Nestled in the heart of Montana, Glacier National Park is a breathtaking wilderness that spans over a million acres of rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and sprawling meadows. Known as the “Crown of the Continent,” this national park offers a diverse range of activities for adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking a serene escape. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual visitor, here’s a guide to the best activities to make the most of your time in Glacier National Park.
Hike the Iconic Trails
Glacier National Park boasts over 700 miles of trails, catering to all skill levels. Hiking is the quintessential way to experience the park’s dramatic
Iceberg Lake Trail
landscapes, from glacier-carved valleys to alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers. See our Fall Guide to great trails in autumn.
• Hidden Lake Overlook Trail: This moderate 2.7-mile round-trip hike offers stunning views of Hidden Lake, framed by Bearhat Mountain. It’s a great option for families or those looking for a shorter trek with big rewards.
• Highline Trail: For a more challenging adventure, the Highline Trail along the Garden Wall is a bucket-list hike. Starting at Logan Pass, this 11.8-mile trail (one-way) features jaw-dropping views of the Continental Divide, wildflower meadows, and potential wildlife sightings like mountain goats or bighorn sheep.
• Grinnell Glacier Trail: A strenuous 10.6-mile round-trip hike from Many Glacier, this trail leads to the turquoise waters of Grinnell Lake and the shrinking but majestic Grinnell Glacier. The trail showcases vibrant wildflowers and cascading waterfalls.
Pro Tip: Trails like Highline and Grinnell Glacier can be busy in peak season (July to September). Start early to secure parking at trailheads and avoid crowds. Always check trail conditions and carry bear spray, as grizzly bears are common in the park.
Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road
No visit to Glacier National Park is complete without driving the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. This 50-mile scenic highway, open typically from late June to mid-October, crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass and offers unparalleled views of glacier-carved peaks, waterfalls, and valleys.
• Highlights: Stop at pullouts like the Weeping Wall, where water cascades onto the road, or the Jackson Glacier Overlook to catch a glimpse of one of the park’s remaining glaciers.
• Logan Pass: At 6,646 feet, this is the highest point on the road and a hub for trailheads like Hidden Lake Overlook and Highline Trail. Arrive early, as parking fills up quite quickly.
Drivers entering from the west side will need a vehicle reservation. For more information and to make your reservation, visit Recreation.gov.
Pro Tip: If you prefer not to drive, take a Red Bus Tour or a shuttle (available in peak season) to enjoy the views without navigating the narrow, winding road. Check road status before planning, as weather can cause closures.
Explore by Boat
Glacier’s crystal-clear lakes are best experienced by boat, offering a unique perspective on the park’s beauty. Several lakes, including Lake McDonald, Two Medicine, and Many Glacier, offer guided boat tours or boat rentals.
• Many Glacier Boat Tour: This tour combines a scenic boat ride across Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine with a short hike to Grinnell Glacier or Hidden Falls. The narrated tour provides insights into the park’s geology and history.
• Kayaking or Canoeing: Rent a kayak or canoe on Lake McDonald or Two Medicine Lake for a peaceful paddle surrounded by towering peaks. Early mornings offer calm waters and stunning reflections. (Don’t forget, when you stay at West Glacier Bear Cabin, we have 3 kayaks and 2 paddleboards – along with 4 e-bikes – all are onsite for unlimited use by our guests.)
Pro Tip: Book boat tours in advance, especially during the summer months, as they tend to fill up quickly. If renting, ensure you have life jackets and follow park regulations to protect the pristine waters.
Wildlife Watching
Glacier National Park is a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to spot grizzly bears, black bears, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and more.
Black Bear Can Often Be Seen in Glacier National Park
Dawn and dusk are the best times for sightings, particularly in areas like Many Glacier or along the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
• Best Spots: The Many Glacier Valley is known for bear activity, while Logan Pass is a hotspot for mountain goats and marmots. The Apgar area near Lake McDonald is great for spotting deer and smaller mammals.
• Safety Tips: Keep a safe distance (at least 100 yards from bears and 25 yards from other wildlife). Use binoculars or a zoom lens for photography, and never feed animals.
Note: We do keep bear spray in the cabin for our guests to taking on hiking and biking trails. It’s expensive, so there’s no need to buy or rent your own.
Pro Tip: Join a ranger-led wildlife talk or hike to learn more about the park’s ecosystem and how to safely observe animals.
Photography and Stargazing
Aurora Borealis
Glacier’s dramatic landscapes make it a paradise for photographers, from vibrant sunrises over Lake McDonald to star-filled skies at night. The park’s remote location and minimal light pollution also make it a prime spot for stargazing.
• Photography Hotspots: Capture the iconic Bearhat Mountain at Hidden Lake Overlook, the vibrant turquoise of Avalanche Lake, or the sweeping vistas at Logan Pass. Early morning or late afternoon light enhances colors and reduces crowds.
• Stargazing: Head to Apgar Village or Logan Pass for some of the best night-sky views. In summer, the park hosts ranger-led “Star Parties” with telescopes and educational talks about constellations. Click HERE for more information about the Big Sky Astronomy Club events in the park too.
Pro Tip: Bring a tripod for long-exposure photography and a red-light headlamp for stargazing to preserve night vision. Check the park’s event calendar for astronomy programs.
Ranger-Led Programs
For a deeper understanding of Glacier’s natural and cultural history, join one of the park’s ranger-led programs. These free activities, offered in summer, include guided hikes, campfire talks, and cultural presentations about the Blackfeet, Salish, and Kootenai tribes who have long called this region home.
• Native America Speaks: Held at campgrounds like Apgar and St. Mary, these talks feature tribal members sharing stories, history, and traditions.
• Guided Hikes: Rangers lead walks to destinations like Avalanche Lake or Bearhat Mountain, offering insights into flora, fauna, and geology.
Pro Tip: Check the park’s website or visitor centers for schedules, as programs vary by season and location.
Camping and Backcountry Adventures
For an immersive experience, camping in Glacier National Park allows you to connect with nature. The park offers 13 developed campgrounds, like
Apgar, Fish Creek, and Many Glacier, as well as backcountry camping for those seeking solitude.
• Developed Campgrounds: Most sites are first-come, first-served, though some, like Fish Creek, accept reservations. Facilities range from basic to those with flush toilets and showers.
• Backcountry Camping: For a true wilderness adventure, obtain a backcountry permit to camp at remote sites like those near Upper Kintla Lake or along the Highline Trail. Permits are competitive, so apply early.
Pro Tip: Pack for variable weather, as temperatures can drop at night even in summer. Follow Leave No Trace principles and store food securely to avoid attracting bears.
Winter Activities
While Glacier National Park is most popular in summer, winter transforms the park into a quiet wonderland. Many areas, including parts of the Going-to-the-Sun 
Road, close, but Apgar and St. Mary offer access for winter activities.
• Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing: Trails around Apgar and along the Going-to-the-Sun Road (lower elevations) are ideal for skiing or snowshoeing. Rentals are available in nearby towns like West Glacier.
• Winter Photography: The snow-draped peaks and frozen lakes create a serene backdrop for photography, with fewer crowds.
• Fat Tire Biking is always a different treat in the park. Most rental services are closed down for the season so BYOB – Bring Your Own Bike.
Pro Tip: Check avalanche conditions and road closures before heading out. Dress in layers and be prepared for extreme cold.
Planning Your Visit
• When to Go: Summer (July to September) offers the most access to trails and roads, but it’s crowded. Late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October) provide fewer crowds and vibrant scenery, though some facilities may be closed.
• Entrance Fees: A 7-day vehicle pass costs $35 in summer (May 1 to October 31) and $25 in winter. An America the Beautiful Pass ($80 annually) covers all national parks.
• Safety: Always carry bear spray, hike in groups, and check weather and trail conditions. Cell service is limited, so plan ahead.
• Where to Stay: Beyond camping, lodges like Lake McDonald Lodge and Many Glacier Hotel offer historic charm. Nearby towns like Whitefish and Kalispell have additional lodging options. Of course, we highly recommend West Glacier Bear Cabin, where you’re inside the Park and close to the trails and lakes.
Glacier National Park is a place where nature’s grandeur unfolds at every turn. Whether you’re hiking to a glacier, cruising along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, or stargazing under a Montana sky, the park promises memories that will last a lifetime. Plan your trip, pack your sense of adventure, and immerse yourself in one of America’s most spectacular landscapes.
Note: Always check the National Park Service website (nps.gov/glac) for current conditions, closures, and permit information before your visit.
And don’t forget when you’re ready to book your stay, stay at West Glacier Bear Cabin. Guests have unlimited use of 4 on-site e-bikes, 3 kayaks and 2 stand-up paddleboards to use on Lake McDonald. Also, we have a fire pit for s’mores and stories, Osprey backbacks, bear spray, maps, guidebooks and a cooler for guests to use. We are like a great little package vacation all in one!
