Glacier in November: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack

Shoulder · VisitWhen score 40/100 · #9 of 12 months

November is a solid shoulder-season month to visit Glacier National Park: crowds run 3% of the July peak (24,006 average visits), days average 37°F with 9.2 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.

Access warning: Going-to-the-Sun Road's alpine section typically opens fully late June–early July and closes in mid-October; lower valleys stay accessible year-round. That typically affects November — verify before planning. Current NPS conditions →

Crowds in November

Glacier averages 24,006 recreation visits in November — 3% of what July, the peak month, draws. That crowd level sets the tone for parking, permits and lodging — this is genuine quiet-season territory.

Average visits (November)

24,006 (mean 2021–2025, NPS)

Share of the year

0.8% of annual visitation

vs. peak (July)

Weather & daylight

It is properly cold (highs average 37°F), and nights drop below freezing (lows average 25°F). Average precipitation is 2.7″ for the month. Mid-month daylight runs 9.2 hours.

NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station ST. MARY 1 SSW, MT US (17 mi from park coordinates, 4,555 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of November.

What to pack for Glacier in November

Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.

Insulated jacket, beanie and gloves — nights average 25°F, below freezing
Packable rain jacket — 2.7″ of precipitation is normal this month
Headlamp — only 9.2 hours of daylight in mid-November
Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month
Bear spray — recommended by the park in grizzly country (check current park regulations before you carry)

Want quieter or kinder conditions? The computed best months for Glacier are June and September.

Common questions

Is Glacier crowded in November?

No — November is one of the quieter months: 3% of the July peak, averaging 24,006 visits (NPS, 2021–2025).

What is the weather like in Glacier in November?

Average highs of 37°F, lows of 25°F, 2.7″ of precipitation (NOAA 1991–2020 normals, ST. MARY 1 SSW, MT US station).

What should I pack for Glacier in November?

Insulated jacket, beanie and gloves; Packable rain jacket; Headlamp — the full weather-computed list is on this page.

Is everything open at Glacier in November?

Going-to-the-Sun Road's alpine section typically opens fully late June–early July and closes in mid-October; lower valleys stay accessible year-round. Always check the park's live NPS alerts for current conditions.

See also: the best national parks to visit in November · Last verified 2026-07-16