1 1/2 days in GNP

Question

My plan is to get to arrive in Columbia Falls at 1 pm, Mon, Oct 7, staying there two nights. I plan on all day Tuesday on the GSR. I thought that for Monday I would head up to Polebridge, enter the park and take the Inside North Fork road back south and return to Columbia Falls. I believe there is construction on the road but it is open. I'll confirm with Park beforehand. Another option would be the Camas road. Any help any of you can give me would be appreciated. I'm not a hiker, more of just driving and stopping at turnouts and taking pictures type.

Answer

With your timeframe of arriving at Columbia Falls around 1 pm on Monday and having all of Tuesday for Glacier National Park (GNP), you can have a very scenic experience without needing to hike. Since your focus is driving, photography, and stopping at viewpoints, planning your Monday and Tuesday efficiently is key.

Monday afternoon/evening options:

Given your 1 pm arrival, you have limited daylight for exploring. Both Polebridge/Inside North Fork and Camas Road are scenic, but here are some considerations:

Polebridge and Inside North Fork Road: This route offers beautiful remote forest and river views. However, it’s mostly gravel and slower driving, so factor in time. The famous Polebridge Mercantile is a nice stop for pastries if open in October. Expect fewer crowds but limited facilities.
Camas Road: A shorter scenic route through forested areas and meadows. It’s easier to navigate than the North Fork loop and allows more flexibility if daylight is short. If construction is ongoing on North Fork Road, Camas Road can be a more reliable alternative.

Either route allows you to enjoy autumn foliage and wildlife sightings. Turn back to Columbia Falls before dusk to avoid driving in the dark on forest roads.

Tuesday – Going to Glacier via Going-to-the-Sun Road (GSR):

This should be your main day in the park. Consider the following for a smooth trip:

Start early from Columbia Falls to maximize daylight on the GSR.
Drive from the west entrance at Apgar Village to Logan Pass and beyond if conditions allow. Even if you only make it to Logan Pass, you’ll see some of the park’s most iconic scenery.
Plan stops at major turnouts such as Lake McDonald, Bird Woman Falls, Big Bend, and Logan Pass viewpoints for photography.
Be aware of parking limitations at popular spots. In early October, the park is less crowded, but winter road closures or early snow could impact access, so check current conditions.
Allow 1–2 hours each way to enjoy stops without rushing.

Additional tips:

Carry snacks and water; services inside the park may be limited or closed in October.
Bring layers; temperatures can be chilly in early October, especially in the morning and at higher elevations.
Check for bear activity and follow park safety rules when stopping along roads.
If you prefer a more relaxed afternoon on Monday, simply explore Lake McDonald and nearby short scenic drives to conserve energy for Tuesday.

With this plan, you’ll get a mix of remote backcountry charm on Monday and iconic GNP views on Tuesday without needing to hike. This provides a memorable fall visit with plenty of photographic opportunities.

1 1/2 days in GNP

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