Glacier, Montana
Glacier National Park is a beautiful, expansive national park in northwestern Montana. On the Canada-United States border, it is known for it's stunning scenery, sweeping views, and native animal species. It makes for a great trip, whether you have time to camp out and hike or are just driving through, and over 2 million visitors visit annually.
About Glacier
The mountains of Glacier National Park began forming 170 million years ago, and it is named for the remnants of glaciers from the ice age. It is often called the "Crown of the Continent," as it sits at the headwaters of the streams that flow into the Pacific Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and Hudson Bay. Of the estimated 150 glaciers that existed in the mid-19th century, only 25 active glaciers remain. The park encompasses over 1 million acres, parts of two mountain ranges from the Rocky Mountains, 130 lakes, and thousands of different plant and animal species. Grizzly bears, moose, mountain goats, and endangered species life wolverines inhabit the park.
How to Get There
Glacier is northwest of both Helena and Great Falls, and 4 hours away by car. US-89 north leads right to the park, and can be accessed from both cities. From Canada, Glacier sits directly south of Calgary and is about 3.5 hours away.
What To Do
There is plenty to do in Glacier to keep you occupied for days, but you can also get a feel for the park in a day trip. Here are our favorite sites to check out:
Going-to-the-Sun Road-- This is the most scenic drive in the park, and one of the most beautiful in all of the United States! 50 miles of twists and turns take you through the mountains and over the Continental Divide. It takes about 2 hours to drive, and is only open from June to October depending on snowfall.
Logan Pass-- The Going-to-the-Sun Road ends at Logan Pass, where you can enjoy the view and find several hiking trails. At 6,646 feet, it is the highest point in Glacier.
Lake McDonald-- This is the largest lake in the park and is a starting point for many hikes, as well as a boat tour.
Many Glacier-- This area is considered even prettier than Going-to-the-Sun Road, with snowy mountains, waterfalls, glaciers, and hikes.
Wild Goose Island-- This island is located on Saint Mary Lake and is from the opening scene of "The Shining."
Hidden Lake Overlook-- This is a 2.8 mile trail that is rated easy to moderate, and is one of the most popular trails in the park. In addition to seeing the lake, it's known for mountain goats and bighorn sheep.
Highline Trail-- This 11.6 mile hike is one of the best in the park. It starts at the Logan Pass and runs along a cliff-side trail overlooking the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Trail of the Cedars-- This is a short and simple 1 mile hike. It's a boardwalk and gravel trail through cedar trees, and offers a view of Avalanche Gorge.
Avalanche Lake-- This 4.5 mile trail that start at the Trail of the Cedars and continues along Avalanche Creek until you reach the lake.
Grinnell Glacier-- This is a 10.6 mile, strenuous hike that has alpine scenery, waterfalls, green lakes, and wildlife. It is located in Many Glacier.
Iceberg Lake-- This is a strenuous, 9.6 mile hike that has stunning views and is the favorite of many. You will also get to see Ptarmigan Falls.
McDonald Creek Bike Path-- This is the only trail that allows dogs, and is paved.
Where to Camp
Glacier has 13 campgrounds within the park itself, with most available on a first come first serve basis. Fish Creek and St. Mary are the two campgrounds that can be reserved in advance. You can view all campgrounds here.
If you're looking for nicer lodgings, Many Glacier Hotel, Granite Park Chalet, and Lake McDonald Lodge are great options. Book in advance to get the best deal, as prices can be around $300 per night.
Costs and Fees
Entrance fees: The entrance fee is $25 per vehicle (read: not per person). If you plan on visiting multiple parks, we recommend buying the America the Beautiful annual park pass for just $80. If you visit just 3 parks in the year it pays for itself, and you're able to visit unlimited parks and re-enter as many times as you want.
Camping fees: Camping within Glacier is very affordable. Some campsites, like Apgar, Sprague Creek, and Avalanche are just $5 per person, per night. The reservation campgrounds start at $8, plus $5 for every extra individual.
Tips and Tricks
Utilize the National Park website to get the latest updates and help plan your visit.
Bring in any food and water you want. There are several visitor centers and places to get food, but it's better to be prepared.
Be prepared for cold weather. The summer and early fall months are the best times to visit, with temperatures averaging in the 70s and falling into the 40s at night. The winter is cold, with daytime temperatures in the 30s and below, and even colder at night. Some roads and hikes are also closed when there is snow. It is possible to visit anytime, just plan ahead.
You are in bear country! Be sure to store all food in your car, and throw everything away in the proper receptacles away from your campsite.
Leave everything better than you found it. Clean up after yourself your pets, and follow the Leave No Trace principle.
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