Exploring Glacier National Park: The Ultimate Guide to the Park

Wild Beauty, How to Get There, What to Know & When to Go (Updated for 2025!)

If Glacier National Park isn’t on your travel list yet, it should be. Nicknamed the “Crown of the Continent,” this wild and breathtaking corner of northwestern Montana is one of the most scenic places in the U.S.—with turquoise alpine lakes, rugged peaks, and glacier-carved valleys begging to be explored. Whether you’re here for hiking, eloping, stargazing, or just soaking in the views, Glacier offers an unforgettable experience.

Table of Contents

A Brief History of Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park was established in 1910, making it one of the oldest national parks in the United States. But this land’s story began long before that. For over 10,000 years, it’s been home to Indigenous peoples, including the Blackfeet Nation, Salish, Kootenai, and Pend d’Oreille tribes. Their deep cultural and spiritual connections to the land continue today, especially on the park’s east side, which borders the Blackfeet Reservation.

The park gained international recognition in 1932 when it was paired with Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park to form the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its dramatic terrain—carved by glaciers over millennia—gave the park its name and its enduring sense of awe.

For more info about visiting both parks and crossing the Canadian border, check out my guide, Crossing Between Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park: What You Need to Know.

How to Get to Glacier National Park

By Air:

The closest airport to Glacier National Park is Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana. It’s just 30–40 minutes from the West Glacier entrance and is served by major airlines including Delta, United, Alaska, and American Airlines.

Pro tip #1: Not all airlines routinely use all airports with the most convenient connections! Check flights to Kalispell (FCA), Missoula (MSO), Bozeman (BZN), Helena (HLN), Great Falls (GTF), and even Spokane (GEG). The drive from Missoula or Great Falls to Glacier is the most spectacular 2.5 hours you will ever experience.

Pro tip #2: Book your rental car as soon as you book your flights. You shouldn’t need 4WD unless you plan to go to the Polebridge/North Fork area OR you’re visiting in winter, as the area is very well paved. Please know, you really cannot get around outside the park without a rental car.

By Car:

Driving is one of the most popular ways to reach Glacier—and for good reason. The roads into the park are stunning, especially if you approach from the south via Highway 2 through the Flathead National Forest.

If you’re road-tripping:

  • From Missoula, MT: 2.5–3 hours
  • From Spokane, WA: 4.5 hours
  • From Calgary, AB (Canada): 3.5 hours to the East Entrance
  • From Bozeman, MT: 5-6 hours
  • From Salmon, ID: 5 hours

By Train:

Yes, Glacier is one of the rare national parks you can reach by train. Amtrak’s Empire Builder runs from Chicago to Seattle/Portland and stops directly at West Glacier Station and East Glacier Park Station. It’s a historic, romantic, and surprisingly practical way to arrive—especially for those seeking a low-stress, car-free experience. You can also take the train into downtown Whitefish.

Pro tip: If you’re visiting in winter, this is my favorite way to see Montana!

Dog Lovers: Amtrak DOES allow you and your <20lb fur baby to travel in coach. While your trip segment is limited to 7 hours, such as Spokane to Whitefish, sometimes traveling with your pup is worth the hoops you have to jump through. Learn more about Amtrak’s pet policy.

Best Time to Visit Glacier National Park

Glacier is technically open year-round, but summer and early fall (mid-June through mid-September) are when the full park—including the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road—is accessible.

  • Late June is ideal for wildflowers and waterfalls, though some trails might still have snow. This is a great time to rent an E-Bike to ride Going-to-the-Sun Road, as it usually opens early for cyclists only.
  • July–August is peak season, offering full access, ranger programs, and boat tours—but also the largest crowds and limited parking.
  • Mid-September offers fall colors and *slightly* fewer visitors, but higher-elevation roads and services start closing.
  • Winter through June offers solitude and snowshoeing, but only limited parts of the park (like Apgar) remain open.

Winter Note: While much of the park is inaccessible to vehicles, Glacier in winter can be just as magical—especially if you enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, painting, birdwatching, or having the trails to yourself. Just dress warmly and come prepared for solitude.

Insider Tip: The Going-to-the-Sun Road typically opens fully by late June or early July. Check the NPS Glacier road status page for updates.

Where to Stay

Inside the Park:

  • Lake McDonald Lodge, Rising Sun Motor Inn, and Many Glacier Hotel offer historic charm and prime locations—but book 6–12 months ahead. Book HERE.
  • Campgrounds are plentiful and a serene way to enjoy the park (and stay affordably), but most operate on reservations now. Sites like Apgar, Avalanche, and Many Glacier go fast. Book 180 days in advance at Recreation.gov.

Pro Tip: Camp at Two Medicine Campground. The sunrises can not be beat, and it’s far less competitive to secure because it’s a bit “out of the way.”

Outside the Park:

  • Whitefish (West Glacier): Trendy, vibrant, and 30-45min to the West Entrance.
  • Columbia Falls & Hungry Horse: More budget-friendly and 20 minutes from the park.
  • East Glacier, St. Mary, and Babb: Ideal for East Side access and sunrise views. The St. Mary KOA, is the best budget-friendly option in my opinion and is a Blackfeet-Owned Business.
  • Kalispell, Somers, Lakeside, & Bigfork: These areas are further from the park (45-60+) but can be significantly cheaper.

Top Things to Do in Glacier National Park

Whether you’re looking for easy scenic spots, epic hikes, or wildlife encounters, Glacier offers something for every traveler. Here I’ve broken down the main park areas and my favorite activities at each.

Lake McDonald Area

Located on the west side of Glacier National Park, Lake McDonald is the park’s largest lake and one of its most iconic landscapes. Known for its crystal-clear water and colorful rainbow-hued rocks, the shoreline is a favorite spot for skipping stones, sunrise photos, and quiet reflection. This area offers easy access to scenic hikes like Avalanche Lake, historic lodges, boat tours, and relaxing moments along the shore. With towering cedar forests, calm waters, and a slower pace than the high alpine zones, Lake McDonald is ideal for those seeking serenity, accessibility, and classic Glacier beauty.

Activity Suggestions:

  • Kayak or paddleboard on the crystal-clear water—rentals available at Apgar Village.
  • Walk the Apgar shoreline for perfect sunrise/sunset reflections. Wheelchair accessible.
  • Hike to Rocky Point for a short 1.9-mile loop with big lake views.

Things to know: Parking is extremely limited in Apgar Village.

Polebridge & North Fork

Tucked along the remote North Fork of the Flathead River, Polebridge is a quirky, off-the-grid outpost that feels like stepping back in time. With no cell service and limited electricity, it’s a haven for those craving solitude, scenery, and starry skies. The famous Polebridge Mercantile draws travelers with its legendary huckleberry bear claws and fresh-baked pastries, while the surrounding North Fork area offers jaw-dropping views, wildlife sightings, and access to less-traveled parts of Glacier like Bowman and Kintla Lakes. It’s a perfect base for slow mornings, dirt road adventures, and soaking up Glacier’s wild heart.

Activity Suggestions:

  • 🥧 Visit the Polebridge Mercantile—get a pastry, browse the store, and sit outside with mountain views.
  • 📷 Explore Bowman Lake, perfect for a picnic or short accessible walk by the shore.
  • 🚲 Bike the Inside North Fork Road (portions are closed to vehicles), with wild views and wildlife spotting.

Avalanche & Trail of the Cedars

Nestled between towering peaks and ancient forests, the Avalanche area is one of Glacier’s most beloved and accessible spots. The Trail of the Cedars is a flat, wheelchair-friendly boardwalk that winds through a lush, moss-draped forest of western red cedars, some over 500 years old. Just beyond, the trail to Avalanche Lake follows a glacier-fed creek with impossibly blue water, leading to a stunning alpine lake framed by waterfalls. This area is perfect for families, first-time visitors, or anyone looking to experience Glacier’s magic with minimal effort and maximum reward.

Activity Suggestions:

  • Trail of the Cedars: A stunning half-mile wheelchair-accessible loop through old-growth forest and alongside Avalanche Creek. Wheelchair Accessible.
  • Avalanche Lake Hike: A mild-moderate 4.5-mile round trip to a glacial lake framed by waterfalls—great for families.
  • Relax along Avalanche Gorge—easy to access on the north side of the road with benches and shady spots.

Going-to-the-Sun Road & Logan Pass

The heart of Glacier, with jaw-dropping overlooks and mountain goats galore. This legendary alpine highway is the crown jewel of Glacier National Park, winding through glacial valleys, hanging gardens, and jaw-dropping cliffsides. At its highest point, Logan Pass sits on the Continental Divide and offers panoramic views, wildflower meadows, and frequent sightings of mountain goats and bighorn sheep. Iconic hikes like the Hidden Lake Overlook and Highline Trail start here, making it a must-visit for both scenery and adventure. The road itself is a historic marvel—built in the 1930s, it was one of the first to blend engineering with landscape preservation. Learn more about the history of Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Activity Suggestions:

  • Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road: A bucket-list scenic drive. Pull off at Wild Goose Island, Jackson Glacier Overlook, and the Weeping Wall.
  • Hike the Hidden Lake Overlook (2.7 miles RT from Logan Pass) for epic vistas and wildflower meadows.
  • Logan Pass Visitor Center is fully accessible, with ranger talks and wildlife often viewable right from the lot. Be there for one of the Rangers’ Astronomy Programs and see the full Milky Way.
  • Hike the Highline Trail, even if you only go 1/2mi to the iconic rocky shelf part. It’s worth it.

St. Mary & East Glacier

On the park’s east side, St. Mary and East Glacier serve as stunning gateways to Glacier’s rugged beauty and cultural heritage. St. Mary offers sweeping views of wind-swept peaks and glacial lakes, especially breathtaking at sunrise when the mountains glow with alpenglow. This side of the park tends to be drier, wilder, and less crowded, with access to iconic hikes like St. Mary Falls and Siyeh Pass. Just south, East Glacier Park Village blends historic charm with Blackfeet Nation culture and serves as a hub for train travelers and adventurers alike. It’s where big landscapes meet deep roots.

Activity Suggestions:

  • Catch sunrise at Wild Goose Island Overlook—an iconic Glacier photo spot.
  • Stop by the St. Mary Visitor Center for exhibits on Native history and NPS info.
  • Sun Point Nature Trail: A short, easy walk with panoramic lake views and access to longer trails like Baring and Virginia Falls.
  • Hike all the way to Virginia Falls. It’s got some elevation but usually takes 60-90min to complete

Two Medicine

Tucked in the southeast corner of Glacier, Two Medicine is a quieter, lesser-known area that’s rich in both natural beauty and cultural significance. Once the park’s main tourist hub, it remains deeply connected to Blackfeet heritage, with towering peaks, sacred sites, and storytelling woven into the landscape. The area offers serene lakes, dramatic mountain backdrops, and incredible hikes like Scenic Point and Twin Falls—with far fewer crowds than other regions. Whether you’re paddling across Two Medicine Lake, spotting moose at dawn, or soaking in the stillness, this is Glacier at its most soulful and wild.

Activity Suggestions:

  • Rent a Canoe and go for a serene sunrise paddle on Two Medicine Lake.
  • Walk to Running Eagle Falls, a unique double waterfall on a fully accessible trail.
  • Have a picnic by Pray Lake and keep an eye out for moose and mountain goats.

Many Glacier

Often referred to as the “Switzerland of North America,” Many Glacier is one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring regions in the park. Towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and dramatic glaciers define the landscape, making it a dream destination for hikers, photographers, and wildlife lovers. Trailheads here lead to some of Glacier’s most famous routes, including Grinnell Glacier, Iceberg Lake, and Ptarmigan Tunnel. It’s also one of the best areas to spot bears, moose, and mountain goats in their natural habitat. With its alpine charm and jaw-dropping scenery, Many Glacier is Glacier National Park at its most majestic.

Activity Suggestions:

  • Go for a Hike to Grinnell Lake or Grinnell Glacier—options for both easy and strenuous versions.
  • Canoe Swiftcurrent Lake or join a boat tour for a peaceful paddle.
  • Look for bears, bighorn sheep, and moose—this is Glacier’s wildlife hotspot. The Swiftcurrent Nature Trail (2.3 mi loop) is mostly flat and beginner-friendly.

Other Hidden Gems

  • Apgar Lookout Trail: For views back toward Lake McDonald and into the park interior.
  • Cut Bank: Remote and quiet, this area has backcountry vibes without crowds.
  • Goat Lick Overlook: Off Highway 2 near Essex—an easy pull-off to watch mountain goats scale cliffs.
  • Silver Staircase Waterfall: Off Highway 2 near Blacktail—another easy pull-off to see a stunning waterfall.

Waterton Lakes National Park

Just across the border, Waterton Lakes National Park is Glacier’s quieter, charming sibling—and together they form the world’s first International Peace Park. With its turquoise lakes, wildflower meadows, and a cozy alpine village, Waterton makes a perfect add-on for those seeking fewer crowds and a cross-border adventure.

Read my Glacier–Waterton Border Crossing Guide to plan your visit.

Tips for Avoiding Crowds

Here’s the reality about crowds, especially for those of us who get road rage in the grocery store. They are abundant, and they are somewhat unavoidable. This park is a national treasure, and everyone there searching for parking at Logan Pass has just as much a right to be there as you do. Be patient, humble, and show your fellow-nature-enthusiast some grace. Share your water if you see someone’s running dry and be a good neighbor. Its all of our park.

With that in mind, here are my tips to help make your trip as pleasant and people-less as possible:

  • Get to trailheads before 7:00 AM during summer.
  • Use the free Glacier Shuttle to explore the GTTSR corridor.
  • Visit Two Medicine or Polebridge during peak weekends—they’re quieter and stunning.
  • Travel in shoulder seasons (June or October) for fewer people and more wildlife sightings.
  • Stay through dinner when most families head back to Whitefish. You’d be shocked how many people skip the alpine sunset to go out to eat.

What to Pack for Glacier National Park

I cannot stress this enough: Bring plenty of supplies. There are no shops between Apgar and St. Mary. Every year we hear about visitors, usually families, who needed to be rescued off a trail due to preventable circumstances such as exhaustion and dehydration. Come prepared. You can’t even buy a bottle of water at Logan Pass; you have to use your own water at the drinking fountain to fill up.

That said, here’s what I bring every time I head into the park, whether for an hour or a few days:

Gear Packing List for Glacier National Park

  • Bear spray (rent it locally if flying)
  • Small (15-30L) day backpack
  • Sunscreen & Bugspray
  • Refillable water bottles, enough for each person to have 2-3 liters per day
  • Nutritious Snacks, enough for each person to skip dinner so you can watch the sunset….
  • Binoculars for wildlife
  • Camera or phone with lots of storage
  • Car charger or power bank for your phone/camera
  • National Park Pass or entrance fee ($35/vehicle for 7 days)
  • Vehicle Reservation, if needed (acquire online)

🐻 Note: You’re in grizzly country. Always hike in groups, carry bear spray, and make noise on trails.

Clothing Packing List for Glacier National Park

This list is built for the “July” visitor, but know that it is not an exhaustive list. Weather can change very quickly in alpine environments, so even though most days are stunningly sunny, I’ve had hail damage and 80 degrees in the same hour before.

  • Wind or rain-proof jacket
  • Insulating layer / Sweater
  • Beanie Cap & Neck Gaiter/Buff (you can get a GNP one at the gift shop!)
  • Gloves, for windy sunrises
  • Sunglasses, Sun Hat, Sun Shirt
  • Trail Runner Sneakers or Hiking Boots, if you plan to hike
  • x2 changes of socks – because if you are unlucky enough to need one pair, Murphy says you’ll need another!
  • Flipflops or Crocs, to get out of your wet sneakers

Forget something? You can pick up last minute supplies and souvenir clothing at the Glacier National Park Gift Shop.

Is Glacier National Park Dog Friendly?

Glacier is not very dog-friendly, at least not on the trails. Due to wildlife risks and preservation of natural habitats, dogs are not allowed on most hiking trails, in the backcountry, or on park shuttle buses.

However, you can bring your pup to:

  • Campgrounds and picnic areas
  • Parking lots and paved areas
  • Roads open to vehicles, including Going-to-the-Sun Road

Pro Tip: If you’re road tripping with your dog, early morning scenic drives, lakeside picnics, and short walks on paved paths are your best options.

Dog Care Options Near the Park

If you want to hike without your dog for a day or two, consider these local kennels and doggy daycares near Glacier:

  • Tailwaggers, Columbia Falls
    Full daycare and overnight boarding, 20 minutes from West Glacier.
    tailwaggersmt.com
  • Columbia Mountain Kennels
    Spacious facility with large outdoor areas.
    columbiamountainkennels.com
  • Glacier K9 Resort & Spa (Kalispell)
    High-end care just 30 minutes from the park.
    glacierk9.com

Entrance & Reservation Info

  • Entrance Fee: $35/vehicle (valid 7 days) or use an America the Beautiful Pass ($80/year). *Free for military*
  • Vehicle Reservations: During peak summer, Glacier requires vehicle reservations for certain areas like Going-to-the-Sun Road and North Fork. Secure them in advance via Recreation.gov.
    • Pro tip: If you didn’t get one 6mo in advance, a limited number go live at 7pm MDT the night before. If you still didn’t get one, you can enter the reserved area without a vehicle pass either pre-7:00am, or from the St. Mary Entrance anytime.
  • Shuttles: The free park shuttle runs along Going-to-the-Sun Road—perfect for point-to-point hikes or avoiding parking issues.

Take a Ride: Glacier’s Famous Red Bus Tours

If you want to see Glacier without the stress of driving or parking, the iconic Red Bus Tours are a can’t-miss experience. These historic 1930s buses have roll-back canvas tops, offering unobstructed views of the towering peaks and waterfalls along the Going-to-the-Sun Road.

  • Multiple routes available, including West Side, East Side, and full-day loop tours.
  • Drivers double as guides, offering historical and ecological insight.
  • Ideal for photographers, families, and visitors with limited mobility.
  • Advance reservations recommended: glaciernationalparklodges.com

Boat Tours & Getting Across Swiftcurrent Lake

Several areas of the park offer boat tours, and they’re not just for sightseeing—some can be used as shortcuts to popular hikes!

Many Glacier Boat Shuttle

  • The Swiftcurrent Lake & Lake Josephine boat combo saves you miles of hiking if you’re heading to Grinnell Lake or Grinnell Glacier.
  • Boats run regularly in summer and can be booked in advance or day-of, depending on availability
  • Departs from Many Glacier Hotel. A short, scenic walk connects the two boat docks.
  • Wheelchair-accessible ramps are available depending on lake levels.
  • Advance reservations recommended: https://glacierparkboats.com/

Pro Tip: Take the boat out, then hike back for a magical day with lake views both ways.

Leave No Trace in Glacier


Glacier National Park is one of the most fragile and awe-inspiring places on Earth—and it’s up to all of us to keep it that way. Please pick up all trash (even fruit peels and crumbs), pack out any food waste, and never feed or approach wildlife. Stay on designated trails to protect alpine plants, and resist the urge to stack rocks or pick wildflowers—they belong here, not on your Instagram. Basically: leave it better than you found it. Learn more about Leave No Trace in Glacier.

Shopping Local in Montana Matters

When you visit Glacier and the Flathead Valley, we encourage you to support local businesses whenever you can.

It’s so easy to click “add to cart” or swing by a big box store, but this place is home to hardworking families navigating a sky-high cost of living. Every dollar spent locally helps keep this wild, beautiful corner of Montana vibrant—whether that’s helping a kid attend summer camp, covering groceries for a young family, or simply allowing someone to keep doing what they love in the place they love.

Your purchase truly makes a difference.

Here’s a list of locally-owned small businesses you can rely on for your Glacier National Park Adventure: (INSERT LINK TO BUSINESS LIST)

Please note: I don’t receive any compensation for recommending the businesses above. I’m sharing them because I genuinely believe they offer great value and deserve your support—especially those that are local- or Native- owned.

Let’s Plan Your Glacier Adventure

Want help planning your Glacier adventure or elopement? I’ve spent years exploring every corner of the park—reach out, and I’d love to help you make it unforgettable.

Whether you’re dreaming of a rugged hiking trip, an accessible lakeside retreat, or an intimate elopement in the wild, I’ve explored every corner of this park and would love to help you craft an unforgettable experience.

Reach out anytime for personalized planning tips, elopement photography, or Glacier travel advice.

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July 6, 2025

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