Closest Airport to Glacier National Park – Complete Guide
Glacier Park International Airport (FCA)
Airlines Serving the Airport
Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) gets you closer to Glacier National Park, and it’s your gateway to nature’s wonders. We’ve got six popular airlines ready to take you there:
- Alaska
- Allegiant
- American
- Delta
- Sun Country
- United
These airlines provide smooth rides to major hubs like Seattle, Salt Lake City, Minneapolis, Denver, and Las Vegas. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or just craving an escape, reaching your dream destination is hassle-free with these options.
| Airline | Major Hubs |
|---|---|
| Alaska | Seattle |
| Allegiant | Las Vegas |
| American | Dallas, Chicago |
| Delta | Salt Lake City, Minneapolis |
| Sun Country | Minneapolis |
| United | Denver, Chicago |
Curious about getting around after you land? Check out the Glacier Park Collection for transportation deets.
Check your flight options at great rates at Expedia by clicking here
Services and Destinations
Strategically positioned a mere 30 miles from Glacier National Park’s West Entrance and just 12 miles from the charming town of Whitefish, Glacier Park International Airport is your ticket to adventure (Glacier Park Collection).
With daily flights from big cities like Seattle and Denver, you can virtually land on the doorstep of Glacier anytime – often needing just one stop. Once you touch down, getting to where you want is a cinch:
- Car Rentals: Fancy having some wheels of your own? Places like Dollar Car Rental are conveniently parked right north of the airport. Our car renting guide might come in handy.
- Shuttle Services: Staying at Grouse Mountain Lodge? Lucky you! They have a free shuttle ready to whisk you away (Glacier Park Collection).
- Taxi and Limousine Services: For a plush ride, check out the likes of Glacier Taxi and Wild Horse Limousine.
Thinking about Uber or Lyft? Or perhaps Turo for car-sharing shenanigans? Explore our links on Uber/Lyft rides and Turo car love for more insights.
Dreaming of more places to wander? Be sure to peek at our guides on other lovely escapes: the closest airport to Redwood National Park and the closest airport to Lake Tahoe. Time to pack those bags and enjoy every mile of the journey!
Transportation Options
Planning a trip to Glacier National Park? Let’s talk about getting around. Whether you’re thinking of grabbing the keys to a rental car or hopping on a shuttle, we’re here to help you choose the best ride for your wild adventure.
Car Rentals
If you’re flying in, a rental car might just be your best buddy. Trust us, your own wheels are a lifesaver, especially since public transport isn’t exactly rolling in doughnuts before July 1 and after Labor Day.
Here are some rental car companies you’ll find hanging out at Glacier Park International Airport:
| Rental Company | Where to Find ‘Em |
|---|---|
| Avis | Airport Terminal |
| Budget | Airport Terminal |
| Hertz | Airport Terminal |
| National | Airport Terminal |
| Alamo | Airport Terminal |
Need a hot tip? Chat with vacation pros over there at Glacier Park International Airport for sweet deals. Dollar Rental Car, for instance, throws in unlimited miles and even a freebie 7th day if you book through them. Check out Glacier Guides for more juicy details.
Shuttle Services
Now, if the idea of someone else doing the driving sounds dreamy, shuttles could be a hit. But here’s the kicker: shuttle rides are mostly available during the booming vacation season, and they don’t cover as much ground as a rental car.
Fancy trying a shuttle? They’re perfect if playing tourist without focusing on the road is your kind of jam. Just be sure to book in advance and double-check those schedules, ‘cause shuttle seats can disappear quicker than cookies at a bake sale.
Need more travel intel? Scope out our articles on how to glide into other national parks. We got the lowdown on Redwood National Park and Lake Tahoe.
Sorted out your wheels? Awesome! Here’s to an epic Glacier National Park adventure. Hit the road and have a blast!
Also Read Closest Airport to Redwood Forest: Best Travel Guide for 2024
Other Nearby Airports
While Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) is your best bet for easy access to Glacier National Park, there are a few other airports in the area that might work better for your travel plans or airline preferences. Let’s check them out.
Check your flight options at great rates at Expedia by clicking here
Missoula International Airport (MSO)
Missoula International Airport (MSO) lies about three hours south of West Glacier and boasts a range of major airlines like American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Allegiant Air, Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and United Airlines all year round. With direct flights from key cities nationwide (Dirt In My Shoes), it’s a solid choice if you’re coming in from the big city.
| Airport Code | Location | Distance to West Glacier |
|---|---|---|
| MSO | Missoula, MT | 3 hours |
Great Falls International Airport (GTF)
Roughly 2.5 hours away from St. Mary on Glacier’s east side, Great Falls International Airport (GTF) offers smooth access to spots like Two Medicine, St. Mary, and Many Glacier. Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines fly here, with direct flights from places such as Salt Lake City, Denver, Minneapolis, Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Seattle (Dirt In My Shoes). Choose this one if you’re planning to stay in the eastern parts of the park.
| Airport Code | Location | Distance to St. Mary |
|---|---|---|
| GTF | Great Falls, MT | 2.5 hours |
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport
If you’re dreaming of visiting both Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks, Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport might be your ticket (Yellowstone Park). A little further out, about 5.5 hours from West Glacier, this airport is great for a road trip adventure and makes sense if you’re planning a longer haul.
| Airport Code | Location | Distance to West Glacier |
|---|---|---|
| BZN | Bozeman, MT | 5.5 hours |
Ready for an effortless getaway? Review our travel tips and check out your transportation choices—like car rentals or shuttle services. Thinking of other stunning parks to visit? We’ve got guides handy for the closest airport to Gatlinburg TN and the closest airport to Lake Tahoe.
Additional Local Transportation
Going to Glacier National Park is like setting out on a big adventure, and getting around the park is key to enjoying your trip. In this section, we’ll check out some of the local ways to get around that can make your adventure more fun.
Amtrak’s Empire Builder Route
Hop on the Amtrak’s Empire Builder route—it’s a cool and scenic journey to Glacier National Park that you shouldn’t miss. This train rolls daily between Seattle and Chicago, making stops right at East Glacier, West Glacier, and Whitefish. It’s a fantastic way to get to the park with some breathtaking views along the way.
| Station | How Far to Glacier NP (miles) |
|---|---|
| East Glacier | 12 |
| West Glacier | 2 |
| Whitefish | 27 |
Got a soft spot for scenic routes? Swing by our page on closest airport to redwood national park for more travel ideas that’ll spice up your wanderlust.
Uber and Lyft Availability
Uber and Lyft, those handy apps we all love, can be found buzzing around the Airport-Whitefish-Kalispell-Columbia Falls areas. But, heads up, they might not be the most dependable once you get into Glacier National Park itself. If you try ordering a ride inside the park, don’t be surprised if the wait time stretches out—especially if it’s off-peak hours and your phone’s struggling to find service. Planning to rely on these apps? It’s wise to set your rides up in advance when you can.
Turo Car-Sharing
If you want to drive your own wheels without breaking the bank, Turo car-sharing is a cool option around The Flathead Valley. With daily costs between $50 and $70, it’s a budget-friendly way to explore as much as you like. You get to pick a ride that suits you, making your trip comfy and just how you want it. Remember, booking early is your friend here to snag a car that’s perfect for your trip. For more tips on getting around, swing by our page on the closest airport to lake tahoe.
Whether you’re pulling out all the stops with the Amtrak service, hailing rides with apps, or cruising with Turo, you’re all set to have a great time in Glacier National Park. Keen on more travel hacks and ideas? Check out our page on the closest airport to gatlinburg tn—you might just find your next adventure craving.
Also read 5 Best Ways to Travel from San Francisco to Redwood National Park: A Comprehensive Guide
Travel Tips and Recommendations
Importance of Renting a Car
Hey there, fellow travelers! Let’s chat about one of the most liberating decisions you can make on your adventure to Glacier National Park – renting a car. Imagine cruising through breathtaking landscapes at your own speed! Public transport here isn’t your best buddy, especially if you’re visiting outside the buzzy months of July and September. Having your own set of wheels gives you the freedom to explore every nook and cranny the park offers.
We’re talking about easy peasy car rentals from big names like Avis, Budget, Hertz, National, and Alamo. These guys are hanging out right at the airport, waiting for your arrival. And there’s more – the vacation whizzes at Glacier Park International Airport can hook you up with some awesome discounts. Picture this: unlimited miles and a free 7th day if you go with Dollar Rental Car. Now, that’s a deal we can all smile about!
| Rental Company | Sweet Deal |
|---|---|
| Dollar Rental Car | Unlimited miles & get the 7th day on the house! |
| Avis | Just your usual rates |
| Budget | No frills rates |
| Hertz | Straightforward prices |
| National | Standard rates |
| Alamo | Standard rates |
Limited Public Transportation in Glacier NP
Here’s the scoop on public transit in Glacier National Park – it’s as rare as finding a WiFi signal in the wilderness. Yeah, there’s a shuttle service here and there, but don’t bet on it for all your park explorations, especially when the summer crowd packs up. If you’re thinking of wandering off the beaten path, your own car makes all the difference. There’s a sprinkle of taxis and limos if you need them, but let’s face it, they can’t beat the perks of a rental car.
Vacation Specialists and Exclusive Deals
Why make this trip a headache when you can hand over the wheel to vacation specialists? These folks don’t just sort out where you’ll crash at night, but they’re also your go-to for snagging sweet rides. Like we mentioned, grab these deals at Glacier Park International Airport where you can enjoy unlimited mileage and get every 7th day free with Dollar Rental Car.
If you’re aiming for the extra VIP touches, these specialists can line up some posh transport options. Think chic limousines with Wild Horse Limousine or go big with Rocky Mountain Transportation, whisking you to and from Glacier National Park in style and comfort.
For more passport-stamping tips, sneak a peek at our other handy guides on airport options near breathtaking spots like Redwood National Park, Lake Tahoe, and the enchanting Gatlinburg, TN. Happy travels!
Closest Airports to Other National Parks
Ready for some national park hopping? Knowing the nearest airports can make your journey way easier and leave you with more time for adventure. We’ve got the deets on airports that get you closest to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
McGee-Tyson Airport (TYS) to Great Smoky Mountains NP
First up, McGee-Tyson Airport (TYS) is in Alcoa, Tennessee. Just a hop, skip, and a jump south of Knoxville. This airport practically drops you at the park’s Gatlinburg entrance.
| Airport | Location | Distance to Park | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| McGee-Tyson Airport (TYS) | Alcoa, TN | 41 miles | 1 hour 15 minutes |
Asheville Regional Airport to Great Smoky Mountains NP
Now, if you’re coming in from North Carolina, Asheville Regional Airport’s your best bet. Perfect for the east side adventurer heading for the Cherokee entrance.
| Airport | Location | Distance to Park | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asheville Regional Airport | Asheville, NC | 42 miles | 1 hour |
Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport to Great Smoky Mountains NP
Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport in South Carolina isn’t the closest, but it’s worth the longer drive for the scenery. Head on over to the park’s Cherokee entrance and enjoy the ride.
| Airport | Location | Distance to Park | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport | Greer, SC | 100 miles | 2 hours |
These airports are your ticket to a chill trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can jump into nature’s embrace with zero stress about getting there.
Craving more airport insights? Check out our guides on the closest airport to Redwood National Park or if you’re aiming to hit up Lake Tahoe, swing by our piece on the closest airport to Lake Tahoe. Got Gatlinburg on your radar? Don’t miss out on closest airport to Gatlinburg TN.
