United States, North America

Glacier National Park in January

Only the lower ends of the park are reachable. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing near Lake McDonald and Apgar; almost no services.

Quiet valueCold and snowy, highs near 30F (-1C)

A lake below the peaks of Glacier National Park, Montana — Glacier National ParkPhoto: Carol M. Highsmith, Public domain

The straight answer

January is a quiet, good-value month to visit Glacier National Park. Only the lower ends of the park are reachable. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing near Lake McDonald and Apgar; almost no services.

Weather: Cold and snowy, highs near 30F (-1C)
Crowds: 1 of 5
Prices: 1 of 5

What January is like in Glacier National Park

January in Glacier is deep winter. Highs sit near 30F (-1C), snow covers everything, and the days are short. Only the lower ends of the park are reachable, mainly the west side around Apgar and Lake McDonald. Lodges, restaurants and most services are closed, so you will see very few people and prices in the area are at their lowest.

This month suits cross-country skiers, snowshoers and anyone who wants silence and snowy forest to themselves. It is not the time for Going-to-the-Sun Road, Logan Pass or the famous high trails, which are buried until summer. If those are why you want to come, plan for mid July through mid September instead.

Make the most of January

What is especially good about Glacier National Park this month.

Snowshoeing near Lake McDonald

The flat, forested country around Apgar and Lake McDonald is ideal for an easy snowshoe or ski. The lake often looks like glass framed by white peaks.

Almost total solitude

You may have a trailhead or a lakeshore entirely to yourself. Winter is the quietest time in the park, apart from November.

Skiing at Whitefish

Whitefish Mountain Resort is the area's main winter draw, and it pairs well with a quiet day in the park.

What to pack for January

Insulated waterproof boots with good tread for icy parking areas
Snowshoes or cross-country skis, or plan to rent them in Whitefish or Kalispell
Warm layers, a down jacket, hat and mittens for highs near 30F (-1C)
A thermos and snacks, since there is nowhere to buy food inside the park

Our timing tip

Check road and weather conditions the morning you drive in, and go midday when the light is best and the roads have had time to clear.

Book Glacier National Park for January.

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Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Glacier National Park
Opens a hotel search for Glacier National Park in January, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
Hotels for January
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Vacation rentals in Glacier National Park
Whole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
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Tours and tickets in Glacier National Park
Timed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Glacier National Park for January. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Tours and tickets

Things to do in Glacier National Park

Full guide

Going-to-the-Sun Road

Drive it early in the morning or late in the day. Vehicle size limits apply on the alpine section; check the current rules for Logan Pass parking and shuttles.

Official site ↗Tickets and tours →

Highline Trail from Logan Pass

Usually snow-free and fully open from mid July. Airy ledges, huge views, and mountain goats; arrange a shuttle for the one-way hike.

Tickets and tours →

Many Glacier and Grinnell Glacier Trail

The best hiking hub in the park, with moose, bears, and a glacier at the end of the trail. Parking fills early.

Tickets and tours →

Lake McDonald

The largest lake in the park, famous for colorful stones visible through clear water. Best in calm morning light.

Tickets and tours →

Two Medicine

A quieter valley in the southeast corner with lakes, waterfalls, and far fewer visitors than Many Glacier.

Tickets and tours →

Red bus tours

Historic open-top buses have toured Going-to-the-Sun Road since the 1930s, operated by the park's lodging concessioner.

Official site ↗Tickets and tours →

Beat the crowds

Start early. Logan Pass parking fills quickly in summer, and 2026 added time-limited parking there; being on the road by 7am makes the day easier.
Base yourself on the east side at St. Mary or Many Glacier for quieter lodging and faster access to the best hikes.
Visit the second or third week of September for open roads, cooler weather, and far fewer people, accepting that some services close.
Explore Two Medicine or the North Fork when Going-to-the-Sun Road and Many Glacier are at their busiest.

Know before you go

Going-to-the-Sun Road's alpine section typically opens fully between late June and mid July and closes around the third Monday of October; the lower ends near Lake McDonald and St. Mary stay open longer. Snow can delay or shorten the season.
Vehicle reservation systems have changed year to year: required in recent summers, not required in 2026, when the park piloted a ticketed shuttle and time-limited Logan Pass parking. Check the park's current rules before planning.
In-park lodges, restaurants, and most campgrounds are seasonal, generally open from about late May or June to mid or late September. Many Glacier Hotel and others close before the road does.
Several trails close temporarily for bear activity at any time. Carry bear spray and check trail status daily.