Itinerary for 8 days near GNP

Question

Two 70 year old couple that do not hike, but want to enjoy the GNP area. Never been. Found a rental in Columbia Falls and love to do day trips, so thinking of Kalispell, Whitefish, Big Fork? Like to play casino a little. Probably will do the RED Bus Tour at GNP. or should we drive?Planning on Sept and we are flexable in Sept. What would be the best time in Sept as we know some things close? Is these doable? Staying a week to 8 days.

Answer

It sounds like you’re planning a wonderful trip to the Glacier National Park area! With a week to 8 days and no hiking involved, there are still plenty of scenic and relaxing activities to enjoy. Here’s an itinerary suggestion, along with some advice about timing and nearby activities.

Best Time in September:
September is a great time to visit Glacier National Park. The crowds begin to thin out, but the weather is still pleasant, especially early in the month. The majority of services, including the Red Bus Tours and most attractions, are open until mid-September. However, some amenities, like accommodations and restaurants in the park, start to close towards the end of September. For optimal experiences, aim for the first two weeks of the month, before the weather becomes too unpredictable and places begin closing for the season.

Suggested Itinerary (Day Trips & Activities):
Since you’re based in Columbia Falls, here’s an itinerary that lets you explore at a leisurely pace without needing to hike, while still taking in all the beauty and charm of the area:

Day 1: Arrival & Columbia Falls Exploration
- Start with a relaxed day in Columbia Falls. Explore the local shops, galleries, and enjoy a nice dinner in town. Check out the Columbia Falls Farmers Market if you’re there on a Thursday evening. It’s a nice introduction to the local vibe.
Day 2: Bigfork
- Drive to Bigfork, a charming town on Flathead Lake (about a 20-minute drive from Columbia Falls). You can stroll around the town, explore art galleries, and enjoy lunch with views of the lake. If you're into a little more action, consider stopping by the Bigfork Inn for a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
Day 3: Kalispell
- Head to Kalispell, about a 30-minute drive from Columbia Falls. Kalispell offers a mix of shopping, dining, and casinos. If you enjoy a little gaming, try Buffalo Hill Casino or Lucky Lil’s Casino. You can also visit Hockaday Museum of Art if you’re interested in local history and art.
Day 4: Glacier National Park - Red Bus Tour
- Take the famous Red Bus Tour. It’s a wonderful way to see the park’s stunning landscapes without having to hike. The tour includes many of the highlights of the park, including the Going-to-the-Sun Road and Logan Pass. Alternatively, if you prefer to drive yourself, take a scenic drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road (weather permitting).
Day 5: Whitefish
- Spend the day in Whitefish, about a 20-minute drive from Columbia Falls. Whitefish is a quaint town with plenty of charm, great shops, restaurants, and art galleries. You can take a scenic drive to Whitefish Lake or visit the Whitefish Mountain Resort for panoramic views of the area.
Day 6: Flathead Lake
- Head back to Flathead Lake for a relaxing day. You can take a boat tour, enjoy the lakeside views, or visit the Flathead Lake State Park for a peaceful day by the water. You could also stop by The Raven in Polson for a delicious meal with a view.
Day 7: Scenic Drive or Winery Visit
- Take a scenic drive along the North Fork Road (weather permitting) or visit a local winery. You can stop by Mission Mountain Winery or Glacier Distilling for a relaxed afternoon. Both offer great views and delicious drinks.
Day 8: Relax and Explore More
- Spend your last day revisiting any spots you missed or simply enjoy a leisurely day at a local spa or restaurant in Columbia Falls or Whitefish. If you enjoy local history, consider visiting the Conrad Mansion in Kalispell.

Other Suggestions:

Casino Options: If you’re looking to try your luck, in addition to Kalispell, Lucky Lil’s Casino in Columbia Falls is another good option. Both offer a mix of slots and table games in a relaxed setting.
Wildlife Viewing: While you’re in the area, keep an eye out for wildlife. Many areas around the park, especially near Flathead Lake, are prime spots for seeing elk, deer, and other animals.
Scenic Drives: The Going-to-the-Sun Road in GNP is not to be missed if the weather allows, and if you’re not up for hiking, simply driving it will give you the breathtaking views of the park.

Conclusion:
With a mix of relaxed day trips and scenic drives, your 7-8 day trip to Glacier National Park and the surrounding area will be a wonderful balance of exploration and relaxation. Early September would be an ideal time for this itinerary, as the weather is still mild and the park’s amenities are mostly still open. Enjoy your trip, and don’t hesitate to explore the quieter, scenic corners of this beautiful region!

Itinerary for 8 days near GNP

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