How Do I Get to Glacier National Park? (2025 Travel Guide)
Everything You Need to Know About Getting to Glacier National Park in Montana
If you’re planning a trip to Glacier National Park in 2025, one of the most common questions is: “How do I get to Glacier National Park?” Whether you’re flying, driving, or coming by train, this guide breaks down the best ways to reach the park—plus local travel tips from a Montana-based outfitter.
🚙 Driving to Glacier National Park
Most visitors reach Glacier by car. The park has multiple entrances, but the two most commonly used are:
West Glacier Entrance: Closest to Whitefish and Kalispell
St. Mary Entrance (East Glacier): Accessed via U.S. Highway 89 from Browning
Best Driving Routes:
From Seattle: ~9 hours via I-90 E and US-2 E
From Spokane: ~5.5 hours via US-2 E
From Calgary, Alberta: ~4.5 hours via AB-2 S to U.S. border crossing at Carway
Tip: Rental cars sell out quickly in peak summer months. Book early, or consider shuttle services once you arrive.
✈️ Flying to Glacier National Park
The nearest major airport is:
Glacier Park International Airport (FCA)
Located in Kalispell, Montana – just 30 minutes from the park's west entrance.
Other options include:
Missoula International Airport (MSO) – ~2.5 hours away
Great Falls International Airport (GTF) – ~2 hours from East Glacier
Calgary International Airport (YYC) – Ideal if you're visiting Waterton Lakes too
Once you land, you can rent a car, hire a private shuttle, or use local transportation services.
🚆 Taking the Train to Glacier
Amtrak’s Empire Builder line stops at two stations near Glacier:
West Glacier (Belton Station): Closest to Apgar and Lake McDonald
East Glacier Park Station: Best for accessing Two Medicine and St. Mary
Taking the train is a scenic and stress-free option. You’ll want to arrange a shuttle or ride from the station to your trailhead, lodge, or campground.
🚌 Shuttle & Tour Options
Glacier National Park now requires vehicle reservations for popular areas like Going-to-the-Sun Road and Many Glacier. If you don’t have a car reservation, don’t worry—shuttle services and guided tours can get you in without the hassle.
At Glacier Hikes & Bikes, we offer:
Daily shuttles from Whitefish to Many Glacier
Pickups in Columbia Falls, Hungry Horse, and St. Mary
Guaranteed drop-off at Grinnell Glacier and Iceberg Lake trailheads
$199 per person (1–3 guests), or $149 each for groups of 4+
This is one of the best ways to get into the east side of the park without needing hotel or boat reservations (which are now required for vehicle access at Swiftcurrent due to ongoing construction in 2025).
🔎 Local Travel Tips for 2025
Book everything early. Lodging, rental cars, and shuttles often sell out by May.
Expect construction delays. Especially near Swiftcurrent and St. Mary.
Cracker Lake is currently closed due to bear activity (as of July 2025).
Grinnell Lake is open and has frequent moose and bear sightings.
Iceberg Lake is a longer hike this year due to trailhead access limits.
Final Thoughts: Your Glacier Trip Starts with the Right Plan
Whether you’re flying into Kalispell, hopping off the Amtrak, or road-tripping across Montana, getting to Glacier National Park in 2025 is easier when you know what to expect.
For a stress-free experience, consider reserving a spot on a guided shuttle or hike, especially if you're heading to hard-to-access areas like Many Glacier or the east side of the park.
➡️ Visit Glacier Hikes & Bikes to learn more about transportation options, trail info, and guided hiking adventures in the Flathead National Forest and surrounding areas.
