United States, North America

Glacier National Park in March

Still winter in the park. Plowing of Going-to-the-Sun Road typically begins in spring.

Quiet valueChilly, highs near 42F (6C), snow up high

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

The straight answer

March is a quiet, good-value month to visit Glacier National Park. Still winter in the park. Plowing of Going-to-the-Sun Road typically begins in spring.

Weather: Chilly, highs near 42F (6C), snow up high
Crowds: 1 of 5
Prices: 1 of 5

What March is like in Glacier National Park

March is still winter in the park. Highs reach about 42F (6C) in the valleys, but there is heavy snow up high and the alpine section of Going-to-the-Sun Road stays closed. Plowing of the road typically begins in spring. Crowds and prices remain at rock bottom, and park services are mostly shut.

This month works for cross-country skiers and snowshoers who like longer, brighter days than January. It is a poor fit for first-time visitors, hikers or anyone hoping to see Logan Pass. For that, pick mid July through mid September. If you want the park before the crowds, late May and June are better shoulder options than March.

Make the most of March

What is especially good about Glacier National Park this month.

Longer, brighter snow days

More daylight than midwinter makes March a more comfortable month to ski or snowshoe the lower valleys near Lake McDonald.

The start of plowing season

Spring is when crews begin the long job of clearing Going-to-the-Sun Road. The park posts plowing progress, which is fun to follow if you plan a summer trip.

Quiet lakeshores

Lake McDonald in late winter is calm and empty, with snowy peaks reflected on still days.

What to pack for March

Waterproof boots and gaiters for wet spring snow
Layers you can shed as the afternoon warms
Sunscreen and sunglasses, since the spring sun is strong on snow
Boot traction for icy morning trails

Our timing tip

Go out in the late morning after overnight ice softens, and head back before the afternoon snow turns heavy and wet.

Book Glacier National Park for March.

Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.

Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Glacier National Park
Opens a hotel search for Glacier National Park in March, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
Hotels for March
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
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.
Rentals on Vrbo
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Glacier National Park
Timed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Glacier National Park for March. 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.

Glacier National Park in March, quick answers

Is March a good time to visit Glacier National Park?

March is a quiet, good-value month to visit Glacier National Park. Still winter in the park. Plowing of Going-to-the-Sun Road typically begins in spring.

What is the weather like in Glacier National Park in March?

Chilly, highs near 42F (6C), snow up high.

Is Glacier National Park crowded in March?

March is one of the quieter months in Glacier National Park; most sights can be done without long waits.