Winter Glacier National Park Scenic Driving Tour
Active
3h - 4h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Private Winter Scenic Driving Tours focus on the western areas of Glacier National Park that are open in fall and winter. We make stops in and around Glacier National Park. Your guide will discuss the history of the park, glaciation, and other topics your private group is interested in.
Our stops include: the Hungry Horse Dam & Reservoir, Belton Bridge, Lake McDonald Lodge, Lake McDonald at Apgar Village and to round out the tour, ask your guide to stop at the Huckleberry Patch for a homemade milkshake or Glacier Park souvenir. We love our tours because they're custom, not combined with others and flexible to accommodate your group.
Available options
Winter Glacier National Park Scenic Driving Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Soda/Pop
Bottled water
Snacks
Landing and facility fees
Detailed itinerary
1
Our first stop is the Hungry Horse Dam & Reservoir where guests will learn about town history. Guests will learn about the reservoir and the Forest Service land that surrounds the dam.
2
Our next stop is the Belton Bridge in West Glacier. Guests will learn about the flood of 1964, the history of Belton in Glacier, and enjoy sights of the Middle Fork River.
3
Stop 3
Guests will stop at Apgar Village and/or Visitors center (depending on operating hours) and learn about Glacier, Lake McDonald, etc.
4
We will drive along the lake on the Going-to-the-Sun road to Lake McDonald lodge.
What's not included
Lunch
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
6 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
11 reviews
5★
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Please park on either 5th or 6th then walk towards Spokane Ave to the front of our office.
Important notes
Thank you for your purchase, we're excited to take you on your tour.
Here are some helpful tips: Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. You'll be getting in and out of the vehicle at various stops and walking on uneven surfaces.
Stops include: Hungry Horse Dam & Reservoir, Lake McDonald Lodge, Apgar Village, and Polebridge Mercantile- where you'll have the option to purchase lunch.
About West Glacier
West Glacier, Montana, is a small, picturesque community that serves as the primary entrance to the stunning Glacier National Park. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, this area offers a gateway to some of the most spectacular landscapes in the United States, including glacier-carved valleys, pristine lakes, and rugged mountains. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Top Attractions
Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning landscapes, including glacier-carved valleys, pristine lakes, and rugged mountains. It offers a vast network of hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Nature
Multiple days recommended
Free entry with America the Beautiful Pass, otherwise $35 per vehicle
Going-to-the-Sun Road
This iconic road stretches 50 miles across Glacier National Park, offering breathtaking views of the park's landscapes. It's a must-see for visitors and is particularly stunning in the summer when wildflowers are in bloom.
Scenic Drive
2-4 hours for a scenic drive
Included with park entry fee
Lake McDonald
Lake McDonald is the largest lake in Glacier National Park, known for its stunning turquoise waters and surrounding mountain scenery. It's a popular spot for hiking, boating, and picnicking.
Natural Wonder
1-2 hours for a visit
Included with park entry fee
Many Glacier
Many Glacier is one of the most scenic and popular areas of Glacier National Park, known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. It offers a variety of hiking trails, boat tours, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Nature
Full day recommended
Included with park entry fee
Apgar Village
Apgar Village is a historic area within Glacier National Park, offering a glimpse into the park's past with its rustic buildings, museums, and visitor center. It's a great place to start your exploration of the park.
Historical
1-2 hours for a visit
Included with park entry fee
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bison Burger
A juicy burger made from locally sourced bison meat, often served with toppings like cheese, lettuce, tomato, and special sauces.
Lunch/Dinner
Gluten-free and low-fat options available
Huckleberry Pie
A sweet and tangy pie made with huckleberries, a local wild berry that grows abundantly in the region.
Dessert
Contains gluten and dairy
Fresh Trout
Freshly caught trout, often grilled or fried, and served with seasonal vegetables and potatoes.
Dinner
Gluten-free and low-carb options available
Popular Activities
Hiking
Rock climbing
Mountain biking
Whitewater rafting
Picnicking
Wildlife viewing
Scenic drives
Fishing
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the best time to visit West Glacier due to the warm weather and full access to all park facilities and trails. The days are long, and the weather is generally pleasant, making it ideal for hiking, camping, and exploring the national park.
15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F)
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-7 (Mountain Standard Time, MST), GMT-6 (Mountain Daylight Time, MDT) during daylight saving time
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some potential hazards and challenges due to the remote and natural environment.
West Glacier and the surrounding area are generally safe, with low crime rates and a strong focus on outdoor recreation and nature. However, visitors should be aware of potential hazards and challenges, such as wildlife encounters, variable weather conditions, and limited medical facilities.
Important Precautions:
- • Carry bear spray and know how to use it
- • Stay on designated trails and paths
- • Be aware of wildlife and maintain a safe distance
Getting there
By air
- Glacier Park International Airport • 25 miles (40 km) from West Glacier
By train
West Glacier Amtrak Station
By bus
Kalispell Transit Center
Getting around
Public transport
Shuttle services are available within Glacier National Park and connect to nearby towns. They are especially useful during peak season when parking is limited.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
West Glacier
Day trips
Waterton Lakes National Park
30 miles (48 km) • Full day recommended
Waterton Lakes National Park, located in Alberta, Canada, is a stunning park known for its rugged landscapes, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife. It's a great destination for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.
Whitefish
30 miles (48 km) • Half day to full day
Whitefish is a charming town known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, as well as its proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities. It's a great destination for shopping, dining, and exploring local attractions.
Flathead Lake
50 miles (80 km) • Full day recommended
Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake by surface area west of the Mississippi River. It's a popular destination for boating, fishing, swimming, and picnicking.
Festivals
Glacier National Park's 111th Birthday Celebration • May 11th
Whitefish Winter Carnival • February (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds at popular attractions and trailheads
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it when hiking or exploring the park
- Stay on designated trails and paths to protect the environment and ensure your safety
- Check weather conditions and road closures before venturing out, as they can change rapidly
- Pack layers and be prepared for variable weather conditions, even in the summer
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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