Going to the Sun Road Opens to Non-Ticketed Vehicles

The West entrance of the Glacier National Park is now open without the need to obtain vehicle registration!

Finally, the best part of summer is here. Although it may seem like summer is almost over as the sun starts to rise a little later and the days begin to get shorter, there is still some positives to enjoy. If you didn't have the chance to visit GNP so far this summer because you didn't want to deal with the headache of the vehicle reservation then the time has come to rejoice! As of September 8th the west entrance of the park is no longer requiring a reservation to enjoy the world renowned scenic Going-to-the-Sun road. This time of the year is also a local favorite in terms of visiting GNP, and not just because there is no need to reserve a ticket (although locals will definitely grumble about how back in the day that never was an issue) but more so because the colors of the park start to change and invite you into the cooler season of Fall.

With most of the tourist traffic getting out of the valley, the experience you will get in Glacier in the months of September and October will be much more magical as you will feel less like you're at Disneyland fighting crowds and more in God's country with scenery that is unmatched. So instead of having to wake up hours before the sun comes up to try and beat the crowds, go enjoy the best time to visit Glacier National Park and don't stress about having to register your vehicle beforehand!

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July in the Flathead Valley: Your Summer Adventure Guide

By Kirsten Sophia • July 1, 2026

July in the Flathead Valley: Your Summer Adventure Guide July is one of the best times to experience the Flathead Valley . From Glacier National Park and crystal-clear lakes to farmers markets and outdoor adventures , there's no shortage of ways to enjoy summer. Located in the heart of it all, North Forty Resort is the perfect home base for exploring Northwest Montana . Explore Glacier National Park No summer trip is complete without visiting Glacier National Park . Drive the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road , hike scenic trails like Hidden Lake Overlook or Avalanche Lake , and take in breathtaking mountain views. Pro Tip: Visit the park around 4:00 p.m. Many day visitors begin heading out in the late afternoon, making parking easier and the experience more relaxed. The golden-hour light also makes for incredible views and photos. Experience the Flathead Valley Beyond Glacier, the Flathead Valley offers plenty to explore. Spend the day at Whitefish City Beach or Flathead Lake , browse local shops in Whitefish and Columbia Falls , or enjoy a scenic drive through the valley. Don't miss the area's weekly farmers markets : Whitefish – Tuesdays Columbia Falls – Thursdays Kalispell – Saturdays You'll find fresh produce, local food, handmade goods, live music, and plenty of Montana charm. Relax at North Forty Resort After a day of adventure, come back to your private log cabin and unwind. Soak in the year-round hot tubs, enjoy the cedar sauna, take a walk along our wooded trail, or gather around the fire pit with s'mores under the Montana sky. Plan Your July Stay July is one of the busiest months in the Flathead Valley, so booking early is recommended . Whether you're visiting Glacier National Park, exploring local communities, or simply looking to relax, North Forty Resort is your perfect basecamp for a memorable Montana summer .

Explore Local Farmers Markets This Summer

By Kirsten Sophia • June 4, 2026

During your stay at North Forty Resort, you're just a short drive from several of the valley's favorite markets—use the guide to plan your visit.

Spring in the Flathead Valley: Things to Do Near North Forty Resort

By Kirsten Sophia • May 7, 2026

Spring in the Flathead Valley: Things to Do Near North Forty Resort Spring is one of the best times to visit Montana’s Flathead Valley . With fewer crowds, snow-capped mountains, blooming wildflowers, and longer days, it’s the perfect season for both adventure and relaxation . Here are a few of the top things to do during your spring getaway at North Forty Resort : Explore Glacier National Park Spring offers a quieter experience in Glacier National Park before the busy summer season begins. Enjoy scenic drives, wildlife viewing, photography, and lower elevation hikes surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery. During spring, portions of the Going-to-the-Sun Road are also open to hikers and bikers before vehicle traffic begins, creating a unique opportunity to experience one of America’s most scenic roads without cars. Visit Flathead Lake Take a scenic drive along Flathead Lake , explore charming towns like Bigfork, or spend the day kayaking , fishing , or relaxing by the water . Hike Local Trails The Flathead Valley is full of beautiful spring hiking trails . Popular spots near North Forty Resort include the Whitefish Trail , Lone Pine State Park , and Beaver Lakes . Enjoy Whitefish and Kalispell Spend time exploring local restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, and boutiques in downtown Whitefish and Kalispell . Spring is a great time to experience the local culture without peak-season crowds. Relax at North Forty Resort After a day of exploring, unwind in your private cabin surrounded by Montana’s natural beauty . North Forty Resort offers the perfect home base for your spring adventures near Glacier National Park . Planning a spring getaway? Take advantage of our Spring Special (3 Nights for 2) and enjoy seasonal savings while experiencing the beauty of the Flathead Valley before summer arrives. We look forward to welcoming you this spring!