Driving cross country

Question

GNP is on our bucket list in the next couple years. In the meantime my wife and I just sold our house in New Hampshire and are going to see family in northern Washington.

Taking the route to drive through GNP in early May - is it safe and worth it? I can imagine a beautiful drive through it.

Also we have a couple of nights we can stay. Is there a town you can recommend on the East or west side we stay and at least see some stuff?

Thank you so much for your feedback!

Answer

Driving through Glacier National Park (GNP) in early May can be a bit tricky, as the weather can still be unpredictable, especially at higher elevations. Many of the park’s roads, including the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, typically do not open until late June or early July, depending on snow conditions. That said, driving through GNP in May can still offer beautiful views of the park, particularly the lower elevations, but you may not be able to access the more scenic higher points of the park until the roads fully open. However, the surrounding areas offer plenty of natural beauty, and you’ll find lots of picturesque landscapes.

In terms of safety, it's generally safe to drive through the park in May, but be prepared for potential snow and ice, particularly on higher ground. Be sure to check weather forecasts and road conditions before you go, as some roads might still be closed or impassable in May.

If you have a couple of nights to stay and want to explore the area, both the east and west sides of Glacier National Park have their own charm:

West Glacier: The west side is home to the park's main entrance, and it's a great spot to stay if you want to be close to the park’s visitor center, the Apgar Village, and Lake McDonald. The area around Lake McDonald offers fantastic hiking opportunities, and you’ll be able to enjoy some of the park’s iconic views. There are also several cozy lodges and cabins to stay in.
East Glacier: On the east side, the town of East Glacier Park is a good option. It's quieter and offers access to different parts of the park, such as Two Medicine Lake, which is particularly stunning in May when it’s less crowded. You can explore short hikes in the area and enjoy the dramatic scenery. There are a few small lodges and hotels, providing a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere.
Columbia Falls: If you're looking for a base a bit outside the park, Columbia Falls is another great option. It’s a small town just outside the west entrance, offering a wide range of accommodations and some good dining options. From here, you can easily access both the park and nearby attractions like the Flathead River and Flathead Lake.

In terms of things to do, on the west side, you can visit Lake McDonald, take easy hikes, and explore the nearby towns. On the east side, be sure to check out Two Medicine Lake and the nearby hiking trails. If the weather permits, you can also explore the lower sections of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, as some areas may open early depending on snow conditions.

Overall, early May is a transitional time, so you'll experience a quieter, less crowded park. If you're looking to enjoy the beauty of Glacier without the summer crowds, it's a good time to visit—but just be prepared for limited access to some of the park’s most iconic locations.

Driving cross country

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