Glacier National Park, renowned for its pristine wilderness and stunning alpine scenery, attracts visitors from around the world. For those planning a trip, understanding the air port options near Glacier National Park is crucial. The closest major airport is Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana, just 30 miles from the park’s West Entrance. Other options include airports in Missoula, Great Falls, and even international airports in Canada, each offering unique advantages for travelers depending on their itinerary and preferences.
What Are the Nearest Major Airports to Glacier National Park?
When planning your trip to Glacier National Park, you have several airport options to consider. Here’s a breakdown of the nearest major airports:
- Glacier Park International Airport (FCA)
- Location: Kalispell, MT
- Distance to park: 30 miles (40-minute drive)
- Airlines: Delta, United, Alaska, Allegiant
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Best for: Closest access to the park’s West Entrance
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Missoula Montana Airport (MSO)
- Location: Missoula, MT
- Distance to park: 90 miles (2-hour drive)
- Airlines: American, Delta, Allegiant, Alaska, Frontier, United
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Best for: More flight options and year-round service
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Great Falls International Airport (GTF)
- Location: Great Falls, MT
- Distance to park: 155 miles (2.5-hour drive)
- Airlines: Delta, United, Alaska, Allegiant
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Best for: Access to the East Entrance and year-round service
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Spokane International Airport (GEG)
- Location: Spokane, WA
- Distance to park: 270 miles (4-5 hour drive)
- Airlines: Multiple major carriers
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Best for: Most flight options, but requires significant driving
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Lethbridge Airport (YQL)
- Location: Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
- Distance to park: 125 miles (2-hour drive including border crossing)
- Airlines: Air Canada, Integra Air
- Best for: Canadian visitors or those combining with a trip to Canadian parks
Which Airport Offers the Best Shuttle Services to Glacier National Park?
When it comes to shuttle services, Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) stands out as the most convenient option:
- Park Shuttles: Available from FCA to various destinations within the park
- Pickup Location: Airport terminal
- Schedule: Typically operates during peak season (May to September)
- Cost: Varies, check with airport or park services for current rates
Other airports like Missoula (MSO) and Great Falls (GTF) do not offer direct shuttle services to the park. Visitors arriving at these airports will need to rent a car or use public transportation to reach Glacier National Park.
What Flight Options Are Available to Glacier Park International Airport?
Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) offers several flight options:
| Airline | Destinations | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Delta | Salt Lake City, Minneapolis | Daily |
| United | Denver, Chicago | Daily |
| Alaska | Seattle | Daily |
| Allegiant | Las Vegas | Twice weekly |
Seasonal variations include:
– Increased flights from May to September
– Additional routes from cities like Phoenix, Los Angeles, and Houston during peak season
How Do Canadian Airports Factor into Visiting Glacier National Park?
For visitors coming from or planning to visit Canada, two additional airports are worth considering:
- Calgary International Airport (YYC)
- Distance to park: 187 miles to St. Mary Entrance
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Advantages:
- International airport with more flight options
- Convenient for combining with visits to Canadian parks like Banff and Jasper
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Lethbridge Airport (YQL)
- Distance to park: 125 miles to East Entrance
- Advantages:
- Closer to the park than Calgary
- Less busy, potentially quicker processing times
Both options require crossing the US-Canada border, so factor in additional time for border procedures.
What Should You Consider When Choosing an Airport for Your Glacier National Park Visit?
When selecting the best airport for your Glacier National Park trip, consider the following factors:
- Distance to the park: Closer airports like FCA offer quicker access but may have limited flight options.
- Flight availability and cost: Larger airports like Spokane may offer more competitive fares.
- Rental car options: All mentioned airports offer car rentals, essential for park exploration.
- Seasonal considerations: Some airports have increased service during peak summer months.
- Park entrance proximity: Different airports provide easier access to specific park entrances.
How Can You Make the Most of Your Airport-to-Park Journey?
Regardless of which airport you choose, here are tips to enhance your journey to Glacier National Park:
- Book flights and car rentals early, especially for peak season visits.
- Consider a scenic route from the airport to the park for added sightseeing.
- Plan for potential weather-related delays, particularly in winter months.
- Check park shuttle schedules if you’re not renting a car.
- Allow extra time if crossing the US-Canada border from Canadian airports.
By carefully considering your options and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth start to your Glacier National Park adventure, regardless of which air port near Glacier National Park you choose to fly into.