The most popular time to visit Glacier National Park is July, when Going-to-the-Sun Road is fully open, trails aren’t subject to snow or ice, and the weather is calmest. Unfortunately, it’s also the busiest time to visit.
Videos by TravelAwaits
If you’ve been to Glacier National Park before and felt that the experience was negatively impacted by crowds, visit during autumn or winter. The park slows down in autumn, when you can also watch larch trees transform with golden colors. You won’t be alone, by any stretch, but the summer hustle won’t be in full swing.
If you’re a little more intrepid and less afraid of the cold, visiting in December, January, or February guarantees plenty of solitude. The trails aren’t as accessible, and you need to stay updated on weather forecasts, but tranquility won’t be hard to come by.
All you need to do is decide between East and West Glacier (or plan to visit both—they’re only separated by 56 miles), then find the perfect rental to suit your needs. Start with these Airbnbs close to Glacier National Park, including both East and West Glacier.
[This article is part of TravelAwaits new Airbnb and Vrbo recommendation series. We dig into listings to identify the crème de la crème of Guest Favorites, Superhost listings, and hidden gems to make finding the perfect rental for your next trip a breeze.]
Best Airbnbs close to Glacier National Park: St. Mary & Babb (East Entrance)
New 2BR Build
Only ten minutes from Glacier’s St. Mary Entrance and located on nine acres, this new build is a steal. It’s got two bedrooms and an open kitchen-living room layout, all of which offer mountain views. You’ll get even more out of this rental thanks to its patio and fire pit, which let you soak up the outdoors. Lastly, despite its remote location, you can stay in the know thanks to a Starlink internet connection.
Glacier Ridge Chalet
This log cabin-style home has three bedrooms that sleep eight using an air mattress in the living room. It’s got classic wood features throughout, including wood-paneled walls and antique wood furniture. But the secret ingredient at this rental is its solid list of amenities, which include a hot tub with a view, a telescope for enjoying this Dark Sky zone, and ample wildlife sightings.
Glacier Eco-Cabin
Just five minutes from the St. Mary entrance, you’re practically staying inside the park at this lovely one-bedroom cabin. It’s a new build with tiny-home style features that come in a large package, from minimalist décor to its large windows that give the space an open, outdoorsy feel. It’s cozy, functional, and intimate enough to make it a romantic treat for couples.
Glacier Lookout
Unfortunately, Airbnbs close to Glacier National Park aren’t numerous, meaning they’re competitive and pricey. If you’re doing Glacier on a budget, this is one of the cheapest options. Despite its great prices, you aren’t skimping on features. First, you’re close to the St. Mary Entrance. Second, the rental is on 180 acres of private property, offering panoramic mountain views and wildlife sightings. Third, there are walking trails and a fire pit right outside the door. Lastly, the interior is comfortable, spacious, and chock-full of supplies, from kitchen supplies to insect repellent. Also, who doesn’t love a classic red barn color?
Best Airbnbs close to Glacier National Park: West Glacier
Lakefront A-Frame
Are you a lake-lover who enjoys paddleboarding any time of year? I’ve got a rental that’s perfect for you. This three-bedroom cabin is located on Lake Five, only minutes from Glacier National Park’s West Entrance. The home was built as a lake getaway back in the 1960s, meaning you can take advantage of the dock, kayaks, and paddleboards during your stay. If that doesn’t convince you to stay here, this will: It’s a spring-fed lake, meaning it’s not fed by glaciers and isn’t ice-cold year-round.
West Glacier Adobe House
Located across the street from the West Entrance, you can’t get any closer to the boundary lines of Glacier National Park than at this two-bedroom home. Location aside, this rental is ideal for anyone who appreciates a hardy, classic Wild West design. Its upscale amenities feel casually rustic, offering perks like a wraparound porch and an adobe fireplace. The claw-foot tub isn’t too shabby, either.
The West Glacier Cabin
If you want to maximize the time you spend in the great outdoors even back at your rental between Glacier National Park adventures, book this two-bedroom rental. It’s got OTT amenities located across the property’s forested plot. That includes a barrel sauna, fire pit with seating, covered hot tub, dining area, grill, and porch. It’s pure Rocky Mountain bliss—and, though certainly pricey, it isn’t exorbitantly priced considering everything that’s included.
Cozy West Glacier Cabin
This simple cabin has everything groups of four will need for a comfortable stay. The West Entrance is less than two miles away, and a stay gets you 20% off a local rental store. The home also has an ultra-cozy wood fireplace and an outdoor dining area. The second bedroom has a bunk bed setup, making this spot ideal for families.
Going to the Sun Chalet
This remote chalet gives you ten acres to explore, along with a massive wraparound deck with mountain views. It’s not the only rental on the property, but the windows face away from other plots, letting you enjoy views that feel private. It’s also one of the more spacious rentals around Glacier National Park, with three proper bedrooms and a large living room-kitchen space.
[Just a heads-up: We may earn an affiliate commission when you make a purchase from a link in our articles.]