Glacier National Park Hotels Between the East & West Entrance: A Comprehensive Guide

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Glacier National Park offers a diverse range of accommodations between its east and west entrances, catering to various preferences and budgets. From historic lodges to modern motels, visitors can find suitable options on both sides of the park. The east entrance hotels, including Many Glacier Hotel and Village Inn at St. Mary, provide stunning mountain views and proximity to popular hiking trails. On the west side, properties like Apgar Village Lodge and Motel Lake McDonald offer easy access to Lake McDonald and the Going-to-the-Sun Road. This guide explores the best lodging options, their amenities, and pricing to help you plan your Glacier National Park adventure.

What Are the Best East Entrance Hotels in Glacier National Park?

glacier national park hotels between the east & west entrance
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The east entrance of Glacier National Park boasts some of the most iconic lodging options. Here are the top choices:

  1. Many Glacier Hotel
  2. Address: 1147 Rte 3, Browning, MT 59417, United States
  3. Contact: Glacier Park Collection
  4. Lodging Options: Rooms and suites, some with lake views
  5. Pricing: Higher end, often over $300 per night

  6. Unique Features: Historic Swiss-style chalet, stunning views of Swiftcurrent Lake

  7. Mountain Pine Motel

  8. Location: East Glacier Park Village, MT
  9. Lodging Options: Rooms with mini fridge and small microwave
  10. Pricing: Budget-friendly, around $140 per night

  11. Unique Features: Quiet location, well-maintained rooms, perfect for hikers

  12. Village Inn at St. Mary

  13. Location: St. Mary, MT (near St. Mary Entrance)
  14. Contact: Glacier Park Collection
  15. Lodging Options: Rooms and cabins
  16. Pricing: Moderate, generally under $300 per night
  17. Unique Features: Close to St. Mary Lake, convenient for Going-to-the-Sun Road access

What Are the Top West Entrance Hotels in Glacier National Park?

glacier national park hotels between the east & west entrance

The west entrance offers a variety of accommodations, from lakeside lodges to cozy inns. Here are the best options:

  1. Apgar Village Lodge & Cabins
  2. Address: Lake View Dr, West Glacier, MT 59936, United States
  3. Contact: Glacier Park Collection
  4. Lodging Options: Rooms, cabins, and family units
  5. Pricing: Moderate to high end

  6. Unique Features: Located on Lake McDonald, close to park activities

  7. Village Inn at Apgar

  8. Address: Glacier National Park, Apgar Lp Rd, West Glacier, MT 59936, United States
  9. Contact: Glacier Park Collection
  10. Lodging Options: Mid-century-style motel rooms and family units
  11. Pricing: Moderate

  12. Unique Features: Retro charm, lakeside location

  13. Glacier Highland Motel

  14. Location: West Glacier, MT
  15. Lodging Options: Western-themed rooms with various bed configurations
  16. Amenities: Restaurant, Wi-Fi
  17. Pricing: Moderate

  18. Unique Features: On-site restaurant known for its pie

  19. The Great Bear Inn

  20. Location: Near West Glacier entrance, MT
  21. Lodging Options: Deluxe bed and breakfast with rooms and cabins
  22. Amenities: Breakfast included, Wi-Fi, beautiful views
  23. Pricing: Higher end

  24. Unique Features: Gourmet breakfast, intimate setting

  25. Motel Lake McDonald

  26. Address: 466 Lake McDonald Loop, West Glacier, MT 59936, United States
  27. Contact: Glacier Park Collection
  28. Lodging Options: Simple motel-style rooms
  29. Amenities: Private bathroom, telephone, ironing board, hairdryer
  30. Pricing: Budget-friendly
  31. Unique Features: Affordable option inside the park

How Does Hotel Availability Differ Between East and West Entrances?

Hotel availability in Glacier National Park varies significantly between the east and west entrances:

East Entrance:

  • High occupancy rates during peak season (June to September)
  • Many hotels fully booked well in advance
  • Reservations highly recommended, often required
  • Possible access restrictions during off-season due to snow and road closures

West Entrance:

  • Generally more accommodation options available
  • Easier year-round access due to milder weather conditions
  • Still advisable to book in advance during peak season
  • Some properties may offer extended seasonal operations
Aspect East Entrance West Entrance
Peak Season Availability Very limited Limited but more options
Off-Season Access Restricted Generally accessible
Advance Booking Essential Highly recommended
Pricing Higher during peak season Varies, some budget options available

What Amenities Can You Expect at Glacier National Park Hotels?

Amenities at Glacier National Park hotels vary depending on the property and its location. Here’s a general overview:

  1. Wi-Fi:
  2. Available at most hotels, including Glacier Highland Motel and The Great Bear Inn

  3. May be limited or unavailable in some remote locations

  4. Dining Options:

  5. Many Glacier Hotel: Full-service restaurant and lounge
  6. Glacier Highland Motel: On-site restaurant

  7. The Great Bear Inn: Complimentary gourmet breakfast

  8. Parking:

  9. Generally available at all hotels

  10. Some offer additional parking for RVs and trailers

  11. In-Room Amenities:

  12. Vary by property, but may include:

    • Private bathrooms
    • Mini-fridges
    • Coffee makers
    • Hairdryers
    • Telephones

  13. Recreational Facilities:

  14. Some properties offer:

    • Gift shops
    • Boat rentals
    • Guided tours
    • Hiking trail access

  15. Accessibility:

  16. Many properties offer ADA-compliant rooms
  17. Check with individual hotels for specific accessibility features

What Are the Most Affordable Hotels Within Glacier National Park?

For budget-conscious travelers, there are several affordable options within Glacier National Park:

  1. Motel Lake McDonald
  2. Price Range: Under $200 per night
  3. Location: West entrance, on Lake McDonald

  4. Features: Simple, clean rooms with basic amenities

  5. Mountain Pine Motel

  6. Price Range: Around $140 per night
  7. Location: East Glacier Park Village

  8. Features: Quiet location, well-maintained rooms

  9. Glacier Highland Motel

  10. Price Range: $200-$300 per night
  11. Location: West Glacier
  12. Features: Western-themed rooms, on-site restaurant

Comparison of Affordable Options:

Hotel Price Range Location Key Features
Motel Lake McDonald Under $200 West Entrance Lakeside, basic amenities
Mountain Pine Motel Around $140 East Entrance Quiet, well-maintained
Glacier Highland Motel $200-$300 West Entrance Restaurant, themed rooms

How Do East and West Entrance Hotels Compare in Terms of Proximity to Park Attractions?

The location of your hotel can significantly impact your Glacier National Park experience:

East Entrance Hotels:

  • Closer to:
  • Many Glacier area (popular for hiking and wildlife viewing)
  • St. Mary Lake
  • Two Medicine area
  • Ideal for:
  • Hikers and wildlife enthusiasts
  • Those interested in the park’s more rugged eastern side

West Entrance Hotels:

  • Closer to:
  • Lake McDonald
  • Going-to-the-Sun Road western section
  • Apgar Village
  • Ideal for:
  • First-time visitors
  • Those interested in water activities on Lake McDonald
  • Easier access to services in nearby towns

What Are the Unique Features of Glacier National Park’s Historic Lodges?

Glacier National Park is home to several historic lodges that offer a unique lodging experience:

  1. Many Glacier Hotel:
  2. Built in 1914-1915
  3. Swiss chalet style architecture
  4. Stunning views of Swiftcurrent Lake and surrounding mountains

  5. Recently renovated to preserve historic charm while adding modern amenities

  6. Lake McDonald Lodge:

  7. Constructed in 1913-1914
  8. Hunting lodge style with a grand lobby
  9. Located on the shores of Lake McDonald

  10. Features original furnishings and Native American artifacts

  11. Glacier Park Lodge:

  12. Opened in 1913
  13. Known for its massive Douglas fir pillars in the lobby
  14. Located just outside the park in East Glacier Park Village
  15. Expansive grounds with a golf course

These historic lodges offer:
– A glimpse into the park’s early tourism days
– Unique architectural features
– Prime locations within the park
– On-site dining and activities

How Should You Choose Between East and West Entrance Hotels?

Selecting between east and west entrance hotels depends on several factors:

  1. Itinerary:
  2. East: Better for Many Glacier and Two Medicine areas

  3. West: Ideal for Lake McDonald and Going-to-the-Sun Road

  4. Scenery Preferences:

  5. East: More dramatic mountain views, alpine meadows

  6. West: Lush forests, large lake views

  7. Accessibility:

  8. East: More remote, can be affected by weather closures

  9. West: Easier year-round access, closer to amenities

  10. Crowd Levels:

  11. East: Generally less crowded

  12. West: More popular, especially during peak season

  13. Wildlife Viewing:

  14. East: Better chances for seeing bears and mountain goats

  15. West: Good for spotting deer and smaller mammals

  16. Budget:

  17. East: Tends to have higher-end options
  18. West: More variety in price ranges

Consider splitting your stay between both sides to experience the full range of what Glacier National Park has to offer.

References:

  1. Reddit – Where to stay Glacier National? East or West
  2. Gather and Go Travel – The Best Places to Stay Near Glacier National Park
  3. National Parks Mom – Where To Stay To See Glacier National Park – For Families

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