Stargazing in Glacier National Park: A Quick Guide

Clock Icon 11 minutes read
Update Icon Jul 17, 2023

Enrich your Montana wilderness experience by stargazing in Glacier National Park! In this guide, The Hot List provides insider tips to prepare you for an unforgettable visit, including the best time to go, how to get there, where to stay, and top areas and activities to explore!

Photo Credit: Cole Allen

Wilderness, Wildlife & After-Dark Wonders

Montana, known as the “Treasure State,” is a land of rugged beauty and diverse wildlife. From the Rocky Mountains to Yellowstone National Park, this western state is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. However, nestled in its northwest corner lies a sought-after destination for stargazing: Glacier National Park.

True to its moniker, Glacier National Park sparkles like a jewel, its towering peaks, verdant forests, and shimmering lakes crowning the continent. With over 1 million acres of pristine wilderness, 700 miles of trails, and an unpolluted night sky fit for watching the stars, Glacier National Park offers endless opportunities for adventure.

Join us as we give you some insider tips to prepare you for an unforgettable visit and find out why the world’s first international peace park is a shoo-in for The Hot List!


Must-Knows Before Stargazing in Glacier National Park

Unfortunately, Glacier National Park is not one of those destinations you can visit on a whim. However, with careful planning, you can guarantee yourself and your travel buds a wilderness retreat to remember.

BEST TIME TO VISIT GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

  • Although the park is open year-round, the conditions and accessible areas can vary significantly depending on the season. 
  • Summer is the most popular time to visit Glacier National Park, with late spring (June) and early fall (September) being the most optimal time to avoid peak crowds.
  • The majority of businesses and services are only open from late May to September.

BEST WAY TO REACH GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

  • The closest airports to Glacier National Park are in Kalispell and Missoula, Montana.
  • If you’re driving, take U.S. Highway 2 to access Glacier National Park from either the east or west entrance.
  • The park is also accessible via highways 17 or 89 for visitors arriving by car.
Photo Credit: Tyler B

BEST MODE OF TRANSPORTATION INSIDE GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

  • While you can hike, bike, ride on horseback, or boat through certain regions in Glacier National Park, the best way to explore it is still by car, RV, or campervan. 
  • A 4WD vehicle is advised, especially if you’re heading to the Many Glacier and Two Medicine areas. If you can’t secure a 4WD, opt for a mid-size SUV or any car with a FWD.
  • The park offers a free, wheelchair-accessible shuttle service along Going-to-the-Sun Road. Pets, smoking, and open alcohol containers are prohibited, and the shuttle operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Some lodging facilities in the park also offer round-trip tours. 
  • If you want to go stargazing in Glacier National Park, you can browse night-sky tour packages from tour operators.

WHERE TO STAY IN GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

  • There are four campgrounds within the park, but you need to reserve a spot ahead of time. Camping is only allowed from June to September, and may sometimes be closed due to active bear season. Potable water and restrooms are also available in these areas.
  • There are many hotels, resorts, cabins, and vacation stays available in the area as well. Be sure to book your stay in advance!

TIPS FOR GLACIER NATIONAL PARK VISITORS

  • Pack plenty of water and snacks for your hikes or other outdoor activities. We recommend doing a stop at the Super 1 grocery store in Columbia Falls before you check in or begin your itinerary.
  • Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and dress in layers for changing weather conditions.
  • Cell phone service can often be spotty in the park, so it’s a good idea to bring a map or GPS device to navigate with ease.
  • Be bear aware and carry bear spray with you on the trails.
  • Don’t forget to bring your pro camera and binoculars to capture the stunning views and wildlife of the park.
  • Observe park regulations and safety guidelines, including staying on designated trails and not feeding wildlife. If you’re visiting with family, be sure to keep a close eye on young children.
  • Take advantage of the park’s unpolluted dark skies — go stargazing in Glacier National Park! Bring a camera and take long exposure shots. It’ll be worth the wait!
  • A 3 to 7-day stay is best if you want to visit all the highlights of the park.
Photo Credit: GLACIER RIVERBEND CABINS | CABIN IN WEST GLACIER

Areas & Activities in Glacier National Park

Now that you’re all set, let’s dive into what to do and where to go in Montana’s Crown Jewel. Though stargazing in Glacier National Park is an unparalleled experience on its own, there are other areas that are very much worth the visit:

1. APGAR

Apgar Village is located at the south end of Lake McDonald and can be accessed by car via Camas Road and Apgar Loop Road, or by bike along the bike path. The visitor center at Apgar Village provides complete facilities, including clean restrooms, free Wi-Fi, drinking water, and gift shops.

In addition to the visitor center, the area boasts a lakefront village and picnic area, restaurants, lodging, and several short hiking trails. Visitors can also rent bicycles, boats, and watercraft gear in the village, plus various available activities such as bus tours and horseback riding.

Apgar Village is also home to Glacier National Park’s largest campground, which features an amphitheater that hosts worship services, Native American community programs, and ranger-led talks and activities.

Be sure to ask around about their Night Sky programs, which take place throughout the summer. Apgar is the only other place, besides the Rising Sun at St. Mary, where it is best to do some stargazing in Glacier National Park.

To find vacation rentals in the Apgar Village area, click here.

2. GOING-TO-THE-SUN ROAD

Formerly called “Transmountain Highway” in the 1920s, this road borrows its name from the nearby Going-to-the-Sun Mountain. It is a scenic 50-mile drive that provides unparalleled views of tall waterfalls, flower-filled meadows, giant mountain peaks, and other picturesque areas within Glacier National Park. Self-guided tours are available to help you mark every sight there is to see.

Its lower portions can be traveled year-round, but the upper parts do not open until summer or late June and usually close on the 3rd Monday of October. As for vehicle size guidelines, cycling hours, and speed limits, we recommend consulting the National Park Service before your visit.

Photo Credit: Tony Reid

3. THE NORTH FORK

Adventure-seekers and those who want to have an independent wilderness experience will definitely enjoy The North Fork. There are limited amenities in this area, save for pit toilets and restrooms. There are also single-lane rough roads that you may have to reserve a whole day to traverse.

For The North Fork, we recommend that you arrive fully prepared and check your wilderness survival skill level for good measure. Pack water and meals and bring a physical map and compass (there is no coverage in the area). You should also ready a spare tire or two as flat tires are a common challenge here. 

Except for private horse trailers accessing the Bowman horse corral, vehicles that are longer than 21 feet and/or have trailers are not allowed on any roads in the North Fork area of Glacier National Park.

4. MANY GLACIER

Another popular alternative to Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier can be accessed via a separate entrance west of Babb. Located at the intersection of four major valleys, two of which are home to glaciers, this area in Glacier National Park offers breathtaking vistas and is renowned for its iconic landmarks and picturesque hiking trails.

To find vacation rentals in the Many Glacier and Babb area, click here.

Photo Credit: HOOKS HIDEAWAY MOTEL | HOTEL IN BABB

5. LOGAN PASS

Logan Pass is the highest point in Glacier National Park that can be accessed by vehicle. Due to its stunning vistas and diverse wildlife, it’s a highly popular destination among visitors. As a result, the parking lot at Logan Pass fills up quickly and remains busy throughout the day. It’s advisable to arrive early to secure a parking spot and avoid heavy foot traffic.

A visitor center can be found in the area. You can also avail of their shuttle service, guided hiking and backpacking trips, day hikes, and other ranger-led activities. 

6. RISING SUN

The Rising Sun campground is located where the “mountains meet the prairies.” From day hikes to stargazing, Glacier National Park’s east side offers visitors numerous recreational options. If you’re bound for Going-to-the-Sun Road, we recommend making a stop here, taking advantage of abundant parking, and trying out a meal or two at the Rising Sun Motor Inn.

7. TWO MEDICINE

The Two Medicine area in Glacier National Park can be accessed via a separate entrance located just northwest of the town of East Glacier Park. As an alternative to the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor, Two Medicine is a popular destination that features a large, high-elevation lake surrounded by dramatic peaks and numerous hiking trails.

Compared to other areas of the park, such as Logan Pass and Many Glacier, Two Medicine receives less traffic, making it a serene and crowd-free spot to catch the sunrise. The still waters of the lake mirror the mountain peaks and magnificent colors of the sky — and you don’t have to be a professional photographer to take the most splendid snapshots!

After sunrise, we recommend grabbing a coffee at the Two Medicine General Store and then taking a leisurely stroll out to Paradise Point, which is less than half a mile away.

To find vacation rentals in the Two Medicine and East Glacier Park area, click here.

Photo Credit: SUMMIT MOUNTAIN LODGE AND STEAKHOUSE | CABIN IN EAST GLACIER PARK

8. GOAT HAUNT

Much like North Fork, Goat Haunt is difficult to get to but no less rewarding in terms of serenity and solitude. Access to this area requires you to do overnight backpacking, so only visit it if you’ve planned a week-long stay. The only other way to access it is by boat from Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada.

If you do decide to take on the challenge, Goat Haunt is a prime spot for a wilderness retreat. Be ready with a physical map and compass and spare batteries for your camera as this is also another great spot for stargazing in Glacier National Park.

9. LAKE MCDONALD

The historic lodge in Glacier National Park was built to resemble a rustic hunting chalet and has become an attraction in itself. Along the property, you’ll discover other historic buildings, dining establishments, and a dock where you can avail of lake tours and boat rentals. 

The facilities, lodging, and guest services here are more or less the same as Apgar’s. Since it’s in a prime spot, it’s also ideal for a night of stargazing in Glacier National Park.

To find vacation rentals in the Lake McDonald area, click here.

Find The Perfect Wilderness Retreat with Hotala

Whether you’re planning to hike, bike, or stargaze in Glacier National Park, top off your trip with world-class lodging!

Hotala handpicks the best resorts, cabins, and vacation stays to help you recharge after a day of adventure. We also deliver unbeatable deals and discounts right to your screen, so you can plan, book, and travel with ease. 

Get better rest and make better memories – all by booking the perfect places to stay today!


TLDR

Glacier National Park is a gem in the northwest corner of Montana with over one million acres of wilderness, 700 miles of trails, and unpolluted night skies. 

To prepare for an unforgettable visit, you need to plan ahead. The park is open year-round, but summer is the most popular time to visit. You can access the park through highways or airports, but the best way to explore is by car, RV, or campervan. 

You can also avail of the park’s free shuttle service along Going-to-the-Sun Road. Inside the park, there are campgrounds, hotels, resorts, cabins, and vacation stays available in the area. Visitors should pack water and snacks, wear sturdy shoes and dress in layers, carry bear spray, and observe park regulations and safety guidelines. 

The park offers endless opportunities for adventure, including visiting Apgar Village, Going-to-the-Sun Road, The North Fork, Lake McDonald, Logan Pass, Rising Sun, Two Medicine, Goat Haunt, and Many Glacier.

Feature Image Photo Credit: Joshua Woroniecki


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