Journey through the Scenic Montana: Glacier to Yellowstone Itinerary
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the United States as you travel between Glacier National Park in Montana and the expansive wilderness of Yellowstone, spanning Montana and Wyoming. This route offers not only picturesque landscapes but also numerous exciting stops along the way. Here’s how you can make the most of your adventure.
How Far is it From Glacier National Park to Yellowstone National Park?
Distanced by nature’s splendor, the extent between Glacier National Park and Yellowstone varies by entrance points:
– Apgar Entrance to Yellowstone’s North Entrance: 408 miles (about 6.5 hours)
– St. Mary’s Entrance to Northeast Entrance: 426 miles (about 7.5 hours)
The Route:
We’ll focus on the popular northern route into Yellowstone. This guide covers a trip that includes stops in Bozeman, Butte, Missoula, Flathead, and Whitefish, packed with diverse activities.
Closest Airports:
Fly in effortlessly with these convenient airports:
– Yellowstone National Park: Cody Airport (YRA): 55 miles (1 hour), Bozeman Airport (BZN): 88 miles (90 minutes), Idaho Falls (IDA): 109 miles (2 hours), Jackson Hole Airport (JAC): 49 miles (1 hour), Billings Airport (BIL): 158 miles (3 hours)
– Glacier National Park: Kalispell Airport (GPI): 24 miles (30 minutes), Missoula Airport (MSO): 132 miles (2.5 hours), Great Falls Airport (GTF): 156 miles (2.5 hours)
When is the Best Time to Go?
Your adventure awaits all year round, but the experience changes with the seasons:
– Summer: Peak season with full access to parks. Glacier National Park requires timed entry during the summer. Expect high lodging prices and limited availability.
– Spring: Early spring sees many roads closed. Late spring offers some access with more reasonable lodging costs, but trails can be muddy.
– Fall: Early fall (post-Labor Day) presents the best weather and fewer crowds, ideal if you’re traveling without children. However, late fall brings unpredictable snow and closed roads.
– Winter: For the prepared, both parks provide unique winter experiences, with limited services and road access, but plenty of winter sports opportunities.
How Many Days for the Road Trip?
Plan for at least 9 days to truly savor everything from Glacier to Yellowstone. Rushing would mean missing out on the best experiences.
Recommended Itineraries:
Fastest: At least 2-3 days in each park.
– Day 1-2: Glacier National Park
– Day 3: Drive from Glacier to Yellowstone (with 1-2 activities)
– Day 4-6: Yellowstone National Park
Recommended: Balance park highlights with local activities.
– Day 1-4: Glacier National Park
– Day 5: Drive from Glacier to Missoula
– Day 6: Missoula to Yellowstone
– Day 7-9: Yellowstone National Park
Extended: More days mean deeper exploration.
– Day 1-5: Glacier National Park
– Day 6: Glacier to Missoula
– Day 7: Missoula to Bozeman
– Day 8: Bozeman and drive to Yellowstone
– Day 9-12: Yellowstone National Park
Exploring Glacier National Park:
A paradise for nature enthusiasts, Glacier National Park offers hiking, boating on Lake McDonald, and driving the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. Must-visit trails include Highline, Ptarmigan Tunnel, Iceberg Lake, Avalanche Lake, Hidden Lake, Grinnell Glacier, and Two Medicine Lake. For accommodations, options include in-park lodges like Many Glacier Hotel and Lake McDonald Lodge, or camping at sites such as Apgar and Fish Creek. Dining can be enjoyed at local spots like Eddie’s Cafe and Two Dog Flats.
Journey to Missoula:
The drive between Glacier and Yellowstone is best enjoyed with an overnight stop in Missoula. Must-see attractions include the National Bison Range, Whitefish Mountain, Fort Missoula, and Wild Horse Island. For lodging, consider the AC Hotel Missoula Downtown or City Center Motel.
Missoula to Yellowstone:
Explore along the way with visits to Grant-Kohrs Ranch, the Museum of the Rockies, Grizzly Encounter, World of Mining, and Emerson Art Center. Bozeman offers excellent accommodation options such as the Kimpton Armory and The Lark.
Exploring Yellowstone National Park:
This vast park demands a few days. Start with iconic geysers like Old Faithful and explore Upper and Midway Geyser Basins. Visit waterfalls at the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and spot wildlife in Hayden and Lamar Valleys. Lodging within the park includes historic spots like Old Faithful Inn and modern options like Grant Village. For camping, try Grant Village Campground or Madison Campground.
Traveling Further On:
If your journey continues, check out our guide for road trips from Yellowstone to Salt Lake City, covering areas like Grand Tetons, Jackson, Idaho, Wyoming, and Utah.
Tips & FAQs:
– Keep a safe distance from wildlife.
– Carry bear spray.
– Book lodging early.
– Secure timed-entry for Glacier in the summer.
– Overestimate travel times.
– Start your day early for better parking and fewer crowds.
– Consider camping in National and State Forests.
– Purchase an Interagency Pass for access to all National Parks.
Other Posts You May Like:
– Guide to Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
– Guide to Theodore Roosevelt National Park
– Guide to Knife River Indian Villages
– Guide to Cape Alava, Western Most Point in Continental US
Embark on this mesmerizing journey, one that promises a blend of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable landscapes. Happy travels!