Many Glacier Hotel: A Rustic Retreat in Glacier National Park

Are you looking for a serene escape from your busy life? Look no further than the Many Glacier Hotel in Glacier National Park.Nestled in the heart of the park, this historic hotel offers breathtaking views of towering mountains, tranquil lakes, and abundant wildlife.In this blog post, we’ll explore the history and features of the Many Glacier Hotel, as well as the activities and attractions that make it a must-visit destination.

History And Architecture

Construction Of Many Glacier Hotel

Many Glacier Hotel is a historic hotel located in the heart of Glacier National Park, Montana. The hotel was constructed in 1914 by the Great Northern Railway company as part of their plan to attract tourists to the park. The construction of the hotel was a massive undertaking and required a lot of resources and manpower.

The hotel was built using local materials such as timber and stone. The construction process involved blasting rock and building retaining walls to make room for the hotel’s foundation. The workers had to transport all the building materials to the site using horse-drawn wagons since there were no roads leading to the area at the time.

Construction of the Many Glacier Hotel took two years to complete and cost approximately $500,000. The hotel was designed by architect Thomas McMahon, who incorporated elements of Swiss chalet style into the design. The hotel features a steeply pitched roof, overhanging eaves, and decorative woodwork.

Today, the Many Glacier Hotel stands as a testament to the ingenuity and perseverance of those who built it. It has been designated as a National Historic Landmark and continues to attract visitors from all over the world who come to experience its unique blend of history and architecture.

Renovations And Additions

The Many Glacier Hotel, located in the heart of Glacier National Park, has undergone several renovations and additions over the years to maintain its historic charm while also providing modern amenities for guests.

In 1914, the original hotel was built with just 60 guest rooms. However, due to its popularity, several additions were made in the following years, including a new wing in 1915, an annex in 1927, and a west wing in 1956.

Despite these updates, by the 1990s, the hotel was in need of significant repairs and upgrades. In 1996, a $30 million renovation project began that would last four years. The goal was to restore the hotel’s historic features while also updating it to meet modern building codes and standards.

The renovation included the addition of a new dining room, lounge, gift shop, and conference center. The original Swiss-style architecture was preserved, and many of the guest rooms were updated with new bathrooms and modern amenities such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi.

The Many Glacier Hotel continues to undergo smaller renovations and updates to this day, such as improvements to the plumbing and electrical systems, to ensure that it remains a comfortable and enjoyable destination for visitors from around the world.

Architectural Style And Features

The Many Glacier Hotel is a historic hotel located within the Glacier National Park in Montana, United States. The hotel was constructed in 1914 by the Great Northern Railway company and has since been designated as a National Historic Landmark due to its unique architectural style and features.

The architectural style of the Many Glacier Hotel is known as Swiss chalet or Swiss Alpine. This style was popularized in the late 19th century and early 20th century when wealthy Americans began traveling to Switzerland for leisure. The style is characterized by steeply pitched roofs, overhanging eaves, balconies, and decorative woodwork. The Many Glacier Hotel embodies all of these features and more.

One of the most notable features of the Many Glacier Hotel is its location. The hotel sits on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake, surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers. The hotel’s design takes full advantage of this stunning location with large windows and outdoor spaces that offer guests breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Inside the hotel, guests can admire the intricate woodwork and stonework that make up the building’s interior. The lobby features a massive stone fireplace that serves as a focal point for the room. The hotel also boasts a grand dining room with a vaulted ceiling and massive chandeliers that add to the overall ambiance of the space.

Accommodations

Rooms And Suites

Many Glacier Hotel offers a variety of rooms and suites to meet the needs of its guests. The hotel has 214 guestrooms, all of which are non-smoking. The rooms are divided into several categories based on their size, location, and amenities.

The standard rooms at Many Glacier Hotel are cozy and comfortable. They come with either one or two beds and can accommodate up to four guests. These rooms offer basic amenities such as a private bathroom, telephone, and daily housekeeping service.

The lakeside rooms are more spacious and offer stunning views of Swiftcurrent Lake. They come with either one or two beds and can accommodate up to four guests. These rooms offer additional amenities such as a mini-refrigerator, coffee maker, and hairdryer.

The suites at Many Glacier Hotel are the most luxurious accommodations available. They offer separate living areas and bedrooms, as well as additional amenities such as a microwave, mini-fridge, and fireplace. The Swiss Lounge Suite is particularly noteworthy, featuring a large balcony with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Room Type	Occupancy	Amenities
Standard Room	Up to 4 guests	Private bathroom, telephone, daily housekeeping
Lakeside Room	Up to 4 guests	Mini-refrigerator, coffee maker, hairdryer
Suite	Up to 6 guests	Separate living area and bedroom, microwave, mini-fridge, fireplace

Many Glacier Hotel’s rooms and suites are decorated in a rustic style that complements the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Guests can enjoy modern amenities while still feeling connected to the history and heritage of the hotel.

It is worth noting that Many Glacier Hotel is a popular destination, and rooms can book up quickly during peak season. It is recommended that guests make their reservations well in advance to ensure availability.

Amenities

Many Glacier Hotel is a historic lodge located in the heart of Glacier National Park. The hotel offers a range of amenities to make guests’ stay comfortable and enjoyable.

One of the standout amenities at Many Glacier Hotel is the on-site restaurant, Ptarmigan Dining Room. The restaurant features a menu of locally sourced ingredients and offers stunning views of Swiftcurrent Lake and the surrounding mountains. Guests can also enjoy drinks and light bites at the Swiss Lounge, which has a cozy fireplace and a selection of wines and beers.

The hotel also has a gift shop that sells souvenirs, snacks, and basic necessities. There is also a coffee shop that serves Starbucks coffee, pastries, and sandwiches.

For those looking to stay active during their visit, Many Glacier Hotel has a fitness center with cardio machines and weights. Guests can also rent bicycles, kayaks, and paddleboards to explore the park’s lakes and trails.

Other amenities at Many Glacier Hotel include:

Feature	Description
Free Wi-Fi	Guests can access complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.
Concierge Services	The hotel’s front desk staff can assist with booking tours, arranging transportation, and providing recommendations for local attractions.
Room Service	Guests can order food and beverages from the Ptarmigan Dining Room and have them delivered to their room.
Meeting Rooms	The hotel has several meeting rooms that can accommodate groups of various sizes.

Dining Options

Many Glacier Hotel offers a variety of dining options for its guests, ranging from casual to formal dining experiences. Each restaurant on the premises boasts a unique atmosphere and menu, giving visitors plenty of choices for their meals.

The Swiss Lounge is a popular spot for guests looking to unwind after a day of exploring the park. It features a cozy fireplace and stunning views of Swiftcurrent Lake. The lounge serves light fare such as sandwiches, salads, and appetizers, as well as a selection of beer, wine, and cocktails.

The Ptarmigan Dining Room is the main dining area at Many Glacier Hotel. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in an elegant setting with panoramic views of the mountains. The menu features classic American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.

For a more casual dining experience, guests can head to the Ice Cream Parlor. Here, they can indulge in sweet treats such as ice cream cones, milkshakes, and sundaes. The parlor also serves light snacks like hot dogs and nachos.

It is important to note that dining reservations are highly recommended at Many Glacier Hotel. During peak season, the restaurants can fill up quickly, and guests may face long wait times without a reservation.

Activities And Attractions

Hiking And Backpacking

Many Glacier Hotel is a popular destination for hikers and backpackers due to its proximity to some of the most stunning trails in the area. The hotel offers guided hikes, as well as maps and information about nearby trails for those who prefer to explore on their own.

One of the most popular hikes in the area is the Grinnell Glacier Trail, which is a challenging 7.6 mile round-trip hike that rewards hikers with breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine meadows. For those looking for a shorter hike, the Swiftcurrent Nature Trail is a 2.3 mile loop that offers stunning views of Swiftcurrent Lake and the surrounding mountains.

Backpacking is also a popular activity in Many Glacier, with several backcountry campsites accessible from the hotel. The Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail is a popular backpacking route that takes hikers through a tunnel carved into the mountain and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

It is important for hikers and backpackers to be prepared for changing weather conditions and wildlife encounters. Visitors should carry bear spray and make noise while hiking to avoid surprising any bears or other wildlife. The National Park Service website (https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/hikingthetrails.htm) provides detailed information on trail conditions, safety tips, and regulations for hiking and backpacking in the park.

Boating And Fishing

Many Glacier Hotel is located in the heart of Glacier National Park, which provides visitors with numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. One of the most popular activities is boating and fishing in the park’s many lakes and streams.

The park has over 700 miles of streams and rivers, as well as more than 130 named lakes. Visitors can rent boats or bring their own to explore these beautiful bodies of water. Some of the most popular lakes for boating include Swiftcurrent Lake, Josephine Lake, and Two Medicine Lake.

Fishing is also a popular activity in the park. The park is home to several species of fish, including cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and lake trout. Visitors can obtain fishing permits from the park and try their luck at catching some of these prized fish. It is important to note that some lakes and streams have catch-and-release policies, so visitors should be aware of the regulations before they begin fishing.

Lake Name	Species of Fish	Record Catch
Bowman Lake	Arctic Grayling, Cutthroat Trout, Bull Trout, Mountain Whitefish	18 lb 6 oz Bull Trout
Saint Mary Lake	Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout, Lake Trout	32 lb 0 oz Lake Trout
Two Medicine Lake	Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout, Lake Trout	20 lb 0 oz Lake Trout

Some of the rare fish species found in the park include the westslope cutthroat trout and the bull trout. These fish can be difficult to catch, but they are highly sought after by anglers. In fact, some rare fish specimens have sold for thousands of dollars at auction.

Whether visitors are looking to boat or fish, Glacier National Park offers some of the most beautiful and pristine waters in the country. It is important to follow all park regulations and guidelines to help preserve these natural resources for future generations.

Wildlife Watching

Many Glacier Hotel is a perfect location for wildlife watching. The hotel is situated in the heart of Glacier National Park, which is home to a diverse range of animals, including grizzly bears, black bears, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and more.

Visitors can enjoy watching wildlife from the hotel or take a guided tour to explore the park. The best time for wildlife watching is early in the morning or late in the evening when animals are most active.

One of the popular spots for wildlife watching is Swiftcurrent Lake, located just a short walk from Many Glacier Hotel. Visitors can see a variety of animals, including moose, deer, and bears, from the hiking trails around the lake.

If you’re lucky, you might even spot a rare animal such as a wolverine or lynx. However, it’s important to remember that these are wild animals, and visitors should keep a safe distance and avoid approaching them.

To learn more about the wildlife in Glacier National Park, visitors can check out the National Park Service website. The website provides detailed information on the different species found in the park, their habitats, and behavior.

Scenic Drives

Many Glacier Hotel is situated in the heart of Glacier National Park, a region known for its stunning natural beauty. One of the best ways to experience this beauty is by taking a scenic drive through the park. There are several routes to choose from, each offering its own unique views and experiences.

The Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of the most popular scenic drives in Glacier National Park. This 50-mile route takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the park, including glacial lakes, alpine meadows, and rugged mountain peaks. Along the way, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery, as well as hike, bike, or fish in the surrounding area.

Another popular scenic drive in Glacier National Park is the Many Glacier Road. This 14-mile route takes you through the heart of the park, offering stunning views of glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife. Along the way, you can stop at several lookout points and hiking trails to explore the area further.

If you’re looking for a longer scenic drive, consider taking the Two Medicine Road. This 20-mile route takes you through some of the most remote and beautiful areas of Glacier National Park, including Two Medicine Lake and the surrounding mountains. Along the way, you can stop at several hiking trails and picnic areas to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

No matter which scenic drive you choose, be sure to bring your camera and plenty of snacks and water. These drives can take several hours to complete, so plan accordingly. Also, keep in mind that some roads may be closed during certain times of the year due to weather conditions, so check with the park before planning your trip.

Guided Tours

Many Glacier Hotel offers a variety of guided tours for its guests to explore the surrounding area. These tours are led by experienced guides who provide valuable insights into the history, geology, and wildlife of the region.

One of the most popular tours is the Red Bus Tour, which takes visitors on a scenic drive through Glacier National Park. The tour covers over 50 miles and includes stops at some of the park’s most iconic locations, such as Logan Pass and Lake McDonald Lodge. The guides on this tour are known for their extensive knowledge of the park and its history.

In addition to the Red Bus Tour, Many Glacier Hotel also offers guided hikes and boat tours. The hikes range in difficulty from easy walks to more strenuous treks, and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The boat tours take visitors out onto Swiftcurrent Lake, where they can enjoy the scenery and learn about the park’s unique ecosystem.

If you’re interested in wildlife, Many Glacier Hotel offers guided tours specifically focused on spotting animals such as bears, moose, and bighorn sheep. These tours are led by experts who know the best spots to find these elusive creatures.

Winter Activities

Winter in Many Glacier offers a plethora of activities for visitors to enjoy. With the snow-covered mountains and frozen lakes, it is a winter wonderland that provides unique experiences.

Cross-Country Skiing: Cross-country skiing is one of the most popular winter activities in Many Glacier. Visitors can explore the park’s trails while enjoying the peacefulness of the surroundings. The park offers over 25 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, which are suitable for all levels of skiers. For those who want to learn, there are several ski schools available in the area.

Snowshoeing: Snowshoeing is another popular activity in Many Glacier during the winter months. It’s an excellent way to experience the park’s beauty while getting some exercise at the same time. Visitors can rent snowshoes from various rental shops in the area or join a guided tour.

Ice Fishing: Many Glacier’s frozen lakes provide ample opportunities for ice fishing. Visitors can try their luck catching trout, pike, and other fish species. However, it’s essential to check with the park rangers regarding the safety of the ice before venturing out.

Sledding and Tobogganing: Sledding and tobogganing are fun activities for families with children. Visitors can rent sleds and toboggans from various rental shops in the area, and there are also designated sledding hills within the park.

Wildlife Watching: Winter is an excellent time to spot wildlife in Many Glacier. With the snow on the ground, it’s easier to see animal tracks and spot animals such as moose, elk, deer, and bighorn sheep. Visitors should remember to keep a safe distance from the animals and not feed them.

Tips For Planning Your Visit

When To Go

When planning a visit to the Many Glacier Hotel, it is important to consider the best time of year to go. The hotel is open from mid-June to mid-September, which coincides with the peak season for visitors to Glacier National Park. During this time, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 70s.

However, if you prefer to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather, consider visiting in May or October. While the hotel may not be open during these months, there are still plenty of opportunities to explore the park and take advantage of its stunning natural beauty. Keep in mind that some roads and trails may be closed due to snow or other seasonal conditions, so be sure to check the park’s website for up-to-date information before planning your trip.

If you are interested in outdoor activities such as hiking or fishing, it is important to note that the summer months are typically the best time to do so. The park’s many trails and lakes are easily accessible during this time, and the longer daylight hours allow for more time to explore. Additionally, wildlife sightings are more common during the summer months, making it a great time for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

No matter what time of year you choose to visit the Many Glacier Hotel and Glacier National Park, you are sure to be awed by its breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. Be sure to plan ahead and make reservations early, especially during peak season, to ensure a memorable and enjoyable trip.

How To Get There

Many Glacier Hotel is located in the heart of Glacier National Park, Montana. The hotel is accessible via car, train or plane. Visitors can fly into Glacier Park International Airport, which is about 45 miles away from the hotel. Alternatively, visitors can take an Amtrak train to the West Glacier station and then drive to the hotel.

Driving to Many Glacier Hotel is a popular option for visitors. The hotel is located off of Highway 89, which runs through the park. Visitors driving from the east can take Highway 2 to East Glacier Park and then head north on Highway 49 to Many Glacier Road. Those driving from the west can take Highway 2 to West Glacier and then drive northeast on Camas Road to Many Glacier Road.

It’s important to note that Many Glacier Road is closed during the winter months due to snowfall. The road typically opens in late May or early June and closes again in mid-October. Visitors should check road conditions before heading to the hotel.

Once visitors arrive at the hotel, they can park their car in the hotel’s parking lot. However, it’s important to note that parking can be limited during peak season. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early or use alternative transportation options if possible.

What To Pack

When planning your visit to the Many Glacier Hotel, it is essential to pack appropriately for the weather and activities you plan to participate in. Here are some tips on what to pack:

Clothing: The weather in Glacier National Park can be unpredictable, so it’s best to bring layers. Pack warm clothes such as a fleece jacket, gloves, and hat for cooler temperatures. Bring comfortable hiking shoes or boots and breathable clothing for warmer days. Don’t forget to pack rain gear, as afternoon showers are common.
Sun Protection: The sun at higher elevations can be intense, so pack sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and sunglasses with UV protection. A hat with a brim will also help protect your face from the sun.
Hiking Gear: If you plan to hike, bring a daypack to carry essentials such as water, snacks, and a first aid kit. Consider packing trekking poles for stability on rocky terrain.
Binoculars: The Many Glacier area is known for its wildlife, and binoculars will enhance your viewing experience. Look for bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and grizzly bears.
Camera: With stunning views and abundant wildlife, you’ll want to capture memories of your trip. Pack a camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
Swimsuit: If you plan to take a dip in one of the park’s lakes or streams, don’t forget your swimsuit.

By packing these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for your visit to the Many Glacier Hotel and the surrounding area. For more information on what to pack, visit the Glacier National Park website.

Reservations And Fees

When planning a visit to the Many Glacier Hotel, it is important to make reservations ahead of time to ensure availability. The hotel has a limited number of rooms and tends to fill up quickly during peak seasons. Reservations can be made online through the hotel’s website or by calling their reservation line at 1-888-257-2050.

It is important to note that the Many Glacier Hotel charges fees for both room reservations and various activities offered on-site. Room rates vary depending on the season and type of room selected, with rates ranging from $200 to $500 per night. Additionally, the hotel charges a resort fee of $30 per night, which covers amenities such as Wi-Fi, parking, and access to the fitness center.

Activity	Fee
Horseback Riding (2 hours)	$75 per person
Boat Tour (1 hour)	$25 per person
Nature Walk (2 hours)	$20 per person

If you plan on participating in any of the activities offered by the hotel, it is recommended to make reservations ahead of time to guarantee availability. Some activities may also have additional fees or age restrictions, so be sure to check with the hotel before booking.

Conclusion

The Many Glacier Hotel offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors to Glacier National Park.Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, this rustic retreat has something for everyone.Plan your visit today and discover the beauty and tranquility of one of America’s most beloved national parks.