Glacier National Park
Have you ever dreamed of exploring a place where majestic glaciers, pristine lakes, and breathtaking mountains converge? Glacier National Park is a dream destination for nature lovers, adventurers, and anyone looking to escape into the wild beauty of Montana. In this guide, nationalparkshops.com will share everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to Glacier National Park, including when to visit, where to stay, and what to do once you’re there.
Glacier National Park Overview
Glacier National Park, established in 1910 and spanning about one million acres, is a hiker’s paradise offering an exceptional backcountry experience, perfect for summer vacations for families and adventurers alike. The park boasts 25 active glaciers, which move due to thawing and melting.
Among its many beloved areas is the iconic “Going-to-the-Sun Road,” a 50-mile journey showcasing some of Montana’s most breathtaking views. The North Fork, accessible only by dirt road, features stunning lakes and a historic homestead site. Goat Haunt, a remote and serene location, crosses the US-Canadian border.
Glacier National Park is also home to numerous hiking trails and diverse wildlife. Two Medicine offers a more secluded wilderness experience for the adventurous. Additionally, Triple Divide Peak, located within the park, stands at the hydrological apex of North America, where water flows into the Pacific, Atlantic, and Arctic oceans.
Things to do in Glacier National Park
There’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained in Glacier National Park.
Hiking
With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier National Park offers fantastic opportunities for both short hikes and extended backpacking trips, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Below is a detailed map for each area with recommended day hikes, detailing distances and elevation gains. Remember, there is no cell phone coverage outside of Apgar and St. Mary, so be sure to take screenshots and plan your adventure in advance.
Hiking Lake McDonald
Hiking around Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park offers a variety of trails suitable for different skill levels, showcasing stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes.
Hiking Many Glacier
The Many Glacier area offers a variety of hiking options suitable for different skill levels, showcasing the park’s stunning alpine scenery, waterfalls and wildlife.
Hiking North Fork & Goat Haunt
The North Fork region is characterized by its rugged terrain and beautiful vistas, with trails like the North Fork Trail leading hikers through lush forests and along the picturesque banks of the North Fork Flathead River. This trail spans approximately 6.9 miles one way, providing a moderate challenge with rewarding views of the surrounding wilderness.
Hiking St. Mary
Hiking in the St. Mary area of Glacier National Park offers a diverse range of trails that showcase the park’s stunning natural beauty. This moderately easy trail is perfect for wildlife viewing, making it a favorite among hikers.
Hiking Two Medicine
Hiking in Glacier National Park’s Two Medicine area showcases beautiful scenery and trails for all skill levels. A favorite hike is the Scenic Point Trail. For those wanting a longer adventure, the Dawson-Pitamakan Loop is about 17.4 miles long, featuring lovely meadows and lakes, ending at the scenic Dawson Pass.
Backcountry Camping
In 1974, Glacier National Park was recommended for inclusion in the National Wilderness Preservation System. According to National Park Service policy, the park’s character must remain unimpaired and preserved for future generations. Recommended wilderness lands are managed distinctly from frontcountry or backcountry areas, emphasizing minimal human intervention to maintain a diverse, intact natural ecosystem.
These undeveloped wilderness areas, with minimal mechanization and modern influence, offer exceptional opportunities for solitude and primitive, unconfined recreation. The park’s wilderness camping program is designed to minimize environmental impacts while ensuring positive visitor experiences.
Guided Tours
If you prefer a guided experience, there are plenty of options available.
Boat Tours: Boat tours with commentary are available at Many Glacier, Two Medicine, Rising Sun, and Lake McDonald. These tours offer a unique perspective on the park’s stunning landscapes and provide informative insights into the area’s natural and cultural history.
Bus Tours: Sun Tours offers interpretive experiences that highlight Blackfeet culture, providing deep insights into the history and traditions of the Blackfeet Nation.
Guided Hiking: In Glacier National Park, you can explore the backcountry through guided day hikes, backpacking trips, and drop-camp services. These options provide opportunities to experience the park’s remote and pristine wilderness areas with the expertise and support of knowledgeable guides.
Raft Tours: Several raft companies offer commercially guided rafting trips on the Middle Fork and North Fork of the Flathead River.
Horseback Rides: Guided horseback rides are available within Glacier National Park at Many Glacier, Lake McDonald, and Apgar.
Glacier Institute Field Courses: The Glacier Institute offers a variety of hands-on, field-based educational courses for all ages.
Going-to-the-Sun Road
Built in the late 1920s and early 1930s, the historic Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of Glacier National Park’s most iconic attractions. Spanning over 50 miles, this scenic route traverses some of North America’s most stunning mountain landscapes.
As you drive, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of glacier-carved peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and verdant forests, offering a truly unforgettable experience.
Biking
Each year, an increasing number of cyclists flock to Glacier National Park, particularly to ride portions of the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, renowned for its engineering marvels. During the early season, when cars are restricted due to plowing, cyclists have the opportunity to enjoy the road with fewer vehicles. Regardless of when you plan to ride, it’s essential to check seasonal information, including available services, cycling restrictions, area closures, and current road and weather conditions.
For those who plan to cycle on the Going-to-the-Sun Road during peak summer season, be aware that it can be challenging due to heavy vehicle traffic. Only experienced cyclists should attempt this during busy times. Note that there is an entry fee for bicycles.
Additionally, a limited number of campsites at Apgar, Fish Creek, Sprague Creek, Avalanche, Rising Sun, St. Mary, Many Glacier, and Two Medicine Campgrounds are reserved specifically for cyclists and hikers (hiker/biker sites).
Fishing
Glacier National Park aims to preserve natural ecosystems for their aesthetic, educational, cultural, and scientific values. The park manages fish and aquatic environments to foster appreciation for native species in their largely undisturbed habitats. Fishing is allowed when it supports the preservation or restoration of these natural aquatic environments.
No fishing license is required within the park boundaries. However, bull trout must be released immediately and handled with care if caught incidentally. Always wet your hands with lake, river, or stream water before touching fish. If you plan to keep fish for consumption, please consult the fish consumption guidelines to ensure safety.
Boating
Glacier National Park recognizes motorized watercraft inspections and seals from Montana State, Whitefish Lake, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, the Blackfeet Tribe, and Waterton Lakes National Park, provided a 30-day quarantine has been observed. You must present dated sealing documentation before launching your vessel.
On the west side of the Continental Divide, vessels are allowed in park waters from the second Sunday in May through October 31. On the east side, vessels are permitted from the last Saturday in May until the last Thursday in September.
For those interested in whitewater adventures, canoeing, kayaking, and rafting are available on the North and Middle Forks of the Flathead River, which form the south and west boundaries of the park.
Cross-country Skiing
Glacier National Park offers a range of winter recreation opportunities suitable for all skill levels, with trails and routes catering to various interests. However, visitors should be prepared for challenges posed by weather conditions and limited park operations and services. Services within and near the park are minimal, so planning ahead is essential.
While ski and snowshoe rentals are available at private businesses in nearby communities, there are no rental facilities within the park itself. For those interested in guided winter activities, you can find a list of operators on the Guided Winter Activities page.
Special Events
Throughout the year, Glacier National Park hosts various special events and programs. From wildlife talks to star-gazing nights, these events provide unique opportunities to learn more about the park and its natural wonders.
You can see the detailed schedule on the Government’s website: https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/calendar.htm
Places to stay in Glacier National Park
Whether you prefer camping under the stars or the comfort of a hotel room, Glacier National Park offers a range of accommodation options.
Camping
Camping in Glacier National Park offers an immersive way to experience its stunning landscapes. The park features 13 frontcountry campgrounds, each catering to different camping needs. Whether you prefer tent camping or bringing an RV or other vehicle, there’s a campground that will fit your preferences and enhance your visit to this remarkable destination.
Glacier National Park campgrounds include:
Bowman Lake Campground: The campground near Bowman Lake is nestled close to the shore, with campsites set among trees that offer shade and a touch of privacy. Tent campers seeking tranquility will find Bowman Lake particularly appealing due to its serene atmosphere and remote setting, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful getaway.
Cut Bank Campground: Located on the east side of Glacier National Park, Cut Bank Campground offers a tranquil retreat, providing a peaceful ambiance that contrasts with the larger, busier campgrounds within the park. The campground is reached via a 5-mile dirt road off Highway 89, enhancing its sense of seclusion and serenity.
Kintla Lake Campground: Kintla Lake Campground is Glacier National Park’s most remote frontcountry camping spot, situated in the uppermost northwest section of the park, known as the North Fork. Located about 40 miles from the west entrance, it offers a secluded camping experience, ideal for those seeking solitude amidst the park’s rugged beauty.
Logging Creek Campground: The Logging Creek Campground is one of Glacier National Park’s smaller campgrounds, situated on the west side of the park, south of Polebridge. Accessed via the Inside North Fork Road, which is a dusty and narrow winding route, this campground offers a more intimate and secluded camping experience.
Quartz Creek Campground: Quartz Creek Campground, the smallest in Glacier National Park, maintains a primitive status throughout the season. Located on the west side of the park in the North Fork area, it is accessed via the Inside North Fork Road.
Rising Sun Campground: Rising Sun Campground, situated just west of St. Mary and midway along St. Mary Lake, offers campers stunning morning sunrises with Red Eagle Mountain as a dramatic backdrop. It also serves as an ideal base camp for exploring numerous day hikes located east of Logan Pass.
Hotel and Resort
For those seeking more comfort, the park has several lodges and hotels.
For visitors seeking more comfort, Glacier National Park still has a number of highly-rated motels and hotels. Top-rated hotels include:
Meadow Lake Resort & Condos (3-Star)
Meadow Lake Resort & Condos is perfectly positioned for all your Montana adventures in the stunning Flathead Valley. A convenient shuttle service will transport you to the resort’s private lodge at Whitefish Mountain Resort. With Glacier National Park and Flathead Lake just a short drive away, you’ll find yourself wishing you had booked extra time for hiking, river rafting, and watersports.
Address: 100 Saint Andrews Dr Meadow Lake Golf Course, Columbia Falls, MT 59912-8874
Price Range: $181 – $360/ night
Best Western Rocky Mountain Lodge (3-Star)
Situated in Whitefish, MT, the Best Western Rocky Mountain Lodge offers a tranquil and welcoming retreat for travelers. Guests can enjoy free internet access throughout the hotel, allowing them to check emails and browse the web comfortably from their room or the business center.
Address: 6510 Highway 93 S, Whitefish, MT 59937
Price Range: $267 – $369/ night
Apgar Village Lodge
Nestled in Apgar Village at the base of the picturesque Lake McDonald, Apgar Village Lodge provides a charming and inviting escape. This delightful lodge features a selection of cozy cabins and comfortable motel rooms, each designed to enhance your stay with rustic charm and modern amenities.
Address: Lake View Dr West Glacier, Glacier National Park, MT 59936-0398
Price Range: From $159/ night
Dining
Dining options within Glacier National Park are limited but diverse. Many of the lodges offer dining rooms and cafes serving hearty meals.
Russell’s Fireside Dining Room at Lake McDonald Lodge
Situated near Lake McDonald, Russell’s Fireside Dining Room provides a distinctive dining experience that harks back to the building’s origins as a hunting lodge. For breakfast, guests can choose from a hearty full breakfast buffet or a lighter continental buffet. Lunch and dinner menus highlight local cuisine.
Address: Going-To-The-Sun Road Lake McDonald Lodge, Glacier National Park, MT 59936
Open time:
Breakfast: 6:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Lunch: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Dinner: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Prices range: $10 – $35
Ptarmigan Dining Room
The Ptarmigan Dining Room boasts a setting as impressive as its renowned continental cuisine. Following major renovations in 2011, the dining room has been beautifully restored to highlight its historic features and classic design. Nestled beside a lake and framed by a breathtaking panorama of peaks and vistas, the dining experience is truly immersive. As you unwind after your meal, savor a frosty pint of local Montana microbrew to complete your evening.
Address: Many Glacier Hotel, Glacier National Park, MT
Open time:
Breakfast: 6:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Lunch: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Dinner: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Prices range: $10 – $40
Nell’s
Start your day off right with an extraordinary breakfast at Nell’s, located in Swiftcurrent. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast any time of the day, a delicious lunch featuring pizzas and sandwiches, or a satisfying dinner with creative spins on classic dishes, Nell’s has you covered.
Address: Many Glacier Valley, Glacier National Park, MT
Open time: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Prices range: $10 – $20
Planning Your Trip to Glacier National Park
Proper planning is essential to make the most of your visit to Glacier National Park.
Visiting Time
Most visitors to Glacier National Park flock there in summer when the weather is warm and all facilities and attractions are fully operational. During this peak season, the park can be bustling with activity.
For a more serene experience, consider visiting in winter. From December through February, Glacier typically sees fewer than 50,000 visitors—an, an impressive drop from the 700,000 who visit each July. Winter visitors can enjoy a quieter park with unique activities like cross-country skiing on the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, giving you the sensation of having the park all to yourself.
If you prefer to avoid the extremes of winter and still experience reduced crowds, spring and fall are excellent times to visit. While some roads may be closed to vehicles in October and hiking trails might be inaccessible until the ice melts in spring, these shoulder seasons offer their own special charms. The park’s perimeter, in particular, can be especially picturesque and less crowded during these times.
Spring in Glacier National Park
Summer in Glacier National Park
Western Montana's Glacier Country
Winter in Glacier National Park
Transportation
Reaching Glacier National Park is a breeze, especially if you’re traveling by car. The park is easily accessible from several major routes, making it a straightforward drive from various directions.
For those flying in, two key airports serve as gateways to this majestic destination. Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell is the closest, located about 30 miles from the park’s western entrance. It offers a range of domestic flights and provides convenient access to the park. Alternatively, Missoula International Airport (MSO), situated about 140 miles from Glacier, also serves as a viable entry point with a broader array of flight options.
Once you arrive, navigating the park is remarkably convenient thanks to the free shuttle service that operates along the famed Going-to-the-Sun Road. This shuttle provides a hassle-free way to traverse the park’s stunning landscapes, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking views without the stress of parking.
Glacier National Park Map
Conclusion
Glacier National Park is a stunning destination that caters to every type of traveler, offering a wealth of experiences that immerse you in the splendor of nature. Glacier provides endless opportunities for adventure and discovery, from easy hikes to scenic boat tours, ensuring that visitors of all ages can create unforgettable moments together. Glacier National Park promises a profound connection with nature and an array of experiences that will leave a lasting impression and memories you’ll cherish forever.
Glacier National Park Photos
Q&A for Glacier National Park
The entrance fee for a private vehicle is $35 for a 7-day pass. Individual and motorcycle passes are also available at lower rates. An annual pass for Glacier National Park is $70.
Yes, the park is open year-round, but some facilities and roads are closed during the winter months due to snow.
Pets are allowed in developed areas, campgrounds, and along roads, but they are not permitted on trails or in the backcountry.
Yes, it’s important to be aware of wildlife, especially bears. Always carry bear spray, make noise while hiking, and follow park guidelines for food storage.
Reservations are not required to enter the park, but they are highly recommended for camping and lodging, especially during peak season.