When Is the Best Time to Visit Glacier National Park?

At Wild North Guides, we live and breathe Glacier National Park—and as a women-owned business rooted in Montana’s wild heart, we’re proud to help visitors experience its magic firsthand. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, a first-time explorer, or somewhere in between, knowing the best time to visit this incredible place can make all the difference.

Spring (Late May – Early June)

Spring brings a quiet kind of magic to Glacier. Snow still lingers on high-altitude trails, but the lower elevations begin to thaw, bursting with wildflowers and cascading waterfalls. This is the time for solitude and wildlife watching—bears emerge from hibernation, moose roam the valleys, and migratory birds return. That said, many of the park’s roads and higher trails are still closed due to snowpack, including the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Best for: Wildlife viewing, photography, and avoiding the crowds.

Summer (Late June – Mid-September)

Summer is peak season, and for good reason. By late June or early July, most of the park’s roads and trails are fully open, including Going-to-the-Sun Road, which offers jaw-dropping alpine views. The days are long, the wildflowers are in bloom, and the weather is at its most predictable (think: crisp mornings and warm afternoons). Yes, it's busier—but with over a million acres of wilderness, there’s still plenty of space to roam.

Best for: Hiking, scenic drives, families, and first-time visitors.

Fall (Mid-September – October)

As the crowds thin out and the air turns crisp, Glacier shifts into its golden season. Larch trees light up the mountainsides in brilliant yellow, wildlife activity increases as animals prepare for winter, and the peace and quiet return. Some services begin to wind down in late September, and early snowfall can limit access to certain areas, but if you’re prepared, fall might just be the park’s best-kept secret.

Best for: Fall colors, peaceful hikes, and serious photographers.

Winter (November – April)

For the adventurous, winter in Glacier is a wonderland of snow-covered forests and frozen lakes. The park’s roads are largely closed to vehicles, but cross-country skiing and snowshoeing offer a completely different perspective on this wild landscape. It’s a time for solitude, reflection, and an almost spiritual kind of beauty.

Best for: Backcountry solitude and snow-loving adventurers.

Ready to Explore?

No matter when you choose to visit Glacier, our team at Wild North Guides is here to help you experience it with purpose, safety, and heart. We're thrilled to announce that starting this summer, we’ll be offering shuttle tours throughout the park! Whether you’re looking to skip the parking hassle, want a guided experience, or just want to sit back and soak in the views—we’ve got you covered.

Stay tuned for our summer schedule and booking info, and follow us on social media for trail updates, local tips, and a peek into life in the North.

See you out there,

The Wild North Guides Team