About
Perched near the Canadian border is one of America's iconic outdoor wonderlands. Glacier National Park is in northern Montana and is a breathtaking ode to nature's finest artistry. Whether you're an avid outdoors enthusiast or looking for a serene vacation spot, there's no overlooking the majestic allure of this park.
Regarding epic natural beauty in the United States, Glacier National Park is right up there at the top. This park has over a million acres and hosts majestic mountains, pristine forests, and over 700 glistening lakes. Established in 1910, Glacier National Park is a testament to nature's age-old legacy.
The park is often called the "Crown of the Continent" because it's where the headwaters for streams that flow to the Pacific Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and Hudson Bay originate. The indigenous Blackfeet tribe called this land home for millennia, and their spiritual connection with the park remains palpable.
Today, the park serves as a humbling reminder of the wonders of the Ice Age, with its U-shaped valleys carved by ancient glaciers.
Fun Facts & Cool Features
Glacier National Park is home to the legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road. This 50-mile engineering marvel traverses the park's interior giving visitors jaw-dropping views of mountains, valleys, waterfalls, and wildlife. Visitors worldwide consider it one of the most scenic drives in America, making it a magnet for nature lovers and road trip enthusiasts.
The park boasts 700 miles of trails, making Glacier National Park a hiker's paradise. Some of the more popular hikes include the Grinnell Glacier Trail, the Highline Trail, and the Iceberg Lake Trail.
Remember that some trails lead to higher altitudes and require more exertion, so be aware of the signs of altitude sickness. And with such heights comes drier air, so stay hydrated.
While the park's name implies it's all about glaciers, only 25 active glaciers remain today, down from about 150 in the 1850s. This shift, primarily attributed to climate change, makes every visit all the more poignant, as it's a visual reminder of our planet's evolving narrative.
Glacier National Park should be on your bucket list whether you're seeking a challenging hike, the allure of the outdoors, or simply the need for a serene Montana vacation in Whitefish.
Getting There
From Whitefish, getting to Glacier National Park is a breezy affair. Begin your journey on US-93 S from Central Ave. Follow US-93 S and MT-40 W to US-2 W. Continue on US-2 W. Drive to Going-to-the-Sun Rd in West Glacier, and voila! You're at the park's west entrance. The entire drive is scenic, so keep those cameras at the ready!
Cost
Visiting such splendor does come with a fee:
- $35 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
- $30 per motorcycle (good for 7 days)
- $20 per individual (by foot, bicycle) (suitable for 7 days)
Prices are subject to change. Please check their website for updates.
Local Tips
- Summer is the peak season. It's less crowded in late May or early June.
- There are no gas stations in the park. Fill up before entering.
- Glacier National Park is grizzly and black bear country! Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- Consider taking a ranger-led tour for insights into the park's features.
- The best time to drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road is dawn or dusk. You'll avoid traffic, and the sunlight is ideal for photographs.