Which entrance closest to Whitefish?

Question

Can someone please confirm which entrance to GNP we will use if staying in Whitefish? Is the St Mary’s entrance closest to Whitefish?

I was about to purchase timed entry vehicle passes for GTTSR, but it looks like you only need them if you’re entering through the west entrance?

Answer

If you're staying in Whitefish, the West Entrance to Glacier National Park is the closest. This entrance is just about a 30-minute drive from Whitefish, making it the most convenient point to access the park from the town.

The St. Mary Entrance is located on the east side of the park, and it is quite a distance from Whitefish. It would require a drive of about 2 hours to reach, so it's not the most practical entrance if you're staying in Whitefish.

Regarding the Timed Entry Vehicle Passes for the Going-to-the-Sun Road (GTTSR), you only need these passes for entry through the West Entrance (Apgar Entrance). If you're entering the park from the West, especially to access the GTTSR, then yes, you will need a timed entry pass for the date and time you plan to travel the road. However, if you're entering through other entrances like the St. Mary’s entrance, the timed entry pass is not required.

Closest entrance to Whitefish: West Entrance (Apgar Entrance).
St. Mary’s Entrance: Located on the east side of the park, about 2 hours from Whitefish.
Timed Entry Pass: Required for access via the West Entrance for the Going-to-the-Sun Road (GTTSR), but not for other entrances like St. Mary’s.

So, if you're staying in Whitefish, using the West Entrance and securing a timed entry pass for GTTSR would be the best way to explore the park. Enjoy your trip to Glacier National Park!

Which entrance closest to Whitefish?

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