Glacier visit in June or August

Question

Hello everyone,

We're planning a family trip in mid-June for 12 people and have found a VRBO in the Columbia Falls area. However, I've heard that Whitefish might offer more activities for our six grandchildren, who are all under 14.

While lodges in Glacier National Park are fully booked, we’ve had better experiences in the past with a single house rather than multiple rentals or hotels. My main concern is that I have limited mobility—I can walk about 2 miles with hiking poles and would need to take breaks during that walk.

I'm curious if anyone has had experiences traveling to Glacier with a group that has a wide range of abilities. Any tips or recommendations for making the trip enjoyable for everyone would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you!

Answer

It sounds like you’re planning a fantastic family trip to Glacier National Park! Glacier is a beautiful destination with a wide range of activities suitable for all ages and abilities. Here are some insights to help you decide whether June or August would be the best time for your family, and how to make the trip enjoyable for everyone, especially considering the varied abilities in your group.

1) June vs. August: Which is Better for Your Trip?

June: Mid-June is a great time to visit Glacier as the park starts to open up for the summer season. The weather is generally mild, though some higher elevation areas (such as Logan Pass) might still have snow. This time of year tends to be less crowded than August, and you may find some accommodations available outside the park. However, some trails and roads may still be inaccessible due to snow, so it’s good to plan ahead and check for road closures.
August: By August, all of the park’s roads, including Going-to-the-Sun Road, should be fully open, and most of the hiking trails will be accessible. The downside is that this is peak tourist season, so it will be busier, and accommodations inside or near the park will likely be harder to secure. It’s also warmer in August, making it easier for kids to enjoy outdoor activities without the chilly weather, though it can get crowded at some of the most popular spots.

2) Choosing Between Columbia Falls and Whitefish for Family Activities

Both Columbia Falls and Whitefish are great options for families, but each offers a slightly different experience:

Columbia Falls: Columbia Falls is closer to Glacier National Park and offers easy access to the park's entrance. It’s a quiet area with some local dining options and a relaxed vibe. While it’s less busy than Whitefish, you may have to drive a bit more for family-friendly activities outside the park.
Whitefish: Whitefish is a charming town with a lively atmosphere and more activities for children, such as a community pool, go-kart racing, and a local zoo. Whitefish Lake offers swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, which are perfect for your younger grandchildren. It’s a bit further from the park (about 30 minutes drive), but it could be worth it for the extra amenities.

3) Activities Suitable for a Wide Range of Abilities

Considering your limited mobility, you’ll want to ensure there are activities that are accessible while still providing a fun experience for the entire family:

Scenic Drives: Going-to-the-Sun Road is the most famous scenic drive in Glacier National Park and is accessible to most visitors, including those with limited mobility. You can stop at viewpoints along the way and enjoy the stunning scenery without much walking.
Wheelchair-Accessible Trails: Glacier has several accessible trails that are perfect for families with different abilities. Some easy, flat trails include:
- Trail of the Cedars: A short, flat, and accessible trail through an old-growth cedar forest.
- McDonald Creek: A paved, wheelchair-accessible path that provides views of the creek.
Boat Tours: Boat tours are a fantastic way to explore the park’s lakes, such as Lake McDonald or St. Mary Lake. These tours are generally accessible and offer stunning views with minimal physical effort required.
Family-friendly hikes: If you’re up for it, there are many shorter hikes (less than 2 miles) that are easier to manage. Some popular ones include:
- Hidden Lake Overlook: A relatively easy 1.5-mile hike with breathtaking views.
- St. Mary Falls: A short, 1-mile hike to a beautiful waterfall.

4) Group Travel Tips for a Family of All Ages

Rental House vs. Hotels: A single house is definitely a good idea, as it provides more space and privacy for everyone. Be sure to choose a place with a central location so you can minimize long drives into the park or town.
Plan Breaks: For someone with limited mobility, make sure to take frequent breaks, especially if you’re planning on exploring the park. Glacier’s stunning viewpoints are often just a short distance from parking lots, so you can enjoy the views without having to walk long distances.
Interactive Activities for Kids: In addition to nature walks, you can visit the Glacier National Park Visitor Center, where there are often educational activities and interactive exhibits for children. Also, in Whitefish, the local community center and parks offer fun options for kids.

5) Considerations for Your Grandchildren

Your grandchildren will love the natural beauty of Glacier, and they’ll likely enjoy some of the same accessible activities, such as boat tours, scenic drives, and family-friendly hikes. You can also plan a day trip to nearby Whitefish for additional entertainment, such as swimming, go-karts, and picnics by the lake.

Conclusion: Whether you visit in June or August, Glacier National Park will offer plenty of activities for all ages and abilities. Staying in Columbia Falls or Whitefish both have their perks, but Whitefish might be more fun for your younger grandchildren with more activities available. With careful planning and considering the accessibility of some trails and viewpoints, you can ensure everyone has a memorable time!

Glacier visit in June or August

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