Explore Glacier National Park from Columbia Falls, MT
Columbia Falls to Glacier National Park is just a scenic 15-minute drive, making this charming Montana town the perfect base for your adventure. Located only 15 miles from the park's west entrance, Columbia Falls offers convenient access to one of America's most spectacular wilderness areas without the crowds and higher prices found closer to the park gates.
EXPLORE THE UNMATCHED NATURAL BEAUTY OF GLACIER NATIONAL PARK!
CHECK OUT THE OFFICIAL GLACIER NATIONAL PARK WEBSITE FOR THE LATEST UPDATES & DETAILED INFORMATION.
Crown of the Continent
Founded in 1910, Glacier National Park stands as one of the world's most pristine and breathtaking landscapes. From high mountain meadows teeming with wildlife to the awe-inspiring views along Going-to-the-Sun Road and the crystalline waters of Lake McDonald, nothing compares to experiencing Glacier National Park from Columbia Falls, MT.
The park attracts approximately 3 million visitors each summer, drawn by its stunning alpine scenery, diverse wildlife, and unparalleled hiking opportunities. However, cell phone service can be sparse or even nonexistent throughout much of the park, making advance planning essential for your visit. During peak season, permits are required for accessing the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, underscoring the importance of preparation. To ensure a smooth experience, secure your permits early, familiarize yourself with park trails, and prepare essential supplies before embarking on your Glacier adventure.
Planning your trip from Columbia Falls, MT to Glacier National Park? Check out the Official Glacier National Park Website for the latest updates, trail conditions, and permit information.
Going-To-The-Sun Road
The drive from Columbia Falls, MT to Glacier National Park's west entrance puts you directly on track for one of America's most scenic drives. Going-to-the-Sun Road winds through the heart of Glacier National Park, offering visitors stunning vistas of lush valleys, towering peaks, and shimmering lakes at every turn.
Completed in 1933 after over a decade of construction, this National Historic Landmark spans 50 miles and showcases the park's natural beauty, rich history, and unique wildlife. As you traverse its carefully engineered twists and turns, you'll encounter the iconic Logan Pass at the Continental Divide, where sheer cliffs and diverse ecosystems present some of the most remarkable views in the country.
Important Planning Note: Due to high visitation from Columbia Falls to Glacier National Park and beyond, permits are required to access Going-to-the-Sun Road during peak season (typically early July through mid-September, 6 AM to 3 PM). These vehicle reservations help control visitor numbers, protect the fragile alpine environment, and ensure everyone has the opportunity to experience these incredible views. Book your permits well in advance of your visit, and consider using the free park shuttle system as an alternative.
The road is typically open from mid-June through mid-October, though weather conditions can affect these dates. Without stops, the drive takes approximately 2 hours, but plan for a full day to truly appreciate the numerous pullouts, viewpoints, and short trails along the route.
GLACIER NATIONAL PARK BY THE NUMBERS
Spanning an impressive 1,583 square miles (over 1 million acres), Glacier National Park ranks among the largest protected wilderness areas in the contiguous United States. The park stretches along the Continental Divide, creating one of North America's most diverse ecosystems known as the "Crown of the Continent."
The Trail System: With over 700 miles of maintained hiking trails, Glacier offers something for every skill level—from easy lakeside strolls to challenging backcountry expeditions. To put this in perspective, if you hiked every trail in the park at a pace of 15-20 miles per day, it would take approximately 35-47 days of continuous trekking to complete them all. The trails wind through pristine forests, cross alpine meadows, skirt turquoise lakes, and offer intimate encounters with the park's 26 remaining glaciers.
Beyond the Trails: The park is home to 762 lakes (131 of them named), more than 200 waterfalls, and countless wildlife viewing opportunities. Lake McDonald, the park's largest lake, stretches 9.4 miles long and reaches depths of 464 feet. Mount Cleveland towers as the park's highest peak at 10,466 feet. The famous 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road traverses the heart of the park, crossing the Continental Divide at Logan Pass (elevation 6,646 feet).
From Columbia Falls, you're ideally positioned to explore all of these natural wonders, with the flexibility to return to comfortable lodging, local restaurants, and Montana hospitality each evening.
Why Stay in Columbia Falls?
Staying in Columbia Falls while exploring Glacier National Park offers several distinct advantages:
Convenient Access: At just 15 miles from the west entrance, Columbia Falls to Glacier National Park is one of the shortest commutes to the park, giving you more time on the trails and less time on the road.
Better Value: Accommodations, dining, and services in Columbia Falls, MT often provide better value than lodging inside or immediately adjacent to the park.
Full Amenities: Enjoy grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, breweries, and shops—all the conveniences of a thriving Montana town combined with easy access to wilderness adventures.
Local Character: Experience authentic Montana hospitality in a community that maintains its small-town charm while serving as a gateway to one of America's greatest national parks.
Year-Round Access: While many park facilities close seasonally, Columbia Falls remains vibrant year-round, making it an excellent base for winter visits, shoulder-season trips, or extended stays.
Planning Your Visit from Columbia Falls
Getting to the Park: From Columbia Falls, MT to Glacier National Park's west entrance is a straightforward 15-mile drive via Highway 2 East. The route is well-maintained and takes approximately 15-20 minutes without traffic. During peak summer months, plan for potential delays at the entrance station.
Alternative Routes: For a more scenic approach, consider taking North Fork Road (County Road 486), which follows the Flathead River's North Fork and provides access to the quieter Polebridge and Camas Creek entrances.
Best Times to Visit:
Summer (June-September): Full park access with all facilities open; permits required for Going-to-the-Sun Road
Fall (September-October): Fewer crowds, stunning autumn colors, possible early snow
Winter (November-May): Limited road access but excellent for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
Spring (May-June): Wildflowers blooming, waterfalls at peak flow, some trails still snow-covered
What to Bring:
Bear spray (highly recommended for all trails)
Layers for changing mountain weather
Water and snacks (limited services in park)
Navigation tools (cell service is unreliable)
Park pass or entrance fee payment
Vehicle reservation for Going-to-the-Sun Road (if visiting during regulated hours)
your glacier NATIONAL PARK adventure STARTS in columbia falls
Ready to experience the Crown of the Continent? Columbia Falls offers the perfect combination of convenient access, comfortable amenities, and authentic Montana character for your Glacier National Park adventure. Browse our local lodging options, discover the best restaurants and breweries, and start planning your unforgettable journey from Columbia Falls to Glacier National Park.