Getting to Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park sits in MT, United States, with North Browning the nearest town of any size — about 38 mi (61.1 km) out, or roughly 1 hr 17 min of driving.
Glacier National Park does not gate the entrance itself. Specific roads, hikes, or tours still need a permit or timed ticket.
Drive times from Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park sits close enough to Waterton Lakes National Park, Kootenay National Park, Banff National Park, and Yoho National Park that one drive from home can cover more than one park.
| Park | Apart | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Waterton Lakes National Park | 20.9 mi (33.6 km) | 48 min |
| Kootenay National Park | 178 mi (286 km) | 4 hr 39 min |
| Banff National Park | 213 mi (343 km) | 5 hr 30 min |
| Yoho National Park | 218 mi (351 km) | 5 hr 36 min |
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| North Browning | 38 mi (61.1 km) | 1 hr 17 min |
| Browning | 38.1 mi (61.3 km) | 1 hr 18 min |
| South Browning | 38.4 mi (61.7 km) | 1 hr 18 min |
| Evergreen | 43.1 mi (69.4 km) | 1 hr 26 min |
| Kalispell | 45.8 mi (73.6 km) | 1 hr 31 min |
| Eureka | 58.1 mi (93.5 km) | 1 hr 49 min |
| Cut Bank | 67.3 mi (108 km) | 2 hr 3 min |
| Polson | 75.7 mi (122 km) | 2 hr 14 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Glacier National Park?
North Browning, about 38 mi (61.1 km) away — roughly 1 hr 17 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Glacier National Park?
The practical bases are North Browning, Browning, and South Browning — all within a reasonable drive of the park.