Nestled in the rugged Rocky Mountains of Montana, Glacier National Park is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the United States. Spanning over 1 million acres, this national park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering unparalleled opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. With its majestic peaks, pristine lakes, and over 700 miles of hiking trails, Glacier National Park is often referred to as the “Crown of the Continent.”

History and Significance

Glacier National Park was established in 1910 as the 10th national park in the United States. The park’s history is rich, with its land once home to the Blackfeet and Flathead Native American tribes. These indigenous people held the land sacred, and today, many of their cultural and spiritual sites remain protected within the park’s boundaries.

The park is also part of the larger Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This designation underscores the park’s global significance as a preserved natural landscape and highlights the cooperation between the United States and Canada in maintaining this pristine environment.

Getting to Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is located in the northwest corner of Montana, near the Canadian border. The park is accessible by car, plane, and train, making it a convenient destination for travelers.

• By Car: The park is about a 2.5-hour drive from Missoula, Montana, and around 5 hours from Spokane, Washington. The most popular entry points are the West Glacier, St. Mary, and Many Glacier entrances.
• By Plane: The closest airport is Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana, located about 30 miles from the park’s west entrance. From the airport, visitors can rent a car or take a shuttle to the park.
• By Train: Amtrak’s Empire Builder route stops at both the West Glacier and East Glacier Park stations, providing a scenic and convenient way to reach the park.

HOTELS NEAR GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

Best Time to Visit

Glacier National Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests and the activities you want to pursue.

• Summer (June to September): This is the most popular time to visit, with all roads and trails open. The weather is generally warm, making it ideal for hiking, camping, and exploring the park’s many lakes. However, summer also brings the largest crowds, so be prepared for busy trails and full campgrounds.
• Fall (September to October): Fall is a fantastic time to visit Glacier National Park for those looking to avoid the crowds. The foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities. Many of the park’s facilities begin to close in late September, so plan accordingly.
• Winter (November to March): Winter transforms Glacier National Park into a snowy wonderland. While many roads are closed, the park offers opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and wildlife viewing. The park is much quieter in winter, providing a serene experience for those who brave the cold.
• Spring (April to June): Spring is a transitional season in the park, with snow still lingering at higher elevations. Lower elevation trails begin to open, and the park’s wildlife becomes more active as they emerge from hibernation. Spring is also a great time to see the park’s waterfalls at their most powerful, fed by melting snow.

THINGS TO DO IN GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

Must-See Attractions

Glacier National Park is filled with iconic landmarks and breathtaking vistas. Here are some must-see attractions that should be on every visitor’s itinerary:

1. Going-to-the-Sun Road

Going-to-the-Sun Road is the park’s most famous scenic drive, stretching 50 miles from the West Glacier entrance to St. Mary. The road offers spectacular views of the park’s mountains, valleys, and lakes. Along the way, you’ll pass through the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, the highest point on the road at 6,646 feet.

The drive can be challenging, with narrow, winding roads and steep drop-offs, but the views are well worth the effort. Be sure to stop at the many pullouts and overlooks to take in the scenery and capture some stunning photographs.

2. Logan Pass

Logan Pass is a must-visit destination within Glacier National Park. Located along Going-to-the-Sun Road, this high-altitude pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The pass is also a starting point for several popular hikes, including the Hidden Lake Trail and the Highline Trail.

In the summer, the meadows around Logan Pass are filled with wildflowers, and it’s common to spot mountain goats and bighorn sheep grazing nearby. The Logan Pass Visitor Center provides information on the area’s geology, wildlife, and history.

3. Many Glacier

Many Glacier is often referred to as the “heart of Glacier National Park” due to its central location and stunning scenery. This area is home to some of the park’s most famous hikes, including the Grinnell Glacier Trail and the Iceberg Lake Trail.

Many Glacier is also a prime spot for wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of bears, moose, and mountain goats. The Many Glacier Hotel, a historic lodge built in 1915, offers accommodations and dining with breathtaking views of Swiftcurrent Lake and the surrounding mountains.

4. Lake McDonald

Lake McDonald is the largest lake in Glacier National Park, stretching 10 miles along the park’s western edge. The lake’s crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding mountains, creating a picturesque setting that’s perfect for photography.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities on Lake McDonald, including kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The Lake McDonald Lodge, located on the lake’s eastern shore, provides lodging, dining, and boat tours during the summer months.

5. Grinnell Glacier

Grinnell Glacier is one of the park’s most accessible glaciers and a popular destination for hikers. The Grinnell Glacier Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike, offering stunning views of alpine meadows, waterfalls, and the glacier itself.

The trail is approximately 11 miles round trip and gains over 1,600 feet in elevation, making it suitable for experienced hikers. Along the way, you’ll pass through some of the park’s most beautiful landscapes, including the turquoise waters of Grinnell Lake.

6. Two Medicine

The Two Medicine area, located in the southeastern part of the park, is less crowded than other areas but just as beautiful. Two Medicine Lake is the centerpiece of this region, surrounded by towering peaks and dense forests.

The area offers several hiking trails, including the Scenic Point Trail and the Pitamakan Pass Trail. Two Medicine is also a great spot for kayaking, fishing, and picnicking, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife.

Hiking in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with over 700 miles of trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging backcountry routes. Whether you’re looking for a short day hike or a multi-day adventure, there’s a trail for every level of hiker.

1. Easy Hikes

• Trail of the Cedars: This short, wheelchair-accessible trail is perfect for families and those looking for a leisurely walk. The trail winds through a lush cedar forest and leads to the stunning Avalanche Gorge.
• Hidden Lake Overlook: Starting from Logan Pass, this 2.7-mile round trip hike offers incredible views of Hidden Lake and the surrounding mountains. The trail is relatively easy, with only a moderate elevation gain.

2. Moderate Hikes

• Avalanche Lake: This 4.5-mile round trip hike starts at the Trail of the Cedars and leads to the beautiful Avalanche Lake. The trail follows Avalanche Creek, with its cascading waterfalls, before reaching the lake, which is surrounded by towering cliffs.
• St. Mary and Virginia Falls: This 3.6-mile round trip hike takes you to two stunning waterfalls on the east side of the park. The trail passes through a forested area before reaching St. Mary Falls, and a short distance further, you’ll find the impressive Virginia Falls.

3. Strenuous Hikes

• Highline Trail: One of the park’s most famous hikes, the Highline Trail runs along the Continental Divide, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys below. The trail is 11.8 miles one way, with the option to hike the entire length or turn around at the Granite Park Chalet for a shorter hike.
• Grinnell Glacier Trail: As mentioned earlier, the Grinnell Glacier Trail is a challenging hike but offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the park. The trail is 11 miles round trip and gains over 1,600 feet in elevation.

Wildlife in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, making it a prime destination for animal lovers and photographers. The park’s ecosystems support a wide variety of species, from large mammals to birds and amphibians.

1. Mammals

• Grizzly Bears: Glacier National Park is one of the few places in the contiguous United States where grizzly bears still roam. These majestic creatures are most commonly seen in the Many Glacier and Two Medicine areas, particularly in the early morning and late evening.
• Black Bears: Black bears are more common than grizzlies and can be found throughout the park. They are often seen foraging for berries and other food along trails and near campgrounds.
• Mountain Goats: Mountain goats are a symbol of Glacier National Park and are frequently seen near Logan Pass and on high, rocky slopes. These sure-footed animals are well-adapted to the park’s rugged terrain.
• Moose: Moose are most commonly found in the park’s wetlands and along streams and lakes. The Two Medicine and Many Glacier areas are good places to spot these large, solitary animals.
• 2. Birds
• Bald Eagles: Bald eagles are often seen soaring above the park’s lakes and rivers, particularly in the fall when salmon are spawning. Lake McDonald and St. Mary Lake are good spots for eagle watching.
• Peregrine Falcons: These fast-flying raptors can be seen hunting along the cliffs and rocky outcrops of the park. The Highline Trail and Going-to-the-Sun Road offer good opportunities to spot peregrine falcons in action.
• Clark’s Nutcracker: This noisy, gray bird is commonly seen in the park’s higher elevations, particularly near Logan Pass. Clark’s nutcrackers are known for their role in dispersing the seeds of whitebark pine trees.
• 3. Amphibians and Reptiles
• Columbia Spotted Frog: This amphibian is found in the park’s wetlands and along streams. The best time to spot them is in the spring and early summer when they are most active.
• Western Painted Turtle: The western painted turtle is the only turtle species found in Glacier National Park. They can be seen basking on logs and rocks in the park’s lakes and ponds.
• Camping in Glacier National Park
• Camping is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Glacier National Park. The park offers a variety of campgrounds, ranging from developed sites with amenities to backcountry campsites for those seeking a more remote experience.
• 1. Frontcountry Campgrounds
• Glacier National Park has 13 frontcountry campgrounds with over 1,000 campsites. These campgrounds are accessible by car and offer amenities such as restrooms, potable water, and picnic tables. Some of the most popular frontcountry campgrounds include:
• Apgar Campground: Located near the West Glacier entrance, Apgar Campground is the largest in the park with 194 sites. The campground is close to Lake McDonald and the Going-to-the-Sun Road, making it a convenient base for exploring the park.
• Many Glacier Campground: This campground is located in the heart of the park’s Many Glacier area and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The campground has 109 sites and is a great spot for wildlife viewing and hiking.
• St. Mary Campground: Located near the park’s eastern entrance, St. Mary Campground is a popular choice for those exploring the east side of the park. The campground has 148 sites and is close to the St. Mary Visitor Center and the start of the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
• 2. Backcountry Camping
• For those looking for a more adventurous experience, Glacier National Park offers over 60 backcountry campgrounds. These campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating and offer a true wilderness experience.
• Permits: A backcountry camping permit is required for all overnight stays in the park’s backcountry. Permits can be obtained in advance through the park’s reservation system or on a first-come, first-served basis at a park visitor center.
• Safety: When camping in the backcountry, it’s essential to follow Leave No Trace principles and be prepared for encounters with wildlife. Store all food and scented items in bear-proof containers, and make noise while hiking to avoid surprising bears.
• Conclusion
• Glacier National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty, offering something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a hiker, wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates stunning landscapes, Glacier National Park is a destination that will leave you in awe. With its rich history, diverse ecosystems, and endless opportunities for adventure, it’s no wonder that Glacier National Park is considered one of the crown jewels of the United States’ national park system.
• When planning your visit, be sure to consider the best time to go, the must-see attractions, and the various activities available in the park. Whether you’re camping under the stars, hiking to a glacier, or simply taking in the views from Going-to-the-Sun Road, your time in Glacier National Park will be an unforgettable experience.
• Additional Tips for Your Visit
• Pack for All Weather: The weather in Glacier National Park can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. Be sure to pack layers, including a waterproof jacket, even if you’re visiting in the summer.
• Start Early: To avoid the crowds and find parking at popular trailheads, start your day early. Sunrise is also a great time to experience the park’s beauty with fewer people around.
• Stay Safe Around Wildlife: While it’s exciting to see wildlife in the park, it’s important to keep a safe distance. Use binoculars or a telephoto lens for viewing, and never approach or feed wild animals.
• Respect the Park: Glacier National Park is a protected area, and it’s essential to respect the natural environment. Stay on designated trails, pack out all trash, and follow park regulations to help preserve this beautiful landscape for future generations.