This U.S. National Park Has Over 700 Lakes and an Iconic 50-mile Scenic Drive
Montana is renowned for its natural beauty, particularly on its mountainous western edge. The most common images of this great state, the ones that feature snow-capped peaks, sweeping glaciers, and bright blue lakes, tend to come from one place: Glacier National Park.
This massive parkland, located at the far northwest corner of Montana, is the state's largest national park and one of the biggest of its kind in the entire country. Its fame is well deserved, as it features many of Montana's greatest natural wonders, including hundreds of lakes, miles upon miles of scenic trails, an abundance of wildlife, and numerous amenities for visitors of all kinds.
Let's further uncover what makes Glacier the epic and iconic travel destination in Montana that it currently is known as.
The Amazing Geography of Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park, located in the northern Rocky Mountains of Montana, spans over a million acres of diverse and dramatic landscapes. The park has wowed visitors since humans first laid eyes on it thousands of years ago, with its rugged mountain ranges carved by ancient glaciers that shaped its many peaks, valleys, and lakes.
It straddles the Continental Divide, which not only affects its weather patterns but also creates distinct ecological zones within the park, ranging from alpine tundra to dense forests.
The park’s geography is dominated by towering mountains, including Mount Cleveland, the highest at 10,466 feet. These mountains, part of the Lewis and Livingston Ranges, are interspersed with over 700 lakes, many of which are fed by glacial melt. Among them, Lake McDonald stands out as the largest, with crystal-clear waters and colorful pebble beaches that are popular among landscape photographers.
As you can guess, this park also contains a number of significant glaciers, though many are dwindling due to warming weather patterns. These icefields, such as Grinnell Glacier, have been critical for studying glacial dynamics and their environmental impact.
The Most Popular Activities and Landmarks in Glacier National Park
As a national park, Glacier not only serves to preserve its wildland but also acts as a place where tourists can responsibly enjoy its incredible landscapes. Whether you're looking to hike, camp, photograph wildlife, or simply go on a scenic drive, this destination has it all.
Go On One of America's Most Scenic Drives
The Going-to-the-Sun Road, a 50-mile engineering marvel, traverses through the heart of Glacier National Park and easily offers some of the best views in the area. Completed in 1932 and opened officially in 1933, this historic highway crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, 6,646 feet above sea level.
The road is a gateway to the center of the park, with numerous trailheads and other destinations accessible via the route. Along the way, you will encounter meadows, closeups of snowcapped peaks, and a number of waterfalls. Key highlights include Weeping Wall and the Trail of the Cedars.
Going-to-the-Sun-Road is open seasonally (usually between mid-June and late October) due to the snow and harsh conditions that usually come with winter in Montana. Access to the road on the eastern side of the park is through the town of St. Mary and on the western side through the town of West Glacier.
Hike a Scenic Trail
Hiking is one of the most popular activities in Glacier National Park, with over 700 miles of trails, each showcasing its jaw-dropping landscapes in different ways. Trails range from easy walks, like the Trail of the Cedars, to more challenging routes, such as the Highline Trail.
The park’s various hikes, whichever you may choose, will bring you up close to a variety of diverse ecosystems, from lush forests and wildflower-filled alpine meadows to glacial lakes and rocky ridges.
Wildlife sightings are common as well. Keep your eye open for mountain goats and grizzly bears (and don't forget to bring your bear spray).
Other notable hikes, like the Grinnell Glacier Trail, can offer an intimate experience right on some of the park’s remaining glaciers.
Seek out the Park's Wildlife
Glacier National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with dozens of species of mammals and hundreds of bird species inhabiting its protected landscapes. You may very well spot animals such as grizzly bears, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and moose, particularly in alpine meadows and forested valleys.
The park’s rivers and lakes are home to otters and beavers, while bald eagles and ospreys patrol the skies, looking for fish to prey on.
Dawn and dusk are prime times for wildlife observation, as animals in Glacier are most active. To see the park's animals safely, please maintain a respectful distance and bring binoculars for closer views of this remarkable natural sanctuary.
Stay the Night in a Lodge
Glacier contains a number of stellar accommodations, including the Many Glacier Hotel, considered to be one of the most beautiful and luxurious lodges in any American national park. And what better way to truly immerse yourself in this wonderful wildland in comfort? With many rooms featuring unobstructed views of the nearby mountains and Swiftcurrent Lake, fine dining restaurants, and access to several trails, definitely consider booking this one for your next trip.
Other options include the equally scenic Lake McDonald Lodge to the west of the park and the St. Mary Village, a hotel in the town of St. Mary to the east. St. Mary is also home to RV parks, tent campgrounds, and other hotel/motel options.
Paddle the Park’s Pristine Waters
Paddling the lakes and rivers of Glacier National Park is a way to relax and get a unique view of the area's breathtaking scenery.
Kayaking or canoeing on Lake McDonald, the park’s largest lake, is the most popular destination for visitors looking to take in the views of towering peaks reflected in its exceptionally clean and clear waters. Bowman and Two Medicine Lakes offer equally satisfying boating experiences, with fewer crowds and a greater sense of solitude in the wild.
For more adventure, paddlers can explore sections of the Flathead River, which borders the park. Rentals and even rafting tours are available to book at select locations in nearby towns.
Explore in the Winter
Don't let the snow stop you from exploring Glacier! This national park features a number of routes for both cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Embark on a variety of routes of varying lengths and difficulties, including the 3-mile Lower McDonald Creek trail up to the McGee Meadow Loop, clocking in at about 11.5 miles, and the 13-mile Bowman Lake trail. Each passes by significant landmarks that are worthy of a photograph, complimented by the brilliant powdery snow on the ground.
From hiking to cross-country skiing, Glacier National Park draws sizable crowds throughout the year due to its numerous lakes, trails, and mind-blowing scenery. Find a wealth of things to see and do here in this natural playground, and extend your stay at one of the park's gorgeous lodges.
Regardless of how you plan your trip to Glacier, you are almost guaranteed an unforgettable adventure in both sun and snow in the iconic national park.
