Glacier Park Lodge stands at the gateway to Glacier National Park in East Glacier Park, Montana, directly adjacent to the Amtrak Empire Builder railway stop that has connected visitors to this remote corner of the Rocky Mountains since the lodge opened in 1913. Constructed by the Great Northern Railway and designed by architect Thomas McMahon, the lodge is one of the park region's defining historic structures, its main lobby upheld by massive Douglas fir and cedar logs — some measuring up to 40 inches in diameter and 60 feet tall — shipped east by rail from the Pacific Northwest. The surrounding Blackfeet Nation lands lend the setting a cultural depth unique among Glacier-area lodges, and the name Ookaga — meaning "going-to-the-sun" — given by the Blackfeet reflects the region's Indigenous significance. The lodge's 161 rooms are spread across the main historic building and adjacent wings in standard and deluxe configurations with comfortable, unfussy furnishings suited to an active Montana stay. A full-service dining room serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with mountain views; a separate bar and lounge cater to evening relaxation. An outdoor heated pool is open through the summer season. A nine-hole golf course adjacent to the property provides an atmospheric game with Glacier peaks as constant backdrop. The lodge is a practical east-side base for Two Medicine Lake, Running Eagle Falls, and the Chief Mountain International Highway connecting to Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada. The lodge operates seasonally, typically mid-May through late September.
Room types
- Standard rooms
- Deluxe rooms
Amenities
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Pool
- 9-hole golf course
- Gift shop
Location
E Glacier Park, MT 59434
48.4534, -113.2148 View on map
Highlights
- Historic 1913 Great Northern Railway lodge with original 40-inch-diameter timber columns in the grand lobby
- Adjacent to East Glacier Amtrak stop — arrive directly by train from Chicago or Seattle
- Outdoor heated pool and nine-hole golf course with Glacier National Park peak views
- East-side gateway for Two Medicine Lake, Running Eagle Falls, and access to Waterton Lakes (Canada)
- Cultural setting on Blackfeet Nation lands reflecting the region's deep Indigenous heritage
Tips for visiting
- The lodge is seasonal (mid-May to late September); book as early as February for peak summer dates
- Arriving via the Amtrak Empire Builder is a practical and scenic option — the station is steps from the front door
- East Glacier is quieter than the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor; east-side trails see far fewer visitors
- The dining room fills quickly on summer evenings; request early dinner reservations when checking in
- Two Medicine Lake is 12 miles from the lodge and among Glacier's least-crowded major destinations
Accessibility
Glacier Park Lodge's 1913 historic timber construction presents accessibility challenges; the grand lobby is largely level but some room wings involve exterior steps and narrow corridors. Ground-level accessible rooms are available in designated sections. Contact the reservations team to confirm which specific rooms best meet mobility needs before booking.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Glacier Park Lodge inside Glacier National Park?
The lodge is located in the community of East Glacier Park, just outside the national park boundary. A short drive or the park's shuttle system connects guests to park trailheads and visitor centres.
When does Glacier Park Lodge open and close each year?
The lodge typically operates from mid-May through late September. Exact opening and closing dates vary by season; confirm with the operator before booking.
Can guests arrive by Amtrak?
Yes, the Amtrak Empire Builder stops at East Glacier Park station directly adjacent to the lodge. It is one of the few national park gateway lodges served directly by a passenger train.
Are guided tours available from the lodge?
The lodge can help arrange connections to park concession bus tours, boat tours on Two Medicine Lake, and guided hiking programmes. Ask at the front desk for current season offerings.