Glacier National Park

Pictures courtesy of the -Glacier National Park.

Glacier National Park, often heralded as the “Crown of the Continent,” is a breathtaking expanse of wilderness in Montana’s Rocky Mountains that beckons nature lovers and adventurers alike. Established in 1910, the park spans over a million acres, featuring rugged mountains, pristine forests, and over 700 lakes, including the remnants of ancient glaciers that once dominated the landscape. With more than 700 miles of trails, Glacier National Park offers unparalleled opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring its diverse ecosystems. 

Website:	Glacier National Park
Map:	Park Map
Visitor Centers:	Apgar Visitor Center: Situated near the west entrance of the park, Apgar Visitor Center is a starting point for many visitors, offering detailed information on park activities, hiking trails, and boat tours. The center also features exhibits on the park’s ecosystem and a bookstore with educational materials. Logan Pass Visitor Center: Located at the highest point on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, this center provides breathtaking views of the surrounding alpine landscape. It serves as an excellent resource for information on hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities in the high country. St. Mary Visitor Center: Found at the east entrance of the park, the St. Mary Visitor Center offers exhibits on Blackfeet cultural history and the park’s diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can also find information on park tours, hiking trails, and ranger-led programs here.
How to get There:	From the North: Travelers coming from Canada or northern Montana can enter Glacier National Park through the Chief Mountain International Peace Park entrance on Highway 17 (Chief Mountain Highway) during the summer months. Outside of the summer season, use Highway 89 South from Alberta, Canada, or from the northern United States, to access the east side of the park via the St. Mary entrance. From the South: If you’re approaching from the south, including cities like Missoula, Montana, take U.S. Highway 93 North towards Kalispell, then switch to U.S. Highway 2 East to reach the West Glacier entrance. This route provides direct access to the Apgar Visitor Center and the west entrance of the Going-to-the-Sun Road. From the East: To get to Glacier National Park from the east, particularly from areas like Great Falls, Montana, take U.S. Highway 89 North to St. Mary. This will lead you directly to the east entrance of the park, which is a gateway to some of the most popular areas, including Many Glacier. From the West: Visitors coming from Spokane, Washington, or Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, should take Interstate 90 East to U.S. Highway 93 North, through Kalispell, and continue to the West Glacier entrance via U.S. Highway 2 East. This route offers scenic views and leads directly to the heart of the park. *Remember, the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which crosses the park and connects the east and west entrances, is a spectacular drive but may have seasonal restrictions and require vehicle permits during the summer. Always check current road conditions and entrance availability before planning your trip to Glacier National Park.

Glacier National Park holds a storied history dating back thousands of years, shaped by the indigenous peoples who have inhabited the region for millennia. The park’s rugged terrain served as a vital hunting ground and trade route for indigenous tribes such as the Blackfeet, Salish, and Kootenai. In the late 19th century, European explorers and settlers began to venture into the area, captivated by its majestic landscapes and abundant wildlife. With the establishment of the park in 1910, efforts were made to preserve its pristine wilderness for future generations, leading to the creation of iconic landmarks such as the Going-to-the-Sun Road and the Glacier National Park Conservancy. Today, Glacier National Park stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of conservation and stewardship, attracting millions of visitors each year to experience its awe-inspiring beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Among the must-visit attractions in Glacier National Park is the Going-to-the-Sun Road, an engineering marvel that offers unparalleled views of the park’s interior and is a highlight for any visit. Logan Pass, accessible via this road, is the highest point reachable by car and is known for its spectacular wildflower displays and hiking trails. Many Glacier, another popular area, is often referred to as the heart of the park due to its dense concentration of mountain peaks and active glaciers. Here, visitors can embark on boat tours or hikes to see glaciers up close. The serene beauty of Lake McDonald, the park’s largest lake, attracts those interested in water activities and provides a peaceful setting for photography and relaxation. For those seeking solitude and connection with nature, the backcountry offers endless opportunities for exploration.

As one of America’s first national parks and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Glacier National Park holds immense ecological and cultural significance. Its diverse ecosystems, including ancient forests, alpine meadows, and rugged mountains, provide habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. The park’s glaciers, remnants of the last ice age, serve as indicators of climate change, making it a valuable research site for scientists studying the effects of global warming. Additionally, Glacier National Park plays a vital role in preserving the cultural heritage of indigenous peoples, who have lived in harmony with the land for thousands of years, leaving behind a rich legacy of art, traditions, and stories that continue to inspire visitors from around the world.

Going-to-the-Sun Road: Experience the breathtaking beauty of Glacier National Park with a drive along the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, offering panoramic views of majestic mountains, sparkling lakes, and cascading waterfalls.

Grinnell Glacier: Embark on a scenic hike to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Grinnell Glacier, one of the park’s most iconic and accessible glaciers, nestled amid towering peaks and pristine alpine meadows.

Many Glacier: Explore the scenic wonders of Many Glacier, a picturesque valley renowned for its stunning mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, and world-class hiking trails, including the popular Iceberg Lake and Grinnell Glacier trails.

Lake McDonald: Relax and unwind amidst the tranquil beauty of Lake McDonald, the largest lake in Glacier National Park, offering crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and spectacular sunsets against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains.

Hidden Lake: Discover the hidden gem of Hidden Lake, accessible via a scenic hike from Logan Pass Visitor Center. Marvel at the pristine alpine landscape, dotted with wildflowers and frequented by mountain goats and bighorn sheep.