Glacier National Park is tucked away in the Northwest corner of Montana. There are many great things to do in Glacier National Park. It is the perfect combination of stunning mountains, brilliant blue lakes, alpine scenery, and incredible hiking. Glacier National Park is so popular that it is the 10th most visited National Park in the United States.
Going-to-the-Sun Road
The first thing you must do in Glacier is drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road. This is one of the main roads that goes throughout the park. If you drive straight through with minimal stops, it takes approximately two hours. Because this is a main road and it is very popular, expect traffic. This road has the best views of the whole park and is the best way to see the entire park!
Logan Pass
A point along Going-to-the-Sun Road that is easy to stop at. Logan Pass is the highest point in the park that can be reached by car. At the top, you will have amazing views of Glacier. You can expect to see wildlife like mountain goats, and bighorn sheep. Wildflowers are also stunning from this point. And of course, the best part is the mountainous views. There are two hikes that start from this point, Hidden Lake and Highline Trail, which more detail will be given later about these hikes.
Hiking
If you are a hiking enthusiast, this is the place for you! There are so many incredible hikes in Glacier National Park. Here are some of the most common ones. The list starts with the easiest and quickest and goes to the most strenuous and all-day hikes.
Trail of the Cedars
1 mile and minimal to no elevation gain so it is flat and easy. Boardwalk and gravel so it’s easier for all levels. The trail winds through trees and there is a view of Avalanche Gorge.
Avalanche Lake
If you are looking for a great picnic spot, this is a great one! This hike is 4.5 miles with a 700 ft elevation gain. The trail starts at the Trail of Cedars and goes up to Avalanche Lake where you can have your picnic. This hike is popular so it can get crowded.
Hidden Lake Overlook
This hike is about 2.8 miles with 460 ft elevation gain. The overlook is of Hidden Lake. You can likely see wildlife on your hike or at the overlook. The trail is a mix of boardwalk and dirt trail.
St. Mary Falls
Starts at the Car Park at Going-to-the-sun Road. It is 1.7 miles with 260 ft elevation gain. It is downhill to the waterfall so plan to hike back up out. Not a lot of shade due to a previous wildfire, so it can get warm.
Highline Trail
The unique part of this hike is it clings to the cliffs along the Going-to-the-Sun road and you can have amazing views of the park. This hike is 11.6 miles with 800 ft elevation gain and 3000 ft elevation loss.
Apikuni Falls
If you are looking for a decent hike but nothing too hard, Apikuni Falls is for you. The hike is 2 miles with 700 ft elevation gain. It is a shorter, popular hike to a waterfall.
Cracker Lake
Glacier is very popular for its aquamarine lakes. If you are seeking to hike to one to be more secluded, Cracker Lake has it. It is 12.6 miles with1400 ft gain.
Grinnell Glacier
This hike is diverse and offers many things, but it is more challenging. It is 10.6 miles with 1600 ft elevation gain. Grinnell Glacier has alpine scenery, waterfalls, emerald green lakes, a glacier, and wildlife. It has it all!
Also, if you would prefer to go on a guided hike, there are many options for guided hikes! The best way to take all the beautiful scenery of Glacier National Park is to experience it yourself by hiking in it!
Boating and Kayaking
Glacier has amazing aquamarine lakes. The perfect way to soak in all this beauty is to kayak on the water. It’s a peaceful way to spend the afternoon and enjoy the scenery around you. There are also boating options throughout the park for specific lakes.
Lake McDonald Valley
Lake McDonald itself is the largest lake in the park. There is an old lodge that lines part of the shoreline. There are many things to do around the lake. You can go on numerous hikes or go horseback riding. You can also take a boat tour of the lake.
Red Bus Tour
Always wanted to tour a National Park on a vintage bus? Well now is your chance! The Red Bus tours have been going on since the 1930s. You can choose from different touring options traveling through Going-to-the-Sun road, Many Glacier, and Two Medicine as your main options. The tours can take up most of your day as some take close to 9 hours. Book in advance because they sell out!
Wild Goose Island
Wild Goose Island is a tiny island on Saint Mary Lake. It is one of Glacier’s most photographed spots so you have to see it!
Glamping in Coram Montana
If you are looking for a great place to stay, look no further than Wander Camp’s Glamping site near Glacier National Park. The canvas tents are located in a remote place so the beauty of nature will always surround you on your vacation to Glacier. The beds are very comfortable so you can rest and refresh for your next day of adventures. Spend some time around the warm fires at night to relax from your long hike or take a look at the stunning stars. Glamping is the perfect option to complete your itinerary to Glacier National Park. Explore your options with Wander Camp!
Post written by Hannah Curtis