Expert Guide to St. Mary - Glacier National Park

St. Mary is the eastern gateway to Glacier National Park. Towering peaks reflect in crystal-clear waters, winding trails lead to jaw-dropping vistas, and the scent of pine fills the crisp mountain air. Here, the mountains meet the plains—and adventure begins.

In this guide, I'll share everything you need to know to make the most of your time in this unforgettable destination. Whether you're here for a quick stop or a multi-day escape, St. Mary is more than just a scenic rest point; it's your launching pad for exploring one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. From driving the legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road to spotting wildlife along the shores of St. Mary Lake, there's no shortage of epic experiences waiting for you. 

Top Attractions in St. Mary

St. Mary Lake

St. Mary Lake, with its deep blue waters cradled by towering peaks, is a sight that will leave you in awe. The Wild Goose Island Overlook, just off the Going-to-the-Sun Road, offers the best spot for that classic postcard shot, especially at sunrise or sunset. Other incredible viewpoints include Sun Point and the pullouts along the east side of the lake.

Going-to-the-Sun Road (East Entrance)

The Going-to-the-Sun Road is the ultimate scenic drive in Glacier National Park. Stretching 50 miles from St. Mary to West Glacier, this winding mountain road takes you past waterfalls, glaciers, and jaw-dropping viewpoints. The eastern entrance, just past St. Mary, is the perfect place to start, with fewer crowds in the early morning compared to the west side.

St. Mary Visitor Center

If you're new to Glacier, stopping at the St. Mary Visitor Center is a great way to get the lay of the land and insider tips. The rangers provide up-to-date information on trail conditions, wildlife activity, and road closures. You'll also find maps, restrooms, a gift shop, and exhibits on the park's geology and history. 

Best Hiking Trails Near St. Mary

St. Mary Falls & Virginia Falls Trail

This scenic 3-mile round-trip hike is a must-do for waterfall lovers. The trail starts near St. Mary Lake and leads to the stunning St. Mary Falls, where turquoise waters cascade over red rock. From there, continue uphill for another half-mile to reach Virginia Falls, a taller and more powerful waterfall.

 The moderate terrain makes this hike accessible for most visitors, though it does have some inclines. Expect wildflowers in the summer and possibly a moose near the water. Arrive early to beat the crowds and bring a rain jacket—the mist from Virginia Falls is refreshing but can soak you!

Red Eagle Lake Trail

For an authentic backcountry experience, the 17-mile round-trip Red Eagle Lake Trail offers solitude, wildlife sightings, and stunning alpine scenery. The trail begins in an open meadow before winding through a forest recovering from past wildfires, creating a unique mix of new growth and charred tree trunks.

Hikers often spot moose and black bears along the route, so bear spray is necessary. The trail is relatively flat but long, making it best for experienced hikers or those planning an overnight backpacking trip. Fishing is allowed at Red Eagle Lake, so pack a rod to try your luck.

Beaver Pond Loop

This easy 3.5-mile loop, perfect for families or those seeking a laid-back nature walk, offers a tranquil experience. The trail passes through forests and meadows before reaching a series of beaver ponds, where you might see beaver lodges, ducks, and wandering deer.

The loop is relatively flat with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for all ages. Early morning or evening hikes offer the best chances of seeing wildlife. The changing leaves add even more beauty to the landscape in the fall, making this an excellent short hike in any season.

Additional Activities Around St. Mary

Water Activities and Rentals

Glacier Park Boat Company offers scenic boat tours across St. Mary Lake from Rising Sun, giving you a unique perspective of the rugged mountain landscape. The boat captains are full of knowledge about the park's history, the landscape, and the wildlife, making this an excellent tour for the whole family.

Kayaking is a great way to explore the lake at your own pace. You can rent kayaks to explore St. Mary Lake or the surrounding lakes on the east side of the park. If you bring your own watercraft, be sure to stop at an inspection station to ensure you don't have any invasive species hiding out.

Fishing is allowed in most bodies of water in the park, including St. Mary Lake. All native fish caught must be released, but you can take up to five non-native fish home with you to grill up over the fire! Check the latest regulations on fishing at St. Mary to make sure you are correctly identifying native species and adhering to park rules. Local tip: It can get quite windy out at St. Mary, so make sure to check the forecast before you end up out on the shore with your hook in the bushes behind you! 

Ranger Programs

During summer, the visitor center hosts ranger-led talks and programs about Glacier's wildlife, geology, and Native American history. Some programs include guided walks, making them a great way to explore the area with an expert.

Wildlife & Scenic Photography

Common Wildlife in the Area

St. Mary is prime wildlife territory. Keep your eyes peeled for grizzly and black bears, especially near meadows and riverbanks. Moose love hanging out near marshy areas, while mountain goats are often spotted climbing steep slopes around Logan Pass. You might see elk grazing at dawn or dusk, or a sneaky fox darting through the underbrush. Bring binoculars and don't forget to look up; bald eagles and peregrine falcons are frequently seen soaring overhead. Remember to keep a safe distance from all wildlife and never feed them.

Best Spots for Photography

• Wild Goose Island Overlook – The most iconic shot in the park, best at sunrise.
• Logan Pass – Perfect for dramatic landscapes and mountain wildlife.
• St. Mary Lake – Incredible reflections of the mountains, best at sunrise
• Many Glacier Area – A short drive from St. Mary, but worth it for wildlife and glacial views.
• Sunrift Gorge – A hidden gem for unique canyon and waterfall shots.

Where to Stay in St. Mary

Lodges & Hotels

St. Mary Village is your best bet if you want comfort and convenience. This lodge offers hotel-style rooms, cozy cabins, and budget-friendly motel rooms. Located right at the park's east entrance, it's perfect for catching an early sunrise over St. Mary Lake. 

Another option is the Glacier Park Lodge near East Glacier, a historic property with a classic mountain lodge feel. If you still want to stay on the east side, but want a change in scenery, check out the Many Glacier Hotel. This magnificent building is a Swiss-style lodge set against a breathtaking alpine backdrop about 30 minutes north of St. Mary.

Campgrounds

For those who prefer sleeping under the stars, St. Mary Campground is the most prominent and most accessible option in the area. It has sites for both tents and RVs, flush toilets, and potable water. Reservations are required in peak season. 

If you want a more remote experience, try Many Glacier Campground or Two Medicine Campground (both on the east side), where you'll be closer to some of the best hiking trails. There are also a few primitive campgrounds outside the park, like those within the Blackfeet Nation, which provide a more rugged experience away from the crowds.

Johnson's RV Park, located just outside the park entrance, has full-service RV sites, tent-only spots (single family and large group), and furnished cabins. This is a good spot to check out when St. Mary Campground fills up. 

Dining & Local Services

Best Restaurants and Cafés

• Two Sisters Cafe: Located in Babb, this funky, colorful cafe is a must-stop for burgers, fresh trout, and quirky charm. They serve grass-fed, antibiotic-free bison from the Blackfeet Tribal Herd in burgers, chili, and steaks. Their menu has plenty of unique options, including trout and waffles, and elk shanks. Don't forget to save room for dessert; huckleberry cheesecake and bourbon-soaked cherry bread pudding aren't to be missed! 
• Rising Sun Pizza: Nothing hits the spot after a long hike like a hot, cheesy pizza. This laid-back spot serves fresh, made-to-order pies with a crispy crust. It is excellent for groups and even has gluten-free options. Grab a seat outside and enjoy the mountain air.
• Johnson's Cafe: A local favorite known for hearty portions and homestyle meals. Their fried chicken and mashed potatoes are legendary, but the real star is the homemade huckleberry pie. Expect a wait during peak season—it's worth it.
• Park Cafe & Grocery: Famous for its all-day breakfasts and fresh-baked pies, this cafe is a landmark to hit before heading into the park. It also has a small grocery section for trail snacks and picnic supplies.
• Curly Bear Cafe: Conveniently located right before the park entrance, this is the perfect spot for those on the go. The cafe serves quick bites like sandwiches, chili, and hot coffee.
• Snowgoose Grille: This local joint serves all the Montana classics, including all things bison. Come here to enjoy some Western food and stunning views.

Gas Stations & Grocery Stores

• St. Mary Gas & Grocery: This is the only gas station in town, so expect high prices. Fill the tank before you arrive if you can. The attached grocery store has basics like chips, drinks, and some camping essentials, but the selection is limited.
• Browning & East Glacier: If you need more than just the basics, Browning (35 minutes away) and East Glacier (45 minutes away) have larger grocery stores with fresh produce, meats, and better pricing.
• Trail Creek Outfitters: Need bear spray, hiking boots, fishing gear, or a last-minute rain jacket? Trail Creek sells outdoor essentials, but expect to pay a premium. It's best to bring what you need from home or stop in Kalispell or Whitefish.

Do I Need a Vehicle Reservation Pass to Get into St. Mary?

You do not need a vehicle reservation pass to get into the park at the St. Mary Entrance. This allows you access to the visitor center, Rising Sun, and St. Mary Campground. As of the 2025 season, you do not need a vehicle reservation pass to travel the Going-to-the-Sun Road starting at St. Mary. Still, you do need one between 7am and 3pm if you are coming from the west side.

How to Get to St. Mary

Nearest Airports and Major Cities

Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell is the closest airport, about a 3-hour drive from St. Mary. Flights here are limited, so you might also check Great Falls International Airport (GTF), around 3.5 hours away, for more options. Missoula (MSO) is another choice for travelers coming from further out. It has a wider variety of flights, but it's a longer 5-hour drive.

No matter where you fly into, you'll need a rental car. There is no public transportation to St. Mary. Be sure to book ahead, especially in summer.

Driving Directions and Scenic Routes

• From Kalispell (130 miles, ~3 hours): Take U.S. 2 East to Browning, then head north on U.S. 89 to St. Mary. Expect mountain views, open plains, and maybe even a bear sighting.
• From Great Falls (160 miles, ~3.5 hours): Follow I-15 North to Shelby, then go west on U.S. 2 and north on U.S. 89. A quieter drive with rolling hills and classic Montana ranchland.
• From Missoula (210 miles, ~5 hours): Head north on U.S. 93, then take U.S. 2 East. This route passes Flathead Lake and West Glacier, making for a stunning drive.

If you're visiting between late June and September, consider taking the Going-to-the-Sun Road from West Glacier to St. Mary. It's an unforgettable drive, but check for closures, as snow can linger well into summer. Suppose you are traveling with a large RV or trailer. In that case, you will have to take Highway 2 outside of the park, as large vehicles are prohibited on the narrow, winding Going-to-the-Sun Road. 

Tips for Visiting St. Mary

Weather Considerations

• Unpredictable Conditions: The weather can shift in minutes. Mornings may be sunny, but afternoon storms roll in fast. Always be prepared for rain, wind, and sudden temperature drops. It is rare to get a completely still day in St. Mary, so I recommend bringing a windbreaker to keep the chill from seeping in on the breezier days! You'll want to pack a rain jacket, fleece, and moisture-wicking clothing as well. In the spring and fall, gloves and a hat often come in handy.
• Road Closures: The Going-to-the-Sun Road isn't always open, even in early summer. Check road conditions before heading out.

Safety Tips for Wildlife Encounters

• Keep Your Distance: Stay 100 yards from bears and 25 yards from other animals like moose and elk. Bring binoculars to get a detailed view without encroaching on their space.
• Carry Bear Spray: An absolute essential in Glacier. Keep it accessible (not buried in your backpack) and know how to use it. Check out this video from the National Park Service about how to properly use bear spray.
• Make Noise While Hiking: Talk loudly, clap, or sing, especially in dense brush or near streams where bears might not hear you coming.
• Store Food Properly: Bears have an excellent sense of smell. Use bear-proof containers when camping, and never leave food unattended.

Best Time of Year to Visit

For the best experience, visit late June through mid-September. That's when all park roads, lodges, and services are open, and the weather is warm enough for hiking and sightseeing. July and August are the busiest months, so book accommodations early.

Spring and fall offer fewer crowds, but services start shutting down in September. By October, snow can make travel tricky. Winter? Only for the bold—most roads close, and temperatures drop well below freezing. 

What Should I Pack?

The different seasons in Glacier bring many different weather patterns, so coming prepared with all the proper clothing and gear will make all the difference! Don't forget to pack plenty of water and snacks for the longer adventures, and of course, always carry bear spray. Here are some other must-haves in your pack, depending on the season:

• Spring (April–May): Wear rain gear, waterproof hiking boots, and layers for chilly mornings and muddy trails.
• Summer (June–August): Wear sunscreen, bug spray (the mosquitoes can get ferocious in the summer), sunglasses, a sun hat, and lightweight layers. Expect warm days but cooler nights.
• Fall (September–October): Insulated layers, a hat, gloves, and waterproof boots. Early snowfall is possible at higher elevations.
• Winter (November–March): St. Mary is primarily inaccessible during the winter, but if you're venturing out, pack insulated snow gear, microspikes, and emergency supplies.

St. Mary isn't just a gateway to Glacier National Park; it's a must-visit destination brimming with adventure, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable moments. Whether you're marveling at the reflections on St. Mary Lake, driving the legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road, or savoring a slice of huckleberry pie after a day of exploring, this slice of Montana has something for everyone.