Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Outdoors

This is the best time to visit Glacier National Park

By

Glacier National Park, located in the northern Rocky Mountains of Montana, is a stunning expanse of wilderness known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural history. Established in 1910, the park encompasses over 1 million acres and boasts more than 130 named lakes, hundreds of rivers and streams, and around 25 active glaciers. Here’s everything you need to know.

When should you visit Glacier National Park?

Glacier National Park via Going-to-the-Sun Road
Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park Ryan Stone via Unsplash / Unsplash

Best time to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road

The best time to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is during the summer months, typically from late June to mid-September. This is when the road is fully open, and weather conditions are favorable. For the best experience, drive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds and enjoy optimal lighting for photography and wildlife viewing.

Recommended Videos

Weekdays and the shoulder seasons of late June and early September are less crowded, though weather can be variable. Always check current road conditions and weather forecasts, ensure you have a valid park pass, and be aware of any entry restrictions or vehicle reservation systems in place.

Related

Best time to see wildlife

The best time to see wildlife at Glacier National Park is during hours when temperatures are cooler and human activity is lower. Because of this, dawn and dusk are particularly excellent for spotting animals like deer, elk, and bears foraging for food.

The prime seasons for wildlife viewing are spring and early summer (May to June) when animals are active after the winter, and it’s calving season for elk and deer. You might also see activity in the fall (September to October) when animals prepare for winter. The fall rutting season for elk and deer offers unique viewing opportunities as well.

Wildlife is more commonly spotted in remote, less-traveled areas of the park, particularly in alpine meadows, forest edges, and along rivers and lakes. For the best experience, be patient, follow NPS guidelines regarding distance from animals, and use binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens. By planning your wildlife viewing during these optimal times and seasons, you increase your chances of experiencing Glacier National Park’s diverse and abundant wildlife.

Weather and seasons in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year, each season offering distinct characteristics. Here’s a breakdown of the typical weather during each season:

Spring (April to June):

  • Temperatures: Daytime highs range from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 16°C), with nighttime lows often dropping below freezing, especially in April and early May.
  • Weather: Spring brings a mix of rain and snow, particularly in April and May. Snow can linger at higher elevations, and trails at higher altitudes may remain snow-covered.
  • Conditions: The park begins to thaw, rivers and waterfalls are full from melting snow, and wildflowers start blooming by late May to June.

Summer (July to September):

  • Temperatures: Daytime highs range from 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C), with nighttime lows between 40°F and 50°F (4°C to 10°C). Higher elevations will be cooler.
  • Weather: Summer is the driest and warmest season, with July and August being the peak months for visitors. Occasional thunderstorms can occur, particularly in the afternoons.
  • Conditions: Most trails and roads, including Going-to-the-Sun Road, are fully accessible in this season. This is the best time for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.

Fall (October to November):

  • Temperatures: Daytime highs range from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 16°C) in early fall, dropping to 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C) by November. Nighttime lows often fall below freezing.
  • Weather: Fall sees decreasing temperatures and the return of more unpredictable weather. Snow is possible, especially at higher elevations, and rain is common.
  • Conditions: Fall foliage adds stunning colors to the landscape. Some roads and facilities begin to close by mid-October, and snowfall can start affecting accessibility.

Winter (December to March):

  • Temperatures: Daytime highs range from 20°F to 40°F (-6°C to 4°C), with nighttime lows often dropping to 0°F to 20°F (-18°C to -6°C).
  • Weather: Winter is cold and snowy. Heavy snowfall is typical, especially at higher elevations, and the park’s west side receives more snow than the east.
  • Conditions: Many roads, including Going-to-the-Sun Road, are closed in this season. However, the park offers opportunities for winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Wildlife is less visible, but you might not see as much activity.

How many days do you need in Glacier National Park?

The Garden Wall along the Highline Trail in Glacier National Park.
National Park Service / National Park Service

To see and experience the major highlights of Glacier National Park, most visitors find that a stay of at least 3 to 5 days is ideal. This timeframe allows you to explore various key areas, engage in different activities, and enjoy the park’s diverse landscapes, like the Going-to-the-Sun Road and West Glacier. You can also take the Highland Trail from Logan Pass for a great hike or visit lesser-known areas like Bowman Lake for a quieter experience.

What is the most crowded month in Glacier National Park?

Tony Reid Glacier National Park
Tony Reid / Unsplash

The most crowded month to visit Glacier National Park is typically July, due to several factors. During this time, the entire Going-to-the-Sun Road is usually open. The weather in July is generally warm and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.

Additionally, many families take vacations in July since schools are on summer break, which definitely contribute to higher visitor numbers. To make the most of your visit during this busy time, consider arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds, planning your visit on weekdays rather than weekends, making lodging and activity reservations well in advance, and exploring less crowded areas of the park, such as the Two Medicine or North Fork regions.

What is the best month to see the northern lights in Glacier National Park?

Cole Allen Glacier National Park
Cole Allen / Unsplash

The best month to see the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, in Glacier National Park is typically September. During this time, the chances of clear skies and geomagnetic activity align well, increasing the likelihood of witnessing this natural phenomenon. Here are some reasons why September is ideal:

  1. Geomagnetic Activity: Solar activity, which causes the Northern Lights, tends to be higher around the equinoxes (late September and late March), making these times more favorable for aurora sightings.
  2. Clear Skies: September often provides clearer skies compared to the summer months, which can be cloudier and rainier.
  3. Darkness: As days shorten and nights lengthen, there are more hours of darkness, essential for viewing the auroras.
  4. Less Crowded: The park is less crowded after the peak summer season, providing a less interrupted experience.

To maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, it’s essential to find a location with minimal light pollution, such as the park’s more remote areas, and keep an eye on aurora forecasts.

Glacier National Park is a place of awe-inspiring natural beauty and ecological significance, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to experience its pristine wilderness and tranquil landscapes. Whether you’re hiking its trails, driving its scenic roads, or simply soaking in the views, the park offers an unforgettable experience for everyone.

Editors’ Recommendations

Topics
Sarah Joseph
Sarah Joseph
Contributor
Sarah is a lover of all things outdoors. With a bright sense of adventure and a heart for the mountains, she is always…
4 best campgrounds on U.S. national wildlife refuges
Skip what's trendy and see the sights that are actually worth seeing
Person walking through the prairie at Wichita Mountains National Reserve

National parks are well known for their beauty and experiences, but one of the worst parts about them is the high probability of crowds, especially for more iconic attractions. That's one reason why I prefer to visit national wildlife refuges instead. While they might not be as well known, these four refuges offer top-notch experiences that rival anything you'll find at national parks.

According to the U.S. Department of Interior, our wildlife refuge system protects 571 conservation areas across the country. Even though they're not as trendy to visit, staying at these campgrounds on U.S. national wildlife refuges will be an adventure your crew won't forget.
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge (Alaska)

Read more
When you’re hiking in Death Valley, don’t do this
Taking the path less traveled is not advisable in this case.
Rugged and scenic terrain in Death Valley California

Safety should always be a top priority when visiting national parks, and this has become even more relevant than ever as the National Park Service recently had to rescue a hiker from a near-death experience at Death Valley National Park.

Just a few days ago, a hiker found himself in a precarious position after splitting up from his travel buddy and leaving the main trail at Mosaic Canyon. When these two visitors split up, one remained on the established path, and the other decided to attempt to navigate a side canyon, believing he could reconnect with the main trail further ahead. However, as the canyon became steeper, the hiker found himself trapped, unable to move forward or descend safely.

Read more
Big Bend National Park will initiate trail closures because of this bird
Park closures to ensue in order to save this national treasure
Big Bend National Park in Texas

The peregrine falcon is a powerful, fast-flying bird of prey that can reach up to 240 mph in a hunting dive. Though they can be found pretty much worldwide, they almost became extinct due to the use of DDT pesticides, which weakened their eggshells. Recovery efforts in the 1970s and the 1990s banned the use of DDT and captive breeding, which led to this beautiful bird being delisted from the U.S. endangered species list in 1999. Though these birds have recovered to a certain extent, they are still a protected species in Texas, which is why the National Park Service is closing parts of Big Bend National Park, one of Texas' gorgeous national parks, during the nesting period.

From February 1st to May 31st, temporary closures will be set in place. The closed areas will include:

Read more