Badlands National Park, SD, USA to Glacier National Park, MT, USA from $139: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Badlands National Park to Glacier National Park: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$139 by busBest price

kmDistance

8h 28m Fastest

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Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Badlands National Park to Glacier National Park with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Traveling From Badlands National Park to Glacier National Park

Embark on a journey from the rugged, lunar landscapes of Badlands National Park to the stunning, glacial vistas of Glacier National Park, where you’ll experience a striking contrast between dramatic rock formations and towering peaks adorned with serene lakes.

Best Neighbourhoods in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park offers diverse neighborhoods, each providing unique experiences.

West Glacier

• Gateway to Glacier National Park's main attractions.

• Close proximity to Lake McDonald for scenic views.

St. Mary

• Access point to the Going-to-the-Sun Road.

• Stunning views of St. Mary Lake and surrounding peaks.

Many Glacier

• Known for its incredible hiking trails and wildlife sightings.

• Breathtaking landscapes, including Swiftcurrent Lake and Grinnell Glacier.

Best Times To Visit Glacier National Park's Attractions

Timing your visit is key to enjoying Glacier National Park's wonders.

Going-to-the-Sun Road

Visit in late June to early July for optimal weather and fewer crowds.

Lake McDonald

Early morning visits in summer provide stunning reflections and tranquility.

Many Glacier

Fall months offer fewer visitors and spectacular fall foliage views.

Glacier National Park Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Glacier National Park features a diverse climate, with warm summers ideal for hiking and variable winters offering snow-covered beauty for winter sports enthusiasts; visiting between late June and September ensures access to most trails and attractions. Weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for various conditions to fully enjoy your adventure.

Dining Recommendation in Glacier National Park

For a culinary highlight, try the bison burger at the Belton Chalet, where the flavors of local Montana ingredients create a hearty contrast to the simple fare often found in Badlands National Park. The rustic atmosphere and emphasis on regional produce provide a memorable dining experience, enriching your time in this stunning landscape.

Badlands National Park - Glacier National Park operators

Explore transport companies operating between Badlands National Park and Glacier National Park, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane

Plane from Rapid City (RAP) to Kalispell (FCA)

Average Duration

8h 28m

Estimated price

0-0

Plane from Rapid City (RAP) to Missoula (MSO)

Average Duration

Bus

Bus from Wall, SD to Billings, MT

Average Duration

Estimated price

€139-433

Bus from Billings, MT to Butte, MT

Average Duration

Bus from Butte, MT to Great Falls Transfer Center

Average Duration

Bus from Great Falls Transfer Center to Shelby Amtrak Station

Average Duration

Bus from Shelby Amtrak Station to Blackfeet Community Hospital - Browning

Average Duration

Drive

Drive from Blackfeet Community Hospital - Browning to Glacier National Park

Average Duration

Drive from Missoula (MSO) to Glacier National Park

Average Duration

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Badlands National Park to Glacier National Park.

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The distance between Badlands National Park in South Dakota and Glacier National Park in Montana is approximately 600 miles. By car, the typical travel time is around 10-12 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. If you prefer flying, you can take a direct flight from Rapid City to Kalispell which would take about 2 hours, not including airport wait times.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation options for traveling from Badlands National Park to Glacier National Park would likely be renting a car and driving. This gives you the flexibility to control your schedule and make stops along the way. Alternatively, taking a domestic flight from Rapid City to Kalispell can be quicker but may involve higher costs and less flexibility in terms of exploring the areas in between.

The prices for traveling from Badlands National Park to Glacier National Park can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. Renting a car for the journey typically costs between $50 to $100 per day, plus fuel costs. Flying from Rapid City to Kalispell can range from $200 to $500 for a one-way ticket, depending on the time of booking and airline. Additionally, there may be additional costs for accommodation, food, and any activities along the way.

To travel from Badlands National Park to Glacier National Park without using public transportation, you can drive your own vehicle or rent a car. The most direct route would be to take I-90 W from Badlands to US-85 N, and then continue on US-85 N and US-89 N to reach Glacier National Park. This scenic road trip will allow you to enjoy the vast landscapes and natural beauty of the Western United States along the way.

To travel from Badlands National Park to Glacier National Park without a car, you can consider booking a flight to the nearest airport in Kalispell, Montana, and then taking a shuttle service or taxi to the national park. Another option is to book a guided tour that includes transportation from Badlands to Glacier National Park. Additionally, you could explore alternative transportation options such as biking, hiking, or even arranging a private transfer service for a more customized journey.

There is no direct link between Badlands National Park in South Dakota and Glacier National Park in Montana. These two national parks are located approximately 600 miles apart and are not connected by a direct road or rail link. Travelers typically need to drive, fly, or take alternative transportation options to reach Glacier National Park from Badlands National Park, with the journey usually involving multiple modes of travel and transfers.

The flight between Badlands National Park in South Dakota and Glacier National Park in Montana typically takes around 2 hours, depending on the specific route and airline chosen. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the time of booking, airline, and availability, but generally, round-trip flights between these two destinations can range from $300 to $500 or more. It's recommended to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance to potentially find better deals on airfare for this route.

There are plenty of accommodation options near Glacier National Park catering to different preferences and budgets. Some popular choices include the Many Glacier Hotel located within the park, Apgar Village Lodge near Lake McDonald, and the historic Glacier Park Lodge in East Glacier. Additionally, there are campgrounds within the park for those looking for a more outdoorsy experience. It's advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred lodging option.