Glacier National Park transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a unique opportunity to explore its snow-capped peaks and frozen landscapes. The Winter Driving Tour with Lunch provides a hassle-free way to experience the park’s highlights without the challenge of driving. With roundtrip transportation, guided commentary, and delectable local treats, this 5-hour adventure promises an unforgettable journey through the park’s most iconic destinations. But what secrets await those who embark on this captivating tour?
Key Points
- The 5-hour tour provides a scenic drive through Glacier National Park, with stops at key locations like West Glacier, Belton Bridge, and Going-to-the-Sun Road.
- Guided tours at Hungry Horse Dam and West Glacier offer in-depth insights into the park’s natural wonders.
- Pickup and drop-off service is included from Whitefish, Columbia Falls, and Kalispell, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience.
- The tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with necessary gear such as warm clothing provided.
- Guests can enjoy local huckleberry treats and relax as they enjoy the stunning winter landscape without the hassle of driving.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Glacier National Park Winter Driving Tour is priced from $225.00 per person and lasts approximately 5 hours.
It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and guests can reserve now and pay later to secure their spot without upfront payment.
The tour provides a scenic drive through the park, including stops at West Glacier, Belton Bridge, Apgar Village, Lake McDonald Lodge, and Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Guided tours at various locations, such as Hungry Horse Dam, West Glacier, Apgar, and Lake McDonald, are also included in the package.
Looking for more options in Whitefish Montana? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary and Highlights
Scenic drives through Glacier National Park are the highlights of this tour, featuring stops at West Glacier, Belton Bridge, Apgar Village, Lake McDonald Lodge, and the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Guided tours at various locations, including Hungry Horse Dam, West Glacier, Apgar, Going-to-the-Sun Road, and Lake McDonald, provide in-depth insights.
Guided tours at key destinations offer in-depth insights into the natural wonders of Glacier National Park.
Indulge in local huckleberry treats, a regional specialty.
The tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with customized experiences and necessary gear supplied.
This immersive winter adventure offers an unforgettable glimpse into the park’s stunning landscapes and natural wonders.
Pickup and Drop-off Information
Pickup from Whitefish (including the ski resort), Columbia Falls, and Kalispell is included for this tour. Guests outside these areas can arrange alternate pickup. The tour ends with drop-off at the same locations.
This round-trip transportation makes it easy for visitors to enjoy the scenic winter drive through Glacier National Park without the hassle of driving themselves.
The pickup and drop-off service ensures a seamless experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy the beauty of the park.
With the convenience of this transportation, guests can sit back, relax, and take in the stunning winter landscape.
Tour Experience and Accessibility
Although the Glacier National Park Winter Driving Tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages and fitness levels, it’s not accessible for wheelchair users.
The tour provides customized experiences to meet individual needs. Experienced guides lead the way, ensuring an immersive experience. Necessary gear, like warm clothing and sunglasses, is supplied for guests to enjoy the wintry landscapes comfortably.
However, those with mobility limitations may find it challenging to fully participate in the tour, as some of the locations and activities may not be wheelchair-accessible. Smoking is also not permitted during the tour.
More Great Tours NearbyPreparation and Important Information
To prepare for the Glacier National Park Winter Driving Tour, guests should dress in warm, layered clothing. Expected weather conditions include snow and cold temperatures, so packing the right gear is crucial for an enjoyable experience.
The tour company recommends bringing the following items:
-
Warm clothing, such as a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat
-
Sunglasses to protect your eyes from the glare of the snow
-
A camera to capture the stunning winter landscapes
Smoking isn’t permitted during the tour.
Experienced guides will provide an immersive and informative experience throughout the journey.
Exploring West Glacier and Belton Bridge
First, the tour takes guests to the charming town of West Glacier, where they’ll learn about the area’s rich history and natural wonders.
At the Hungry Horse Dam, guides provide a 30-minute overview of this impressive engineering feat, sharing insights into its construction and role in the region.
Guides provide a 30-minute overview of the Hungry Horse Dam, sharing insights into its construction and regional significance.
Travelers then head to the iconic Belton Bridge, admiring its century-old design and stunning views of the Flathead River.
Along the way, guides point out local wildlife and offer tips on navigating the snowy roads.
This immersive experience sets the stage for the tour’s subsequent stops in Glacier National Park.
Discover Apgar Village and Lake McDonald
Next, the tour heads to the charming Apgar Village, where guests enjoy a leisurely lunch stop.
After fueling up, the group continues to explore the area, including:
-
Strolling through the quaint shops and galleries in Apgar.
-
Visiting the Lake McDonald Lodge, a historic Swiss-style chalet.
-
Taking in the stunning views of the frozen Lake McDonald, surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains.
The final stop on the tour is along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, where guests have the opportunity to admire the winter wonderland and learn about the park’s unique geology and wildlife.
What makes the Going-to-the-Sun Road so captivating? This iconic route offers stunning vistas of Glacier National Park’s rugged terrain.
Winding through the park’s heart, the road climbs nearly 6,500 feet in elevation, providing breathtaking panoramas of alpine meadows, glacial-carved valleys, and snow-capped peaks.
Guides lead visitors on an engaging exploration of this scenic marvel, sharing insights about the road’s construction and the park’s rich history.
Guides share insights about the Going-to-the-Sun Road’s construction and Glacier National Park’s rich history during an engaging exploration of this scenic marvel.
Traversing the Going-to-the-Sun Road is a truly unforgettable experience, as travelers witness the park’s untamed beauty and natural splendor.
This guided tour ensures visitors make the most of this iconic Glacier National Park destination.
Ask Away
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Yes, photography is allowed during the tour. Guests are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture the beautiful winter scenery and landscapes throughout Glacier National Park.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a complimentary lunch stop is included in the itinerary, so there’s no need to pack a full meal. Snacks and beverages are also available for purchase during the tour.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages. There are no age restrictions, and the tour can be customized to meet the needs of guests of all ages and fitness levels.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?
The tour doesn’t have a minimum number of participants. It’s a private tour, so you can book it for just your group. There’s no need to join a larger group if you don’t want to.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Guests can work with the tour provider to customize the itinerary and explore the park further. Additional fees may apply for extended tours.
Final Words
Don’t miss the chance to learn about Glacier National Park’s winter wonderland. This guided tour takes care of the driving, allowing you to sit back and soak in the breathtaking scenery. With local treats, round-trip transportation, and knowledgeable insights, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the park’s magic during the colder months. Dress warmly and get ready for an adventure you’ll cherish.
You can check availability for your dates here: