Exploring Glacier National Park
- Written by
- On Wednesday, November 9, 2022
Park: Glacier National Park
State: Montana
Year Established: 1910
Acres: 1,013,322
Annual Visitors: 3.05 Million
Entrance Fee: $35
Also known as the Crown of the Continent, Glacier National Park is famous for its crystal blue lakes and streams, alpine forests, and iconic peaks and valleys carved by glaciers in Montana. Established to celebrate peace between the United States and its northern neighbor Canada, the park straddles the Continental Divide and is one of the most popular national parks in the U.S.
The clash of Pacific and Arctic air meeting within the park creates unpredictable weather patterns that can swing up to 100 degrees within the span of just one day. Featuring 762 lakes, 26 glaciers, 71 species of mammals, and evidence of human life dating back 12,000 years, Glacier National Park is sprawling with natural beauty and holds spiritual significance for many local Montana tribes including the Kootenai, Salish, and Blackfeet.
Things to do in Glacier National Park
One of the most popular things to do in Glacier National Park is driving Going-to-the-Sun Road. Connecting the east and west sides straight through the middle of the park, this iconic road crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass. While you traverse 50 miles of beautiful landscape, you will drink in the park's most quintessential views including distant glaciers and picturesque waterfalls.
Stopping by Lake McDonald is another one of the best things to do when visiting Glacier National Park. The largest lake within the park, it’s surrounded by peaks and the perfect spot to snap a stunning picture during your trip. The sunset views and explosion of colors over the water simply can’t be beat.
Hiking in Glacier National Park
Boasting over 700 miles of hiking trails, the park offers amazing opportunities for everyone from long backpacking excursions to shorter hikes and treks.
A great family friendly hike to try is Hidden Lake Overlook. Beginning in Logan Pass, it’s a great hike after you’ve traveled Going-to-the-Sun Road. With panoramic views of idyllic meadows and stunning peaks for the entire trek, it’s a beautiful place to see the wildflowers throughout summer months. You might even spy a mountain goat while you’re out!
Grinnell Glacier is another favorite within the park, offering a trail to hike all along. Overlooking Swiftcurrent Lake as well as Lake Josephine for the first two miles, the hike ends with soaring views of Grinnell Lake and the tall cliffs of Angel Wing. The emerald colored lake sits just below the glacier, and you can even shorten the hike with a boat ride across the first two lakes.
Camping in Glacier National Park
Feeling spontaneous? Then you’re in luck. Most camping in Glacier National Park is first-come, first-served. However, if you’re coming without a reservation make sure to arrive early to claim your spot. Here are some of the most popular - and beautiful - campsites within the national park.
Apgar Campground: Located on Going-to-the-Sun Road and less than three miles from the main entrance, this is the largest campground within the park. It’s also located walking distance from Apgar Village so you'll definitely want to get there early to secure a spot!
Many Glacier Campground: Located on the east side of the park, this campsite is actually reservation only as of 2021, allowing campers to book sites six months in advance. If you love hiking, this spot is for you, with some of the most iconic hikes nearby, such as Grinnell Glacier, Iceberg Lake, and Swiftcurrent Lake.
Avalanche Campground: A popular spot during the summer season, Avalanche Campground is conveniently located next to its own shuttle stop. Easily accessible from Going-to-the-Sun Road and with running water, it's perfect for tent campers with accommodations for RVs and camper vans as well.
Recommended Read: 10 Absolutely Essential Items For Any Camping Trip
When to visit Glacier National Park
Summer
If you want to drive the entirety of Going-to-the-Sun Road then it’s best to visit during the summer months when everything is open. Planning your trip for July through October, you'll be able to see everything including Jackson Glacier Overlook and Lake McDonald.
Late spring is also a beautiful time to visit because you'll catch all of the wildflowers in bloom, and you'll get to see the rushing waterfalls. Remember, weather shifts can happen at any time so no matter what time of year you visit, bring layers and a rain jacket!
Fall
If you want to avoid the crowds but still enjoy the beauty of the park, visit during October. You should be able to catch the fall colors during early October and enjoy sections of the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road.
While it’s cheaper and less crowded to visit during the winter, certain activities are impossible to enjoy during the winter and you’ll enjoy fewer wildlife sightings as well.
Can’t get enough national park adventures? Check out our list of the best national park campsites for an unforgettable trip!
