Worth it to drive to GNP in late December?

Question

My family and I are planning a trip to Whitefish next December after Christmas to ski for four days. We can easily extend our trip one extra day so that we can see GNP which we’d all love to see. I know most of the park is closed for the season, but is there any part that will be open to driving through? We’d love to “see what we can see,” even knowing it won’t be much. But is it worth it for a day trip from Whitefish? I know so much is dependent on weather and there’s always the risk of closures due to avalanche danger and storms. But wondering what usually remains open, where to enter, what might be drivable, etc. Thanks!!

Answer

Visiting Glacier National Park in late December can be a unique experience, but there are a few things to consider before deciding if it's worth the trip from Whitefish for a day.

As you mentioned, most of the park will be closed during the winter months, including the majority of the popular roads and facilities. However, there are still some scenic areas that can be accessed, weather permitting. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect and where you might be able to go:

Going-to-the-Sun Road: The Going-to-the-Sun Road, which is the main scenic drive through the park, typically closes to vehicles above the Lake McDonald Lodge by mid-September due to snow. In late December, the road will be fully closed, and it is unlikely that any portion will be open for driving. However, sections of the road closer to the entrance, near the west side of the park (near West Glacier), may be open to foot traffic, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing, depending on snow conditions.
West Glacier Area: The West Glacier entrance is open year-round, and you can visit the nearby Apgar Village, which may be accessible for a drive. While the visitor center and most services will be closed, you can still enjoy the beautiful views of Lake McDonald, which is a popular winter destination for photographers, especially if there's snow on the ground. A few short trails may also be accessible for walking if you're dressed for the winter weather.
Other Areas: Some parts of the park, such as the Flathead River area or the areas around Lake McDonald, may still be accessible. If you're open to a bit of winter exploration, you can enjoy the peacefulness of the park without the crowds. However, be prepared for winter driving conditions, which can be treacherous, especially if snow or ice is on the roads. Make sure your vehicle is equipped for winter conditions.
Avalanche Risk: As you correctly pointed out, avalanche risk is a real concern in Glacier National Park during winter. Areas at higher elevations, like the Going-to-the-Sun Road, are especially prone to avalanches. Check the avalanche forecasts and road conditions before heading out, and make sure you are prepared for potential closures due to safety concerns.

In summary, while much of Glacier National Park will be closed to vehicles, you can still enjoy some winter beauty, especially around the West Glacier area. If you're open to a bit of a winter adventure and have the right gear, it can still be a worthwhile day trip from Whitefish. Just keep in mind the weather conditions, the possibility of closures, and the fact that many areas of the park will be inaccessible during the winter months.

For those who enjoy winter landscapes, a trip to the park can be stunning in December, especially with snow-covered peaks and frozen lakes. But if your primary goal is to experience the full grandeur of the park, you might want to consider visiting during the warmer months, when more of the park's roads and trails are open.

Hope this helps, and enjoy your trip to Whitefish and Glacier National Park!