Where to stay in Glacier National Park: Top 10 great hotels

Life in northern Montana takes its own course. Here, hidden mountain lakes still remain untouched, mountains emerge from the earth like huge teeth of a prehistoric monster, and grizzly bears and mountain goats roam the open landscapes. Deep in the Rockies you will find untouched wilderness that is jealously preserved and protected, while allowing visitors from all over the world to join this unmanufactured wonder. We're talking about Glacier National Park, home to turquoise Cracker Lake, the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, and countless hiking trails that can't be explored in just one trip. The area remains wild, and the views are some of the most amazing in the entire country.

Regardless of how adventurous you are and whether you plan to embark on an unusual adventure, you will definitely need a quality break after active days filled with sightseeing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. That's where the best hotels in Glacier National Park come into play. From upscale establishments to historic chalets located inside and outside the protected area, you're sure to find a great base for your outdoor vacation with all the amenities you need.

Belton Chalet

Belton Chalet is technically outside of Glacier National Park, but close enough to it to be less than a mile from the west entrance. The luxurious five-star hotel is located in the West Shleisher area of Montana. Guests will find world-class cuisine and modern, comfortable rooms inspired by the historic roots of the Belton Chalet, which was founded in 1910. Accommodation options include standard rooms, suites and spacious cottages, ideal for families.

Thanks to a carefully selected wine collection, friendly and skillful staff, and views of the National Park landscapes, the Belton Grill Dining Room has won the favor of both locals and travelers. We also recommend visiting the Belton Tap Room, which boasts a large selection of local beers, wines, spirits and craft cocktails.

The hotel is only open from mid-May to mid-October, so it's worth making sure to book this chic place in advance.

Lakes MсDonald Lodge

This historic hotel in Glacier National Park is located on the southeastern shore of Lake McDonald. Lake McDonald Lodge offers both classic rooms and hostel-style suites that are ideal for travelers on a budget. In addition, if you want to be as close to nature as possible, you can book one of the detached houses. All rooms are decorated in a simple rustic style, preserving the atmosphere of a bygone era, as the history of this place dates back to 1913. However, as a result of the last renovation, several queen and king-size beds were added.

The complex has an upscale restaurant, a gift shop, a cozy Lucke Lounge, and a Jammer Joe's grill and pizzeria. A variety of leisure options are available for guests staying here, such as horseback riding, boat cruises, Red Bus tours, and many other activities.

It is worth considering that due to its location deep in the National Park, Lake McDonald Lodge is only open between mid-May and mid-September.

Many Glacier Hotel

One of the best hotels in Glacier National Park is located in the northeastern part of the reserve. Many Glacier Hotel is known for its fantastic mountain views, and its history dates back to 1915. The largest hotel in the park has 212 rooms, including two luxury suites, which have a distinctive mountain chalet atmosphere.

Many Glacier Hotel is located on the picturesque shores of Swift Current Lake. Although the complex retains its original rustic atmosphere, the main five-story building has been renovated in recent years to maintain freshness and add new amenities. There is a magnificent Ptarmigan Dining Room located on the shore of the lake, a Swiss Lounge, as well as a gift shop where you can buy gifts to remember your wonderful trip.

Like most similar hotels, Many Glacier Hotel is only open during the park's high season, which runs from early June to mid-September.

Grouse Mountain Lodge

If staying in the park is not a must for you, or you are visiting Montana at a time when certain areas of the reserve are closed, we recommend paying attention to Grouse Mountain Lodge, located in Whitefish. The sophisticated hotel is just over half an hour's drive from the west entrance of Glacier National Park, yet has a more urban feel thanks to its location near the city center. It offers the following amenities:

• hot tubs;
• round-the-clock gym;
• indoor pool;
• spa center
• restaurant
• cozy bar;
• various recreation areas.

In addition, guests have the opportunity to use a shuttle service to the Whitefish Mountain Resort, the train station, the airport, or the city center.

The hotel is open all year round, so you can stay here whether you plan to go hiking in the summer and explore the many trails of the National Park or are looking for accommodation to go skiing in the winter.

Glacier Park Lodge

Historic building dating back to 1913, located next to the park in the village of East Glacier Park. The property, now owned by Glacier Park Lodge, still retains its amazing appearance, where the beautiful wooden lobby stands out. This hotel was the first built by the Great Northern Railroad and was also used as the first stop for visitors traveling to the park for decades. Douglas fir logs have been preserved inside the historic site, a fire is always crackling cozily in the fireplace, and guests gather in the lobby every evening to share stories and enjoy drinks in a pleasant setting.

Thepopular Glacier National Park hotel offers comfortable rooms, some with balconies. They do not include TVs or air conditioning, but instead offer beautiful mountain views and fresh Montana mountain air. Amenities such as a nine-hole golf course, an outdoor pool, and a modern spa are available for guests.

Glacier Park Lodge is open only from mid-May to mid-September each year due to its close proximity to the park (no more than 14 minutes of leisurely driving).

The Lodge at Whitefish Lake

The Lodge at Whitefish Lake is inspired by the majestic lakeside hotels of the past. This incredible complex harmoniously combines the best family-friendly amenities with magnificent views. The all-season hotel (unlike most Glacier National Park properties) is nestled between the 28-acre Viking Creek Preserve and beautiful Whitefish Lake, so there's plenty of nature to explore all around.

A wide range of amenities are available for guests to enjoy, so you can create a comprehensive vacation in any style. Some of the key benefits of The Lodge at Whitefish Lake, in addition to its location and views, include

• hot tubs and saunas;
• outdoor swimming pools
• yoga classes;
• free evening drinks and sparkling wine;
• equipment for outdoor activities (canoes, bicycles, snowshoes, etc.).

The complex offers a variety of accommodation options - from lakeside condominiums and standard rooms in the main building to luxurious cottages with floor-to-ceiling windows, large baths, and billiard tables.

Apgar Village Lodge & Cabins

This beautiful Glacier National Park hotel is ideally located on the south shore of Lake Macdonald, in the western part of the protected area. Few can compete with the location and unparalleled views of Apgar Village Lodge & Cabins. Accommodation options include basic motel-style rooms as well as detached cottages (some of which include kitchens, which is especially important for families traveling with children). No matter what you choose, you'll find the privacy you desire and close proximity to the many adventures in Glacier National Park.

The complex is open from mid-May to early October. During the summer months, you can rent bicycles or boats if you want to explore Lake MacDonald. The Apgar Village Lodge & Cabins has a Cedar Tree gift shop, where you can buy not only T-shirts, key chains or other standard gifts, but also unique paintings and sculptures by local artists.

Après Whitefish

This luxury boutique hotel in Glacier National Park is the perfect choice for design and adventure enthusiasts, as well as those who appreciate upscale amenities. Après Whitefish offers 40 comfortable rooms decorated in a contemporary style. The rooms are decorated with original works of art, natural toiletries, and desks. Convenient public areas are perfect for a relaxing rest after a hike or other outdoor activities.

Glacier National Park is just a half-hour drive from Après Whitefish. After a day spent exploring the fascinating protected area, guests have the option of spending time around the campfire with incredible views of Whitefish Mountain or enjoying a relaxing stay in the A-frame sauna. In the morning, you can start your day at the lobby espresso bar, which offers local freshly ground coffee, takeaway sandwiches and salads, flavorful pastries, and made-to-order waffles.

The hotel itself was opened only in 2022, so guests will find the most modern amenities and a fresh interior. The Après Whitefish is located just a few blocks from downtown Whitefish with all its great restaurants. It's also a great choice for winter sports enthusiasts, as the popular Whitefish ski resort is just a 10-minute drive away. The hotel provides equipment storage, and direct access to the lake makes this location ideal for taking advantage of Montana's year-round fun.

Great Bear Lodge in St. Mary's Village

St. Mary's Village is located on the iconic east side of Glacier National Park, offering not only plenty to explore but also easy access to two of the most popular sites - Looking Glass Road and Going-to-the-Sun Road. Please note that to enter the North Fort Conservation Area between May and September, reservations must be made in advance due to high demand.

St. Mary Village includes 127 rooms located in seven separate facilities. However, if you want to get the most out of your stay and experience a high-end accommodation, we recommend staying at Great Bear Lodge. This hotel in Glacier National Park offers beautiful views of Divide Creek. If you wish, you can choose superior rooms, which include a large seating area, a private fireplace, a jacuzzi, where you can relax as much as possible after a day filled with outdoor adventures. Great Bear Lodge also offers small, self-contained cabins.

When planning a vacation in Montana, keep in mind that St. Mary's Village is only open from early June to late September.

Luxe 1906 Barn

Located on the eastern edge of Glacier, Luxe 1906 Barn is a cozy place for a relaxing vacation. The carefully renovated property offers magnificent mountain views. Here you will find rustic wooden walls, a shingle exterior, which harmonizes with warm-colored carpets and plush bedding. The two-storey house, which includes two bedrooms and three bathrooms, is perfect for comfortable accommodation of a large family or a group of friends up to eight people.

Luxe 1906 Barn is a great accommodation in Glacier National Park where you can relax after a hike to the deep blue alpine lakes or a walk along the many trails. Enjoy your morning coffee while taking in the panoramic views from the upper deck, or take a relaxing bath before bed - either way, you're in for a fun and memorable experience at Blackfeet Reservation. If you want to explore the surrounding area, attractions such as Going to the Sun Road and Two Medicine Lake are just steps away.