East or West for lodging in June

Question

Hi.

In mid-June,

I will be in Whitefish for 3 days for a conference (with afternoons free to explore) , then plan on spending 3 more days visiting the Park.

Solo female traveler. Hiking, biking, horseback riding, boating, kayaking all sound great (no strenuous hikes over 5 miles). I will have a rental car.

Pros/cons of staying on the West side vs East?

I do see there are more amenities on the west... but I would like to sleep in a decent quiet place with scenic views--(so not a place right in town and not a budget/no frills kind of place. ). A little concerned I won't find good eating options on the East side (vegetarian/healthy foods).

Answer

Great to hear you're planning a visit to Glacier National Park! With your interests in hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities, both the East and West sides of the park offer unique experiences. Here's a comparison to help you decide which side might be best for you as a solo female traveler:

West Side
- Pro: More amenities – The West side, particularly around the town of Whitefish and West Glacier, offers more options for dining, shopping, and lodging. You'll have better access to a variety of restaurants, including those with vegetarian/healthy food options, such as The Whitefish Lake Restaurant or Haskill Station for healthier fare.
- Pro: Easy access to popular areas – The West side provides quicker access to some of the park's most popular attractions, including Lake McDonald, Apgar Village, and Going-to-the-Sun Road (if open). These are great for hiking, kayaking, and sightseeing.
- Pro: More lodging choices – The West side has a wider selection of lodgings, from charming cabins to upscale resorts like Glacier National Park Lodge or Lake McDonald Lodge. You'll find plenty of options that offer scenic views and a quieter, more relaxing atmosphere away from the busier town centers.
- Con: Can be busier – Since the West side is more developed and accessible, it can be crowded during peak tourist seasons, especially around the popular spots like Lake McDonald. This can mean more traffic and noise, though staying in a quieter lodge off the main road can mitigate this.
East Side
- Pro: More remote and tranquil – The East side is much quieter and offers a more remote, rugged experience. You'll be closer to the Many Glacier and Two Medicine areas, which are less crowded and more tranquil, offering more secluded hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Pro: Great hiking and outdoor activities – The East side offers excellent hiking trails, like those at Grinnell Glacier and Iceberg Lake, which are perfect for moderate hikes under 5 miles. You'll also find some horseback riding and kayaking options, but they tend to be less commercialized than on the West side.
- Con: Limited dining options – While there are some dining options on the East side, such as at the Many Glacier Hotel or Swiftcurrent Motor Inn, the choices are more limited compared to the West side. If you are particular about having vegetarian or healthy options, you might need to plan ahead or bring snacks to supplement your meals.
- Con: Fewer lodging choices – While the East side offers more rustic and scenic lodging options, including historic lodges like Many Glacier Hotel, it has fewer upscale choices. Accommodations are often more rustic and may not offer the same level of comfort or amenities as those on the West side.

Recommendation: Given your preference for a quiet place with scenic views and a bit more comfort, I’d suggest staying on the West side, especially around West Glacier or Lake McDonald Lodge. These areas offer a good balance of tranquility, scenic beauty, and easy access to the park's popular activities, with more diverse dining options for vegetarian or healthy eating. You’ll still be able to explore the quieter and more remote East side, but with the added benefits of more amenities and comfort for your stay.

Overall, both sides have a lot to offer, but the West side will likely provide the best mix of accessibility, comfort, and activities for your needs. Enjoy your trip to Glacier National Park!

East or West for lodging in June

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