We get a variety of questions from guests regarding Glacier National Park & Whitefish. Below are the frequently asked questions we get the most often and our answers. Feel free to send this along to your family members next time they ask you for planning advice…
When is the best time to visit Glacier National Park & Whitefish?
If you ask any local when they have their family come out and plan a trip, they’ll most definitely say early-June and any time after Labor Day. While all of spring and summer can feel crowded to us, the park and services are generally less congested at this time. Visit prior to Memorial Day or after Labor Day and you’ll also avoid the Entry Ticket Reservation system that sends visitors and locals into a tailspin.
What are the best hikes in Glacier?
I can’t lie- I hate this question. This question starts with a wrong point of view. Type this into a Google search and you’ll no-doubt be bombarded with people touting the “best” hikes of Glacier. In this case, “best” just really means “most popular.” Did you really come to Montana to walk in a line to Hidden Lake? I hope not.
Instead, try planning around what you’re hoping to see and the activity level of your group. Ask yourself these questions:
- What type of milage am I looking for?
- What’s the age range and experience level of the group?
- What’s most important- the view, the experience, or the challenge?
Then- and try not to fall off your chair when you read this- consider a hike outside of Glacier National Park. Did you know that we boast thousands of acres of National Forest lands just outside of park boundaries? We offer private and group hikes in the Flathead National Forest. Let us take you on the paths less traveled- or at least recommend some trails. Our planning advice and assistance is and always will be free.
When does Going to the Sun/Glacier National Park open?
Going-to-the-Sun Highway, however, is another matter entirely. While the road is open year-round until Lake McDonald Lodge, access beyond that gate changes daily come spring. We offer bike shuttles if you’re group is interested in cycling GTTS on pedal-assist electric bike. Alternatively, opt for our fully guided tours. More of a do-it-yourself type of person? Rent an e-bike and head out on your own.
That about wraps up a few of our most frequently asked questions. Oh, wait…. there’s one more:
Is it really like the TV show, “Yellowstone”?
……. insert eye-roll here……
And no. But feel free to reach out and ask us about it…
