Glacier National Park is so full of jaw-dropping views that no amount of time ever feels enough — we're already planning our third trip. Whether you're an avid hiker or not, there are plenty of places in the park for everyone to soak in the views and experience this slice of paradise.
Plan Your Trip — Essentials
🎟 Entry
Entrance fee applies — skip it with an America the Beautiful Pass. A separate Vehicle Reservation Fee is required to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road or North Fork between May and September.
☀️ Best Time
Early July – Labor Day is peak season — all facilities, lodging, and free shuttles fully operational. June and October are good shoulder months but expect some trail and road closures from snow.
📅 How Long
At least 4 full days, ideally 7. The park has three distinct regions; commuting between them eats time due to road conditions and traffic — stay region-by-region for efficiency.
Where to Stay — By Region
🏔 Many Glacier
Many Glacier Hotel or Swiftcurrent Motor Inn. The Many Glacier Hotel on Swiftcurrent Lake is an experience in itself — kayaking and boat tours available from the lodge.
🛣 Going-to-the-Sun Road
Rising Sun Motor Inn or Lake McDonald Lodge. Saint Mary and Apgar Visitor Centers anchor either end of this 50-mile scenic drive.
🌿 Two Medicine
Glacier Park Lodge or St. Mary Village. A quieter region we haven't fully explored yet — top of our list for the next visit.
This area holds the secluded Many Glacier Lodge on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake. Staying here is highly recommended — an experience not to be missed when in the park.
A narrow, winding 50-mile scenic drive with hairpin curves — beautiful views of valleys surrounded by jagged peaks throughout. Saint Mary Visitor Center at one end, Apgar at the other. Some of the park's best hikes begin along this road.
Best Hikes in Glacier National Park
Our all-time favourite hikes in the park, listed in order of preference.
Grinnell Glacier Trail
The trailhead starts outside Many Glacier Lodge, but you can save 3.4 miles roundtrip by taking the boat service across Swiftcurrent and Josephine Lakes. You're treated to up-close views of a glacier and the chance to dip your feet in an iceberg-fed lake. If you only do one hike in Glacier NP, make it this one.
Iceberg Lake Trail
Panoramic views of alpine meadows filled with wildflowers, creeks, and Ptarmigan Waterfall — ends at a surreal blue lake in a cirque surrounded by soaring walls. Wildlife viewing is highly likely here, especially mountain goats and grizzly bears. Start early to beat crowds.
Hidden Lake Trail
Rewarding views relative to effort — easier than the Many Glacier lake hikes. A huge lake surrounded by steep cliffs with views of multiple waterfalls on clear days. A great option if you're short on time or energy.
Cracker Lake Trail
An underrated gem — the first few miles are through forest with limited views, but the trail eventually emerges to 360° canyon views. Starting around mile 5.8, the ice-cold turquoise blue of the lake becomes visible. The patience required to get here makes the payoff feel even better. Three backcountry campsites available at the lake.
More Essential Trails
Avalanche Lake Trail
Easy hike with rewarding views — a large lake with four waterfalls visible from the shore. Parking fills fast; arrive early or take the park shuttle. Can be combined with Trail of the Cedars (same trailhead).
Saint Mary & Virginia Falls Trail
Easy but rewarding — views of four waterfalls, two of them unnamed. The first is a three-tiered waterfall (St. Mary Falls), the last is a tall multi-tiered one (Virginia Falls). Small parking lot fills quickly — take the shuttle.
Highline Trail
The most popular hike in the park — though in our opinion the views are average compared to the lake hikes unless you extend to the Grinnell Glacier Overlook detour (+additional miles). The overlook extension is worth it.
Swiftcurrent Nature Trail
A peaceful walk around Swiftcurrent Lake with mountain reflections in the water. Best done early morning when low-hanging clouds cover the peaks for a moody, atmospheric experience.
Trail of the Cedars
A walk through an ancient cedar forest. Same trailhead as Avalanche Lake — combine both for a perfect half day along Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Check our complete gear checklist before you pack for Glacier.