Among the United States’ national parks, Glacier National Park stands out as a true gem, earning its reputation as one of the most stunning—and popular—destinations in the country. Nestled in the northwest corner of Montana and sharing a border with Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park, this sprawling 1,583 square miles of protected wilderness draws around three million visitors each year. Whether you’re drawn by the park’s extensive hiking trails, the opportunity to encounter wildlife, or the allure of solitude in its more secluded areas, Glacier National Park has something for everyone. For many, however, the main attraction is the iconic 50-mile-long Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic drive that offers unparalleled views of the park’s rugged beauty.
Regardless of what brings you to Glacier National Park, it’s essential to have at least a basic understanding of the park’s layout and what you can expect during your visit. To help you make the most of your trip, we consulted with local experts to provide you with all the information you need, from the best times to visit to recommendations on hiking, dining, and lodging.
If you’re flying in, Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana, is the closest major airport, located just a 30-minute drive from the park’s west entrance. This airport is serviced by six major airlines, including Alaska, Delta, United, Allegiant, American, and Sun Country. Alternatively, Missoula International Airport (MSO) and Great Falls International Airport (GTF) are also viable options, though they are 120 and 200 miles away, respectively. Once you arrive, renting a car is advisable, as it offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the park and its surroundings at your own pace. For those preferring rail travel, Amtrak’s historic Empire Builder line provides year-round service to West Glacier, with seasonal stops at East Glacier.
However, during the peak tourist season, parking can be a significant challenge. Nicolina Baldassari of Glacier Guides and Montana Raft recommends taking advantage of the park’s first-come, first-served shuttle service along the Going-to-the-Sun Road to avoid the hassle of finding parking while still accessing popular trailheads. The park’s name naturally leads many visitors to seek out its famous glaciers, but as Baldassari notes, the reality is that due to global warming, only about 25 glaciers remain in the park today, with many of them situated high on the Continental Divide. For those determined to see a glacier, Jackson Glacier is the most accessible, with a viewpoint located on the east side of Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Wildlife is another major draw for visitors to Glacier National Park, with the chance to see creatures such as bats, beavers, bighorn sheep, elk, mountain goats, wolverines, and bears. Baldassari advises all visitors to carry bear spray and know how to use it, as bear encounters are not uncommon in the park. It’s also crucial to store food properly and stay aware of your surroundings, particularly when hiking. The park has strict wildlife safety regulations, including maintaining a distance of at least 75 feet from most animals like moose, deer, and elk, and at least 300 feet from more dangerous predators such as wolves and bears.
This region of Montana is also rich in cultural history, particularly in relation to the Blackfeet, Pend d’Oreille, Salish, and Kootenai tribes. Derek DesRosier, general manager of Sun Tours, emphasizes that Glacier National Park is part of the traditional territory of several Native American tribes, especially the Blackfeet on the park’s eastern side. He explains that for these tribes, the land remains sacred, a place of medicine, connection, and history, even though it is now recognized globally as a national park.
Visiting Glacier National Park offers not only breathtaking natural beauty but also a deep connection to the cultural heritage of the region, making it a truly unique and enriching experience. Whether you’re there for the glaciers, the wildlife, or the history, being well-prepared will ensure you get the most out of your visit to this extraordinary part of the world.
