A tour of lodges of Glacier National Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the park’s stunning beauty while enjoying comfortable accommodations. This journey takes you through five distinct lodges, each with its own character and charm. From the rustic cabins of Apgar Village to the historic grandeur of Lake McDonald Lodge, and the breathtaking views at Many Glacier Hotel, this tour provides a diverse and immersive experience of Glacier National Park’s natural wonders and hospitality.
What Are the Lodges Included in the Tour of Glacier National Park?
The tour of lodges of Glacier National Park includes five main accommodations:
- Apgar Village Lodge & Cabins
- Lake McDonald Lodge
- Many Glacier Hotel
- Swiftcurrent Motor Inn
- Rising Sun Motor Inn
Each lodge offers a unique experience and serves as a base for exploring different areas of the park.
How Does the Itinerary for the Lodge Tour Unfold?
The tour of lodges of Glacier National Park typically follows this itinerary:
Day 1: Apgar Village Lodge & Cabins
- Location: Apgar Village, near the Apgar Visitor Center
- Check-in: 4:00 PM
- Unique Features: Rustic cabins, proximity to Lake McDonald
Day 2: Lake McDonald Lodge
- Location: Shores of Lake McDonald
- Check-in: 4:00 PM
- Unique Features: Historic grand hotel, Russell’s Fireside Dining Room
Day 3: Many Glacier Hotel
- Location: Shores of Swiftcurrent Lake
- Check-in: 4:00 PM
- Unique Features: Stunning lake views, access to hiking trails
Day 4: Swiftcurrent Motor Inn
- Location: Near Many Glacier Hotel
- Check-in: 4:00 PM
- Note: Closed for improvements in 2025
Day 5: Rising Sun Motor Inn
- Location: East side of the park, near St. Mary Lake
- Check-in: 4:00 PM
- Unique Features: Mid-century motor inn style, close to hiking trails
What Amenities and Facilities Are Available at Each Lodge?
Each lodge in the tour of lodges of Glacier National Park offers different amenities:
Apgar Village Lodge & Cabins
- Dining: Nearby restaurants and grocery store in West Glacier
- Activities: Lake access, hiking trails, shuttle services
- Accommodation: Cabins and basic motel rooms
Lake McDonald Lodge
- Dining: Russell’s Fireside Dining Room, lounge, snack shops
- Activities: Boat tours, hiking trails, Going-to-the-Sun Road access
- Accommodation: Hotel rooms and cabins
Many Glacier Hotel
- Dining: Fine dining restaurant, lounge, snack shops
- Activities: Boat tours on Swiftcurrent Lake, hiking trails
- Accommodation: Hotel rooms with lake views
Swiftcurrent Motor Inn
- Dining: Nearby dining at Many Glacier Hotel or snack shops
- Activities: Hiking trails, boat tours on Swiftcurrent Lake
- Accommodation: Basic motel rooms
Rising Sun Motor Inn
- Dining: On-site restaurant and snack shops
- Activities: Hiking trails, scenic drives, St. Mary Lake access
- Accommodation: Basic motel rooms
How Can Visitors Travel Between Lodges?
Transportation options for the tour of lodges of Glacier National Park include:
- Shuttle Services:
- Apgar Transit Center: Offers services to various park locations
-
Going-to-the-Sun Road Shuttle: Scenic drive transportation
-
Personal Vehicles:
-
Parking available at all lodges, but spaces may be limited
-
Guided Tours:
- Some lodges offer boat tours and guided activities (additional costs apply)
What Are the Challenges and Conditions to Consider?
When planning a tour of lodges of Glacier National Park, consider:
- Seasonal Accessibility:
- Some lodges close during winter months
-
Swiftcurrent Motor Inn closed for improvements in 2025
-
Weather Considerations:
- Variable weather conditions
-
Prepare appropriate clothing and gear
-
Specific Rules:
- No televisions or elevators in historic lodges
- Advance reservations highly recommended, especially for summer
What Is the Best Time to Book a Lodge Tour?
The best time to book a tour of lodges of Glacier National Park depends on several factors:
| Season | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (June-August) | – Peak season – All facilities open – Ideal weather for activities |
– Crowded – Higher prices – Limited availability |
| Fall (September-October) | – Less crowded – Beautiful fall colors – Mild weather |
– Some facilities begin to close – Cooler temperatures |
| Winter (November-April) | – Quiet and serene – Winter activities available |
– Most lodges closed – Limited access to park areas |
| Spring (May-early June) | – Fewer crowds – Spring wildflowers |
– Some facilities still closed – Unpredictable weather |
It’s recommended to book at least 6-12 months in advance for summer visits and 3-6 months for other seasons.
How Much Does a Lodge Tour Typically Cost?
The cost of a tour of lodges of Glacier National Park varies based on several factors:
- Accommodation Type:
- Rustic cabins: $100-$200 per night
- Basic motel rooms: $150-$250 per night
-
Historic lodge rooms: $200-$400+ per night
-
Season:
- Peak season (summer): Higher rates
-
Off-season: Lower rates, but limited availability
-
Additional Costs:
- Park entrance fee: $35 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
- Dining: $20-$50 per person per meal
- Activities: Vary by type (e.g., boat tours: $30-$50 per person)
A 5-day lodge tour during peak season could range from $1,500 to $3,000+ for two people, including accommodations, meals, and basic activities.
What Should Visitors Pack for a Lodge Tour?
Essential items for a tour of lodges of Glacier National Park include:
- Layered clothing (temperatures can vary greatly)
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Rain jacket
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Camera
- Day pack for hikes
- First aid kit
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Bear spray (available for purchase in the park)
Remember, most lodges have a rustic feel and may not provide all modern amenities, so pack accordingly.
How Can Visitors Maximize Their Lodge Tour Experience?
To make the most of your tour of lodges of Glacier National Park:
- Plan ahead:
- Book lodges and activities well in advance
-
Research hiking trails and points of interest near each lodge
-
Embrace the rustic experience:
-
Enjoy the historic charm and lack of modern distractions
-
Participate in ranger-led programs:
-
Learn about the park’s ecology, geology, and history
-
Try different dining options:
-
Experience the unique offerings at each lodge
-
Take advantage of early mornings:
-
Enjoy serene views and better chances of wildlife sightings
-
Stay flexible:
-
Weather can change quickly, so be prepared to adjust plans
-
Respect the environment:
- Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the park’s beauty
By following these tips, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the natural wonders and unique accommodations that a tour of lodges of Glacier National Park has to offer.
References:
1. Accommodations at Glacier National Park
2. Lodging, Restaurants, and Services – Glacier National Park
3. Your Glacier National Park Three-Day Itinerary