The journey from Hood River to Glacier National Park is an epic road trip spanning approximately 600 miles through diverse landscapes. This route takes you from the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon, through eastern Washington and the Idaho panhandle, before reaching the majestic peaks of Glacier National Park in Montana. The drive offers stunning vistas, unique attractions, and opportunities for outdoor adventures along the way.
What are the Best Routes from Hood River to Glacier National Park?
Interstate 90 and US-12 Route
- Hood River to Ritzville, WA:
- Take I-84 East to I-90 East
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Less scenic initially, but improves near Idaho and Montana borders
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US-12 from Lewiston to Columbia River:
- Highly recommended for scenic beauty
- Follows Clearwater and Lochsa rivers
- Offers numerous scenic stops and hiking trails
Scenic Viewpoints and Road Conditions
- Columbia River Gorge:
- Vista House: Panoramic views of the gorge
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Multnomah Falls: 620-foot waterfall, iconic Oregon landmark
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US-12:
- Winding road along Clearwater and Lochsa rivers
- Generally good road conditions
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Potential delays due to road work or weather
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Going-to-the-Sun Road (in Glacier National Park):
- Crosses Continental Divide at Logan Pass
- Multiple scenic viewpoints and pullouts
- Closed during winter, restrictions during peak season
What are the Must-See Stops Between Hood River and Glacier National Park?
Scenic and Recreational Stops
- Vista House and Multnomah Falls
- Location: Just outside Hood River
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Highlights:
- Vista House: Unique architecture, 360-degree views
- Multnomah Falls: 620-foot waterfall, hiking trails
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Maryhill Museum and Stonehenge Replica
- Location: Near junction of US-97 and US-12
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Highlights:
- Maryhill Museum: Art collections
- Stonehenge Replica: Unique architectural attraction
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Quinn’s Hot Springs
- Location: Near Montana-Idaho border
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Highlights:
- Natural hot springs for soaking
- Advance booking recommended
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Flathead Lake
- Location: Western Montana
- Highlights:
- Largest natural freshwater lake in western US
- Scenic towns like Polson and Bigfork
Amenities and Activities
| Stop | Amenities | Activities | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coeur d’Alene | Restaurants, accommodations | Boating on Lake Coeur d’Alene | Varies |
| Libby Dam Visitor Center | Guided tours, information center | Dam tours, educational exhibits | Free admission, tour fees may apply |
| Glacier Highline | Zipline experience | Ziplining, aerial adventures | Varies by package |
What Travel Tips Should I Know for the Hood River to Glacier National Park Drive?
Recommended Vehicle Types
- Reliable vehicle with good fuel efficiency
- 4WD or AWD for off-road or gravel road exploration
Seasonal Considerations
- Summer:
- Peak tourist season
- Expect crowds and potential road delays
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Book accommodations and activities in advance
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Winter:
- Some roads may be closed (e.g., Going-to-the-Sun Road)
- Check road conditions before traveling
- Prepare for winter driving conditions
Unique Challenges and Accessibility Issues
- Road Closures:
- Check for closures or construction before trip
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Especially important during winter and peak construction seasons
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Wildlife:
- Be cautious of wildlife crossing roads
- Particularly in Blackfeet Reservation and Swan Valley areas
How Long Does the Drive from Hood River to Glacier National Park Take?
The total drive time from Hood River to Glacier National Park is approximately 10 hours and 43 minutes. However, this can vary depending on:
- Chosen route
- Number and duration of stops
- Traffic conditions
- Weather conditions
It’s recommended to plan for a multi-day trip to fully enjoy the journey and attractions along the way.
What are the Best Accommodations Along the Route?
- Hood River:
- Hood River Hotel: Historic downtown hotel
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Columbia Gorge Hotel: Luxury option with river views
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Spokane:
- The Historic Davenport: Elegant downtown hotel
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Ruby River Hotel: Riverside location with modern amenities
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Missoula:
- C’mon Inn: Family-friendly with indoor pool
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DoubleTree by Hilton Missoula Edgewater: Riverside location
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Whitefish (near Glacier National Park):
- The Lodge at Whitefish Lake: Lakeside luxury
- Grouse Mountain Lodge: Golf course views, shuttle to downtown
What are the Must-Try Local Cuisines Along the Route?
- Hood River:
- Fresh fruit from local orchards
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Craft beers from Full Sail Brewing Company
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Spokane:
- Huckleberry-flavored treats
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Locally sourced steaks
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Missoula:
- Bison burgers
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Flathead cherries (in season)
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Near Glacier National Park:
- Huckleberry pie
- Fresh trout from local rivers
How Should I Prepare My Vehicle for the Trip?
- General Maintenance:
- Oil change if needed
- Check tire pressure and tread
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Inspect brakes
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Emergency Kit:
- Spare tire and jack
- Jumper cables
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Flashlight and batteries
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Seasonal Preparations:
- Summer: Check air conditioning
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Winter: Snow chains, ice scraper
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Navigation:
- Updated GPS or smartphone maps
- Physical map as backup
Remember to fuel up regularly, as some stretches of the route may have limited gas stations.
What are the Best Photography Spots Along the Route?
- Columbia River Gorge:
- Vista House at Crown Point
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Latourell Falls
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Palouse Falls State Park:
- Dramatic waterfall views
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Best at sunset
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Coeur d’Alene:
- Tubbs Hill for lake views
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The Floating Green at Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course
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Glacier National Park:
- Wild Goose Island Overlook
- Many Glacier area for reflective lake shots
Tip: Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting for landscape photography.
By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable road trip from Hood River to Glacier National Park, filled with stunning scenery, unique attractions, and memorable experiences.
References:
1. https://www.fodors.com/community/united-states/driving-from-glacier-national-park-to-hood-river-1244551/
2. https://glaciermt.com/scenic-byways
3. https://www.glacierhighline.com/blog/glacier-national-park-road-trip-from-portland-itinerary/