The Best Way to Get from Kalispell to Glacier National Park

Are you ready to explore the picturesque wonder of Glacier National Park but aren’t sure how to get there? Look no further – we have all the information you need to take a road trip from Kalispell and immerse yourself in natural beauty! Join us as we explore how far Kalispell is from Glacier National Park and the best way to get there.

Introduction

Kalispell is a charming city situated in the Flathead Valley of northwest Montana. A gorgeous drive away, Glacier National Park is just one of the many highlights of the area. It’s considered one of America’s most beautiful places and visitors flock to it year round to experience its natural beauty. If you’re looking to visit Glacier National Park from Kalispell, you have several transport options available, including renting a car, taking public transportation and more. In this article we will explore your options for getting from Kalispell to Glacier National Park and help you decide which route is best for you.

No matter which mode of transport you choose, there are some great ways to enjoy your journey from Kalispell, Montana to Glacier National Park. Here are some tips for making the most out of your trip:

• Plan ahead and book early – no matter what method of transport you choose it’s important to book as far in advance as possible as popular routes can fill up quickly.
• Bring snacks – no trip between Kalispell and Glacier is complete without having an energy boosting snack on board with you during your trip!
• Pack layers – Montana can be an unpredictable place when it comes to weather so it’s always a good idea to be prepared by bringing plenty of layers with you on your travels (even during peak summer months).

History of Kalispell and Glacier National Park

Kalispell has a long, rich history in the Northern Rockies, beginning with its settlement as a hub for trade and transportation. Long before the town was founded, the area was inhabited by native tribes who made use of the abundant natural resources around them. In 1891, Kalispell was officially established and quickly became known as a bustling commercial center and vacation destination.

Glacier National Park is one of the most iconic places in America. The area is home to an abundance of wildlife, including elk, mountain goats, grizzly bears, bighorn sheep and more. Glaciers have formed some of these remarkable landscapes during the past million years. For decades people have made pilgrimages to witness this awe-inspiring place with its unique landscapes and abundant wildlife. Visitors come from all over to enjoy outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, hiking and nature watching – Glacier National Park truly has something for everyone!

How Far is Kalispell from Glacier National Park

Kalispell is a city located in northwestern Montana, close to the majestic landscape of Glacier National Park. The distance from Kalispell to Glacier is approximately 70 miles, depending on which entrance to the park you use. It takes about an hour and a half to two hours to get from Kalispell to the west entrance of Glacier, while it takes two and a half hours or more to get from Kalispell to the east entrance of Glacier.

The best way to get from Kalispell to Glacier is by car. There are several routes you can take, depending on which part of the park you’d like to visit and how much time you have available. You can take Highway 2 East out of Kalispell for about 46 miles before reaching Highway 83 South, which will take you all the way into West Glacier National Park; or you can take Highway 93 North out of Kalispell and follow it for about 66 miles until it turns into Going-to-the-Sun Road, providing access into both West and East entrances of the park.

Regardless of which route you choose, be sure to plan your trip accordingly – road conditions and weather can vary dramatically within Glacier National Park depending on where you are at any given moment. It’s also important to note that mobile coverage is generally poor in this area, so be sure that if you plan on using GPS navigation that your devices are fully charged before heading out!

Travel Options to Get from Kalispell to Glacier National Park

When traveling from Kalispell to Glacier National Park, one has several travel options. Depending on your chosen mode of transportation and available budget, the journey can be made via car, bicycle, motorcycle, or public transport.

• Car: Driving a car is the most convenient mode of transportation when going from Kalispell to Glacier National Park. The route is 80 miles in distance and will take around two hours of travel time. Make sure that you have a full tank of gas and be prepared for winter weather conditions before driving this route as temperatures can drastically change depending on the time of year.
• Bicycle: For those wishing for a more adventurous journey, it’s possible to ride your bike from Kalispell to Glacier National Park. Bike riders should be aware that mountain pass elevations are around 5000 feet in height and require an experienced cyclist who has been training for long rides with the appropriate level of fitness. You will also need the necessary biking gear including gloves, shoes, bike shorts or tights with padded seat cushioning; helmets are extremely important when going on any bicycle adventure! Additionally, you may want to consider bringing camping supplies in case temperatures drop while you’re on your journey so that you can camp out overnight if needed.
• Motorcycle/Scooter: If you prefer riding a motorcycle or scooter then this is another way of discovering Glacier National Park during the warmer months when roads are generally dry and free from snowfall debris. Scooters tend to offer better accelerated speeds than motorbikes due to their lightweight design so these might be more preferable if choosing this form of transportation. Be sure to wear protective gear such as boots, helmets and padded jackets for optimal protection during your travels as well as keep an eye out for animals wandering onto roadways which could cause unexpected delays in your trip!
• Public Transport: For those without access to their own vehicle or bike there are coach services that operate all year round connecting Kalispell directly with Glacier National Park both one-way or return trips can be arranged online prior to departure date at www……..com. When booking online remember it might take longer than expected for your journey so account for plenty additional travel time just in case!

Driving Directions from Kalispell to Glacier National Park

To get from Kalispell to Glacier National Park, head south from Kalispell on US Highway 2. Drive for around 24 miles and then take a left onto MT-35 South. Travel on this road for 34 miles until you reach West Glacier. At this point, you have reached the western entrance of the park and can enter your vehicle into the park.

Once inside, you can explore all that Glacier National Park has to offer. Be sure to be mindful of the wildlife while driving and obey all speed limits! Remember that outside food and beverages are not allowed within the park boundaries so make sure to plan accordingly if you want a snack or beverage while exploring.

Benefits of Taking the Most Direct Route

Taking the most direct route to Glacier National Park is usually the fastest and least expensive option due to limited public transit. Many visitors find that driving is the most convenient way to get there. The most direct route typically follows US Highway 2, beginning in Kalispell, Montana and winding its way through some of western Montana’s iconic flathead valley communities like Whitefish and Columbia Falls before entering the park near West Glacier village.

This route passes through some of the most outstanding landscapes in all of Glacier National Park and grants access to popular stopovers such as Whitefish Mountain Resort, Flathead Lake, and the historically renowned Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail Museum. Along this trip visitors can take advantage of laid back mountain towns with healthy food offerings and kitschy one-of-a-kind shops.

The benefits from taking this direct route are twofold:

1. Time is saved as travelers will avoid traffic jams associated with more circuitous routes;
2. Travelers also save on gas money since less mileage amounts to greater fuel efficiency.

Furthermore, travelers can enjoy easy access to several national forests along the highway which makes it a great choice for any outdoor enthusiast looking for their fill of off-the-beaten-track adventure destinations all while having a direct access point into the heart of Glacier National Park.

Tips for Enjoying the Trip

Whether you’re traveling to visit family, explore the area, or just get away for a little while, making the trip from Kalispell to Glacier National Park can be an enjoyable adventure. Here are some tips to help make it easier and more enjoyable:

• Check the road conditions ahead of time so that you can choose the safest and most scenic route.
• Make sure you have a full tank of gas before heading out.
• Bring supplies such as snacks and beverages so that you don’t run out during the drive.
• Have CDs or digital music available to keep everyone in your party entertained during long stretches of road.
• Prepare for a variety of weather conditions, as temperatures can change quickly in mountain passes. Bring extra layers for cold nights.
• Take breaks along the way by exploring small towns or checking out rest stops with scenic views. That way, you will be well-rested when you reach your destination at Glacier National Park!

Conclusion

Overall, the best way to get from Kalispell to Glacier National Park is by car. It’s a relatively short drive of just over an hour, with plenty of beautiful scenery along the way. The route offers plenty of opportunities for stops or pit stops along the way, and if you prefer not to drive, there are private shuttles available that can take you directly to your destination. Whichever option you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the journey!

Plan ahead and make sure that you know what supplies and amenities are available at either end before beginning your journey. It’s always best to be prepared so that your experience is as safe and stress-free as possible. Have a great trip!