Glacier Park Itinerary

“Wander here a whole summer, if you can. Thousands of God’s wild blessings will search you and soak you as if you were a sponge, and the big days will go uncounted.”

The words spoken by John Muir couldn’t be more true. Glacier National Park is truly a special place and deserves your time and appreciation.

As the 12th largest park in the nation, it can be a little overwhelming knowing where to start. 

Take a look at our itinerary to help you guide your experience in this majestic park!

1. Going-to-the-Sun Road

• First up is going to the Sun Road: you feel that you are quite literally going to the sun! It’s a magnificent 2 hour scenic drive of everything that Glacier has to offer. It connects the West and East Glacier entrance, takes you to the highest point you can get to by car and crosses the continental divide with beautiful vistas along the way. Every moment is breathtaking.

2. Lake McDonald

• This gorgeous lake is at the west entrance of the park and is the largest lake in Glacier! The colorful rocks take swimming to a whole new level and a plus is that Lake McDonald tends to be warmer than other lakes, wahoo! It is a great spot for families to gather and spend some time in the sun with the beautiful mountains.

3. St. Mary’s Lake 

• On the other side of the park is St. Mary’s Lake, which you can get to from the East entrance or the Going-to-the-Sun road. This lake is available to swim, fish, and boat in, making a fun day with your loved ones. There are also some great places to picnic as you bask in the glory of St. Mary’s!

4. Logan’s Pass

• Logan’s Pass is a hub of of trailheads leading to some of Glacier’s most spectacular hikes such as:
  • St. Mary Falls
  • Highline Trail
  • Hidden Lake Overlook

Need a new adventure? Pass by Logan’s Pass!

5. Avalanche Lake

• This is one of my favorite hikes at Glacier National Park. Just past Lake McDonald is the parking lot for both the Trail of the Cedars and Avalanche Lake. This trail has a steady incline that eases you through a beautiful forest and picturesque mountain faces. It’s a 5.9 out-and-back venture through one of Glacier’s most beautiful spots. This experience gives off Middle Earth vibes and is one for the whole family. 

6. Highline trail

• If you are looking for a backpacking excursion then the Highline Trail is the trail for you! You can start at Logan Pass and trek 7.6 miles to Granite Park Chalet, where you can finish there or continue for another 11.9 miles to the Fifty Mountain Campground. This one is for those with the spirit of adventure or simply soul-searching. You won’t be disappointed with the Highline trail. It is simply marvelous. 

7. Grinnell Glacier

• One of the park’s most iconic glaciers! It’s about a 4 hour trek there, an hour for lunch, and 3 hours back. Along the way you’ll pass through meadows, cliffs, and wildlife. If you’re bringing kids with you, bring lots of snacks! The view is worth it and makes for a memorable time. 

8. Iceberg Lake

• Last up on our itinerary is Iceberg Lake, an astonishing cobalt-blue lake with incredible cliffs. While the lake itself is top notch, the trail you take certainly adds to your experience. You start behind the SwiftCurrent Motor Inn which is the Many Glacier section of the park. This hike is known for seeing Grizzly Bears from a distance. Bring bear spray just in case!

To reiterate the words of John Muir, this national park is magical. You cannot experience what Glacier has to offer all at once, which is why you have to come back to the “Crown of the Continent”!

Post written by: Maria