HomeTravelHistoric Chalets and Grand Lodges Near Glacier National Park

Historic Chalets and Grand Lodges Near Glacier National Park

Hotel accommodations near Glacier National Park are hard to beat – just like the beauty of the park itself.

Glacier-carved mountain ranges rise out of the earth in northern Montana, hidden alpine lakes remain relatively untouched, and mountain goats and grizzly bears roam the wilderness. Despite attracting visitors from all over the world, this pristine 1,583 square mile wilderness in the Rocky Mountains continues to be protected diligently.

The iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, turquoise-blue Cracker Lake, and too many hiking trails to conquer in one trip are all part of Glacier National Park. The land here is wild, and the views are some of the best in the country.

The hotels in Glacier National Park offer a respite from long days of hiking and tours, no matter how adventurous you are. There are a number of historic chalets, grand lodges, and sleek hotels within and outside the park that provide travelers with a cozy home base from which to explore the park.

Lake McDonald Lodge

Within Glacier National Park, this historic hotel sits right on Lake McDonald’s southeast shore. For budget-conscious travelers, there are hostel-style accommodations as well as classic hotel rooms. You can book a freestanding cabin at the lodge if you want to sleep out among the wild.

Despite the luxurious amenities and an upscale restaurant, Lake McDonald Lodge still maintains its rustic charm, staying true to its 1913 beginning. Lodges are only open between mid-May and mid-September because they are located deep inside the park.

Belton Chalet‍

It is less than a mile from Glacier National Park’s west entrance, yet Belton Chalet isn’t technically located there. In West Glacier, Montana, the five-star property offers world-class cuisine and modern, comfortable rooms that remain true to the property’s 1910 roots.

Many Glacier Hotel‍

The Many Glacier Hotel is located in the northeastern part of Glacier National Park, an area known for its scenic mountain views. The hotel has over 200 rooms, a mountain chalet feel, and a history dating back to 1915, making it the largest in the park. Located on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake, the five-story property has been renovated to maintain a fresh, clean ambience while retaining its original rustic vibe. Many Glacier Hotel is only open from early June to mid-September during the park’s high season.

Grouse Mountain Lodge‍

Grouse Mountain Lodge in Whitefish, Montana, is a great option if staying within the park doesn’t appeal to you or if you’re visiting when sections of the park are closed. With its location near downtown Whitefish, this polished property is just over 30 minutes from the park’s west entrance. Along with a cozy bar, lounge, and restaurant, amenities include an indoor pool, hot tubs, and spa.

Glacier Park Lodge

Glacier Park Lodge, a beautiful timbered lobby and striking property in East Glacier Park, lies just outside the park in the village of East Glacier Park. The lodge was built in 1913 and has maintained its striking appearance. There are hardwood floors in the rooms – some with balconies – and an outdoor pool, nine-hole golf course, and spa at the lodge. Keep in mind that it is only open between mid-May and mid-September each year due to its proximity to the park (a 14-minute drive).

Apgar Village Lodge & Cabins‍

Apgar Village Lodge & Cabins is located on the southern shore of Lake McDonald on the west side of Glacier National Park. The location and views at Apgar are hard to beat, and the lodging includes cabins (with or without kitchens), as well as basic, motel-style accommodations. In the summer months, guests looking to explore Lake McDonald can rent bikes and boats from the property, which is open from mid-May to early October.

Great Bear Lodge in St. Mary Village‍

A compound of properties set along the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road and Looking Glass Road is situated in St. Mary Village on the east side of Glacier National Park.

There are more than 120 guest rooms spread across seven facilities at St. Mary Village. The Great Bear Lodge offers superior rooms with fireplaces, Jacuzzi tubs, and sitting areas with views overlooking Divide Creek. You can also rent a self-contained tiny house at the property. There is only a short opening season for the village between early June and mid- to late September.

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