Planning a trip to Glacier National Park? Knowing where to fly into can streamline your travel plans. This guide explores the closest airport—Glacier Park International (FCA)—plus several convenient alternatives depending on your route and budget. Whether you're arriving from across the country or internationally, find the best airport for your Glacier adventure.
Glacier Park International Airport (FCA)
Location and Accessibility
Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) is the primary airport serving visitors to Glacier National Park. Located just outside Kalispell, Montana, FCA lies approximately 30 miles from the park’s West Entrance, making it the closest and most convenient airport for accessing the park. Positioned in northwestern Montana, the airport offers direct access to U.S. Highway 2, which connects travelers to both the West Glacier and East Glacier entrances.
Airlines and Flight Routes
FCA is served by several major U.S. airlines, including Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, American Airlines, and Alaska Airlines. Seasonal service is also provided by Allegiant Air and Sun Country Airlines. The airport offers direct flights to and from major hubs such as:
- Denver (DEN)
- Salt Lake City (SLC)
- Seattle (SEA)
- Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP)
- Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW)
- Chicago O’Hare (ORD)
- Las Vegas (LAS)
- Phoenix-Mesa (AZA) – seasonal
These connections make it relatively easy for travelers from across the United States to reach Glacier National Park with one or two connections, depending on their departure city.
Terminal Facilities and Services
Despite its modest size, Glacier Park International Airport offers a range of modern amenities for travelers. Facilities include:
- Car rental services from major providers (Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, and Alamo)
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
- A café and gift shop featuring local goods
- Short-term and long-term parking options
- TSA PreCheck for expedited security screening
The airport is designed to handle increased passenger volume during the peak summer months, with expanded services and seasonal staff to accommodate tourism demand.
Seasonal Considerations
FCA experiences its highest traffic during summer (June through September), aligning with Glacier National Park’s peak visitation period. During this time, airlines often increase flight frequency and add seasonal routes to meet demand. In contrast, winter service may be more limited, with fewer daily flights and potential weather-related delays due to snow and ice. Travelers visiting in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) may find lower airfare and less crowded flight options, though with limited schedules.
Gateway to the Park and Beyond
As the closest major airport to Glacier National Park, FCA functions as a critical gateway not only to the park but also to the greater Flathead Valley region. It supports access to nearby destinations such as:
- Whitefish, MT (15 miles)
- Kalispell, MT (8 miles)
- Bigfork, MT (25 miles)
- Flathead Lake (20 miles)
The airport’s strategic location and growing infrastructure have made it a vital hub for tourism, contributing significantly to the local economy and enhancing the accessibility of northwestern Montana’s natural attractions.
Transportation from FCA to Glacier National Park
Upon arrival, most visitors choose to rent a car due to the park’s expansive layout and limited public transportation options. However, shuttle services and private transport companies also operate routes from FCA to the park’s entrances and nearby towns. During summer, some lodges and tour operators offer pick-up services directly from the airport with prior arrangements.
Whether flying in for a hiking adventure, a scenic drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road, or a relaxing stay in the Flathead Valley, Glacier Park International Airport offers the most direct and traveler-friendly access point to begin your exploration of Glacier National Park.
Alternative Airport Options
While Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell is the closest and most convenient airport for accessing Glacier National Park, several alternative airports offer viable options depending on your travel preferences, budget, and itinerary. These alternatives may be especially useful if you’re seeking better flight prices, more airline options, or planning to explore other parts of Montana or the surrounding states.
Missoula Montana Airport (MSO)
Located approximately 140 miles south of Glacier National Park, Missoula Montana Airport is a regional hub that serves several major airlines, including Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, and United. Missoula offers more frequent flights than Kalispell and often features competitive pricing, especially during peak travel seasons. The drive from Missoula to the park takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, making it a reasonable option for visitors who don’t mind a scenic road trip through western Montana.
Great Falls International Airport (GTF)
Great Falls International Airport is another alternative located about 135 miles southeast of the park. This airport is served by major carriers such as Delta and United and often caters to travelers heading to the eastern side of Glacier National Park, particularly the St. Mary and Two Medicine entrances. The drive from Great Falls typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, passing through picturesque stretches of Montana's plains and foothills.
Spokane International Airport (GEG)
Spokane International Airport in Washington is a larger airport located roughly 270 miles west of the park. Though significantly farther than regional options, Spokane offers a wider array of direct flights from major U.S. cities and can be a cost-effective choice for travelers who don’t mind the 4.5 to 5-hour drive. The route from Spokane to Glacier offers beautiful scenery and opportunities to explore other northwest Montana towns like Libby and Whitefish along the way.
Helena Regional Airport (HLN)
Situated about 190 miles south of Glacier National Park, Helena Regional Airport is a smaller airport served by Delta and United. It can be a convenient entry point for those combining a visit to the state capital with their Glacier itinerary. The drive to the park generally takes around 3.5 hours, and like other Montana routes, offers scenic landscapes and less crowded roads.
Calgary International Airport (YYC)
For international travelers, especially those coming from Canada or abroad, Calgary International Airport in Alberta is a unique option. Located approximately 200 miles north of the park, Calgary provides access to Glacier via the Chief Mountain or Carway border crossings into Montana. Though this route requires crossing an international border, it is a popular choice for those also planning to visit Waterton Lakes National Park, which adjoins Glacier and together form the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park.
Seasonal Considerations for Alternative Airports
When choosing an alternative airport, it’s important to consider seasonal flight availability. Some regional airports, particularly smaller ones, may offer limited service or fewer flights during the winter months. Additionally, weather conditions—especially in mountainous areas—can impact road accessibility and travel time from the airport to the park. Always check seasonal driving conditions and plan accordingly.
Distance Comparison to Glacier Park Entrances
| Airport | Closest Park Entrance | Approximate Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| FCA – Kalispell | West Glacier | 30 minutes |
| MSO – Missoula | West Glacier | 2.5–3 hours |
| GTF – Great Falls | St. Mary | 2.5–3 hours |
| GEG – Spokane | West Glacier | 4.5–5 hours |
| HLN – Helena | West Glacier | 3.5 hours |
| YYC – Calgary | Many Glacier / Waterton | 4–5 hours (with border crossing) |
Choosing the best airport depends on your travel priorities—whether that’s minimizing driving time, maximizing flight options, or combining your Glacier trip with other regional destinations.
Planning Your Flight
Best Times to Book
When planning your flight to Glacier National Park, timing is everything. For the best airfare prices and availability, it’s recommended to book your flight at least 2 to 3 months in advance, particularly if you're planning to visit during the summer high season (June through September). Booking early not only helps secure better rates but also ensures access to limited direct flights into the region.
If you're traveling during the shoulder seasons—late spring (May) or early fall (October)—you may find more flexible pricing and less competition for seats. However, flight frequency may be reduced during these times, so early planning is still essential.
Peak vs. Off-Season Travel
Glacier National Park sees the highest volume of visitors during the summer months, especially in July and August. This peak season brings more airline routes and increased flight availability into Glacier Park International Airport (FCA), but also higher ticket prices. Expect more crowded flights and potentially longer wait times for airport services and rental cars.
Off-season travel—especially in winter (November to March)—offers quieter airports and lower airfare, but comes with trade-offs. Some park roads and attractions may be closed due to snow, and flight options are limited. Spring and fall offer a balance of manageable crowds, decent flight availability, and moderate pricing.
Price Comparison Strategies
To get the best value for your money, use fare comparison tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak to monitor price trends. Setting up fare alerts for your travel dates can help you snag deals as they appear. Be flexible with your travel dates when possible—flying mid-week, particularly Tuesdays and Wednesdays, often yields lower fares compared to weekend departures.
Also consider flying into alternative regional airports such as Missoula Montana Airport (MSO) or Great Falls International Airport (GTF), which may offer cheaper fares depending on your departure city. Though these airports are farther from Glacier, rental car and lodging deals can sometimes offset the added travel time.
Direct Flight Options vs. Connections
Glacier Park International Airport (FCA), located in Kalispell, Montana, is the closest airport to Glacier National Park and offers direct flights from several major U.S. cities during peak travel seasons. Common direct routes include flights from Denver, Seattle, Salt Lake City, Minneapolis, and Dallas/Fort Worth. These are primarily operated by carriers such as Delta, United, American Airlines, and Alaska Airlines.
During off-peak seasons, direct flights may be limited or unavailable, requiring connecting flights through regional hubs. If convenience and time are top priorities, prioritize itineraries with fewer layovers and shorter connection times. If budget is more important, consider flights with longer layovers or multiple stops, which can significantly reduce ticket costs.
Planning ahead with these considerations in mind can help ensure a smoother, more cost-effective journey to one of America’s most breathtaking national parks.
Getting to the Park from the Airport
Once you've landed at a nearby airport, reaching Glacier National Park involves a number of transportation options, each with its own advantages depending on your travel style, budget, and group size.
Rental Car Services
Renting a car is the most popular and flexible way to get from the airport to Glacier National Park. Glacier Park International Airport (FCA), located in Kalispell, Montana, offers several on-site rental car companies including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. Rental cars provide the freedom to explore the park and surrounding areas at your own pace, and are especially useful for visiting remote trailheads, driving the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road, or accessing less trafficked entrances like Many Glacier or Two Medicine.
Travel times from FCA to the park vary:
- To West Glacier Entrance: approximately 30 minutes (25 miles)
- To St. Mary Entrance: approximately 2.5 hours (110 miles)
- To Many Glacier: around 3 hours (130 miles)
If you're flying into alternative regional airports such as Missoula International Airport (MSO) or Great Falls International Airport (GTF), rental cars are also available, though drive times to the park will be longer (2.5–4.5 hours depending on entrance).
Shuttle Options
During the summer season, Glacier National Park and local businesses offer a variety of shuttle services for visitors who prefer not to drive. Shuttle options include:
- Glacier National Park Shuttle Service: Operates along Going-to-the-Sun Road between the Apgar Visitor Center and Logan Pass. This service is free but only runs during the peak summer months.
- Airport to Park Shuttles: Several private companies in Kalispell and Whitefish offer scheduled or on-demand shuttles from FCA to the park's West Glacier entrance or to local accommodations. These services often require advance booking and may not run outside of the summer season.
- Amtrak Shuttle Connections: If arriving via the Amtrak Empire Builder train at the Whitefish or West Glacier stations, some lodges and tour operators provide shuttle pickups to their properties within or near the park.
Shuttles are a good eco-friendly option for solo travelers or those planning to stay primarily within park boundaries without venturing far from main roads.
Private Transportation Services
For those seeking a more personalized experience, local companies offer private transportation services including SUVs, vans, or even luxury vehicles with drivers. These are ideal for groups, families, or those with specific timing needs. Services can be booked for one-way airport transfers, full-day excursions, or multi-day itineraries.
Some lodges and resorts near Glacier also provide courtesy shuttle services to and from FCA or Amtrak stations for their guests—be sure to inquire when booking accommodations.
Cost Comparison of Different Methods
- Rental Car: $60–$150 per day depending on vehicle type and season
- Shared Shuttle: $35–$80 per person, one-way
- Private Shuttle/Car Service: $100–$300+ one-way depending on distance and vehicle
- Park Shuttle (in-park only): Free
Choosing the right transportation method depends on your itinerary. If you plan to explore multiple areas of the park or visit other Montana attractions, a rental car is highly recommended. However, for those staying in a single location or joining a guided tour, using a shuttle or private transport may be more convenient and cost-effective.
Tips for Smooth Airport Travel
Book Flights Early for Peak Travel Seasons
Glacier National Park experiences the highest number of visitors during the summer months, particularly between mid-June and mid-September. To secure the best prices and most convenient flight times, it's recommended to book flights at least three to six months in advance. This is especially important if flying into Glacier Park International Airport (FCA), which has limited seating availability compared to larger airports.
Choose the Right Airport
While FCA is the closest airport to Glacier National Park—located just 30 miles from the West Entrance—other regional airports like Missoula International Airport (MSO), Great Falls International Airport (GTF), and even Calgary International Airport (YYC) in Canada can serve as viable alternatives. Each offers different airline options, pricing, and travel times to the park. Choose based on your itinerary, availability of direct flights, and vehicle rental options.
Allow Time for Transportation
There is no direct public transportation from FCA or the other regional airports to Glacier National Park, so factor in time for travel by rental car or shuttle. During peak season, rental cars can be in high demand and should be reserved early. If you're relying on a shuttle, confirm the schedule ahead of time, as services may be seasonal or require advance booking.
Check Baggage Allowances for Outdoor Gear
If you’re planning to hike, camp, or engage in backcountry activities, pack accordingly but check airline baggage policies for oversized or specialty items like trekking poles, bear spray, or camping gear. Some items may need to be purchased locally due to airline restrictions.
Monitor Weather Conditions
Northwestern Montana weather can be unpredictable, even in summer. Flights into FCA can occasionally be delayed due to fog, snow, or thunderstorms. Check the forecast regularly and consider travel insurance for flexibility. In winter, flights may be more limited, and road conditions from the airport to the park can be hazardous.
Arrive During Daylight Hours
It’s advisable to schedule your arrival and departure during daylight hours—especially if you’re unfamiliar with driving in mountainous or rural areas. Roads leading to the park are scenic but can be winding and poorly lit at night. Daytime arrivals also allow you to enjoy the scenic drive and settle in before dark.
Have a Backup Plan
Given the limited number of daily flights into FCA and the potential for weather-related disruptions, having a backup plan is wise. This could include alternate airports, flexible travel dates, or lodging options outside the park in case of delays.
Stay Updated on Park and Airline Announcements
Before your trip, visit the official websites of Glacier National Park and Glacier Park International Airport to check for any travel advisories, park updates, or airport construction notices. Also, sign up for airline alerts to receive real-time notifications about gate changes, delays, or cancellations.
Whether you're flying directly into Kalispell via Glacier Park International or exploring options like Missoula, Spokane, or Calgary, there’s an airport to fit every type of Glacier traveler. Match your airport choice to your itinerary, budget, and season to make the most of your adventure. Book early, arrange ground transport, and stay updated on travel conditions to ensure a smooth and scenic start to your Glacier National Park experience.