Seattle to Glacier National Park: Direct Route to Kalispell

Day 1: Seattle to Kalispell

Seattle, USA to Kalispell, USA on May 16, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at Home or Seattle Café

Start with a quick breakfast at a local café like Biscuit Bitch (open from 7:00am) or have something prepared at home to leave early.
USD8-15, 30m

6:30am

Drive Seattle to Kalispell

Embark on the approx. 8.5-hour direct drive covering about 525 miles primarily via I-90 E and US-93 N, passing Spokane and Coeur d'Alene on route.
Fuel approx. USD70, 8h30m

12:30pm

Lunch Stop in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

Break the journey at Coeur d'Alene with lunch at Hudson’s Hamburgers (open from 11:00am) offering classic burgers and shakes.
USD10-20, 1h

7:00pm

Arrive and Check-in at Kalispell Hotel

Rest after your long drive in preparation for Glacier National Park sightseeing.
Varies, Overnight

8:00pm

Dinner at Tupelo Grille, Kalispell

Enjoy a relaxed gourmet dinner featuring seasonal American cuisine, open until 9:00pm.
USD30-50, 1h30m
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Day 2: Glacier Park: Lake McDonald

Kalispell, USA and Glacier National Park on May 17, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your first full day with a hearty breakfast to prepare for outdoor activities.
Varies, 1h

8:00am

Explore Lake McDonald Area

Drive 30 minutes to Lake McDonald and enjoy walks, boat rentals, and the scenic lodge area (park open dawn to dusk).
Park entrance USD35 per vehicle, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Lake McDonald Lodge

Dine lakeside with Northwest-inspired dishes, open 11:00am–2:00pm.
USD25-40, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Apgar Village

Explore shops and trails near the park entrance, and consider boat rentals or easy walks along the lakeshore.
Free access, rentals extra, 1h30m

3:30pm

Return to Kalispell

Relax and refresh at your hotel.
Fuel minimal, 45m

6:30pm

Dinner at Montana Jack

Savour Montana specialties including steak and game in a cosy atmosphere.
USD25-45, 1h30m
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Day 3: Going-to-the-Sun Road

Glacier National Park on May 18, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up with a satisfying breakfast before a day of scenic exploration.
Varies, 1h

8:00am

Drive Going-to-the-Sun Road

Travel this world-renowned scenic drive for breathtaking views. Check for road conditions as mid-May may restrict full access.
Included in park entrance fee, 4h

12:30pm

Packed Picnic at Logan Pass

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst stunning alpine scenery, purchased earlier or assembled from Kalispell foods stores.
USD10-20, 1h

1:30pm

Hike Hidden Lake Overlook Trail

A rewarding 3-mile moderate hike that begins at Logan Pass, perfect to witness wildflowers and mountain vistas.
Included in park fee, 2h

4:00pm

Return to Kalispell

Evening at leisure after your active day.
Fuel minimal, 45m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Knead Café

Relax with fresh bakery treats and distinctive dinner dishes in a casual venue.
USD20-35, 1h30m
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Day 4: Leisure & Local Culture

Kalispell, USA on May 19, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Prepare for a more relaxed day with a good meal.
Varies, 1h

9:00am

Conrad Mansion Museum Visit

Tour this well-preserved historic home and learn about Kalispell’s past, open 10:00am to 4:00pm Wednesday-Sunday.
USD10, 1h

11:00am

Walk or hike at Lone Pine State Park

Enjoy light hiking and freshwater lake views close to town, park open dawn to dusk.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Sage Kitchen

Savour locally sourced fare with fresh, creative dishes in a casual atmosphere, open 11:00am to 3:00pm.
USD15-25, 1h

2:30pm

Afternoon shopping and sightseeing in Kalispell

Browse local art galleries, boutiques and the vibrant downtown at your leisure.
Free to browse, 2h

6:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Tupelo Grille

Celebrate your trip’s final night with innovative and elegant dishes celebrating regional ingredients.
USD30-50, 1h30m
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