Glacier National Park | MT
I think it’s safe to say this is one of the top 3 national parks that I have visited. Glacier National Park is a beautiful, large park with many sights to see. You can go in the east side of the park or the west side— we did one each day. We started on the West side and visited Lake McDonald and the Lake McDonald Lodge. There is a lot of history here, and the lodge has these old red buses that are used as tour buses. We then drove to the Trail of the Cedars Nature Trailhead and this was a nice little nature walk that is kid and elderly friendly. From there we went to McDonald Creek where there is a short trail that takes you over several waterfalls. we stayed at the Holiday Inn at Kalispell before going to the East side of the park.
On the east side of the park we visited Two Medicine Lake and there is a neat gift shop here. We then drove a bit to Saint Mary Lake and saw lots of wildlife on the way here. Unfortunately, the Going-to-the-Sun Rd was closed because of snow, so we didn’t get to go over the pass, but it will still worth the drive to this side of the park. We stayed the night at the Glacier Park Lodge and this ended up being my favorite place that we stayed. It is an old historic lodge, and the rooms were historic, but it was beautiful and so memorable. They have a restaraunt in the lodge and it takes you back a decade as everyone sits around in the lounge area playing games, music, and engaging in conversation— I HIGHLY recommend staying here.
What do you think the coolest thing at glacier is?
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Hey fellow travelers! So glad you enjoyed hearing about my unforgettable Glacier National Park adventure. Since you're curious about planning your own trip, I wanted to dive deeper into some of the questions you might have, especially for a summer visit to this incredible "Montana Glacier" wonderland! First off, let's talk more about Lake McDonald Glacier National Park in the summer. This spot on the West side is truly iconic, and for good reason! I loved strolling along its shores; the water is so clear you can see the famous colorful pebbles right at the bottom – they're even more vibrant in person than in pictures. If you're feeling adventurous, renting a kayak or paddleboard is a fantastic way to experience the lake's tranquility and get those stunning mountain reflections. Even just finding a quiet spot to picnic and soak in the views, perhaps catching a glimpse of one of those charming "red tour bus" taking visitors around, is pure bliss. The Lake McDonald Lodge area itself is gorgeous, steeped in history, and a great place to start some shorter hikes. Speaking of starting points, understanding the Glacier National Park entrances is key. My trip started on the West side, through the Apgar Village entrance, where you're greeted by that classic "Glacier National Park entrance sign" everyone takes photos with! This entrance is often the busiest, especially in summer. On the East side, we used the St. Mary entrance, which offers a different, equally breathtaking landscape. Don't forget there are also entrances for Many Glacier and Two Medicine Lake, each leading to unique hiking and scenic opportunities. A really important tip for summer travelers: Glacier often requires a vehicle reservation to access popular areas like the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Make sure to check the official park website well in advance to avoid disappointment – trust me, it saves a lot of hassle! The short walk over several waterfalls near McDonald Creek was a highlight for me, and it’s super accessible! It’s part of the wider Trail of the Cedars Nature Trailhead, which is perfect for all ages and abilities. If you’re looking for more easy, rewarding walks, there are plenty around the West Glacier area that take you through lush forests and offer glimpses of the park's vibrant turquoise rivers. These gentle hikes are a great way to stretch your legs and immerse yourself in nature without committing to a strenuous full-day trek. For those planning a Glacier National Park summer trip, here are a few more nuggets of advice. Summer brings the best weather, but also the crowds, so booking accommodations like the "Glacier Park Lodge" or spots near the park well in advance is a must. The Going-to-the-Sun Road is usually fully open from late June/early July, but closures can happen due to snow or construction, as I experienced! Always check road status before you go. And keep your eyes peeled for "wildlife"! We spotted horses and even a bear – remember to maintain a safe distance and never feed animals. Packing layers is essential, as mountain weather can change quickly, even in July or August. Whether you're marveling at "Two Medicine Lake" or enjoying the serene views of "St. Mary Lake," Glacier National Park offers endless beauty. It truly feels like stepping into a postcard. Make sure to factor in travel time between areas, as the park is vast. I hope these extra tips help you plan your own incredible journey to this magnificent national treasure!
Well, that is absolutely beautiful! This is on my bucket list for a winter vacation spot!