Trip Ideas National Parks 9 Best Glacier National Park Hotels — From Historic Chalets to Grand Lodges Everything you need to know about Glacier National Park lodging, including where to stay and when to visit. By Evie Carrick Evie Carrick Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Updated on April 30, 2023 Life is different in northern Montana. Mountains carved by glaciers jut out of the earth in jagged formations, hidden alpine lakes remain relatively untouched, and mountain goats and grizzly bears roam the open landscape. Deep in the Rocky Mountains, a pristine 1,583 square miles of wilderness remains diligently protected while welcoming visitors from around the world. This is Glacier National Park, home to the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, turquoise-blue Cracker Lake, and too many hiking trails to conquer in one trip. Here, the land has remained wild, and the views continue to be some of the country's most spectacular. But everyone, no matter how adventurous, needs a respite from long days packed with hikes and tours — that's where Glacier National Park lodging options come into play. With properties located inside and outside the park, these historic chalets, grand lodges, and sleek hotels provide travelers with a cozy home base for experiencing the great outdoors. Lake McDonald Lodge Courtesy of Xanterra Parks & Resorts This historic hotel sits within Glacier National Park, right on the southeast shore of Lake McDonald. The property offers classic hotel rooms alongside hostel-style accommodations for budget-conscious travelers. Those looking to sleep out in the wild can book one of the lodge's freestanding cabins. Just keep in mind that while Lake McDonald Lodge has many modern conveniences, including an upscale restaurant, the feel is distinctly rustic, remaining true to the property's beginnings in 1913. Due to its location deep inside the park, the lodge is only open between mid-May and mid-September. Belton Chalet Courtesy of Belton Chalet by Pursuit Belton Chalet may not technically be located within Glacier National Park, but it's pretty close (less than a mile from the park's west entrance). The five-star property is situated in West Glacier, Montana, offering discerning guests world-class cuisine and modern, comfortable rooms that nod to the property's historic roots (it opened in 1910). Note that the property is only open from mid-May to mid-October each year. 8 Most Beautiful Lodges Just Outside U.S. National Parks Many Glacier Hotel Courtesy of Xanterra Parks & Resorts Inside the northeastern part of Glacier National Park, an area known for its scenic mountain views, lies the Many Glacier Hotel. It's the largest hotel within the park, with 212 rooms, two suites, a mountain chalet feel, and a history that dates back to 1915. This spectacular Glacier National Park lodging option sits on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake, and while it retains its original rustic ambiance, the five-story property has been renovated in recent years to maintain a fresh, clean feel. The Many Glacier Hotel is only open during the park's high season, which is typically from early June through mid-September. Grouse Mountain Lodge Courtesy of Grouse Mountain Lodge by Pursuit If staying within the park doesn't appeal to you, or you're visiting when certain sections are closed, head to Grouse Mountain Lodge in Whitefish, Montana. This polished property is about a 35-minute drive from the park's west entrance but has more of an urban feel thanks to its location near downtown Whitefish. Amenities include an indoor pool, hot tubs, and a spa, alongside a cozy bar, lounge, and restaurant. It's also open all year long, whether you're seeking Glacier National Park lodging for skiing in winter or hiking in summer. Glacier Park Lodge Courtesy of Glacier Park Lodge by Pursuit Just outside the park in the village of East Glacier Park sits Glacier Park Lodge, a historic 1913 property that has retained its striking appearance and beautiful timbered lobby. The rooms have hardwood floors — some with balconies — while the lodge boasts an outdoor pool, a nine-hole golf course, and a spa. Just keep in mind that due to its location near the park (an easy, 14-minute drive), the property is only open between mid-May and mid-September each year. Apgar Village Lodge & Cabins Courtesy of Apgar Village Lodge & Cabins by Pursuit Perfectly situated on the west side of Glacier National Park on the southern shore of Lake McDonald, you'll find the Apgar Village Lodge & Cabins. Apgar's location and views are hard to top, while the lodging options include stand-alone cabins (with or without kitchens) and basic, motel-style accommodations. The property is open between mid-May and early October — during the summer months, bike and boat rentals are available for guests looking to get out and explore Lake McDonald. Great Bear Lodge in St. Mary Village Courtesy of St Mary Village by Pursuit Set on the iconic eastern side of Glacier National Park is St. Mary Village, a compound of properties boasting a dramatic backdrop and easy access to two of the most popular places in the park: Going-to-the-Sun Road and Looking Glass Road. Note that you'll need to make a reservation ahead of time if you wish to drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road or enter the North Fork region of the park between May and September. At St. Mary Village, you'll find 127 guest rooms spread across seven facilities. For a more upscale stay, book the Great Bear Lodge, which offers views overlooking Divide Creek and superior rooms with their own fireplace, jacuzzi tub, and sitting area. Or, try one of the property's self-contained tiny homes. Just keep in mind the village is only open between early June and late September. The Lodge at Whitefish Lake Courtesy of Lodge at Whitefish Lake Inspired by the grand waterfront hotels of the past, The Lodge at Whitefish Lake combines breathtaking scenery with luxurious, family-friendly amenities. The all-season property is nestled between Whitefish Lake and the 28-acre Viking Creek Wetland Preserve, so there’s plenty of nature to explore beyond Glacier National Park, which is located about a 40-minute drive away. Guests can choose between a range of accommodation styles, from guest rooms in the main lodge to premium options like lakefront condos and luxury homes with soaking tubs, pool tables, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Geared toward groups looking for an all-encompassing getaway, the property’s wide range of amenities includes outdoor pools, hot tubs, and saunas; free-to-use equipment like snowshoes, bikes, and canoes; yoga classes; and complimentary evening s’mores and sparkling wine. Montana Is Packed With Luxury Hotels, Charming Small Towns, and Lots of Adventures — How to Plan the Perfect Trip Après Whitefish Photo: Megan Crawford. Après Whitefish is a thoughtfully curated boutique hotel with elevated amenities for design-conscious adventurers. Its 40 guestrooms are modern and comfortable, with custom artwork, natural bath products, and writing desks, while the stylish common areas are perfect for post-hike relaxation. After a day at Glacier National Park – just a 30-minute drive away – guests can enjoy the property's A-frame sauna or fire pit with views of Whitefish Mountain. And in the morning, the lobby espresso bar offers locally roasted coffee, baked goods, grab-and-go sandwiches and salads, and made-to-order waffles. The hotel, which opened in 2022, is located just a few blocks from downtown Whitefish's bevy of great restaurants and a 10-minute drive from Whitefish Mountain Resort. Gear storage and direct access to the lake make it even more convenient for outdoor enthusiasts that want to make the most of the region's year-round draws.