Summer Activities

Entrance Options

West Glacier Entrance (Going-to-the-Sun)  30 Minutes from NFR

The West Glacier entrance is the main gateway to Glacier National Park and the most direct route into the heart of the action. Located just 30 minutes from North Forty Resort, this entrance provides immediate access to the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road and some of the park’s most celebrated scenery.

As you pass through the gates, you’ll follow the shores of Lake McDonald, where crystal-clear waters reflect towering peaks and vibrant sunsets. From there, the legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road climbs high into the alpine, offering unforgettable views, waterfalls, and trailheads that lead to some of Glacier’s most popular hikes.

This entrance is ideal for guests looking to experience Glacier’s must-see highlights, including Logan Pass, Hidden Lake, Avalanche Lake, and countless scenic pullouts along the way. During peak summer months, vehicle reservations may be required for Going-to-the-Sun Road, so planning ahead is encouraged.

For North Forty guests, the West Glacier entrance offers easy access to Glacier’s most iconic landscapes — perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting the full classic Glacier experience.

North Fork Entrance (Camas Road)

 30 Minutes from NFR

The North Fork entrance to Glacier National Park offers one of the most peaceful and scenic ways to experience the park. Located just outside the small community of Polebridge, this entrance provides access to the quieter west side of Glacier — far from the crowds and full of authentic Montana beauty.

From the entrance, Camas Road winds through towering pines, open meadows, and pristine wetlands alongside the North Fork of the Flathead River. Wildlife sightings are common here, with deer, moose, bears, and eagles frequently spotted along the drive. The road is partially unpaved, giving visitors a true backcountry feel while still being accessible to most vehicles in normal conditions.

This entrance provides access to stunning destinations such as Bowman Lake and Kintla Lake, two of Glacier’s most breathtaking and less-traveled alpine lakes. It’s an ideal route for guests seeking solitude, wildlife viewing, hiking, paddling, or simply a slower-paced park experience.

For those staying at North Forty Resort, the North Fork entrance is a perfect gateway to a wilder side of Glacier — where the journey feels just as special as the destination.

St. Mary Entrance (East Glacier) - 90 Minutes from NFR

The St. Mary entrance on the east side of Glacier National Park offers a dramatically different perspective of the park’s landscape. Known for its wide-open valleys, sweeping prairie views, and striking mountain backdrops, this entrance showcases the rugged beauty where the Great Plains meet the Rockies.

St. Mary is the eastern gateway to the Going-to-the-Sun Road, making it an excellent starting point for guests who want to drive the full length of this iconic route westward. The scenery on this side tends to be drier and wind-swept, creating expansive views, vibrant sunrises, and incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. It’s not uncommon to see bighorn sheep, bears, and other wildlife roaming the hillsides.

The St. Mary Lake area features crystal-clear waters, scenic pullouts, and access to popular hikes such as St. Mary and Virginia Falls. Because of its location, this entrance is often less congested than West Glacier early in the morning and can be a great option for guests planning a full-day adventure across the park.

For North Forty Resort guests, the St. Mary entrance offers a chance to experience Glacier from a whole new angle — where big skies, bold landscapes, and unforgettable views define the journey.