Best 5 Airports Near Glacier National Park

Planning a trip to Glacier National Park and wondering which airport is the best entry point? You’re not alone. Glacier National Park is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the United States, famous for its rugged mountain peaks, glacier-carved valleys, turquoise lakes, and wildlife. But because it’s located in northern Montana near the Canadian border, finding the right airport can feel confusing.

This complete guide covers the best 5 airports near Glacier National Park, distances from park entrances, airlines that fly there, rental car options, driving routes, and tips for choosing the right airport based on your travel plans.

Whether you want the closest airport, the cheapest airport, or the most accessible airport for national flights, this guide will help you make the right decision.

1. Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) – Closest Airport to Glacier National Park

Location: Kalispell, Montana
Distance to Glacier National Park:

• 30 miles to West Glacier Entrance

• 40 miles to Apgar Village

• 55 miles to Lake McDonald Lodge

Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) is the closest and most convenient airport for anyone visiting Glacier National Park. It’s located in Kalispell, a fast-growing tourist hub in northwest Montana.

Airlines Serving FCA

• Delta Air Lines

• United Airlines

• Alaska Airlines

• American Airlines

• Allegiant Air

During summer, airlines add extra non-stop routes from major U.S. cities like:

• Seattle

• Los Angeles

• Denver

• Minneapolis

• Salt Lake City

• Chicago

Rental Car Availability

All major rental brands operate here, including:

• Hertz

• Enterprise

• Alamo

• Avis

• Budget

Because Glacier National Park is a popular park, booking early during the summer months is highly recommended.

Who Should Use This Airport?

• Travelers who want the shortest drive

• Families

• First-time visitors

• People exploring the West Glacier, Apgar, or Lake McDonald areas

If your goal is simple, fast access to the park, FCA is your best bet.

2. Missoula, Montana Airport (MSO) – Best for Affordable Flights

Location: Missoula, Montana
Distance to Glacier National Park:

• 130 miles to West Glacier Entrance (Approx. 2.5 hours)

Missoula, Montana Airport (MSO) is the second-best airport for visitors flying into Glacier National Park. It’s larger than FCA, offers more flight options, and often provides cheaper airfare depending on the season.

Airlines Serving MSO

• Alaska Airlines

• Delta Air Lines

• United Airlines

• American Airlines

• Allegiant Air

• Sun Country Airlines

Why MSO Is Popular

• Typically cheaper flights compared to FCA

• More dining, lodging, and shopping options

• Easy, scenic drive to the park via U.S. Route 93

Rental Cars

Excellent availability from major rental car agencies.

Who Should Use This Airport?

• Budget travelers

• Visitors heading to West Glacier or Flathead Valley

• People who prefer larger airports with more amenities

If you can handle a 2–3 hour scenic drive, MSO is an excellent choice.

3. Great Falls International Airport (GTF) – Best for East Glacier Access

Location: Great Falls, Montana
Distance to Glacier National Park:

• 140 miles to St. Mary Entrance

• 147 miles to Many Glacier Entrance

Great Falls International Airport (GTF) is the best airport for exploring the eastern side of Glacier National Park. This includes iconic areas like:

• Many Glacier

• St. Mary Lake

• Going-to-the-Sun Road (east end)

Airlines Serving GTF

• Delta Air Lines

• United Airlines

• Alaska Airlines

• Allegiant Air

Why GTF Works Well for East Glacier

• Fastest access to St. Mary, the heart of Glacier’s east side

• Fewer crowds compared to the West Glacier entrances

• Great for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts

Rental Vehicles

Multiple rental car companies operate inside the airport.
Because the east side is more rugged, renting a SUV is recommended.

? Who Should Use This Airport?

• Travelers planning to stay at Many Glacier Hotel, Swiftcurrent, or St. Mary

• Adventure travelers focusing on hiking

• Visitors who want fast access to the Going-to-the-Sun Road

4. Spokane International Airport (GEG) – Best for National & International Connections

Location: Spokane, Washington
Distance to Glacier National Park:

• 273 miles to West Glacier Entrance (Approx. 4.5 hours)

Spokane International Airport is the largest and busiest airport near Glacier National Park. While it’s farther than the Montana airports, it offers:

• The most airline options

• The most non-stop flights

• The best prices for visitors coming from distant cities

Airlines Serving GEG

• Southwest Airlines

• Delta Air Lines

• American Airlines

• United Airlines

• Alaska Airlines

• Frontier Airlines

Why Travelers Choose Spokane

• Cheaper tickets year-round

• Great for international visitors

• Excellent hotels, shopping, and dining

• Direct freeway route into Montana

If you want low flight prices or you're coming from the East Coast, GEG is often the best option.

Road Trip Bonus

The drive from Spokane to Glacier National Park is extremely scenic, passing lakes, mountains, and charming Montana towns.

Who Should Use This Airport?

• Budget travelers

• International visitors

• Large groups

• Road-trip lovers

5. Calgary International Airport (YYC) – Best for Combining Banff + Glacier Trip

Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Distance to Glacier National Park (U.S. border):

• 160 miles to Many Glacier

• 180 miles to St. Mary Entrance

Calgary International Airport (YYC) is a fantastic option if you want to explore both Banff National Park and Glacier National Park in one trip.

Airlines Serving YYC

Calgary offers numerous international flights from:

• Europe

• Asia

• Mexico

• United States

• Caribbean

Airlines include: WestJet, Air Canada, KLM, Delta, United, and more.

Why Choose YYC

• Perfect for combining Banff ?Waterton Lakes? Glacier National Park

• Strong international connections

• Beautiful cross-border drive

???? Rental Car Requirements

Since you will cross between Canada and the U.S., ensure your rental company allows international border crossings.

Who Should Use This Airport?

• International travelers

• Visitors planning a dual-park vacation

• Photographers and adventure travelers

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right airport can save you hours of driving and hundreds of dollars. Glacier National Park is one of America’s most unforgettable destinations, and starting your trip with the right airport makes a huge difference. Whether you prefer the closest airport in Kalispell, the affordable flights in Missoula, or the international access from Calgary, each option has its own advantages.

Plan, book early, and enjoy your journey into the stunning landscapes of Glacier National Park.

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