The crunch of leaves underfoot. The hint of chill in the morning air. The snuggling within blankets and toes finding their way back into slippers. Baking begins anew with smells of breads, soups, and cinnamon wafting through the gentle breeze. Fall has found its way back to Flathead Valley. And while many places are slowing down for the season, Glacier National Park in September remains just as vibrant and alive as ever. But with a few less people.

GLACIER IN SEPTEMBER IS IDEAL

And you should be here to experience it. With millions of people planning their visit to Glacier in the summer, fall is the ideal time to plan a crowd-free trip. Trails are full of exquisite colors as the leaves begin to change. The cool mountain air sets in, making for sweat-free and stress-free hikes. The temperatures of summer subside and the crowds return to work and school. Wildlife are out and about, and your chances of seeing more of them than humans becomes an exhilarating possibility.

As the surrounding areas begin to wind down for the season, you’ll find that shops are easier to browse, offering discounts to make way for new wares in the coming season ahead. Streets are simpler to stroll through, and restaurants no longer have the summer crowds. You’ll find it easier to linger appreciating the final harvests of Flathead Valley’s huckleberries and cherries while sipping on a warm cup of coffee or savoring a craft beer in one of the many cozy taprooms that call the Valley home.

And when it’s time to call it a day, nestle up in your very own cabin on Flathead Lake at Flathead Lake Resort in Bigfork, Montana. With fewer people comes less stress. Let us help you plan your perfect fall getaway to Glacier National Park this September.

ABOUT GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

Glacier National Park consists of over 1500 square miles of wilderness located in Northwestern Montana in the Rocky Mountains. Explore the park’s crystal clear lakes, revel in the grandness of the mountain peaks, and wander the miles of trails that bring you closer to the hundreds of wildlife species that call this place home.

Glacier was christened the 10th national park in 1910 when people began to recognize the rugged beauty unique to this area. With glacial-covered peaks, high mountain lakes, and abundant wildlife, Glacier quickly became one of the most popular national parks in the U.S. and the world.

SIX REASONS WHY SEPTEMBER IS ONE OF THE BEST MONTHS TO VISIT GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

Visiting Glacier National Park in September offers some unique thrills that you won’t get while visiting in July or August. The energy in fall is still quite abundant in Glacier. The colors seem to come to life, even with the possible light dusting of snow that may gently cover the red and gold colors of the foliage. It’s as if they have one more chance to make you smile before they head off to their winter slumber.

1 | A vehicle reservation is no longer needed

Shortly after Labor Day you’ll no longer need to have a vehicle reservation. It’s back to the good ole days of just needing a park pass. On that same note, the reason the vehicle reservation is no longer needed is that the crowds start to thin out in September. Kids are heading back to school. Summer vacations are dwindling. So, while noses are back to the books, grab your hiking boots, a few warm clothes, and head off to experience the thrill of fall in Glacier.

2 | Going-to-the-sun Road is open to both bikes and cars

One of the highlights of visiting Glacier National Park is the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road (GTSR). Because of its highest elevation at 6646 feet, the road is buried in snow for the winter months and rarely opens to cars before mid-June, creating crazy traffic during July and August. But when September rolls around and that traffic slowly dissipates, you’re left to wander leisurely down (or up) the road whether on bike or car, without all that summer traffic.

During the busy summer months, bikes are not allowed on GTSR from 11 am - 4 pm, but after Labor Day, the road is open to both. While there may be less cars on the road, there are now both bikes and vehicles. Just a reminder to not only keep your eyes peeled for that elusive sighting of a grizzly, but more importantly, for that not so elusive sighting of a cyclist.

Traffic throughout the park, both foot and vehicular, has also lessened on other roads as well as hiking trails. Take advantage of this during September, and you won’t be disappointed. That highly sought after picnic table posed picture-perfect next to Lake MacDonald is much easier to come across in the fall months than when millions of visitors arrive in the summer with the same picture perfect idea in their head as in yours.

In need of a bike? Rent from one of the many outfitters, such as Glacier Guides or Glacier Outfitters, that are in and around Glacier National Park. While biking GTSR is much more enjoyable in the Spring when it’s not yet open to cars, if this is your only opportunity, go for it, just remember that helmet and the fact that you’re sharing the road with things that are much bigger than you. Grizzlies, maybe, but most certainly, cars.

3 | Autumn HIKING IN GLACIER & Fall Colors

With over 700 miles of trails in Glacier National Park, not counting the thousands of miles of trails just outside Glacier in the surrounding mountains of Montana, you can’t go wrong hiking here — unless, you don’t bring bear spray with you. Bring bear spray with you and water and layers…always!

Layers are especially important when hiking Glacier in September as the weather can run the gamut of all seasons during this time. When starting at lower elevations, the sun may feel warm on your back and tank tops and shorts are calling your name. However, if your hike includes any kind of elevation gain or summiting a mountaintop, that warm sun can easily be covered by clouds that could quickly become rain and may even turn into snow.

Hiking anytime requires layers; however, in the spring and fall, it’s even more important to have those layers with you. Which also means you need to have a flexible attitude as well. Your fall hike could easily turn into a winter hike, and without a flexible attitude, your entire day of hiking could be tumultuous instead of the best hike ever.

More than likely, though, you will not come across snow in September. However, you may come across a landscape of vibrant fall foliage. Mid to late September, the trees on the west side of Glacier will begin to change colors. The larch trees generally start changing in October, along with the trees on the east side. While you may only watch the beginnings of the fall colors in September, there’s less chance of cold, winter weather, and more chance of wonderful early fall weather with just a hint of crispness to the air, without the chill that typically defines late fall.

For your hiking pleasure most trails are open in September. These are just a few to get you started on your fall hiking journey in Glacier: Lake McDonald, Many Glacier, North Fork & Goat Haunt, St. Mary and Two Medicine. For trail maps, trail status and more, visit Glacier’s official hiking page. If you’re looking for trails closer to your Bigfork cabin at Flathead Lake Resort, click here. Now, go take a hike!

4 | BOAT RIDES IN GLACIER

Sit back and relax. Let the captain do the driving for you. Take a boat ride on one of several lakes in Glacier, including Lake McDonald, Two Medicine Lake, Swiftcurrent Lake, or Lake Josephine. Glacier Park Boats continues their boat tours into September depending on the location. Picture yourself on one of these serene lakes with majestic mountains enveloping you. You may even catch sight of a bear or a moose off on the distant shores, or an eagle or two soaring high above.

5 | AN ABUNDANCE OF WILDLIFE in September

Glacier National Park is a haven for wildlife. With over 300 species present in the park, without including the thousands of species of insects, the diversity here is spectacular. Hiking, biking, boating, driving, fishing, whatever your chosen choice of activity, you’re bound to see several species of wildlife out and about in September. In fact, your chances of seeing different animals and fauna throughout the park are greatly increased because there are less people here to scare them off and trample them away.

Keep your eyes and ears open for that fleeting sight of a moose, elk, coyote or even a mountain lion. You might even catch that long awaited glimpse of a grizzly or a wolf while daydreaming your way through the trails. Don’t daydream too much, though. This is bear country, and that means you need to be aware of your surroundings. Carry bear spray, stay on the trails, and be sure to let people know where you are.

Remember, wildlife are wild, and we need to keep them that way. Don’t approach them. Watch them safely from a distance and keep your bear spray handy. We want you to come back for another Montana glamping adventure next fall, too.

6 | TAKE AN AMTRAK TRAIN RIDE TO GLACIER

When visiting Northwestern Montana, the scenery demands that you stop and take notice. While this is difficult to do when driving, it’s quite easy to do from a train window. Amtrak’s Empire Builder route has several stops throughout Montana including two in Glacier National Park.

One of the many pros of visiting Glacier and the surrounding areas in September is the stunning beauty of the land around you. With a stop in Whitefish, you can hop on Amtrak for a two-hour scenic train ride to East Glacier. There, you will have about nine hours of enjoyment before the return train picks you up for the ride home. Then, ending your day at Flathead Lake Resort, your favorite Bigfork hotel, you’ve definitely maximized your time enjoying the beauty of Northwestern Montana. Need another reason to catch a train to Glacier? National Park rangers are often on board at select stops telling stories while you travel. An education and a view.

There are several stops in Montana and throughout the Empire Builder line which travels between Chicago and Seattle/Portland. Book your Amtrak travel today to see the wonders of Glacier National Park in the fall.

THE WEATHER IN SEPTEMBER AT GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

Ok, the weather in the fall, similar to the weather in the spring can be a bit unpredictable, but for the most part, the weather in September in Glacier is picture perfect for a Sunday drive, a day hike, or even a backpacking trip. While the nights can get cool, averaging about 39 degrees, the days are brilliant staying right around the high 60s.

It could snow in the fall! Watch your shoe choices.

LIMITED OPTIONS ARE POSSIBLE

And just like in the spring, the fall may have less options available for dining, lodging, and shopping. But you must ask yourself one question. Did you come to Glacier to eat, sleep, and shop, or did you come to Glacier to explore the natural beauty that Glacier National Park is known for? While you may not be able to dine at a five star restaurant, you can still experience a five star view. Make a stop at the local grocery store, like Max’s Market, for example. Buy all your favorite goodies for a picnic, and take off to find that picturesque scene you’ve always dreamed of. Just be sure to pack it out as you have packed it in. And as for lodging? We’ve got you covered at Flathead Lake Resort with cabin rentals, Airstream Glamping, and more.

THINGS TO DO NEAR GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

With several towns also surrounding the park, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had within and outside of the park. Keep in mind, though, some places may close soon after Labor Day, but there are many others that stay open long into late fall and beyond.

The West Entrance is only 38 miles from Bigfork, 43 miles from Flathead Lake Resort, 32 miles from Kalispell, and 26 miles from Whitefish. Each of these communities have characteristics unique to them. Enjoy local restaurants, shops and galleries, breweries, distilleries and more, all with a flair of their own. Outdoor adventures are endless. Whatever you can think of, it’s probably here.

MUSEUMS AND ART

If museums are your thing, be sure to pay a visit to the classic Depot building in Whitefish maintained by Stumptown Historical Society. Still a working train station, the museum here highlights Whitefish’s past and the beauty that it still is today.

The Conrad Mansion Museum in Kalispell is just one of the many places to explore Montana’s history. Combine that with the many galleries here and in the neighboring towns, you’ll gain a great knowledge of why Montana is loved by so many.

A walk down any of the historical streets in the communities here offer an insight into the local artists, designers and musicians. With art galleries, music venues and museums, your curiosity might just be satisfied...for a moment.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

If you’re more of an adventurer, there are hiking and biking trails in any of these towns and surrounding communities. Bike around Flathead Lake or just south of there at Crane Mountain Trails. Or ride Herron Park just outside of Kalispell. Try your skills at the many well-known trails at Whitefish Mountain Resort. Find out more about hiking and biking trails from our own experiences on our blog. We like to play as much as you do.

If you’re looking for world class fishing, there’s Whitefish Lake, Flathead Lake and many other rivers, streams and places to explore for your best catch of the day, even in the fall.

Still warm enough in September to kayak at Flathead Lake Resort.

Kayaking and SUP activities are all abundant on the many lakes and rivers in the region. Yes, the water’s cooler in September — actually it’s cool even in the summer. Bring a wetsuit or rent one, grab a paddleboard or rent one, but get on the water. There’s no better place to enjoy the fall colors than while paddling away on a kayak or SUP. Speaking of those, Flathead Lake Resort has them all for rent for their guests. Contact us today.

SHOPPING, DINING, CRAFT BREWERIES

Shopping and dining are plentiful. Each town has a unique main street full of stores to fit any shopper’s dreams. All are surrounded by the stunning beauty of Montana’s epic mountain vistas. Explore each community’s farmers market held on various days of the week, some even into late September and early October. Choose from an abundant array of locally sourced food and goods while enjoying the fresh spring air.

Northwestern Montana communities love to hang out at local bars and breweries, and there are no shortages of them here. Check out Flathead Lake Brewing Company in Bigfork, Bonsai Brewing Project in Whitefish, Sacred Waters Brewing Company in Kalispell, to name just a few. Dive bars more your game? Then you must pay a visit to one of Montana’s coolest, Moose’s Saloon in Kalispell. For more places to enjoy your favorite drinks, click here.

One of the best things about September is Oktoberfest. Many local breweries and visitor bureaus offer a variety of Oktoberfest celebrations. Just remember to pack your Lederhosen, so you can fit in perfectly with the locals.

Love food? We do, too. Check out Max’s Market in Bigfork. Family owned and operated, this community gathering eatery specializes in good food that’s good for you. Looking for a delectable farm to table, locally sourced restaurant? Try Stone Hill Kitchen + Bar, also in Bigfork, for a unique dining experience. With many more restaurants — upscale, brewpubs, pizzerias and so much more — throughout Northwest Montana, you’ll have to stay through the fall to eat your way through them. Need more places to eat? Click here.

FLATHEAD LAKE RESORT: THE PERFECT PLACE TO STAY WHILE VISITING GLACIER NATIONAL PARK IN SEPTEMBER

Just like spring, fall is a great time to explore Glacier National Park and the entire Flathead Valley. It is also a good time to get some great deals on lodging because most places offer discounted shoulder season rates, including Flathead Lake Resort.

Flathead Lake Resort is a private resort with cozy cabins and vintage Airstreams for rent. Located on Flathead Lake with private beach access and discounted September rates there’s really no reason to stay anywhere else. A mere 43 miles from the west entrance of Glacier National Park, you’ll get the best of small town Montana in Bigfork combined with the best of Mother Nature at Glacier.

Here, you’ll find a community of Montana loving folks that want the same thing you do and will help you access it. Craft beer, outdoor adventures, biking, rafting, hiking, relaxing on the water, camping, exploring. We do it, too, so we know where to tell you to go for your best experiences. Not just because we said so, but because we love it as much as you do.

What are you waiting for? It’s time to book your Bigfork hotel stay at Flathead Lake Resort to experience the wonders of Glacier National Park in September.

SEPTEMBER AT GLACIER NATIONAL PARK IS STUNNING!

There’s no better time to visit Glacier National Park than during September and the fall months. With the leaves just beginning to change, the wind gently whistling through the tops of the trees, and the cozy nights spent reveling in the memories of the adventures throughout the day, this is the place to be. Winter is peeking around the corner. Make September in Glacier your one last hurrah before the cold sets in and nature sleeps under the glistening snow.

Watching the sun set at Glacier is spectacular.

CHECK OUT OUR BLOG

We live and play here, so we can help you get the best experience out of your stay. For hiking, biking, breweries, restaurants, camper stories, and more, visit Outside Glacier, our blog created for you, our guests. It’s almost like your very own personal concierge.

— April

*April is a former team member of Flathead Lake Resort. She and her husband travel the country touring, tasting and building their blog about craft beer.

Glacier in September: Fall Adventures