How to Visit: Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park

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Glacier National Park is a stunning and expansive national park located in Montana, near the border with Canada. It forms part of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Glacier National Park covers over a million acres of wilderness in the Rocky Mountains. The park is renowned for its rugged mountains, glaciers, deep valleys, and pristine lakes.

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Vehicle Reservations

May 24 through September 8 vehicle reservations are required for the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road and North Fork from 6 am to 3 pm.

July 1 through September 8 vehicle reservations are required for Many Glacier from 6 am to 3 pm.

The park is open 24/7 and visitors may enter vehicle reservation areas before 6 am or after 3 pm without a vehicle reservation.

Visitors with lodging, camping, or commercial activity reservations (e.g., boat tours and horseback rides) within the specified reservation areas can use proof of their reservation for entry instead of a vehicle reservation.

vehicle reservations - Glacier National Park (U.S. National Park Service)

www.nps.gov

Trails

Highline Trail

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Highline Trail: 14.9 miles (hard) Recommend: adding the optional offshoot to the Grinnell Glacier Overlook and a stop at the historic Granite Park Chalet This is THE hike to do in Glacier National Park, so if you are able, make this a priority during your stay.

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Twin Falls

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Twins Falls via Two Medicine South Shore and Dawson Pass: 8.5 miles (moderate) This hike takes you on a tour around Two Medicine Lake. You will have amazing views of the lake and up close views of Twin Falls. Option to add on a few miles to hike up to Upper Two Medicine Lake where there is a wilderness campground. Easy access to Aster Falls and/or Rockwell Falls during this loop trail.

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Piegan Pass

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Baring, St. Bary, and Virginia Falls: 6.3 miles (moderate) Also known as "Three Falls Hike", this hike follows the edge of the beautiful Saint Mary River along Piegan Pass Trail and St. Mary Lake Trails. It actually features four famous waterfalls! The route takes you past Baring Falls, St Mary Falls, Lower Virginia Falls, and Upper Virginia Falls.

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Iceberg Lake

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Iceberg Lake Trail: 9.6 miles (moderate) Iceberg Lake is named for the icebergs that float in the lake year-round. The lake is in the shadow of Mount Wilbur and gets very little sun, keeping the water cold enough for icebergs.

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Redrock Falls

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Redrock Falls: 3.7 miles (easy) Redrock Falls cascades into Redrock Lake, which in turn feeds Swiftcurrent Creek. You will pass Redrock Lake and Fishercap Lake along this trail.

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Avalanche Lake

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The hike to Avalanche Lake is one of the most popular hikes in Glacier National Park. The lake has clear blue waters and the stunning views throughout your hike.

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Hidden Lake

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Hidden Lake Overlook: 2.7 miles (moderate) Hidden Lake: 5.1 miles (moderate) At the overlook, you'll be standing between the towering Clements Mountain and the jagged ridgeline of Reynolds Mountain overlooking Hidden Lake. Tons of wildlife along the way.

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Things to Do

Going-to-the-Sun Road

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One of the most famous features of Glacier National Park is the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic highway that traverses the park, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The road is an engineering marvel, winding its way through the mountains and showcasing the park's beauty.

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Rising Sun Picnic Area

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My favorite picnic spot There is a short trail that leads to several secluded beach areas with views of the mountains.

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Lake McDonald

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Lake McDonald is the largest lake in the park and is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain backdrop. Boat tours and various water activities are popular on the lake.

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Shuttle System

A fare-free shuttle is available along Going-to-the-Sun Road on a first-come, first-served basis.  I exclusively used this service to travel through the west side of the park during peak hours.  It was much easier than getting a timed-entry permit and I did not have to think about parking.

Glacier's Shuttle System - Glacier National Park (U.S. National Park Service)

www.nps.gov

Places to Stay

Hotel Options

West Glacier

Under Canvas Glacier

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Located 1 mi away from the Flathead River, Under Canvas Glacier is located in East Coram Montana. It offers accommodations with luxurious Safari tents. A 24-hour reception is available on site. Without electricity, each safari-inspired tent includes a king-size bed, luxury linens. Select tents feature a seating area and a private bathroom. A terrace is located on the property. An array of activities can be enjoyed on-site or in the surroundings, including hiking and nature watching.

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Beargrass Lodging and RV Resort

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Beargrass Lodging & RV Resort provides accommodations with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and free private parking. The property has room service and a concierge service for guests. Some rooms are equipped with a kitchenette with a fridge, an oven and a microwave.

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St. Mary

St. Mary Village

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This mountain resort sits on the edge of Glacier National Park. Guest rooms are rustically furnished and feature mountain views. A large stone fireplace is featured in the main lodge. The log cabin inspired guest rooms at St. Mary Village offer a television and a work desk. A hair dryer is provided for guest convenience. This lodge is accessible to all park activities and offers free Wi-Fi in public areas. Hiking is available on site and the St. Mary Village provides guests with packed lunches. The Snowgoose Grille is on site for guest convenience and offers gourmet cuisine with a western flair in a casual atmosphere. The restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Curly Bear Café offers Montana fast food daily and the Glacier Perk Espresso & Candy shop features snacks and coffee beverages.

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Campgrounds

First-come, first-serve

First-Come, First-Served Campgrounds - Glacier National Park (U.S. National Park Service)

www.nps.gov

Reservation

Reservation Campgrounds - Glacier National Park (U.S. National Park Service)

www.nps.gov

St. Mary / East Glacier KOA Holiday

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Stay here, and you're just a mile from Glacier Park and the entrance to Going-to-the-Sun Road, the 52-mile highway that climbs across Glacier National Park's spectacular alpine spine.

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West Glacier RV Park and Cabin Village

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Quietly tucked away behind the hustle and bustle of West Glacier Village lies the West Glacier RV Park. Brand-new in 2019, these fully-equipped RV sites and cabins feature all of the amenities to make you feel right at home during your Glacier National Park vacation.

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Dispersed Camping

Ryan Road Dispersed Area

There are about 15 pull-put spots along this road that are pretty spacious.  A few spots are large enough for RVs or long trailers, and the rest are perfect for tent camping.  This area does fill up, so claim your spot early, if you can.

GPS: 48.4897, -113.948