The closest airport to Glacier National Park is Glacier Park International Airport (FCA), located in Kalispell, Montana.
This airport offers the most convenient access to the park, with a driving distance of approximately 30 miles to the park’s west entrance.
Glacier Park International Airport (FCA)
- Location: Kalispell, Montana
- Distance to Glacier National Park: About 30 miles
- Travel Time: Approximately 45 minutes by car
Why Choose FCA?
- Proximity: As the closest airport, FCA offers the shortest travel time to Glacier National Park.
- Flight Options: The airport has several major airlines offering direct flights from cities like Seattle, Denver, and Minneapolis.
- Car Rentals: A variety of car rental agencies are available at the airport, making it easy to start your journey right away.
Other Nearby Airports
While Glacier Park International Airport is the most convenient, there are other airports you can consider depending on your travel plans and flight availability.
Missoula Montana Airport (MSO)
- Location: Missoula, Montana
- Distance to Glacier National Park: About 136 miles
- Travel Time: Approximately 2.5 hours by car
Pros:
- More Flight Options: Missoula often has more flight options, which can be beneficial if you’re coming from further away.
- Scenic Drive: The drive from Missoula to Glacier National Park is scenic, passing through beautiful Montana landscapes.
Cons:
- Longer Travel Time: It takes significantly longer to reach the park compared to flying into FCA.
Spokane International Airport (GEG)
- Location: Spokane, Washington
- Distance to Glacier National Park: About 270 miles
- Travel Time: Approximately 4.5 hours by car
Pros:
- Major Hub: Spokane is a larger airport and may have more frequent and cheaper flights.
- Road Trip: If you enjoy road trips, the drive from Spokane offers beautiful views and can be part of the adventure.
Cons:
- Extended Travel Time: The drive is quite long, which may not be ideal for all travelers.
Comparing Airport Options
| Airport | Location | Distance to Glacier NP | Travel Time | Main Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glacier Park International (FCA) | Kalispell, MT | 30 miles | 45 minutes | Closest to the park, convenient |
| Missoula Montana (MSO) | Missoula, MT | 136 miles | 2.5 hours | More flight options, scenic drive |
| Spokane International (GEG) | Spokane, WA | 270 miles | 4.5 hours | Major hub, road trip opportunity |
Additional Tips for Travelers
Car Rentals
Renting a car is highly recommended regardless of which airport you choose.
Glacier National Park is vast, and having your own vehicle will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Accommodation
- Near FCA: Kalispell and Whitefish offer a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget motels.
- Near MSO: Missoula has many lodging options and can be a good place to stay if you’re arriving late and planning to drive to the park the next day.
- Near GEG: Spokane has a variety of hotels and can be a good base if you plan to explore more of the region before heading to Glacier.
Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana, is the most convenient airport for visiting Glacier National Park, located just 30 miles away. Alternatives like Missoula Montana Airport (MSO) and Spokane International Airport (GEG) offer more flight options and scenic drives but require longer travel times.
Choose based on your preferences and travel plans.
