United States, North America

Glacier National Park in October

Western larches turn gold mid month. Going-to-the-Sun Road typically closes over Logan Pass around the third Monday, sooner if snow comes.

Quiet valueCold, highs near 53F (12C), snow arriving

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

The straight answer

October is a quiet, good-value month to visit Glacier National Park. Western larches turn gold mid month. Going-to-the-Sun Road typically closes over Logan Pass around the third Monday, sooner if snow comes.

Weather: Cold, highs near 53F (12C), snow arriving
Crowds: 2 of 5
Prices: 2 of 5

What October is like in Glacier National Park

October is cold and quiet, with highs near 53F (12C) and snow arriving in the high country. Most lodges and services have closed, crowds and prices are low, and the western larches turn gold around mid month. Going-to-the-Sun Road typically closes over Logan Pass around the third Monday of October, or sooner if a storm comes.

October suits photographers and self-sufficient travelers who like golden forests and empty lakeshores. It is not great for families who need restaurants and easy lodging, or for anyone set on the high trails, which may already hold snow. For those, go mid July to mid September. If you do come, the first half of the month keeps more options open.

Make the most of October

What is especially good about Glacier National Park this month.

Golden larches

Western larches turn gold along the western valleys and the North Fork, roughly mid month. It is a short, lovely show.

Last drives over Logan Pass

Early in the month you may still drive the full road with almost no traffic, weather permitting.

Lake McDonald in calm light

Still autumn mornings make the colored stones and gold shoreline glow, often with nobody else around.

What to pack for October

Warm, waterproof layers for cold rain and early snow
Traction devices for icy trails in shaded spots
A thermos and packed food, since in-park dining is closed
Bear spray, as bears are still active

Our timing tip

Come in the first half of October for the best chance at an open Logan Pass, and check the park's road status the day you drive.

Book Glacier National Park for October.

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 October, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
Hotels for October
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 October. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Tours and tickets

What's on in October

Larch season

Roughly mid October

Western larches turn gold along the park's western valleys and the North Fork.

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.