From planning to packing to picking your hikes, here are all my best recommendations for visiting Glacier National Park in Montana!
Map
Sections
3
📝Planning
🎒Gear
🥾Favorite Hikes
📝Planning
Top posts to help you plan your trip!
Check the official NPS Site regularly for updates, closures, and activities
Glacier National Park (Official Site)
Stop stressing and use my 3-day Glacier National Park Itinerary made especially for families with kids.
Easy 3-Day Glacier National Park Itinerary with Kids
Lake McDonald kayaking is one of my favorite things to do at Glacier National Park. Get all my best tips for making it a success for your family.
Lake McDonald Kayaking with Kids: Everything you need to know
Discover all the amazing things to do in Glacier National Park with Kids from hikes to horses and so much more in between!
17 Fun Things to Do in Glacier National Park with Kids
A hike to Hidden Lake Overlook in Glacier might just be the perfect, yet somewhat challenging, hike for your family.
Hidden Lake Overlook in Glacier: A family-friendly hike
This guide will show you how to get into Glacier National Park without reservations and still enjoy all this incredible park has to offer.
How to get into Glacier National Park without Reservations
Your best friend when planning for entrance reservations, campgrounds, etc. The official website for booking vehicle passes and campgrounds in Glacier.
Recreation.gov - Camping, Cabins, RVs, Permits, Passes & More
🎒Gear
Tops picks of handy items
Printable and perfect for kids ages 3-6! Over 30 different activities to keep kids busy.
National Park Activity Book Junior
A printable activity book that's great for ages 7-12. Buy once and print a copy for each kid!
National Parks Activity Book
These are easy to carry and help keep kids entertained. Also, use them to spot wildlife - from far away!
Hontry Binoculars for Adults and Kids
You will need bear spray. We didn't have to use ours (thank heavens), but bears were active in the area and you don't want to be without it when you need it.
Some stores might rent bear spray as well, but make sure to have a plan before you go.
Safety Orange Bear Spray
I got mine on sale and love it oh so much. It is lightweight, but warm, which is perfect for summer in Glacier. Use it in the mornings or at higher elevations and then pack it away easily when it warms up.
Insulated Hooded Jacket - Cotopaxi
🥾Favorite Hikes
Family-friendly hikes not to be missed! The following are all accessible via Going-to-the-Sun Road (weather permitting).
Great for all abillities - if it gets too long or difficult, turn around. If you want to extend the hike, go down to the lake!
Hidden Lake Overlook, Montana | AllTrails
It wasn't easy, but it was one of the most beautiful hikes I've been on. We ended up hiking 6 miles, but my 5, 8, and 10 year old kids all did it!
Avalanche Lake, Montana | AllTrails
Short and sweet, plenty of parking, and the most incredible views. You can also add on up to THREE waterfall trails too!
Sun Point Nature Trail | AllTrails
A must-do for any visitor. The parking will most likely be bananas, but stay calm and don't give up! Consider taking the shuttle from the Apgar Visitor Center if you are stressed about parking.