Year-round Weather in Glacier National Park
The weather in Glacier National Park ranges from summer highs in the 90s to the negative digits in the winter. Even in the ideal summer weather window, temperatures and conditions vary widely and change rapidly here in our neck of the woods.
So how can you be prepared for the weather on your next trip to Glacier? In this guide, you'll learn about the weather patterns you can expect month-by-month in Glacier. You'll also get recommendations to help you enjoy Glacier National Park with rain, shine, or in the snow in the forecast. As Alfred Wainwright once said, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.”
Understanding Glacier National Park Weather
Tucked in the Northwestern corner of Montana where the Rockies meet the plains, Glacier National Park is subject to rapidly changing conditions in different parts of the park. Each season in Glacier brings unique weather patterns and important considerations. Presuming you plan to leave the comforts of your car, even for a short hike, it is important to pay attention to key weather factors.
Temperature in Glacier National Park
The temperature in Glacier is a key factor and one of the most important things to consider before your visit. Even while traveling during the peak of summer between July and August, you should be prepared for the possibility of anything Mother Nature can throw at you.
Believe it or not, any time of the year can bring freezing temperatures at night or even snowfall, especially at higher elevations. A typical summer day in Glacier National Park is usually around 80 degrees in West Glacier near Lake McDonald while the average temperature up at Logan Pass is typically 10-15 degrees cooler than West Glacier.
It's always important to check the forecast before you travel, but remember to keep your expectations flexible. Consider any changes in elevation that could contribute to drops in temperature as you travel from Lake McDonald to Logan Pass and beyond.
Local Tip: Check out the official NOAA weather forecast here.
Source: NOAA for West Glacier, Montana
Wind
Wind is another critical element to consider before planning your trip to Glacier National Park. Many days can be very windy, especially if you are westward facing or above tree line.
Popular hikes such as The Highline offer little to no protection from the elements while on the trail, so if there is high wind in the forecast, you may want to reconsider your hike. Summit hikes and many trails on the far east side of Glacier are also subject to high wind events, even if there isn't a strong forecast. Ensure you’ve got adequate protection by bringing a rain jacket/windbreaker and either soft-shell or rain pants. These extra layers can go a long way in maintaining an enjoyable experience while hiking!
Precipitation
July and August in Glacier National Park are the two driest months of the year, with an average of 1.6 and 1.4 inches of monthly rainfall respectively. With that said, you ALWAYS want to bring a rain jacket with you when venturing into the park. What starts as a sunny day can quickly change into an afternoon thunderstorm or snow flurries. Rainy days in West Glacier usually mean snow flurries up at Logan Pass and other areas of the park. With a rain jacket available, you’ll enjoy your hikes and sightseeing so much more, regardless of any precipitation.
If you plan to come in the spring, be prepared for rain and low-hanging clouds, and be pleasantly surprised if you get sun! May and June are the two wettest months of the year with heavy storms combined with rapid snowmelt. This time of year can be a truly incredible sight, but it is critical to keep a safe distance from the water for your own safety. Drowning is the number one cause of death in Glacier National Park each year, and it can be a matter of life and death when it comes to respecting this force of nature. On July 6th, 2024 two separate drownings occurred on the same day and were reported by park officials here. When near moving water, especially while hiking, it's important to remember to always stay on the trail and never attempt to get in moving water unless properly equipped.
Fire
Fire season in Montana should be an extra consideration when planning your summer trip to Glacier National Park. Due to the unpredictability of forest fires, it can be hard to determine what kind of conditions to expect. With a small snowpack from the previous year and a hot, dry summer, you can expect August and September to likely bring fires and smoke. It is common for smoke to travel into Flathead Valley and Glacier National Park from fires in the surrounding states and Canada, which causes the air to be smokey even when there aren't any local fires burning. If you have health issues or want to avoid the smoke altogether, plan a trip in the spring, early summer, or mid-fall to avoid the smokiest time of the year. Check out the air quality on this live smoke forecast map before you head out on your outdoor adventure during fire season.What to Expect: Seasonal Weather in Glacier National Park
What’s The Weather Like During Spring In Glacier National Park?
Spring is a wonderful time to discover lower-elevation hikes in the park or head out for some whitewater rafting on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River. May and June bring the most precipitation of any season in Glacier with highly variable weather conditions. Thus, you MUST be prepared for any kind of weather in the spring.
Typical high temps are in the mid-50s and mid-60s in April and May respectively. Lows sit mostly in the 30s. By June, temps warm into the low 70s, but remain in the 40s at night.
The snowpack will be the most important weather factor for your spring visit to Glacier. From early May through late June, the snow lines will rise and the road crews will clear the Going-To-The-Sun Road a bit closer to Logan Pass each day. This is a great time to hike or bike the iconic road with no vehicle traffic around.
Keep in mind, if you plan to visit the park in May through early June, it is unlikely that you will be able to travel the full length of the Going-to-the-Sun Road up over Logan Pass in a vehicle.
Be Prepared In Spring
Bring your rain jacket and rain pants, mid layers, and warm hat and gloves to ensure you stay warm in quickly changing weather conditions. Check the weather before you get into Glacier as there is no service throughout most of the Park. Bring bug spray as the mosquitos are at their “prime” in late May and June. Bears are out this time of year as well, so pack your bear spray in an accessible spot and make lots of noise on the trails. Come prepared for spring weather and you can beat the crowds and find much cheaper lodging than in the summer months.
What’s The Weather Like During Summer In Glacier National Park?
Mid-June through Labor Day is absolutely lovely in Montana. As locals, we endure the cold, dark days of November through March so we can enjoy the spectacular weather and beauty of Montana in the summer. Temperatures will typically be in the high 70s and low 80s. Recent years have seen more days in the 90’s so it is imperative that you stay hydrated and bring plenty of sun protection.
Even when the days are warm, evenings can get quite cool, typically in the high 40s. Bring warm layers if you are camping, hiking or backpacking. While July and August have the lowest precipitation all year, sudden storms will still roll in and can drop a lot of rain in a short amount of time through “cloud bursts”. These systems can also cause temperatures to plunge so you don’t want to be caught without your warm layers! Plan your trip with rain in mind and then lean on local weather before heading out the next day.
A typical day will be mostly sunny with a few clouds throughout. On average, roughly 75% of the days throughout the summer are sunny in Glacier. This lends itself well to the many incredible outdoor activities in and around Glacier. Cool off on a hot day with Glacier Park Whitewater Rafting or a Glacier Park Scenic Float or take a hike to one of our favorite lakes for swimming in Glacier National Park, such as the Avalanche Lake Guided Hike. This season is also a great time to head out onto Flathead Lake and go for a Sunset Sailing Tour or a Wild Horse Island Kayak Tour.
Be Prepared In Summer
ALWAYS have a rain shell or windbreaker. If you’ll be away from your car for more than a couple of hours, add a hat and gloves when hiking in Montana. Bring bug spray (this is the season for black flies around here) and plenty of water and sunscreen as well as bear spray if you’ll be hitting the trails.
What’s The Weather Like During Fall In Glacier National Park?
Fall is perhaps my favorite time in Glacier. All of the roads and trails are still open, the colors are changing, and the crowds have dispersed. All you need to do is wear an extra layer and come prepared for cooler temps! Expect high 60s in September and mid-50s in October during the day.
Starting in mid-September the air changes. The mornings are crisp and the nights are cold, dropping into the high 30s. Sunshine still abounds, but you’ll likely have more fun hiking and biking than playing on lakes and rivers as the water temps drop considerably in September, too.
Later in September, you will encounter more rainy days. High on the mountaintops a few dustings of snow appear, but not enough to limit travel. Head up to Logan Pass in the last weeks of September and you’re sure to encounter the magnificent sight of changing Larches speckling the green hillsides with their golden color. As temperatures cool in early October, the colors travel into the valleys below.
After Labor Day, you can find much cheaper lodging and deals on activities around Glacier. By mid-September, you’ll find some restaurants and shops closing up, so come a bit more prepared. By the end of September, nearly all amenities are closed up for the year. If you run into a chillier, rainy day while you are in the area, consider stopping by to get a tour of our local distillery or take a cocktail-making class!
Be Prepared For Fall in Glacier Park
Bring warm layers, a waterproof jacket and pants, and a hat and gloves. Throw in an extra pair of wool socks and you’ll thank us later. Bugs are not an issue in the fall but do carry your bear spray anytime you are hitting the trails. From late September through November, you should pack your own food and water for the day as nearly all shops are closed.
What’s The Weather Like During Winter In Glacier National Park?
Glacier is a winter wonderland from December through March. Most of the park has limited access, with the primary point of entry through West Glacier. Temperatures around West Glacier in the winter will be in the high 20s and low 30s on average during the day. By March, it warms considerably, reaching into the mid 40’s and the snow begins to melt. The sun starts to shine (finally!) starting around mid-March.
Due to the Whitefish mountain range to the West, the area around Lake McDonald often has less precipitation and milder weather than other areas of the Park in the winter. This can make for lovely snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the area. Just park near the Lake McDonald lodge and head up the road from there.
For the more adventurous, the south side of Glacier can offer spectacular views and fantastic cross-country skiing. Be prepared for colder temperatures and higher winds as you climb to 5,213 feet at Marias Pass. No park entry fee is charged here and you can be sure to find very few crowds in the area. We suggest hopping on a tour with a local guide if this area is new to you.
Be Prepared For Winter
It goes without saying, but dress warm! Wear lots of layers with down or fleece covered by waterproof shells. Bring hand-warmers and thick wool socks. Tell someone where you’ll be traveling and when you’ll be back in case there is an incident. Being stuck in the winter in Glacier is no joke.
What is the Weather Like in January in Glacier National Park?
January is the coldest month in Glacier with average highs of 28 degrees. It also brings the most snow and precipitation of any winter month. Expect lots of snowflakes and come prepared to play like it's winter in Montana!
While it is not unheard of to catch an unusually warm January day, plan for temperatures in the teens or 20s and pay extra attention to road conditions and weather warnings.
In January, you can drive through West Glacier to get to Apgar for great photos of Lake McDonald or head to the head of the lake and park at Lake McDonald Lodge to begin a snowshoe or cross-country ski. Start your adventures early because the light fades quickly in the late afternoons this time of year. Keep in mind, the Going-to-the-Sun Road will not be open to vehicles past Lake McDonald Lodge at this time of year.
What is the Weather Like in February in Glacier National Park?
February is the heart of winter in Glacier. Temperatures average a high in the low 30s when down in West Glacier, but drop considerably if you are heading up along the south side of the park towards Marias pass.
February is our favorite winter month for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and playing in the mountains around Glacier. The slightly warmer temps are favorable and there is a solid snowpack that makes the backcountry skiing and snowmobiling incredible. While you can’t snowmobile in Glacier Park, there are many trails nearby where you can rent a snowmobile or go on a Guided Snowmobile Tour to get out and enjoy groomed and off-groomed trails around the Flathead Valley.
What is the Weather Like in March in Glacier National Park?
In March, the weather warms considerably, climbing into the 40s by day and low 20s at night. Be prepared, as there is still plenty of precipitation in March, averaging 2.3 inches of rain and over a foot of snow that will come down.
One great thing about March is the “longer” days are noticeable, which makes afternoon and evening adventures around West Glacier even more appealing. This time of year you get 12-13 hours of daylight vs just 8-9 hours in early winter.
Access to most of Glacier Park is still limited and your best bet is to enjoy the area around Lake McDonald and Apgar. One of my favorite things to do in March is cross-country ski or snowshoe the ~5 miles up from Lake McDonald Lodge to the Avalanche Lake trailhead. Here you can enjoy the Trail of the Cedars or even continue on up to Avalanche Lake. Dress with many warm layers and ensure you’ve got great waterproof gear as you may encounter rain or snow and it’s important to stay dry.
What is the Weather Like in April in Glacier National Park?
April is a neat month in Glacier and around the Flathead Valley. Snow is melting, birds begin to flutter about, and temperatures rise into the low 50s on average. Yet, there is only 1.8 inches of average precipitation. What does this mean? It means keep your eye on the weather forecast as April can provide gorgeous, sunny days that hop into the 60s in Glacier with zero crowds around.
In April there is still enough snow to ski, snowshoe, and play in the mountains. However, the roads and trails at lower elevations are cleared of snow which makes hiking or biking in April a wonderful adventure.
Local Tip: April can be a sneaky month for pleasantly nice conditions and zero crowds. Precipitation levels are actually about the same in April as they are in July and you can catch a sunny day for a hike, snowshoe, bike, or ski.
What is the Weather Like in May in Glacier National Park?
May is one of the rainiest months in Glacier. But on the flip side, that means cheap lodging, fewer crowds, and many wonderful things to do in Glacier Park. On average, temps in the lower regions of Glacier will be in the 60s and climbing quickly toward the end of the month. On average, there are 2.6 inches of precipitation, so bring your rain gear and be prepared for quickly changing weather patterns with a change of clothes and socks. We also get quite a few gorgeous sunny days mixed in throughout May which are quite a treat after a long winter!
Late May is one of the most popular times to bike up the Going-To-The-Sun Road toward Logan Pass as it is still closed to vehicles. Park at the Lake McDonald Lodge or up at the Avalanche Lake Trailhead (if it is open) to begin your journey. Check out our guide to biking in Glacier to ensure you are fully prepared for this adventure. Lower hikes to Lake McDonald or John’s Lake are great hiking options this time of year.
What is the Weather Like in June in Glacier National Park?
June in Glacier offers pleasant temps with highs in the low 70s. It is one of the rainiest months of the year in Glacier, so come prepared with your rain gear and ensure you pack extra warm layers, too.
While there is still lots of snow in the mountains, most of Glacier Park is open to vehicle travel in June. On the East side of the park, the popular Two Medicine Road and campground are open as well as access to Many Glacier. Up the North Fork road, near Polebridge, the Northwest entrance to the park is open to allow hiking and camping around Kintla Lake and Bowman Lake. Perhaps most importantly, the Going-To-The-Sun Road usually opens in mid to late June. Check out up-to-date information on road openings around Glacier.
While temperatures are normally mild in June, it can spike into the 90s or you might encounter cold rainy days in the 50s as well. Bring many layers, sun protection, and bug repellent and you’ll be ready to endure anything mother nature throws your way.
What is the Weather Like in July in Glacier National Park?
July is perhaps the “best” month for weather all year in Glacier National Park. Temperatures average highs in the mid 80s and have a low of around 50 degrees at night. Lately though, the summer months have been bringing warmer weather around here, with many days in July sitting in the 90s. You'll find sunshine on 22 days of the month on average. Snow will still be found in the mountains of Glacier and the surroundings will be green still from the spring rains. These warmer days mean the Going-to-the-Sun Road will be open all month, even on a big snow year.
While the weather is pleasant, it's important to still be prepared for potential microbursts that can drop a lot of water in a short amount of time. They can roll in quickly, often in the afternoons. Always have a rain jacket on hand and you'll be good to go!
July is the first month of the summer when wildfires can become an issue. While they're more common in August, a dry spring and hot July can still lead to wildfires in and around Glacier. Keep an eye on the smoke forecast if you are sensitive to poor air quality.
What is the Weather Like in August in Glacier National Park?
Early August is the warmest time of the year in Montana. Expect temperatures around West Glacier in the high 70s and low 80s by day and cooling into the high 40s at night. It is also the driest month of the peak season, with only 1.4 inches of precipitation and an expected 5 rainy days throughout the whole month.
By late August, river levels have dropped and the waters are crystal clear. It is possibly the best month of the year for fishing in the area. It is a great time to head out on a Half-Day Flathead River Fly Fishing Trip. We recommend you get out there early before the midday heat.
August is often the "fire season" around Glacier, so keep an eye on the news or helpful maps that track smoke patterns here. While the smoke and fires are usually not dangerous, they can really inhibit the spectacular views or make a long hike less ideal.
What is the Weather Like in September in Glacier National Park?
September in Glacier has an average high of 69 and hits a low of around 40 degrees at night. The air becomes crisp and the temperature of the surrounding rivers and lakes gets cooler as well. September is still relatively dry with an average of just 7 rainy days, there is plenty of sunshine to go around. This is a wonderful time to head out onto the Flathead River for a Happy Hour Float or a River Brunch Cruise!
The cooler temperatures bring about splendid fall colors in late September. Up at Logan Pass, temperatures will often be around 50-60 degrees in late September and golden Larches begin to scatter the hillsides. Come prepared with extra layers and you can enjoy this wonderful time of year in Glacier with typically fewer crowds than the summer peak season. September is a real gem here in Glacier Country!
What is the Weather Like in October in Glacier National Park?
October weather patterns can vary dramatically. You might have snow flurries and freezing temps one day followed by 60 degrees and sunny the next. On average, October temperatures around West Glacier are in the mid-50s with lows around 32 degrees.
While October can still be an incredible time to visit Glacier National Park, note that most restaurants and stores in the area will be shut down. Plan your days with extra provisions and plenty of warm clothes.
What is the Weather Like in November in Glacier National Park?
November is the clear transition from fall into the quiet of winter for Glacier National Park. It is normal for over a foot of snow to fall in West Glacier in November mixed in with some cold rainy days as well. Expect highs in the 30s and lows in the 20s.
You can be assured there will be very few crowds in November. While stores and shops are closed down, it can be a wonderful time to go for a snowshoe (if the first snow has fallen) or to look at the ice forming on the high mountain lakes. This is a great time to take a shorter driving tour of the park or a tour around Flathead Lake. If you are a shoulder season lover, then November is the time to visit Glacier!
What is the Weather Like in December in Glacier National Park?
By December, Winter is upon us in Glacier. December is actually the snowiest month in the Park with an average of 34.5 inches. Expect temperatures in the high 20s with an average low of 19 degrees at night. Glacier averages 12 days of precipitation in December so you'll want to dress warm with good wool/synthetic base layers for your early winter visit.
Most visits in December are centered around West Glacier with a visit to Lake McDonald Lodge as the lake starts to freeze over around the edges or getting photographs in the quaint town of Apgar. Usually by mid-December, there can be great opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in and around Glacier. For the extreme, ice climbing comes alive in December as well. Explore the icy parts of our neck of the woods by heading out on an Ice Climbing Tour near Glacier National Park.
Travis was born and raised in Kalispell, Montana. After working as a raft guide in Glacier National Park, he spent every moment he could adventuring in the mountains or traveling abroad. To make it easier for others to experience his favorite parts of Montana he founded Glacier Tourbase to simplify the online booking experience with his curated list of the top things to do.
All of our content at Tourbase is written by experienced travel writers who have visited all of the locations we recommend. And our review board of local tourism experts ensure that all the information we provide is accurate, current and helpful
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