West Glacier Travel Guide

As the gateway to Glacier National Park, West Glacier is an inviting, friendly community offering exhilarating experiences for a memorable Montana vacation. The destination definitely does live up to the nickname “guide central” with friendly locals ready to take out-of-towners on a fun adventure, whether whitewater rafting, fly-fishing or hiking the scenic trails in the warmer months. Meanwhile, in the winter months, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing provide a unique vantage point to take in the gorgeous scenery from the rugged wilderness to the Cabinet and Swan Mountains. Along with outdoor activities, there are plenty of indoor options to keep travelers busy, including delicious dining at the Great Northern Railway Cafe and the Glacier Highland Restaurant.

Things to Do in West Glacier

A good starting point for any trip is the Crown of the Continent Discovery Center where adventure outfitters are ready to help travelers plan their itineraries for Glacier National Park, which is incredibly vast and well worth tackling the terrain even if just for a few days. Hikers in particular, will feel right at home with some 700 miles of trails, while Lake McDonald is the perfect spot for boating tours and fishing.

As for something else to do outside of Glacier National Park, the Glacier View Golf Course has 18 holes surrounded by pristine nature, private instruction and the 19th Hole Restaurant, for breakfast or a bite after playing a few rounds.

Best Time to Visit West Glacier

West Glacier offers things to do year-round, but travelers who tend to prefer warmer weather activities typically go from June through October, when they can expect pleasant temperatures during the daytime and cooler nights. Fall is fantastic for seeing the foliage change colors, while winter is known for its fluctuating temperatures which can even fall below freezing.