Glacier National Park Guide - Top Hikes, Drives & Tips

Glacier National Park Montana

Glacier National Park - Visitor Guide

Plan scenic drives, alpine hikes, boat tours, and backcountry trips at Glacier National Park. This guide covers top hikes, how to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road, boat and camping options, permits, seasonal tips, and where to stay.

Overview

Spanning more than 1,500 square miles along the Continental Divide, Glacier National Park features jagged peaks, glacial lakes, abundant wildlife, and the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road — a seasonal transmountain route that unlocks many of the park’s scenic highlights. Park services and road access are seasonal; plan around official opening dates and current conditions. 

Things to Do

Drive Going-to-the-Sun Road

Drive or ride the full 50-mile stretch for dramatic overlooks, Logan Pass, and pullouts with panoramic views. Vehicle reservations are sometimes required during peak season — check NPS status before you go.

Planning, permits & reservations

• Vehicle reservations & peak access: The park has implemented vehicle reservations for busy summer periods—check the NPS Going-to-the-Sun Road pages and reservation windows.
• Wilderness permits: Required for overnight trips; the park now uses lotteries/advance reservations during high-demand periods—review the backcountry pages and Recreation.
• Boat tours & rentals: Book guided boat cruises early in the season; rental options are limited to summer months. Glacier Park Boat Company operates many historic cruises.
• Check current conditions: Road openings, construction projects, and weather can change quickly—consult the park’s Current Conditions page before travel.

Highlighted Hikes (by area)

West side - Apgar & Lake McDonald

Apgar Beach and trailheads lead to John Louie Loop and Avalanche Lake via Trail of the Cedars for spectacular water and cedar forest scenery. Boat access adds options.

Logan Pass

Hidden Lake Overlook is a popular, moderate hike from the Logan Pass parking area; expect strong views and possible snowfields even in summer.

Many Glacier

Grinnell Glacier and Iceberg Lake hikes are classic, offering alpine lakes, glaciers (where remnants remain), and abundant wildlife so plan for a full day.

Where to eat

Options range from historic in-park lodges (Many Glacier Hotel, Lake McDonald Lodge) to campgrounds and private lodgings in West Glacier, East Glacier, and surrounding gateway towns. Dining is limited inside the park—book in-park lodging early or plan meals in nearby towns. 

Where to stay

Vacation Rental Stays near Glacier National Park

Seasonal tips & safety

Best season: Late June through September provides the most reliable road and trail access; shoulder seasons can be beautiful but services are limited.  Weather & snow: High mountain weather is changeable—carry layers, bear spray, and microspikes if early/late season.  Bear & wildlife safety: Store food properly, make noise on trails, and follow NPS guidance for storing scent items and using bear-resistant canisters when required.  Road construction & delays: Infrastructure work may affect travel times—check recent NPS alerts.

Conclusion 

Glacier National Park’s is an amazing getaway with awe-inspiring vistas and rich biodiversity create an ambiance that’s both romantic and adventurous. From intimate, fireside dinners to exhilarating treks through snowy trails, it offers a variety of activities that’ll make your day unforgettable.

Whether a quiet, soul searching quest or an adventurous outing, Glacier National Park is one of the top go-to destinations.  Let its allure of nature, thrill of exploration, and serenity of isolation serve as the backdrop for your day. Ensure to plan ahead and prepare for an enchanting trip that you will ever forget.

If adventurous experiences are what fills your day, Glacier National Park has plenty. Traverse the intertwining trails hand in hand, such as those leading to Hidden Lake or Avalanche Lake, both offering picnic spots with unforgettable vistas. The shared sights and sounds of nature will make for a great adventure for your day. Now, let’s highlight some key locations within Glacier National Park that could be part of your Valentine’s Day story:

• Going-to-the-Sun Road - This iconic road cuts through the heart of the park, unveiling a landscape of towering mountains and alpine meadows. It’s ideal for a scenic drive filled with good conversation and awe-inspiring views.
• Lake McDonald Lodge - It offers traditional American cuisine, which is complemented by the beauty that surrounds it. It’s a good place to hold your Valentine’s Day dinner, propose to someone, or simply have meals after a day's adventures. 
• Logan Pass - It offers one of the park’s highest points. Its expansive overlooks provide idyllic settings for warm embraces amidst the cold, monumental beauty, great for proposals and asking someone out.
• Hidden Lake - It's a serene spot accessed via a hike from Logan Pass. It’s perfect for a secluded moment, with nature bearing witness to your affection.
• Avalanche Lake - It’s another recommendation for an intimate date. Although you have to trek from the Trail of the Cedars to get here, your efforts will pay off once you see it reflecting the surrounding mountains and trees in its crystal-clear depths, making for a magical and secluded respite.
• Bowman Lake - It’s also off the beaten path. Its peaceful ambiance makes it an exquisite locale for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy each other’s company in solace.

There's something profoundly bonding about observing wildlife together. While you're here, take the opportunity to spot the park's inhabitants in their natural habitat. It's not uncommon to see majestic creatures like elk or bald eagles, especially if you're near Logan Pass. Remember always to keep a safe and respectful distance, ensuring a special yet secure wildlife experience.

With its dramatic mountain backdrops and pristine lakes, the park is full of scenic spots that are perfect for capturing romantic moments. Stop by the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road or Bowman Lake for snapshots that encapsulate your love against some of Glacier's most impressive landscapes. These are the memories that last a lifetime.

The snowy wonderland that Glacier becomes in the winter months is ripe with activities like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Traverse the park's winter trails for a unique, snow-capped adventure. For those who enjoy a graceful slide over ice, imagine ice skating hand in hand across a frozen lake, surrounded by the silence of snow-laden forests—a wintery romance novel comes to life.

Glacier National Park offers a variety of group activities, from exploring the trails to engaging in friendly snowball fights. These bonding experiences nurture the connections that are essential in nature's grandeur.

Many Glacier Hotel - It’s an early-20th-century hotel where you can enjoy the tranquil ambiance of Swiftcurrent Lake. Its dining room is perfect for those seeking an elegant evening with a touch of historical charm.

Granite Park Chalet - It’s recommended for couples craving solitude. Staying at this is sublime since it’s reachable only by trail. It's an ideal retreat for those wanting a Valentine’s Day hike ending in a rustic overnight stay.

Sperry Chalet - This Swiss-style chalet is now reopened after being reconstructed due to a wildfire in 2017. It took time to get done since it’s elevated 6,560 feet and around a 12-mile round-trip hike on the South Circle Trail. Plus, it got even delayed due to the recent pandemic. The chalet’s heart-stopping vistas and cozy accommodations are well-known romantic getaways now and then, so be sure to make reservations early. This year’s reservations will open on January 8, 2024, through their website starting at 8:00 am Mountain Time zone.

Whether a quiet, intimate gathering or an adventurous date, Glacier National Park is one of the go-to destinations. . Let its allure of nature, thrill of exploration, and serenity of isolation serve as the backdrop for your day.. Nonetheless, ensure to plan ahead and prepare for an enchanting trip that neither you will ever forget.