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Drive from Whitefish to St. Marys

How is the drive from Whitefish to St. Marys? We want to visit the East side of Glacier National Park. We are staying in Whitefish but thinking of taking a road trip for the day to see the East side.

The drive from Whitefish to St. Mary is a beautiful but fairly long journey, covering roughly 120–130 miles one way, depending on the route you take. Expect the drive to take about 2.5 to 3 hours without extended stops. While it’s doable as a day trip, it will be a full day if you want to explore the East side of Glacier National Park, take photos, and enjoy some short hikes along the way.

The most common route is via US-2 East from Whitefish to East Glacier, then north on MT-49/US-89 to St. Mary. This route takes you through scenic mountain passes, forested areas, and small towns like Columbia Falls and East Glacier Village. The roads are generally well-maintained but can be narrow and winding in spots, so allow extra time, especially if driving in early morning or late evening when wildlife activity can be higher.

Highlights and considerations along the drive:

  • Be prepared for limited services along certain stretches. Gas stations and restaurants are available in towns, but not continuously along the highway, so plan accordingly.
  • Stop at viewpoints along US-2 and US-89 for stunning views of mountains, lakes, and valleys.
  • Wildlife sightings (deer, moose, bears) are possible, especially near Glacier entrances—drive carefully and watch the speed limits.
  • The road conditions are typically good in summer, but always check for construction or closures, especially if traveling early or late in the season.

Once you reach St. Mary, you’ll be on the East side of Glacier National Park, close to the Many Glacier area and the St. Mary Visitor Center. This side is less crowded than the West side and offers dramatic landscapes, including glacial lakes, mountains, and more hiking options. However, keep in mind that you’ll need another 2.5–3 hours to drive back to Whitefish, so plan for a long day and consider packing snacks, water, and a full tank of gas.

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