Glacier National Park is an exceptional destination, offering stunning natural beauty at every turn. The park is an awe-inspiring display of nature’s splendor, making it a premier location for outdoor enthusiasts.

This park rapidly became one of my favorites, showcasing the best of American nature. With its vast landscapes and diverse activities, one visit is simply not enough to appreciate all that it offers, thereby encouraging a return trip.

What Makes Glacier National Park Unique?

While the obvious draw is the glaciers, the park also boasts some of the most magnificent forests and mountains I have had the pleasure of exploring. Each corner presents a new photo opportunity.

In 1850, the park was home to 150 glaciers; however, due to climate change, only 25 remain today. The largest glacier still present is the Blackfoot Glacier, covering approximately 0.7 square miles.

An Overview of Glacier National Park

Access and Navigation

Location: Montana, USA

The park features several entrances, with three connecting to the iconic Going to the Sun Road: the West Entrance, Saint Mary Entrance, and Camas Creek Entrance. I highly recommend experiencing Going to the Sun Road. Visitors can bike, drive, or utilize one of the park’s tour vehicles. Notably, it is the sole road that traverses the continental divide. In summer, a free park shuttle operates, easing access to trails and mitigating parking congestion.

Opting for accommodation in the West Glacier area provides proximity to Lake McDonald and St. Mary, with a 45-minute drive to Logan Pass, where the Highline Trail commences.

In contrast, staying in East Glacier grants access to Many Glacier and Two Medicine, making Logan Pass accessible via a roughly 30-minute drive. Visitors should be aware that navigating the park can be complex due to unclear maps and limited information available online.

Entrance Fees

*Summer Rates

• Private Car for 7 Days: $35
• Individual (Bicycle or Foot) for 7 Days: $20
• Motorcycle for 7 Days: $30

If available, the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass is valid at Glacier National Park, making it a valuable option for those planning multiple National Park visits this year.

Optimal Visiting Seasons

While the park remains open year-round, the summer months, particularly from late June, offer stunning weather and vibrant wildflower blooms. However, due to high visitor volumes, reservations are now required during peak season. My visit in late September encountered parking challenges at Logan Pass, though the crowds were significantly reduced, allowing for a quieter experience.

During this time, the park’s fall foliage is breathtaking. Visitors should note that amenities diminish significantly in late September and early October; the shuttle ceases operation, lodges close, restaurants are unavailable, and weather conditions become a vital consideration. Access to Going to the Sun Road is restricted during winter due to safety concerns.

Recommended Duration of Stay

A visit to Glacier National Park can easily span several days due to its vastness. If time is limited, establish a focused itinerary targeting one or two areas to ensure meaningful exploration rather than excessive travel.

During my initial visit, I concentrated on hikes accessible from Going to the Sun Road, exploring Lake McDonald and St. Mary, as well as Logan Pass, all within three days.

Other noteworthy locations include Many Glacier and Two Medicine, which can be combined for a comprehensive experience.

Accommodation Options

During the summer season, various lodges are situated within the park; however, advanced reservations—ideally made a year in advance—are necessary due to their popularity and premium pricing.

I opted for a stay in West Glacier, a mere four-minute drive from the park entrance. This area offers multiple accommodations, including lodges and an RV park featuring comfortable cabins with full kitchen amenities—an excellent choice for visitors.

Exploring the Areas of Glacier National Park

For first-time visitors, navigating Glacier National Park can be daunting due to unclear maps and complex layouts. Below are key areas worthy of exploration:

• Many Glacier
• Lake McDonald
• Two Medicine
• North Fork/Goat Haunt
• Mary

The Diverse Wildlife of Glacier National Park

This national park is a habitat for remarkable wildlife. However, visitors must exercise caution, as both grizzly and black bears inhabit the area. Carrying bear spray is essential for safety; it retails at around $50 and could potentially save your life during a bear encounter.

Fortunately, I did not encounter any bears during my visit, which reflects their elusive nature. More often than not, bears are more frightened of humans than vice versa.

In addition to bears, the park is home to deer, mountain goats, sheep, and, if you’re fortunate, golden eagles soaring above. Hikers often spot at least one of these majestic creatures while traversing the trails.

Top Activities in Glacier National Park

Scenic Drive on the Going to the Sun Road

One of the most enjoyable ways to experience the park is to drive along the Going to the Sun Road, with early morning being the ideal time to maximize wildlife sightings. Without stops, a drive along this winding and narrow road takes approximately two hours. However, do take the time to stop frequently along the route, as there are numerous overlooks offering stunning views of glaciers and mountains—an excellent option for those who prefer not to hike.

Hiking Opportunities

With 700 miles of trails, Glacier National Park offers a vast array of hiking options, making it impossible to fully explore in just one day. It is renowned for its diverse trail types and environments. Some of the best hikes for day excursions include the Combination of the Trail of the Cedars and the Avalanche Lake trail, along with the Virginia Falls hike. For breathtaking vistas, consider the Highline Trail and Hidden Lake Trail.

Final Thoughts

This park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, showcasing spectacular landscapes, a variety of hiking challenges, ample viewpoints, and a rich diversity of wildlife. For me, that perfectly encapsulates the ideal park experience.

As an added bonus, if your appetite for Glacier National Park remains unfulfilled, the Canadian counterpart, Waterton Lakes National Park, continues the adventure across the border!