Discover Glacier National Park - Crown of the Continent
Explore the majestic Glacier National Park, Montana. Experience stunning mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Plan your adventure with our comprehensive guide.
Glacier National Park, majestically crowned the “Crown of the Continent,” is an awe-inspiring testament to untamed wilderness and breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled deep within Montana’s rugged Rocky Mountains, its dramatic landscape tells a geological story carved by ancient glaciers, featuring an exquisite tapestry of jagged peaks piercing the sky, pristine turquoise lakes mirroring the heavens, and dense, verdant forests teeming with life.
For the intrepid adventurer and the serene nature lover alike, Glacier offers an unparalleled escape, beckoning visitors into one of America’s most spectacularly preserved national parks. It’s a place where the wild heart of Montana beats strongest, inviting you to discover wonder around every bend.
Seasonal Weather Guide
Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed seasonal forecast.
Where Wilderness Reigns: The Spirit of Glacier
Glacier National Park transcends mere scenery; it is a living, breathing testament to nature’s grandeur, a jewel in the national park system that captivates the soul. While its namesake glaciers are rapidly receding, the park’s majestic spirit remains undiminished, offering an experience that profoundly connects visitors to the raw power and delicate balance of the natural world. With over 700 miles of hiking trails, from gentle strolls to strenuous backcountry treks, every path here is an invitation to explore a landscape shaped over millennia.
The park is a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life, a haven for an incredible array of wildlife that forms an integral part of its allure. Keep an attentive eye out for Grizzly and Black Bears, Bighorn Sheep, and the iconic Mountain Goats traversing the steep terrain, alongside moose and elk grazing peacefully. The mesmerizing, vibrant colors of its many lakes, from the deep emerald of Lake McDonald to the sapphire brilliance of St. Mary Lake, reflect the towering peaks above, creating visual masterpieces that are truly unforgettable.
Things to Do
Unforgettable experiences await you.
Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road
Experience one of America's most scenic drives, traversing the park's majestic landscapes and offering access to numerous viewpoints and trailheads across 50 miles.
Hike to Hidden Lake Overlook
Embark on a moderately easy hike starting from Logan Pass, leading to a stunning overlook with panoramic views of Hidden Lake nestled among towering peaks.
Explore Many Glacier Valley
Often called the 'Switzerland of North America', this valley boasts numerous glaciers, lakes, and some of the park's best opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Take a Boat Tour on Lake McDonald
Enjoy a leisurely boat tour on the largest lake in Glacier, offering stunning views of colorful pebbles, surrounding mountains, and historical commentary on the area.
The Icons You’ll Want to See
Going-to-the-Sun Road — A 50-mile engineering marvel and Glacier’s crown jewel, this scenic drive traverses the park’s heart, offering panoramic views, cascading waterfalls, and access to numerous trailheads. During peak season, a vehicle reservation is required to drive certain sections. Plan 2-4 hours to drive the full length without stops, but allow a full day to enjoy the viewpoints and short hikes. Lake McDonald — The largest lake in the park, known for its vibrantly colored pebbles and deep, clear waters. Located on the west side, it’s perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing at Apgar Village. Logan Pass — Sitting at 6,646 feet, this is the highest point on the Going-to-the-Sun Road and a prime destination for hikers. It offers access to the popular Hidden Lake Overlook trail (2.7 miles round trip, easy-moderate with boardwalks) and the scenic Highline Trail. Parking fills incredibly early. Many Glacier Valley — Often hailed as the “Switzerland of North America,” this stunning valley on the park’s east side boasts dramatic peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. It’s the starting point for some of Glacier’s most iconic hikes, including the Grinnell Glacier Trail (10.6 miles round trip, strenuous), and offers boat tours on Swiftcurrent and Josephine Lakes. St. Mary Lake — Marking the eastern entrance of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, this expansive lake offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, often reflecting their majesty. Don’t miss the iconic Wild Goose Island viewpoint, a postcard-perfect scene.
Essential Guide
Everything you need to know.
Must-Visit Spots
Local Cuisine
Where to Stay
Travel Tips
Planning Your Visit
Planning your adventure to Glacier National Park requires foresight, especially if visiting during the peak summer months of July and August. The best time to visit is from late June to early September, when the entire Going-to-the-Sun Road is typically open, and all facilities are operational. Booking lodging well in advance (12-13 months out for peak season), including inside-park lodges like Lake McDonald Lodge or Many Glacier Hotel, is absolutely crucial due to high demand. Campsites and popular boat tours also require early reservations.
A rental car is highly recommended for flexibility, but be aware of the mandatory Going-to-the-Sun Road Vehicle Reservation System during peak season – secure this on Recreation.gov well in advance, as without it, entry to certain sections will be denied. The closest airport is Glacier Park International (FCA) in Kalispell, and Amtrak also offers stops directly at park entrances. Always carry bear spray and know how to use it, pack layers for unpredictable mountain weather, and download offline maps as cell service is spotty. Arrive at popular trailheads before 8 AM for a chance at parking, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to protect this pristine wilderness. The entrance fee is $35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days, or use an America the Beautiful Pass.
When to Visit
Choose the perfect time for your adventure.
Peak Season: Summer (July - August)
Pros
- All park roads and facilities are open, including Going-to-the-Sun Road.
- Best weather for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Long daylight hours for exploration.
- Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
Cons
- Significant crowds and heavy traffic.
- Requires advance reservations for lodging and park access.
- Parking can be extremely challenging.
- Higher prices for accommodations and services.
Shoulder Season: Late Spring (May - June) & Early Fall (September - early October)
Pros
- Fewer crowds than peak summer.
- Beautiful spring blooms or vibrant fall foliage.
- More affordable lodging options.
- Good opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Cons
- Portions of Going-to-the-Sun Road and higher trails may still be closed due to snow.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with chances of rain or early snow.
- Some services and facilities may have limited hours or be closed.
- Limited access to certain areas until snow fully melts.
Off-Peak: Winter (November - April)
Pros
- Experience extreme solitude and peacefulness.
- Opportunity for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and photography.
- Dramatic snow-covered landscapes.
- No crowds and ample wildlife sign.
Cons
- Most park roads and facilities are closed.
- Limited lodging and dining options available.
- Requires specialized winter gear and skills.
- Weather can be harsh and travel difficult.
Glacier National Park is more than just a destination; it’s an immersive journey into a landscape of unparalleled grandeur, a place where the wild heart of Montana truly comes alive. From the dramatic vistas of the Going-to-the-Sun Road to the serene beauty of its turquoise lakes and the thrill of encountering its iconic wildlife, Glacier promises an unforgettable outdoor adventure that will etch itself into your memory long after you depart. Come witness the Crown of the Continent, and let its untamed spirit inspire yours.
Sample Itineraries
Glacier's Western Gems: 3-Day Adventure
Hit the highlights of Glacier National Park, focusing on the easily accessible west side and classic Going-to-the-Sun Road sights, perfect for a long weekend.
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Day 1: Lake McDonald’s Emerald Embrace
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Arrive at Glacier National Park’s West Entrance (vehicle reservation often required for Going-to-the-Sun Road access during peak hours/season, check NPS website for current requirements). Check into your pre-booked lodging just outside the park in West Glacier, Coram, or Columbia Falls (e.g., Glacier Guides Lodge, Village Inn at Apgar, or an Airbnb in Columbia Falls). Budget approx. $300-$350 for accommodation tonight. Grab breakfast at your lodging or a local spot like Glacier Coffee House in West Glacier (approx. $30 for two). After settling in, drive a short distance into the park to Apgar Village. Spend time by the clear, colorful waters of Lake McDonald, Glacier’s largest lake. Take photos, dip your toes, and enjoy the views.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a scenic drive along the initial stretch of Going-to-the-Sun Road (GTSR) along Lake McDonald. Stop at the Lake McDonald Lodge, a historic Swiss chalet-style building (approx. 10 miles from West Glacier entrance). Explore the lobby and perhaps enjoy an ice cream cone ($10 for two). Continue driving a few more miles to the popular Trail of the Cedars and Avalanche Lake trailhead (approx. 17 miles from West Glacier). Hike the easy, wheelchair-accessible 0.7-mile loop Trail of the Cedars through ancient cedars and hemlocks. For a slightly more challenging but rewarding option, continue on the Avalanche Lake Trail (approx. 5.9 miles roundtrip, moderate, 500 ft elevation gain, 2.5-3 hours). Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy along the trail or at the lake’s shore (budget $25 for groceries).
- Evening (5:00 PM onwards) Head back towards West Glacier. Freshen up at your lodging. For dinner, experience local flavors. Consider Eddie’s Cafe and Mercantile in Apgar Village (casual American fare, can be busy, approx. $70 for two) or Glacier Highland Restaurant & Motel near the West Entrance (classic diner food, approx. $60 for two). Enjoy the evening air and perhaps a quiet stroll near your accommodation.
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Day 2: Going-to-the-Sun’s Crown Jewels
- Morning (7:30 AM - 12:00 PM) Start early to beat the crowds and maximize your experience on the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. Grab a quick breakfast from a local bakery or make coffee/oatmeal at your lodging (budget $20). Remember your GTSR vehicle reservation if applicable. Drive the breathtaking GTSR towards Logan Pass (approx. 32 miles from West Glacier, 1-1.5 hours driving without stops). Stop at numerous pull-offs for panoramic views, including Lake McDonald Overlook, Heaven’s Peak, and Bird Woman Falls Overlook. As you ascend, marvel at the engineering feat of the road.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Arrive at Logan Pass Visitor Center (parking fills up very early, so arriving by 8 AM is recommended, or utilize the free park shuttle system from Avalanche Creek or Apgar). Enjoy the subalpine environment. Hike the popular Hidden Lake Nature Trail boardwalk (2.7 miles roundtrip to the overlook, easy to moderate, 1.5-2 hours, 460 ft elevation gain). Keep an eye out for mountain goats and bighorn sheep! Alternatively, for more experienced hikers, consider starting the Highline Trail for a mile or two from Logan Pass (out-and-back, stunning views, but sections have steep drop-offs with cables). Pack a hearty picnic lunch to eat at Logan Pass or along your chosen trail (budget $30 for groceries).
- Evening (5:00 PM onwards) Begin your descent back along the Going-to-the-Sun Road towards West Glacier. Take your time, stopping at any viewpoints you missed or want to revisit, like Weeping Wall or the various tunnels. Head back to your lodging to relax. For dinner, try Three Forks Grille in Columbia Falls for a slightly more upscale but still casual Western dining experience (approx. $85 for two) or grab a delicious pizza from North Fork Pizza in Columbia Falls (approx. $45 for two).
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Day 3: Farewell Peaks & Wild Rivers
- Morning (8:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Enjoy a final breakfast at your lodging or a local cafe (budget $30). Depending on your flight or departure schedule, choose a final activity. For a leisurely start, drive the short distance to Johns Lake Loop Trail (approx. 0.5 miles, easy, 30 minutes), offering a tranquil forest walk and a pretty view of a small lake. Alternatively, if time allows and you enjoy water activities, consider a scenic 2-hour float trip on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River with Glacier Raft Company or Great Northern Resort (approx. $100-$120 per person, so $200-$240 for two, check availability and book in advance; this would be your main “activity” cost). This offers a unique perspective of the park’s western boundary.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM) After your morning activity, head back towards West Glacier. Grab a casual farewell lunch – perhaps a burger and shake from the West Glacier Village Grill (approx. $40 for two) or pick up sandwiches from a grocery store for a quick roadside picnic. Spend some time browsing the gift shops in West Glacier Village for souvenirs (budget $50). Take one last look at the stunning mountain vistas before beginning your journey home.
- Evening Depart from Glacier National Park, carrying memories of its majestic western gems.
East & West Wonders: 5-Day Explorer
A comprehensive journey covering the highlights of both the western and dramatic eastern sides of the park, including iconic hikes and scenic drives.
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Day 1: Gateway to Glaciers & Lake McDonald Serenity
- Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Arrive at Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana. Pick up your pre-booked rental car. The drive to the West Glacier entrance of Glacier National Park is approximately 30-40 minutes (about 20 miles). Stop at the entrance to purchase your 7-day vehicle pass ($35 per vehicle) and pick up a park map. Be aware that a Going-to-the-Sun Road vehicle reservation may be required depending on the time of year (check NPS website for current requirements). Check into your accommodation in the West Glacier or Apgar Village area, such as Apgar Village Lodge or West Glacier Village Cabins.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 6:00 PM) After settling in, head to Apgar Village on the shores of Lake McDonald. Enjoy a picnic lunch bought earlier (cost: $15-25 for two) or grab a casual bite at Eddie’s Cafe. Spend time strolling along the shores of Lake McDonald, admiring the colorful pebbles and the stunning mountain reflections. Take a leisurely walk on the easy, accessible Trail of the Cedars loop trail (1 mile round trip, ~45-60 minutes) near Avalanche Creek, showcasing ancient old-growth cedars and a picturesque gorge.
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Dine at the casual West Glacier Restaurant (entrees $18-30) for classic American fare, or if you prefer a short drive, head to Coram for the Huckleberry Patch Restaurant (famous for huckleberry pie!). After dinner, consider an evening stroll by Lake McDonald to catch a beautiful sunset over the mountains.
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Day 2: Going-to-the-Sun Road & High Alpine Trails
- Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Start your day early to beat the crowds, especially for parking at Logan Pass. Pack a substantial lunch and plenty of water. Begin your journey on the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. Drive about 30 miles (1 hour non-stop, but plan for stops) from Apgar Village to Logan Pass (6,646 ft elevation). Park at Logan Pass Visitor Center (very challenging to find spots after 8:30 AM, so an early start is critical). Embark on the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail (moderate, 2.7 miles round trip, ~2-3 hours). This boardwalk and gravel path offers breathtaking views of wildflowers and leads to a stunning overlook of Hidden Lake with surrounding peaks. Keep an eye out for mountain goats and bighorn sheep.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy your packed lunch with a view at Logan Pass. For those wanting a longer challenge, consider starting the Highline Trail from Logan Pass (out-and-back as far as you wish, or to the Loop, ~11.8 miles one way to The Loop via Haystack Butte). Even hiking a few miles out on the Highline Trail provides incredible panoramic views of the Garden Wall. Begin your scenic drive back down the Going-to-the-Sun Road, stopping at viewpoints you missed or want to revisit, such as the Weeping Wall, Bird Woman Falls Overlook, and McDonald Lake Overlook.
- Evening (5:00 PM onwards) Return to your West Glacier area accommodation. Relax and freshen up. For dinner, try Josephine’s Bar & Kitchen in West Glacier (entrees $20-35) for a more upscale casual experience, offering a range of American cuisine and local brews. Reflect on the day’s magnificent alpine adventure.
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Day 3: Eastbound Panorama & St. Mary’s Charms
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Pack up and check out of your West Glacier lodging. Enjoy a quick breakfast or grab pastries and coffee from a local cafe (cost: $15-25). Today, you’ll complete your journey across the Going-to-the-Sun Road to the park’s eastern side. The drive from West Glacier to St. Mary is approximately 50 miles (2 hours non-stop, but allow for frequent photo stops). Stop at memorable points like Jackson Glacier Overlook for panoramic views of a distant glacier, and Sun Point.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Arrive at St. Mary Village and check into your lodging, such as St. Mary Village Lodge. Have lunch at the Snow Goose Grille at St. Mary Village (casual, entrees $15-28). Afterwards, explore the St. Mary Lake area. Hike to St. Mary Falls and Baring Falls (easy to moderate, 2.7 miles round trip from the shuttle stop or Sun Point, ~1.5-2 hours). These beautiful waterfalls are easily accessible and provide stunning views of the turquoise waters of St. Mary Lake.
- Evening (5:30 PM onwards) Enjoy dinner at the Going-to-the-Sun Restaurant in St. Mary Village (entrees $18-32), offering American cuisine with a view of the mountains. Afterwards, consider a leisurely walk around the St. Mary Visitor Center area or simply relax and enjoy the serene eastern side of the park.
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Day 4: Many Glacier’s Alpine Grandeur
- Morning (7:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Get an early start from St. Mary. The drive to Many Glacier is about 45 minutes to 1 hour (20 miles) along Highway 89 and the Many Glacier Road. Be prepared for potentially busier conditions at Many Glacier. Today’s highlight is a hike to Grinnell Glacier. Park at the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn parking lot. Embark on the iconic Grinnell Glacier Trail (strenuous, 10.6 miles round trip, 1600 ft elevation gain, ~6-8 hours). This trail takes you through diverse landscapes, past Josephine Lake, and eventually to Grinnell Glacier itself, offering incredible views of alpine lakes and hanging glaciers. Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a full lunch.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 6:00 PM) Enjoy your packed lunch with unparalleled views at the upper Grinnell Glacier area. If the full hike is too strenuous, consider a shorter option: take the boat tour across Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine (tickets ~$30-40 per person, reserve in advance) which shaves off several miles and makes the hike to Grinnell Glacier about 6 miles round trip. After your hike, take some time to explore the historic Many Glacier Hotel, a grand lodge with stunning views of Swiftcurrent Lake.
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards) Treat yourselves to a well-deserved dinner at the Ptarmigan Dining Room at Many Glacier Hotel (reservations highly recommended, entrees $25-45). Enjoy the elegant ambiance and magnificent lake views. Alternatively, a more casual meal can be found at the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn’s restaurant. Return to your St. Mary accommodation (or Many Glacier if you secured lodging there).
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Day 5: Eastern Farewell & Departure
- Morning (8:00 AM - 11:00 AM) Enjoy a final eastern Glacier sunrise from St. Mary Lake. Grab a simple breakfast at your lodging or a local cafe (cost: $15-25). Take a last leisurely drive along the shores of St. Mary Lake, stopping for final photos. If time and interest allow, and you didn’t have enough hiking, you could do a short, easy walk near St. Mary Visitor Center or simply soak in the last mountain views.
- Afternoon (11:00 AM - 3:00 PM) Begin your drive back to Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) for your departure. The drive from St. Mary to FCA is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours (about 90 miles). Allow ample time for any unexpected traffic, construction, or wildlife crossings. Stop in Kalispell or Whitefish for a final Montana lunch (cost: $30-50 for two) before heading to the airport.
- Evening (3:00 PM onwards) Return your rental car at FCA and check in for your flight. Depart from Glacier National Park, taking with you memories of its stunning East and West wonders.
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