with beautiful mountain surroundings, offering guests a relaxing base for exploring Glacier. With on-site dining, a historic nine-hole golf course, and easy access to hiking and scenic drives, it’s a great choice for travelers who appreciate history, rustic elegance, and a true Glacier Park lodge experience.
Location: East Glacier Park Village, MT (near the Two Medicine entrance of Glacier National Park)
Vibe: Historic national park lodge with grand timber architecture and classic Montana charm
Perfect for: History lovers, couples, train travelers, and visitors wanting an iconic Glacier lodge experience
Pricing: Typically around $300–$400/night during the summer season, depending on room type and availability
Where to Stay In Glacier National Park
Staying at hotels in Glacier National Park puts you closest to trailheads and sunrise views, but these spots book far in advance, sell out quickly, and operate seasonally. They also tend to be iconic, but not always luxurious! They’re great if you love history and charm with unbeatable locations, but not for you if you’re annoyed by a creaky floor.
Local Tip: Accommodation in Glacier National Park is seasonal only and typically is open from June to late September, depending on snowfall. If you’re visiting in fall, winter, or early spring, plan to stay outside the park in West Glacier, Columbia Falls, Whitefish, or Bigfork.
Operated through Xanterra, options include:
MANY GLACIER HOTEL
This is the ol’ faithful of Glacier National Park lodging, and it’s well-loved for good reason. Sitting right on Swiftcurrent Lake with glacier-carved peaks towering behind it, Many Glacier Hotel is one of the most photographed spots in the entire park as it sits at the epicenter of tourism on the east side of the park.
Location: Many Glacier area, inside Glacier National Park
Vibe: Historic, Swiss-style, old-world lodge with jaw-dropping views (and lots of character)
Perfect for: First-time Glacier visitors, hikers, photographers, couples who care more about location than luxury, anyone who wants iconic views right outside their door
Pricing: $279 - $700 per night
Local Tip: The Many Glacier Hotel books out fully a year in advance. If you’re flexible with dates, you can call weekly to check for last-minute cancellations!
Lake McDonald Lodge
If Many Glacier Hotel is the historic gem of the east, then Lake McDonald Lodge is the gem of the west! In a similar Swiss-Chalet style, this lodge sits right on the shore of Lake McDonald, which puts you right near the beach and docks, and big ol’ views.
Location: Lake McDonald, about 10 miles inside Glacier’s West Entrance
Vibe: Charming, rustic, storybook lodge right on the lake
Perfect for: Couples, families, slower-paced trips, anyone who wants lake views and easy access to the west side of the park
Pricing: $250-$700 per night
Rising Sun Motor Inn & Cabins
Rising Sun is one of the simpler, quieter places to stay in Glacier National Park, but guests are choosing it for its location. It sits right along Saint Mary Lake on the east side of Glacier, with easy access to Logan Pass and St. Mary Valley (two seriously stunning areas)!
Location: Saint Mary Lake, along the Going-to-the-Sun Road (east side)
Vibe: No-frills, classic motor inn with unbeatable scenery
Perfect for: Road-trippers, hikers, travelers who want to stay inside the park without the price tag (or crowds) of the larger lodges
Pricing: $251-$295 per night
Swiftcurrent Motor Inn & Cabins
Just like the Rising Sun Motor Inn, the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn offers a more casual and budget-friendly accommodation in Glacier National Park! Located near Many Glacier Hotel, it’s also a prime location to access some of the park’s best hiking.
Location: Six miles from the Saint Mary Visitor Center, inside Glacier National Park.
Vibe: Simple, outdoorsy, rustic-style rooms and cabins near trailheads
Perfect for: Hikers, backpackers, budget-conscious travelers, early risers, and guests not worried about amenities like TVs or AC
Pricing: $152-$295 per night
Village Inn at Apgar
If you want to stay inside the park but still feel close to West Glacier amenities, Village Inn at Apgar is a great option. It’s small, relaxed, and right on Lake McDonald! If you want low-key evenings after busy days in the park, this is your spot.
Location: Apgar Village, near the West Entrance of Glacier National Park
Vibe: Quiet, casual, lakeside stay with easy access to shops and rentals
Perfect for: Couples, families, travelers entering from the west side, anyone who wants lake views on the west side without preferring the large, historic vibe of Lake McDonald Lodge
Pricing: $347 - $434 per night
Glacier National Park Lodging: Backcountry Chalets (Hike-In Only)
Yes, you’ve got to hike to these ones! If your Glacier trip revolves around hiking, unplugging, and fully immersing yourself in the park, these backcountry chalets are some of the most memorable places you can stay. They’re historic, remote, and absolutely worth the effort if you know what you’re signing up for.
Note for Your Planning: Both chalets operate seasonally, meaning they are only open for the summer months and often have very short seasons due to their remote location. Typically, late June to mid-September!
Granite Park Chalets
Granite Park Chalet is one of the most iconic backcountry stays in Glacier National Park. Originally built in 1914–1915 by the Great Northern Railway, it sits high along the Garden Wall and offers some of the most jaw-dropping views you can find. This is a true backcountry experience. It’s simple, quiet, and completely surrounded by wilderness.
Location: Access the chalets via the Highline Loop Trail (Logan Pass) or the Loop Trail (Going-to-the-Sun Road West Side)
Vibe: Rustic, off-grid, no-frills mountain chalet with shared spaces
Perfect for: Strong hikers, backcountry enthusiasts who are happy to cook, bring in their water (or source it from the stream nearby)
Pricing: $155 First Person, $102 each additional person in the same room (plus Montana Accommodations tax). Optional linen and bedding service: $40 per person.
Sperry Chalet
Sperry Chalet feels like stepping into another era of Glacier National Park. Originally built in 1913, it’s a National Historic Landmark that was lovingly rebuilt after wildfire damage in 2017 and reopened in 2020. This is the more “refined” of Glacier’s backcountry chalets, as it’s still rustic, but with a cozy lodge atmosphere
Location: Access the chalet via the Sperry Trailhead, with a 12.3-mile round-trip hike
Vibe: Rustic yet refined dining and accommodation, reached only by strenuous hike or horseback
Perfect for: Adventure lovers who want dining and amenities at the end of the day
Pricing: $314 First person, $203 for each additional person in the same room (plus Montana accommodations tax)
Glamping in Glacier National Park
If you want the experience of camping in Glacier without fully committing to backcountry life, glamping is one of the easiest, most fun ways to do it! Though only in the summer months, as most glamping spots shut down for the off-season.
Under Canvas
Under Canvas is my go-to recommendation for glamping accommodation in Glacier! You’re still surrounded by nature, still falling asleep to the sounds of the woods…you just get a real bed, a bathroom, and s’mores at the end of the night.
Location: Coram, MT (about 10 minutes from the West Entrance of Glacier National Park)
Vibe: Elevated camping with safari-style canvas tents, cozy beds, fire pits, and a concierge & camp activities
Perfect for: Families with kids, couples, travelers with pets,and anyone who loves a unique hotel alternative without roughing it
Pricing: Starting at $119/night, sleeps 2-6 guests per tent
Unique Places to Stay: Glacier National Park Airbnbs
Montana has REALLY upped their game for some amazing vacation rentals, so it deserves their own highlight as some of the best places to stay near Glacier National Park!
Below I have attached links to some of my favorite Airbnbs in the area. If you're anything like me, on my travels, I love staying at a "local" place and somewhere unique. These vacation rentals are sometimes closer to Glacier National Park than chain hotels and give you the taste of comfort you're looking for after a long day of hiking or exploring!
Best Airbnbs Near North Fork / Polebridge
Best Airbnbs Near East Glacier
Best Airbnbs Near West Glacier Airbnbs
Best Campgrounds in Glacier National Park
It doesn’t matter if you’re an individual, couple, or family, some of the best Glacier National Park accommodations aren’t hotels or resorts but simple, old-school campgrounds. I have camped in the park myself and highly recommend it, so stay a night (or three)!
Plus, camping in Glacier has one extra special perk—it’s a designated International Dark Sky Park! Along with the silence of nature (no cars honking, no sirens, no noises of the city), the dark sky allows for amazing stargazing and seeing some occasional northern lights! Check out more here on the Dark Sky Park designation.
Tips & Info for Camping in Glacier National Park
Reservations & availability
- Glacier has 13 frontcountry campgrounds, 4 of which are reservable online (the rest are first-come, first-served)! You can view all campgrounds in Glacier National Park here.
- Backcountry camping is also available with permits (for experienced backpackers). Take a look at those here!
Cost
- Campsites typically range from $10–$23 per night in summer
- Pricing varies depending on tent vs. RV and campground location
Pets
- Dogs are allowed in developed areas, frontcountry campsites and picnic areas, along roads open to motor vehicles, and in vessels on lakes where motorized watercraft are permitted.
- They are NOT allowed on any hiking trails within the park, no exceptions.
- MUST be on a 6-foot leash, and cannot be left unattended at a campsite.
Wildlife safety
- Bears and other wildlife can and do frequent campgrounds; it is Montana after all.
- All campsites must be picked up with nothing left out when the campsite is unoccupied.
- I highly recommend carrying a can or two of bear spray.
- Campsites cannot be left unattended longer than 24 hours.
Seasonality
- Most campgrounds are seasonal, typically open from June through September
- Opening and closing dates vary yearly, depending on snowfall
- During the summer, campground evening programs are available to help keep you entertained (read more about this here).
Local Tip: Camping inside the park gives you a huge advantage for sunrise access, early hiking starts, and fewer crowds, but it does require a little more planning and flexibility!
Reserve Campgrounds in Glacier
As I said, only four campgrounds are available for pre-booking. You can find all of the information and make online reservations using the links below!
Fish Creek Campground — Apgar West Glacier, MT
St. Mary Campground — St. Mary, MT (East Glacier)
Traveling to Northwest Montana? Don’t forget to book a photoshoot while you’re here!
I hope this guide to the Best Places to Stay in Glacier National Park is helpful for planning your future trip! As a traveler myself, I know firsthand that finding lodging and/or good places to camp is a challenge. So, I hope that hearing it from a local gives some extra reassurance about where you are staying!
There’s so much beauty all around and plenty of outdoor fun to be had, so my biggest tip of all is to book a photoshoot while you’re visiting! I’ve photographed everything from family vacations to surprise proposals to engagement photos and elopements in and around Glacier.
Plan an authentic NW Montana experience and invite me along, and we’ll document your time in this special nook of the country.
Looking for more info or inspo for your time here? I’m happy to help:
→ Bringing your pup? Here are dog-friendly hikes near Glacier National Park!
→ Planning to pop the question? Read how to plan a surprise proposal in GNP!
→ Celebrating an anniversary? This has a fun anniversary shoot idea for you!
→ Honeymooning? I shared how to plan a perfect Glacier National Park honeymoon!
→ Dreaming of eloping in Glacier? Here’s my favorite locations along the Going to the Sun Road!
→ Vacationing with family? Take a look at these family photos in Glacier!
