United States, North America

Glacier National Park in May

Lower valleys green up and bears emerge. When sections are plowed but not open to cars, hikers and bikers can use parts of Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Quiet valueMild, highs near 63F (17C), snow up high

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

The straight answer

May is a quiet, good-value month to visit Glacier National Park. Lower valleys green up and bears emerge. When sections are plowed but not open to cars, hikers and bikers can use parts of Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Weather: Mild, highs near 63F (17C), snow up high
Crowds: 2 of 5
Prices: 2 of 5

What May is like in Glacier National Park

May is when Glacier starts to wake up. The lower valleys turn green, highs reach about 63F (17C), and bears come out of their dens. Snow still covers the high country, so Logan Pass is closed to cars. Crowds are light, prices are moderate, and some lodges begin opening late in the month.

This month suits active travelers who like quiet and do not mind snow up high. When sections of Going-to-the-Sun Road are plowed but not yet open to cars, hikers and bikers can use them, which is one of the park's best-kept secrets. If you need the full road and alpine trails, plan for mid July through mid September.

Make the most of May

What is especially good about Glacier National Park this month.

Biking the road before the cars

When parts of Going-to-the-Sun Road are plowed but closed to vehicles, you can bike or walk them in near silence. It is one of the best things to do in the park all year.

Bears waking up

Bears emerge in spring and forage in the greening valleys. Watch from a distance and carry bear spray.

Lake McDonald's colored stones

Calm spring mornings show off the colorful stones under Lake McDonald's clear water, with far fewer people than in summer.

Trail of the Cedars

This flat, easy boardwalk trail is a good family outing as the lower valleys open up.

What to pack for May

Bear spray, and know how to use it
A rain shell and warm layers for cool, changeable days
A bike, or plan to rent one, for the car-free road sections
Waterproof hiking boots for snowmelt and mud

Our timing tip

Check the park's plowing updates before you go, and start biking the open road sections early in the day before afternoon wind picks up.

Book Glacier National Park for May.

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Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Glacier National Park
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Hotels for May
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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 May. 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.