Explore the stunning landscapes of Montana in our Bozeman to Glacier National Park road trip
Montana is a testament to the country’s untamed beauty and vast landscapes. Its rugged mountains, expansive plains, and abundant natural resources paint a picture of a state deeply rooted in the American frontier spirit.
This state is filled with simplicity and authenticity, yet its towns are often characterized by friendly locals and a laid-back atmosphere. Its rich history is intertwined with tales of Native American heritage and pioneering settlers which is evidently seen through numerous museums, art galleries, and annual events that celebrate its roots.
And while there’s so much to see, do and experience within the state – we thought of curating a guide on a road trip that’s been forever cherished – Bozeman to Glacier National Park.
Embarking on this trip offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of Montana’s natural beauty. The journey takes you through diverse landscapes, scenic mountain resorts, quaint villages, pretty towns, and untouched areas.
So without further ado, let’s get started!
Planning Tips for Bozeman to Glacier National Park Road Trip
How Far is Glacier National Park from Bozeman
The approximate driving distance between the two locations is around 285 to 320 miles (460 to 515 kilometres), and the driving time is usually around 5 to 6 hours. The most common route is to take US-2 W and US-89 S, which take you through beautiful Montana landscapes.
However, keep in mind that travel times can be influenced by factors such as road conditions, weather, and traffic. We highly recommend checking real-time traffic updates and road conditions before leaving for your journey.
Scenic Driving Route to Reach Glacier National Park
The most scenic route for the Bozeman to Glacier National Park road trip is to drive I-90 westward, followed by a northern turn onto either I-15 or, if preferred, HWY. 93. If you opt for I-15, proceed to take the westward route via HWY. 2 to reach the stunning Glacier National Park.
Best Time to Visit Montana
Montana’s prime seasons for visiting are during the summer months from June to August, offering sunny and warm weather, and from December to March, which marks the exciting ski season. Given Montana’s emphasis on outdoor recreation, these timeframes provide ideal conditions for enjoying nature to the fullest.
While summer is a peak time to travel, it’s also worth mentioning other seasons –
Fall (September to October): Fall is a popular time for road trips due to the beautiful foliage and fewer crowds. The weather can be cooler, but the scenery between Bozeman and Glacier National Park is even more breathtaking as the leaves change colours.
Spring (April to May): Spring can be a quieter time to visit the park. While some areas might still have snow, lower-elevation trails and roads could be accessible. However, the Going-to-the-Sun Road might not fully open until June due to snow removal efforts.
Winter (November to March): Winter is a less common time for Bozeman to Glacier National Park road trips due to cold weather and the partial closure of roads and facilities. Some areas might be accessible for winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing but be prepared for challenging driving conditions.
Bozeman to Glacier National Park Road Trip Map
Here’s a driving route map (including stops) to reach Glacier National Park, Montana –
Bozeman to Glacier National Park Road Trip Stops
Bozeman, Montana
Before kicking off your road trip, we highly recommend you to explore Bozeman first. There’s so much to do here, that you’ll want to stay for a couple of nights to experience the city’s charm.
Bozeman is truly a paradisical base for travellers making their onward journey towards Glacier National Park. Resting in the Gallatin Valley, by the Rocky Mountains, this town in Southwest Montana paints a scene of picturesque perfection.
Its vibrant arts and cultural sphere, trendy boutiques, bustling bars, and exceptional dining options rank among its most appealing draws for tourists.
And while there’s a plethora of options to discover in this town, here are some of our shortlisted options for you to explore them in a day or two –
1. Visit the Museum of the Rockies
The Museum of the Rockies stands as a premier attraction in Bozeman. Within its walls, you will find some of the most expansive compilations of dinosaur fossils in the United States, featuring even the largest T-Rex skull ever unearthed.
Among the fascinating treasures to discover are classic automobiles, lifelike replicas of animals, an interactive “living history” farm where costumed staff recreate turn-of-the-century lifestyles, and a range of exhibitions that keep entertaining families.
2. Day Trip to Yellowstone National Park
If you’re staying in Bozeman, there’s no way you would leave the town without exploring the iconic Yellowstone National Park. As the oldest officially established national park in the United States, this national gem is conveniently located only a 90-mile drive away from Bozeman.
It stands as one of Montana’s most sought-after destinations, drawing visitors in droves.
The park sprawls across an impressive 2.2 million acres and is interlaced with exceptional hiking pathways. Within Yellowstone National Park, there are plenty of natural wonders to discover, showcasing a rich spectrum of ecosystems, from rugged canyons to lush woodlands, and even resounding waterfalls.
Some of the recommended guided tours:
West Yellowstone: Yellowstone Day Tour Including Entry Fee
Self Guided Tour: Yellowstone National Park Audio Guided Tour
3. Marvel at Palisade Falls
Palisade Falls stands out as one of Bozeman’s most celebrated highlights. With its commanding height of over 80 feet against a vertical rock surface, the falls look mighty tall when you stand nearby.
One appealing aspect of the waterfall is its location within the Hyalite Recreation Area, a vibrant destination for you to make the most of Montana’s abundant outdoor activities. Exploring along Hyalite Creek, biking through Sourdough Canyon, and experiencing a night beneath the stars at Langohr Campground are among the exciting opportunities for adventure travellers.
Missoula, Montana
Nestled in the western expanse of Montana’s mountains, you’ll discover Missoula, the region’s second-largest city that presents a vibrant fusion of everything Montana encompasses.
The downtown area of Missoula presents a trendy metropolitan hub boasting exceptional dining and energetic nightlife. On the other hand, the surrounding mountains provide a great opportunity for you to explore outdoor pursuits.
Also referred to as the “Garden City,” Missoula boasts verdant hillsides and a meandering river that cuts the heart of the urban landscape. This idyllic setting serves as an ideal base for venturing into the outdoors, embarking on hikes within the Bitterroot Mountains, relishing delectable offerings at eateries and coffee houses, and indulging in a bout of retail therapy.
Here are our recommended picks for what to do in Missoula:
1. Visit the Lewis and Clark Trail
Extending along the entirety of US Highway 12, bridging the gap between Missoula, Montana, and Lewiston, Idaho, the Lewis and Clark Trail follows the path once traversed by the pioneers, Lewis and Clark, during their expedition in 1805.
Dotted along the trail, you’ll encounter landmarks like Travellers End, a site where the expedition camped for a span of three days, and also the well-renowned Lolo Hot Springs, where the group bathed.
2. The Montana Museum of Art & Culture
Positioned within the central grounds of the University of Montana, the Montana Museum of Art & Culture is a repository for more than 11,000 distinct art pieces thoughtfully integrated within the museum’s indoor-outdoor layout.
Featuring a blend of ever-changing displays, the museum showcases works by distinguished figures in the realms of both modern and historical art. Since its inception in 1894, the museum has offered complimentary admission, inviting visitors to explore one of the most exceptional permanent art compilations in the vicinity.
3. Discover Wilderness at Selway-Bitterroot
Nestled along the Montana-Idaho state border, the stunning Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness seamlessly weaves together North America’s most awe-inspiring peaks, valleys, and woodlands.
This expansive wilderness spanning over 1,340,000 acres (542,000 hectares) encompasses a cluster of national forests, canyons sculpted by glaciers, and an extensive network of hiking trails extending more than 3,000 kilometres (1,864 miles).
Flathead Lake, Montana
Drawing global visitors with its diverse range of activities, Flathead Lake stands as a prime attraction. This expansive, natural freshwater lake located in Montana spans more than 200 square miles, offering visitors its picturesque panorama along a remarkable 185-mile shoreline.
Flathead Lake is not only well-known in Montana but also across the broader United States. Hence, it remains an unmissable destination during your Bozeman to Glacier National Park road trip. Even though it’s crowded during the peak season, the lake maintains an enigmatic charm that ensures each subsequent visit presents fresh novelty, uniqueness, and rejuvenation.
Some of our recommended activities to do on your visit to Flathead Lake –
1. Go Boating in Flathead Lake
While there are numerous reasons to visit Flathead Lake, boating remains one of the top activities according to us! Renowned as a hub for a diverse array of watercraft activities, from sail-boating and kayaking to canoeing, motor-boating, power-boating, jet skiing, and even leisurely paddle-boating, the lake offers an exhaustive list of options.
2. Hiking Across Flathead Lake
If you’re into adventure, you’ll absolutely love the hiking and walking trails spread across Flathead Lake. You either have the option to hike Pablo National Wildlife Refuge (Polson) or Jewel Basin Hiking Area (Bigfork) which offers breathtaking views of the entire region. For a more difficult challenge, you can head to the Swan Mountains.
Kalispell, Montana
Kalispell serves as an ideal base to explore some of Montana’s stunning Glacier Country region. This encompassing western area of Glacier exudes beauty and a laid-back charm that’s absolutely worth experiencing.
While Whitefish (its counterpart) garners significant attention due to its proximity to the ski resort, Kalispell still offers a more budget-friendly option and boasts the added advantage of being within a 20-minute drive from the expansive Flathead Lake.
Find out | Best Hotels & Lodges in Kalispell, Montana
Plus, if you’re looking for a quieter place to spend a couple of nights, Kalispell is a great launching point!
Things to do in Kalispell, Montana –
1. Explore the Main Streets of Kalispell
During your stay in Kalispell, make sure to leisurely stroll along the historic main street. This charming avenue plays host to an array of establishments, including restaurants, lively bars, cosy coffee shops, artisanal breweries, and boutiques. If you choose to drive down Main Street, you can still soak in the picturesque vista of the iconic building that hosts the Flathead County Clerk and Recorder offices.
2. Visit the Hockaday Museum of Art
Visiting the Hockaday Museum of Art is one of the splendid activities during your Kalispell visit. This museum serves as a conduit for enhancing the local culture while safeguarding the artistic heritage of Montana’s own talents and those worldwide artists who draw inspiration from this state.
The museum houses an interactive gallery tailored to young learners, providing an ever-changing range of hands-on experiences and activities. This ensures that children can return repeatedly without getting bored with their exploration.
Whitefish, Montana
Including Whitefish, Montana, in your Bozeman to Glacier National Park road trip is an essential bucket-list experience. Positioned in the northwest corner of the state, approximately an hour’s drive south of the Canadian border, this town has all adventure activities covered.
The town’s historical main street is a hub of activity, offering a medley of restaurants, bars, breweries, distilleries, and shopping options. In addition to this, there are year-round outdoor which pull in visitors from other parts of the country.
Find out | Best Places to Stay in Whitefish, Montana
Furthermore, the close proximity to Glacier National Park, Whitefish Mountain Resort, and Whitefish Lake makes the town a perfect location to look out for accommodation.
Some of the amazing things to do in Whitefish, Montana include –
1. Explore Downtown Whitefish
The best way to start your exploration in Whitefish is to explore the Downtown street. This charming area radiates the ambience of an old Western town, offering a plethora of shopping opportunities and a selection of top-notch dining establishments.
Moreover, the shopping scene in Whitefish, MT encompasses a variety of antique stores, boutique shops, galleries showcasing local artists, and jewellers – several of which have a focus on Montana-crafted goods.
2. Visit Whitefish Mountain Resort
Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort stands out as the town’s focal point for tourist destinations and activities. The most significant draw is Big Mountain, which is accessible to individuals of all ages who are looking to try out skiing and snowboarding adventures. Additionally, visitors can partake in a thrilling zip-line tour that provides a sweeping panorama of the mountain’s beauty.
The best way to get up to the top is by riding the Gondola. The ski chairs, in an open-air arrangement, present panoramic vistas of the Flathead region and the encircling mountains of Montana.
Going-to-the-Sun Rd
A trip to Glacier National Park would be incomplete without driving the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. Often called as ‘Crown Jewel of the Continent’ holds the prestigious titles of a National Historic Landmark and a National Civil Engineering Landmark.
It is designated as one of the premier scenic drives in the United States, as it draws millions of visitors from far across the globe.
Please Note: Starting from May 26 to September 10, 2023, it’s crucial to note that Glacier National Park mandates reservations for every visitor intending to traverse the Going-to-the-Sun Road, as well as access the North Fork, Many Glacier, and Two Medicine areas.
Going-to-the-Sun Road spans a narrow expanse with two lanes. This highway traverses the glacier-sculpted terrain, offering awe-inspiring vistas and convenient access to outdoor adventures.
More than just a route from point A to point B, the road was conceived with the notion that the journey itself should be the ultimate destination. This vision undeniably materialized, as travelling this route has become a coveted experience for many.
En route, you’ll encounter dense forests adorned with towering cedars and hemlocks, tranquil lakes, cascading waterfalls, majestic mountains, and suspended glaciers which itself makes your trip to Glacier National Park worthy.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Visiting Glacier National Park is a bucket-list item for so many travellers. It remains an undisputed gem among America’s national parks, which is quite evident from the bustling summer crowds it attracts. The park’s breathtaking beauty surpasses even the most captivating photographs, regardless of the impressive visuals widely available today.
And amidst all the debates over the nation’s finest national parks, Glacier National Park proudly maintains its stature as a founding pillar of the national park system. Throughout the years, it has consistently proven its worth and solidified its position as one of the premier national parks in the United States.
Here are some of our recommended attractions & activities to do around Glacier National Park –
1. Lake McDonald & Apgar Village
The first place you will come across during your visit to Glacier National Park is Lake McDonald. Its pristine waters and kaleidoscopic rocks often serve as many people’s initial introduction to this massive park.
On the southern extremity of Lake McDonald lies Apgar Village, a bustling small settlement within the park. It’s a great stopover point for visitors to avail of essential services and comforts, including campground facilities, a selection of hotels, a visitor centre, a café, a gift shop, and an assortment of additional offerings.
2. The Trail of the Cedars
Nestled just north of Lake McDonald along the famed Going-to-the-Sun Road, the Trail of the Cedars is a gentle hike suitable for individuals of all age brackets. This easily navigable, mile-long loop boasts a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk and showcases the grandeur of colossal red cedars. It’s worth noting that, on occasion, bears can be spotted from the trail, so maintaining alertness is advised.
3. Marvel at the Vistas of Logan Pass
The wildflower exhibitions at Logan Pass stand as a compelling reason for you to make the journey. Remarkably positioned at an elevation of 6,646 feet, Logan Pass claims the distinction of being the apex of the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
The best time to visit Logan Pass is early morning. This quick escapade also guarantees fewer fellow visitors, creating ideal conditions to witness dynamic wildlife activity.
Bozeman to Glacier National Park Itinerary
Here’s a brief itinerary for your Bozeman to Glacier National Park road trip. This six-day schedule ensures that you have sufficient time at each stop, giving you enough flexibility to explore around.
Bozeman to Glacier National Park Itinerary for 6 Days
Day 1: Bozeman to Missoula
- Depart from Bozeman
- Drive Time: Approximately 3 hours
- Distance: Around 202 miles
- Explore Missoula’s local attractions
Day 2: Missoula to Flathead Lake
- Depart from Missoula
- Drive Time: Approximately 1hr 14 minutes
- Distance: Around 69.5 miles
- Enjoy water activities and relaxation by the shores of Flathead Lake
Day 3: Flathead Lake to Kalispell and Whitefish
- Depart from Flathead Lake
- Drive Time (Flathead Lake to Kalispell): Approximately 28 minutes
- Distance (Flathead Lake to Kalispell): Around 19.3 miles
- Explore Kalispell’s town and activities
- Drive Time (Kalispell to Whitefish): Approximately 23 minutes
- Distance (Kalispell to Whitefish): Around 15.6 miles
- Discover the scenic town of Whitefish and its outdoor attractions
Day 4: Whitefish to Going-to-the-Sun Road (West Glacier)
- Depart from Whitefish
- Drive Time: Approximately 32 minutes
- Distance: Around 26 miles
- Drive along the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road within Glacier National Park
- Take in the breathtaking views and stop at various viewpoints
Day 5: Exploring Glacier National Park
- Spend the day exploring Glacier National Park’s trails, lakes, and natural wonders
Day 6: Glacier National Park to Bozeman
- Depart from Glacier National Park
- Drive Time: Approximately 5 hours
- Distance: Around 315 miles
- Return to Bozeman, completing the loop of your road trip
Accommodation for Bozeman to Glacier National Park Road Trip
The best part about Montana is that there’s no shortage of accommodation options. No matter which town or city you choose, you’ll find a great bunch of varietals to choose from. From economical lodgings to lavish penthouses, from serene beachfront villas to secluded private cabins, you’ll find your preference as per your budget and style.
I recommend using Tripadvisor as your platform to book hotels throughout your road trip. We find it more useful because the rates are always cheaper when compared to other booking engines. Moreover, if you book pre-season, you might get good discounts depending on the hotel selections and offers.
Popular Guided Trips for Bozeman to Glacier National Park
In addition to the stops mentioned in our Bozeman to Glacier National Park road trip, it’s also worth looking at some of the guided trips & excursions. This will complement your Montana itinerary, giving you a range of options to elevate your overall journey.
Further Readings & Resources
New Jersey to Florida: 9 Ultimate New Jersey to Florida Road Trip Spots
San Francisco to Seattle: 10 Most Beautiful San Francisco to Seattle Road Trip Stops
Chicago to Niagara Falls: 9 Spectacular Chicago to Niagara Falls Road Trip Stops
Los Angeles to Yosemite: 9 Sensational Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Stops
New York to Maine: 8 Spectacular Spots on New York to Maine Road Trip
