FAQs About Visiting Glacier National Park
Updated January 2025
Planning a trip to Glacier National Park can be exciting, but with so many details to consider, it’s normal to have questions. From park passes to weather and tour availability, this Glacier National Park FAQs guide will help you plan a seamless adventure. And here’s a bonus: if you book a guided eBike tour with us, you don’t need a reservation or park pass to enter Glacier National Park—we take care of it all!
1. When Is the Best Time to Visit Glacier National Park?
The best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for:
Summer (July–September): Trails and roads, including the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, are fully open. Expect crowds during this peak season.
Spring (April–June): Quieter trails, early access to the Going-to-the-Sun Road for biking, and increased wildlife activity make spring ideal for nature lovers.
Fall (September–October): Cooler weather, stunning fall foliage, and fewer visitors.
Winter (November–March): Perfect for solitude and snow-based activities like cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, though much of the park’s infrastructure is closed.
Pro Tip: Spring and early summer are ideal if you want to bike the Going-to-the-Sun Road without vehicle traffic. Book an E-Bike Going to the Sun Road Tour with us, and you can skip the hassle of park reservations!
2. Do I Need a Park Pass to Enter Glacier National Park?
Yes, typically all visitors need a park pass, but here’s the good news: if you book a guided eBike tour with Glacier Hikes and Bikes, you don’t need to worry about purchasing a park pass or making a reservation.
Standard Pass Information:
7-Day Vehicle Pass: $35 for private vehicles.
Annual Glacier Pass: $70, valid for unlimited visits for a year.
America the Beautiful Pass: $80 for entry into all U.S. National Parks.
If you’re visiting during the summer (late May through mid-September), you’ll also need a reservation to access the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which can sell out quickly. But when you book a tour with us, we’ll handle your entry into the park—no reservations required!
3. What’s the Weather Like in Glacier National Park?
Glacier’s weather varies by season and elevation. Be prepared for rapid changes, especially in mountainous areas.
Spring (April–June): Daytime highs range from 40°F to 60°F, but snow is still present at higher elevations.
Summer (July–September): Warm days (70°F to 80°F) with cooler nights.
Fall (September–October): Daytime temperatures range from 40°F to 60°F, with potential snowfall at higher elevations by late fall.
Winter (November–March): Cold and snowy, with highs between 10°F and 30°F.
Pro Tip: Always pack layers, no matter the season, and prepare for cooler temperatures at higher altitudes.
4. What Are the Must-See Spots in Glacier National Park?
Glacier National Park is full of iconic destinations, and these are some of the highlights:
Going-to-the-Sun Road: A must-see for incredible mountain views, waterfalls, and iconic stops like Logan Pass and the Weeping Wall.
Hidden Lake Overlook: A short hike from Logan Pass that offers breathtaking alpine views.
Lake McDonald: Known for its colorful pebbles and stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains.
Many Glacier: A prime spot for hiking, wildlife viewing, and stunning glacier-carved valleys.
Avalanche Lake: A moderate hike leading to a serene alpine lake surrounded by waterfalls.
Pro Tip: Book an eBike tour with us to experience the Going-to-the-Sun Road up close and at your own pace, without worrying about park reservations!
5. Are Guided Tours Available in Glacier National Park?
Yes, guided tours are a great way to experience Glacier National Park. Here’s what’s available:
eBike Tours: Explore the Going-to-the-Sun Road on an eBike with a knowledgeable guide.
Boat Tours: Scenic boat rides on lakes like Lake McDonald and St. Mary Lake.
Red Bus Tours: Take a ride in the historic Red Buses for a narrated overview of the park’s history and landmarks.
Guided Day Hikes and Floats In Flathead National Forest: While guided hikes are not allowed in the park itself, there are plenty of options in the surrounding national forests.
Why Choose Our eBike Tours? With us, you’ll get a guided experience on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, and we’ll take care of your park entry and reservations, so you can focus on enjoying your adventure!
6. Can I See Wildlife in Glacier National Park?
Absolutely! Glacier National Park is home to an array of wildlife, including:
Mountain Goats: Often seen at Logan Pass and along high-elevation trails.
Grizzly and Black Bears: Commonly spotted near huckleberry patches in the summer and fall.
Moose: Look for them near lakes and wetlands in the Many Glacier and Two Medicine areas.
Bighorn Sheep: Frequently seen along cliffs and rocky terrain.
Birds of Prey: Eagles, hawks, and osprey are often spotted soaring above the park.
Wildlife Safety Tips:
Stay at least 100 yards from bears and 25 yards from all other wildlife.
Always carry bear spray and know how to use it.
Never feed or approach wildlife.
7. Why Visit Glacier National Park Before Summer Crowds?
Visiting Glacier in the spring or early summer has several benefits:
Early Biking Access: The Going-to-the-Sun Road is open to cyclists before vehicles are allowed, offering a peaceful and unique experience.
Fewer Crowds: Enjoy quieter trails, shorter lines, and more serene landscapes.
Spring Wildlife: Animals like bears, moose, and mountain goats are more active as they emerge from winter.
Waterfalls at Their Peak: Snowmelt creates roaring waterfalls in the spring.
Pro Tip: Book your spring eBike tour with us for a hassle-free, crowd-free adventure.
8. What Activities Are Available in Glacier National Park?
Hiking: With over 700 miles of trails, there’s a hike for every skill level.
Biking: The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a bucket-list biking destination, especially in spring.
Fishing: Glacier’s lakes and rivers are great for anglers (no fishing license required in the park).
Photography: Capture the park’s stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Camping: Reserve a campsite for an unforgettable night under the stars.
Plan Your Glacier National Park Adventure with Us!
At Glacier Hikes and Bikes, we make visiting Glacier National Park easy and stress-free. When you book an eBike tour with us:
No park pass or reservation is needed—we take care of it all.
You’ll enjoy a guided experience on the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road with expert insights and breathtaking views.
Ready to plan your adventure? Contact us today to book your tour and experience the best of Glacier National Park without the hassle!
You might enjoy these other blogs from Glacier Hikes and Bikes:
