Glacier National Park: A Majestic Wilderness Adventure
Nestled in the rugged Rocky Mountains of northern Montana, Glacier National Park is a breathtaking expanse of pristine wilderness that showcases some of the most stunning landscapes in the United States. With its towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, diverse wildlife, and rich history, it’s a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers alike. The park, often referred to as the “Crown of the Continent,” offers visitors a rare glimpse into one of the most untouched and scenic corners of North America.
Spanning over 1 million acres, Glacier National Park is renowned for its glacier-carved valleys, lush forests, and dramatic vistas. Although the park has seen a reduction in glaciers due to climate change, it still houses a remarkable array of glacial formations, as well as countless other natural wonders. Visitors can enjoy everything from scenic drives and challenging hikes to boat tours and wildlife sightings. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, Glacier offers a little something for everyone and I could not believe the stunning beauty of this place.
Glacier National Park had not been on my radar until I decided to visit a friend who had moved to Montana. Perfect excuse for a road trip! My plan is to drive from Colorado up through Wyoming to Livingston, Montana to visit my friend, continue up to GNP and then drive back down hitting Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons. This would be an amazing road trip meandering through isolated western towns and stunning natural landscapes from deserts to forests and glaciers. See my post about epic roadtrips.
When I finally arrived in Glacier NP I had no idea what was in store for me. I drove to Glacier towards the end of September to try and miss the crowds. That strategy seemed to work as I was able to pull over and park when I needed to, was not sitting in traffic, and many of the hikes did not have throngs of people. September temperatures are cool so plan accordingly. A light puffy and a long sleeve wool top did the trick keeping me warm when I was out hiking and exploring.
U.S. National Parks: Best of the Best
The best way to explore this park is to drive the Going to the Sun Road (GSR) which is a 50 mile road that cuts through the entire park and can take 2 hours with no stops. It is a 32 mile drive up to the highest point of the GSR: Logan Pass at 6,646 feet from the West entrance. Logan Pass is a visiter center with a large parking lot that gets crowded, plan accordingly. I chose to bypass this stop until later in the day when the crowds had left. This is where you park to hike the spectacular Highline Trail. Give your self an entire day or two to explore by pulling off the road at the modestly marked turnouts, doing a couple of easy hikes and watching the sun setting over the valley and surrounding mountains. Then pick your favorite areas for a longer hike or explore areas you missed. I discovered Bowman Lake and Polebridge on my second day exploring.
Going to the sun road
- Going to the Sun Road is the main artery in this park. Options to drive, take the shuttle, bike ride or take a tour from a local Native American Guide
- First stop/McDonald Lake. Bring along a fresh brew and pastry from the nearby coffee shop and walk over to catch the sunrise.
- As you begin the drive around the park, McDonald Falls is an easy pull off to park and walk
- Keep your eyes peeled for the sign markers along the GSR when you see “Redrock” pull over. I was not prepared for the beauty of this stop!
Top 10 Highlights / GNP
Here are important highlights to help you plan your trip:
1. Going-to-the-Sun Road
This iconic 50-mile scenic drive is a must-see for anyone visiting Glacier National Park. It winds through alpine meadows, dense forests, and dramatic mountain passes, offering panoramic views of glaciers, valleys, and lakes. It’s a National Historic Landmark and offers breathtaking viewpoints along the way, like Logan Pass.
2. Logan Pass
Located at the highest point on Going-to-the-Sun Road, Logan Pass offers sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and is home to the Highline Trail, one of the park’s most popular hikes. From here, visitors can also see wildflowers in the summer and snow-capped peaks year-round.
3. Lake McDonald
This stunning lake, the largest in the park, is known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant blue hues. It’s a perfect spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing by the shore. The surrounding Lake McDonald Lodge is a great place to unwind and enjoy the scenery.
4. Many Glacier
Often considered the heart of the park, Many Glacier is a pristine area known for its spectacular mountain scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife sightings, including moose and bears. The area also features Grinnell Glacier and Swiftcurrent Lake, which can be explored by boat or on foot.
5. Grinnell Glacier
Accessible via a challenging yet rewarding hike from Many Glacier, Grinnell Glacier offers visitors a chance to see a glacier up close, along with stunning views of turquoise lakes and jagged peaks. It’s one of the most popular hikes in the park.
6. Wildlife Viewing
Glacier National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, black bears, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, moose, and over 260 bird species. Early mornings or evenings are the best times for wildlife sightings, especially in areas like Many Glacier and Logan Pass.
7. Hidden Lake
Located near Logan Pass, Hidden Lake is a beautiful alpine lake accessible via a short, moderately strenuous hike. The trail offers stunning views of wildflower meadows, towering cliffs, and the possibility of spotting mountain goats and marmots.
8. The Continental Divide
The Continental Divide runs through the park, marking the watershed that separates rivers flowing toward the Pacific Ocean from those flowing toward the Atlantic. Visitors can hike along this dramatic feature, especially in areas like Piegan Pass or Cedar Creek Falls.
9. Two Medicine
A quieter, less visited area of the park, Two Medicine offers serene lakes, scenic views, and a variety of hikes. The Swan Mountain Range rises above Two Medicine Lake, creating a stunning backdrop for photographers and adventurers.
10. St. Mary Lake
One of the park’s most photographed locations, St. Mary Lake is surrounded by jagged peaks and features vibrant blue water. It’s a great spot for taking a boat tour or enjoying a picnic by the shore. Nearby, the St. Mary Falls hike is a popular route for those seeking a scenic waterfall.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking to tackle epic hikes, experience the tranquility of remote lakes, or simply marvel at nature’s grandeur, Glacier National Park offers a one-of-a-kind experience. From its famous alpine vistas to its abundant wildlife, it’s a destination that will leave you awe-inspired and eager to return.
