Glacier National Park — Crowd-Free Adventures in May

Springtime is a time of renewal. A time to step out into a world that is slowly opening back up from the colds of winter and snow. It awakens your senses. Birdsong fills the air. Vibrant wildflowers bloom amidst cascading waterfalls. Blue skies envelope the world, overtaking the gray of winter. All of this beauty can be found within the wonders of Glacier National Park in May.

And you should be here to experience it. With millions of people planning their visit to Glacier in the summer, springtime is the ideal time to plan a crowd-free trip. Trails are full of wildflowers, not hikers. Many roads are closed to cars, but not bikers. You’ll see more wildlife than humans.

As Glacier comes to life in May, so do the surrounding towns. Shops are easier to browse. Streets are simpler to stroll through. You won’t have to wait hours for a table at a restaurant. Drink it all in while sipping on a local brew at one of the many breweries in the area.

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

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.

7 Reasons Why May is One of the Best Months to Visit Glacier National Park

Visiting Glacier National Park in May offers some unique thrills that you won’t get while visiting in July or August. The park is coming alive with blooming wildflowers, rushing rivers and emerging wildlife after its long winter’s nap. You might even find yourself coming back to life.

1 | A Crowd-Free Experience

Kids are still in school, and adults are busy planning summer vacations. You’re one step ahead of the crowds because you are already planning your adventures for Glacier in the springtime. So, while noses are still buried in books, grab your hiking boots, a few warm clothes, your bike and head off to experience the wonders of springtime in Glacier before everyone else gets here.

It is true that not all roads and trails are open in Glacier in May, but this is easily a bonus for anyone visiting during springtime. The roads and trails that are open are less busy. You’ll see more wildflowers and wildlife than people on the trails. The surrounding towns are also coming alive, and you’ll get to know the locals more than the tourists.

During the summer months, millions of visitors flock to the beauty here to explore the region, hike the backcountry, and drive the famous Going to the Sun Road.

These millions of people are quite good at causing traffic congestion on many of the main thoroughfares throughout the park. Parking lots fill up quickly, adventure reservations are full and lodging is completely over booked. It’s kind of a no-brainer that the best time to visit for a crowd-free experience is during the month of May. The park is coming to life, why not join it?

2 | Biking Going-to-the-Sun Road and Other Park Roads

Going to-the-Sun Road: One of the highlights of visiting Glacier National Park is the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. 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.

However, Going-to-the-Sun Road is still a highlight when visiting Glacier in May. While this highly sought-after scenic drive is closed to vehicles during May, it is open to bicyclists if entering from the West Entrance. The thrill of riding this stunning road without the worries of a car coming up behind you is a dream of many. And the best time to do this is during the month of May.

The road is closed to both cyclists and vehicles when the plows are working, but you can still ride to the Loop Viewpoint. And at around 23 miles one way from the start of the road to the Loop, I’d say this ride will be epic no matter how far up the mountain you make it. But, if you must go further, the best time to plan your biking trip is during the weekend and most Fridays when the plows aren’t around and the road is open.

Bring your own bike or rent from one of the many outfitters, such as Glacier Guides or Glacier Outfitters, that are in and around Glacier National Park. Whatever you choose, if you’re visiting Glacier National Park in May and love cycling, this is a must-do event. Bikes on Going-to-the-Sun Road have many restrictions during the summertime. It’s nice to not have to worry about those in the springtime.

Why not book your Weekend Biking Getaway to Flathead Lake Resort where we’ll take you on your very own Biking Tour of Going-to-the-Sun Road. Bring your own bike, or book a rental at one of the many glacier outfitters.

Inner North Fork Road: Biking Going-to-the-Sun-Road is the most popular biking activity in the Park in May, but there are other rides. If visiting North Fork Valley, you can bike or walk the Inner North Fork Road which is also closed to traffic at this time. These roads are dirt, however, so be prepared for some fun in the mud if the snow is still sticking around.

Camas Road: Camas Road begins where Going-to-the-Sun Road intersects it and is around 12 miles to North Fork Road. This is a great alternative for when the plows are working on Going-to-the-Sun Road and it is closed. Keep in mind, though, Camas Road is one of the earliest roads to be cleared of snow and may open to vehicles in mid-May.

3 | Springtime Hiking in Glacier

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 May as the weather loves to change on a whim. But that’s one of the joys of hiking in the springtime. You’ll come across lush green meadows alive with vibrant colors and then round a bend or climb a summit and be bedazzled with a snow pile ripe for a springtime snowball fight. Did you bring the right boots? Early season trails are often wet and muddy and at higher elevations, still quite snowy.

For your hiking pleasure there are trails open in the springtime in most areas of the park, including: Lake McDonald, Many Glacier, North Fork & Goat Haunt, St. Mary and Two Medicine. Some are easier to access than others and some may still be closed depending on weather. Many of the best springtime trails are located at St. Mary, Many Glacier, and Two Medicine areas. For trail maps, trail status and more, visit Glacier’s official hiking page. Now, go take a hike!

4 | Whitewater Rafting in Glacier

The rush of springtime. And by rush, we mean water. May and June are peak run-off months making it the best time to head out on the rivers for whitewater rafting. Summer might offer more warmth, but if you love the thrill of whitewater, you’ll be warm enough from the energy of the rushing river as you and guides paddle the Flathead River.

Rafting outfitters such as Montana Raft and Glacier Raft Company, are located throughout the park and the surrounding areas and offer a variety of half-day, full-day and overnight trips. If you’re not the whitewater type, but still love the beauty of the river, there are fun river float packages available as well. I don’t know about you, but I can feel the warmth of the sun reflecting off the water already. And if it happens to be a rainy spring day? You’re going to get wet anyway, why not enjoy a rafting trip in the rain?

5 | Boat Rides in Glacier

Sit back and relax. Let the captain do the driving for you. Take a boat ride on the largest lake in Glacier, Lake McDonald. Glacier Park Boats starts their boat tours mid May for your springtime Glacier National Park experience. Picture yourself on this serene lake with snow-capped mountains enveloping you as you catch glimpses of Mama Moose and her calf off in the distance. Sounds like a painting, but it’s your actual vacation.

6 | An Abundance of Wildlife and Plant Life in May

Wildlife are emerging from their winter homes wandering the blooming meadows and forests. Springtime is a time of bustling activity for wildlife and plant life in Glacier National Park. And when you’re here hiking, biking, boating and fishing in May, 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 wildflowers. 

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 next May, too. The plants want to come back as much as you do. So stay on designated trails to keep the beauty coming back to life every spring.

7 | 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 May is the stunning beauty of the land around you waking up for spring. And you won’t want to miss any of it. With a stop in Whitefish, you can hop on Amtrak for a 2 hour scenic train ride to East Glacier. There, you will have about 9 hours of enjoyment before the return train picks you up for the ride home. Then, ending your day staying at Flathead Lake Resort in Bigfork, 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 May.

The Weather in May at Glacier National Park

Ok, the weather in May can be a bit unpredictable, but I’d rather deal with unpredictable weather than unpredictable people. Could it blizzard? It could. However, with an average snowfall of less than ½ inch during May and June, your chances of blue sky days without the snow are pretty good. Combine that with an average high temperature in the mid 60’s and the lows in the high 30’s, springtime at Glacier National Park sounds quite lovely.

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.

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. Yes, even in May.

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. Check out Trailforks for these and many other trails in the region, including hiking trails.

Check out our short post about this wild event that happens every year on Memorial Day weekend!

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.

Whitewater rafting, kayaking and SUP activities are all abundant on the many lakes and rivers in the region. Yes, the water’s cooler in May — actually it’s cold even in the summer — but the river run-offs are meant to be played in during springtime. Bring a wetsuit or rent one, grab a paddleboard or rent one, but get on the water. It might rain, so you might as well get wet on the water instead of hiding from it.

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. 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.

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 a lot longer than the springtime to eat your way through them.

Looking for some guided advice on where to drink local brews? Need more incentive to spend a weekend at Flathead Lake this May? We’ve got the craft beer experts from Living a Stout Life on crew starting this May to help answer any questions about where to go for your craft beer desires. They’ll also help you with dive bars, distilleries, biking and more. Book your stay today.

Flathead Lake Resort: The Perfect Place to Stay While Visiting Glacier National Park in May

Spring is a great time to explore the west side of the park as the snow melts, rivers flow, and everything starts to turn green. Spring is also a good time to get some great deals on lodging because most places offer discounted shoulder season rates!

However, choices for places to stay while visiting Glacier National Park in May could be limited when the season is just coming back to life. Many of the hotels and lodges in Glacier don’t open until June, so instead of searching for a place to stay, listen to the locals and stay local at Flathead Lake Resort in Bigfork.

Flathead Lake Resort is a private resort with cozy cabins and vintage Airstreams for rent. Located on Flathead Lake with private beach access, discounted May rates and planned activities specially geared towards May and springtime in the Glacier area, 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 stay at Flathead Lake Resort to experience the wonders of Glacier National Park in May.

A Crowd-Free, Stress-Free May at Glacier National Park

Whatever it is that excites you about Glacier National Park, it is bound to be more vibrant in the springtime than any other time. The rushing rivers of snow run-off, the lack of congestion on the trails and roads, the leisurely meals spent at favorite restaurants, the smell of wildflowers and sounds of wolves in the distance. Glacier National Park in May. There’s no stress or crowds this spring for me. How about you?

— April