Glacier National Park vs Rocky Mountain National Park
Both parks showcase the majestic Rocky Mountains, but in different ways. Glacier offers a more remote, rugged experience with its namesake glaciers and pristine lakes, while Rocky Mountain provides accessible alpine experiences close to Denver with abundant wildlife.
Montana
1910
1 million acres
3.1 million
$35/vehicle
3,150 - 10,466 ft
High (summer)
Colorado
1915
265,807 acres
4.3 million
$30/vehicle
7,860 - 14,259 ft
High
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Glacier National Park | Rocky Mountain National Park |
|---|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | July-August (Going-to-the-Sun Road open), September for fall colors | June-September, January-March for snowshoeing |
| Top Highlights | Going-to-the-Sun Road, Logan Pass, Many Glacier | Trail Ridge Road, Bear Lake, Longs Peak |
| Main Activities | Scenic driving, Hiking, Wildlife viewing | Hiking, Wildlife viewing, Scenic driving |
| Crowd Level | High (summer) | High |
| Entry Fee | $35/vehicle | $30/vehicle |
| Nearest Airport | Kalispell (FCA) - 30 miles | Denver (DEN) - 70 miles |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- + Dramatic alpine scenery
- + Still has glaciers
- + Less crowded than some parks
- + Red bus tours available
Cons
- - Short summer season
- - Going-to-the-Sun Road closes early
- - Remote location
- - Reservation system for road
Pros
- + Accessible from Denver
- + Year-round access
- + Excellent elk viewing
- + Diverse ecosystems
Cons
- - Altitude can be challenging
- - Very crowded summer mornings
- - Timed entry required
- - Limited lodging in park
Best For
Glacier National Park is Best For:
Rocky Mountain National Park is Best For:
Glacier wins for raw wilderness and dramatic scenery but requires more planning. Rocky Mountain is more accessible and offers year-round activities, making it ideal for a quicker mountain fix.
Choose Glacier National Park if...
Choose Glacier if you want a true wilderness experience, plan to spend multiple days, and can visit during the brief summer window when Going-to-the-Sun Road is fully open.
Choose Rocky Mountain National Park if...
Choose Rocky Mountain if you're visiting Colorado, want year-round access, or are looking for a more accessible alpine experience with excellent wildlife viewing.
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