From Badlands to Glaciers: The Ultimate Montana Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on an unforgettable journey from the otherworldly landscapes of Badlands National Park to the towering glaciers of Glacier National Park. This epic Montana road trip offers a diverse array of natural wonders, historical sites, and outdoor adventures. Whether you're an avid hiker, wildlife enthusiast, or simply love scenic drives, this Badlands to Glacier National Park itinerary has something for everyone. Let's dive into the ultimate road trip that will take you through some of America's most stunning landscapes.
Planning Your Trip
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit both Badlands and Glacier National Park is typically from late spring to early fall (May to September). During these months, the weather is milder, and most park facilities and roads are open. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time, especially in Glacier National Park.
Badlands National Park: Open year-round, but summer (June-August) offers the most pleasant weather for hiking and outdoor activities.
Glacier National Park: Peak season is July and August when the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road is fully open. June and September offer fewer crowds but still good weather.
Recommended Trip Duration
To fully experience both parks and enjoy the journey between them, we recommend allocating at least 10-14 days for your road trip. This allows for:
2-3 days in Badlands National Park
4-5 days in Glacier National Park
3-4 days for the journey between parks and exploring stops along the way
Transportation Options
Driving Your Own Car: This offers the most flexibility and can be cost-effective if you're traveling in a group.
Renting a Car: If flying into the region, renting a car is essential. Consider an SUV or vehicle with good clearance for some of the park roads.
RV Rental: For those who want to combine transportation and lodging, an RV can be a great option, especially if you plan to camp along the way.
Booking Accommodations
Book accommodations well in advance, especially for stays within the national parks during peak season.
Camping: Both parks offer campgrounds, but they fill up quickly. Reserve sites through recreation.gov.
Lodges: Glacier National Park has several historic lodges that provide a unique experience but book up months in advance.
Hotels and Motels: Available in nearby towns for both parks.
Vacation Rentals: Consider Airbnb or VRBO for stays in towns near the parks.
Essential Packing List
Hiking boots and comfortable walking shoes
Layered clothing (temperatures can vary greatly)
Rain jacket and warm layers (even in summer)
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Insect repellent
Reusable water bottles and hydration packs
Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Camera
First aid kit
Bear spray (for Glacier National Park)
National Parks Pass (if you plan to visit multiple parks)
Badlands National Park: Exploring the Rugged Beauty
Your journey begins in the surreal landscape of Badlands National Park, where eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires create an otherworldly atmosphere.
Getting to Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park is located in southwestern South Dakota, about 75 miles east of Rapid City. The closest airport is Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP).
Top Things to Do in Badlands National Park
Hiking Trails:
Notch Trail (1.5 miles round trip): A moderate hike with a log ladder and stunning views.
Door Trail (0.75 miles round trip): An easy boardwalk trail leading to a dramatic viewpoint.
Fossil Exhibit Trail (0.25 miles round trip): A fully accessible trail showcasing fossil replicas.
Scenic Drives:
Badlands Loop Road: A 39-mile scenic drive showcasing the park's dramatic landscapes.
Sage Creek Rim Road: A gravel road offering opportunities to spot bison and prairie dogs.
Wildlife Viewing:
Dawn and dusk are the best times to spot wildlife.
Keep an eye out for bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, and various bird species.
Stargazing: The park's dark skies offer excellent stargazing opportunities. Attend a ranger-led night sky program if available.
Where to Stay Near Badlands National Park
Cedar Pass Lodge: Located within the park, offering cabin accommodations.
Badlands Interior Motel & Campground: Just outside the park entrance.
Circle View Guest Ranch: A unique ranch stay experience near the park.
On the Road: Scenic Stops Between Badlands and Glacier
As you make your way from Badlands to Glacier National Park, there are several noteworthy stops to enhance your road trip experience.
Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
Located in southeastern Montana, this historic site commemorates the 1876 Battle of Little Bighorn. Take a self-guided tour of the battlefield and visit the Indian Memorial and Custer National Cemetery.
Great Falls, Montana
Known as the "Electric City," Great Falls offers a blend of history, art, and outdoor recreation.
Giant Springs State Park: Home to one of the largest freshwater springs in the country.
Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center: Learn about the famous expedition through interactive exhibits.
Optional Detours
Missouri River Breaks National Monument:
Offers remote beauty and opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Consider a scenic float trip on the Missouri River.
Fort Peck Lake:
Montana's largest body of water, perfect for boating and fishing.
Visit the Fort Peck Dam Interpretive Center and Museum.
Recommended Places to Eat and Drink Along the Route
Wall Drug Store (Wall, SD): Famous roadside attraction with a restaurant serving hearty American fare.
Firehouse Brewing Co. (Rapid City, SD): South Dakota's oldest operating brewery.
Stella's Kitchen and Bakery (Billings, MT): Known for delicious breakfast and baked goods.
Mackenzie River Pizza Co. (Various locations in Montana): Local chain offering creative pizzas and a great beer selection.
Glacier National Park: Crown of the Continent
As you approach Glacier National Park, prepare to be awestruck by its rugged mountains, pristine forests, and of course, its namesake glaciers.
Arriving in Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park has multiple entrance stations. The west entrance near West Glacier is the most popular, while the east entrances at St. Mary and Many Glacier offer quicker access to some of the park's most scenic areas.
Exploring Glacier National Park
Going-to-the-Sun Road:
A 50-mile engineering marvel offering breathtaking views.
Stop at Logan Pass Visitor Center for hiking trails and wildlife viewing.
Take a Red Bus Tour for a guided experience along this iconic road.
Many Glacier Area:
Hike the Grinnell Glacier Trail (7.6 miles round trip) for stunning views of glaciers and alpine lakes.
Take a boat tour on Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine.
Two Medicine Area:
Enjoy a scenic boat tour on Two Medicine Lake.
Hike to Running Eagle Falls, a unique waterfall emerging from a rock face.
Lake McDonald Valley:
Take a scenic boat tour on Lake McDonald.
Hike the Trail of the Cedars, an accessible boardwalk through an old-growth forest.
Where to Stay in and Around Glacier National Park
Many Glacier Hotel: Historic lodge offering stunning views of Swiftcurrent Lake.
Lake McDonald Lodge: Rustic-style lodge on the shores of Lake McDonald.
Glacier Under Canvas: Luxury glamping experience near West Glacier.
Whitefish Mountain Resort: Offers a variety of lodging options and is a great base for exploring the park.
Extending Your Adventure: Activities & Day Trips
To make the most of your Badlands to Glacier National Park road trip, consider these additional activities:
Whitewater Rafting on the Flathead River: Experience thrilling rapids with stunning mountain views.
Hiking in Flathead National Forest: Explore over 2,000 miles of trails in this vast wilderness area.
Visit Whitefish, Montana: Enjoy this charming mountain town's shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities.
Explore the Canadian Rockies (Optional): If time allows, consider a day trip to Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada, which forms the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park with Glacier National Park.
Budgeting for Your Badlands to Glacier Road Trip
Here's a rough breakdown of estimated costs for a 10-day trip for two people:
Gas: $300-$500 (depending on your vehicle and exact route)
Accommodation: $1,000-$2,000 (mix of camping and lodging)
Food: $500-$800 (mix of groceries and dining out)
Park Entrance Fees: $80 for an America the Beautiful Pass (covers both parks)