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Glacier National Park
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items Glacier National Park is a rugged wilderness of soaring peaks, turquoise lakes, and incredible hiking trails. Whether you're planning your first trip or returning to explore even deeper, this guide will help you get the most out of your visit. From e...
Sections
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Stunning Hikes in Glacier National Park
Where to Stay Near Glacier National Park
Where to Eat In & Around Glacier National Park
Trip Planning Information
Glacier National Park Packing List
Stunning Hikes in Glacier National Park
From the jaw-dropping Highline Trail to the tucked-away gems like Iceberg Lake, these hikes showcase Glacier’s alpine beauty, wildlife, and glacial landscapes. We've tried to include options for all experience levels.
This was one of our favorite hikes because it was a little less crowded than Grinnell Glacier, but we loved the lake. We saw moose, mountain goats, and all kinds of little critters. In 2025, the hike will be about 12 miles round trip due to the const...
Iceberg Lake
We saw so much wildlife on this trail and absolutely loved this hike. It will be about 11 miles in 2025 due to construction. If you're okay with starting a little later, you can take the Many Glacier Boat Tour and shave off a little distance.
Grinnell Glacier Trail
This is a really easy, flat hike typically, but will be nearly 5 miles RT in 2025. We'd recommend combining with Red Rock Falls or stopping here after a trip up to Iceburg Lake. Keep an eye out for the moose here. They like to visit at all times of t...
Fishercap Lake
The parking situation can be touch and go, and the shuttle lines can get backed up. The hike is great though, especially if you can catch it early in the morning or in the evening just before sunset. It's about 5ish miles RT.
Avalanche Lake
If you're looking for that hike along the edge, this is it. You can hike as far as you want and turn around. If you want to complete the entire trail, you'll make it the whole way to the Granite Park Chalet.
Highline Trail
From the Logan Pass visitor center, this trail starts off as a boardwalk headed up towards the mountains. After a short and sweet hike, you'll see the view of the lake below. Only head down to the lake if you're fit, because the only way out of there...
Hidden Lake Overlook
You'll head up through the gorge, and while the hike itself isn't the most stunning the entire way, the chalet is great! Keep an eye out for the mountain goats who like to wander around there, and grab a glass of cold lemonade while you're there. You...
Sperry Chalet
We loved this hike! We hiked this as a point to point and caught a ride on the shuttle back to our car. Make sure you pack a hat and sun protection because half of the hike is pretty exposed still from wildfire damage years ago.
Siyeh Pass Trail
This trail was fairly easy, and we actually tackled this one on the same day as Siyeh Pass. It was a very crowded hike, so if you don't like peopley trails, visit at an off time early or late in the day.
St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail
Where to Stay Near Glacier National Park
Whether you’re camping in the park, staying in a cozy lodge, or booking a stay just outside the entrance, these lodging options put you close to the action—and the views.
We absolutely loved our stay at the West Glacier KOA. We booked one of their tiny camping cabins for the last couple days of our trip, so that we had some space to dry out all of our camping equipment before our flight home. There were so many event...
West Glacier KOA
We also really enjoyed this property! It's close enough to everything, but tucked away like its own little paradise. Everything we needed was right there!
Yurt in Coram
You can't get much prettier views than this! While we were a little upset with fire alarms going off in the middle of the night (after we figured out that there was no fire, of course), it was more comfortable than expected. The room was basic, but t...
Many Glacier Hotel
Where to Eat In & Around Glacier National Park
Fuel up with these local favorite restaurants, bakeries, and huckleberry treats in nearby towns like West Glacier, Columbia Falls, and Whitefish.
This is the spot you'll want to go to get your Huckleberry Bearclaw. I can attest that they're delicious… and huge! There's also a little saloon on the property, where you can grab a beer or a salty snack.
Polebridge Mercantile
A quirky spot to grab a beer and a pizza just outside the East entrance. They had a surprisingly good selection for the size of the place.
Kip's Beer Garden
We really enjoyed the overall feel and experience of the dining room. We were there during the last couple of days of their season, so they didn't have a few things on their menu. The food we had was good, though!
The Ptarmigan Dining Room
We enjoyed everything we tried here. The place was hopping!
Backslope Brewing
Typical bar type food, but everything was solid. This was a quick stop for lunch on our way back to Kalispel to the airport.
Gunsight Saloon
Trip Planning Information
Everything you need to know before you go—from entrance reservations and shuttle systems to seasonal closures and getting around the park.
The weather can be unpredictable, and it varies throughout the park. It's also quite different from other parts of the US, so you should definitely do your research before you get there.
Glacier National Park Weather: What to Expect
Glacier National Park Packing List
Weather changes fast in the mountains—this list will help you stay prepared for hikes, wildlife sightings, and chilly mornings.
Even during the summer, the mornings can be chilly, especially if you're headed up to Logan Pass. You'll want to have a jacket that's easy to pack down.
Patagonia Nano Puff Insulated Jacket
The weather can be so unpredictable. A rain jacket is perfect to have in your day pack for both rain and any windy situations you might run into, especially at elevation.
Rain Jackets
With so many beautiful lakes, you might find yourself wanting to take a dip and swim after you've hiked all the way there. These little towels pack so small, so they're perfect to throw in your day pack. You'll be happy you were able to dry off befor...
Packable Towel
Don't head out on a hike without bear spray! This is grizzly country!
Just remember that you can't fly with bear spray, whether it is in your carry on or checked bag.
Just remember that you can't fly with bear spray, whether it is in your carry on or checked bag.
Bear Spray
Some of the wildlife can be seen at a distance. You'll want to have a pair of binoculars to see the mountain goats up on the ledges and the grizzlies down in the valleys. Don't be like us and have to borrow from other hikers along the trail!
Nikon Travelite Binoculars