10 Top Things to Do in Glacier National Park (2026 Guide)
Glacier National Park is a breathtaking expanse of rugged peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and sprawling wilderness. Planning a trip to this Crown of the Continent can feel overwhelming with its sheer scale and seasonal complexities. This guide cuts through the noise, detailing the 10 absolute top things to do in Glacier National Park to help you craft an unforgettable adventure. We'll cover everything from the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road to hidden backcountry gems, complete with insider tips on timing, logistics, and how to avoid common pitfalls.
Whether you're planning a multi-generational family vacation, a challenging solo trek, or a leisurely scenic drive, this list provides the practical details you need. We focus on actionable advice: the best season for each activity, difficulty levels, family-friendliness, and crucial notes on permits and vehicle reservations. This isn't just a list; it's a blueprint for maximizing your time in one of America's most spectacular landscapes. As you plan your unforgettable adventure, remember that Glacier National Park is not just a national treasure but also recognized globally; you can learn more about its significance and explore other incredible World Heritage Sites.
Our goal is to help you build a seamless itinerary. We'll show you how to leverage local expertise for e-bike tours, shuttles, and even river floats, so you can spend less time navigating logistics and more time soaking in the alpine grandeur. While we offer guided hikes in the surrounding Flathead National Forest, this guide will equip you with everything needed to confidently explore Glacier's trails on your own. Let's dive into the experiences that make a visit here truly once-in-a-lifetime.
1. Drive (or Bike!) the Legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road
No list of the top things to do in Glacier National Park would be complete without its crown jewel: the Going-to-the-Sun Road. This 50-mile engineering marvel is a bucket-list drive, carving a path through the heart of the park’s most dramatic scenery. It connects West Glacier to St. Mary, ascending over 3,000 feet to its highest point at Logan Pass (6,646 ft).
The road provides direct access to iconic trailheads like the Highline Trail and Hidden Lake Overlook, but navigating its popularity presents challenges. Vehicle reservations are required for access during peak season, and parking at popular spots like Logan Pass fills up before sunrise.
A Better Way to See the Road
To bypass the stress of reservations and parking, consider alternative ways to experience this legendary route.
E-Bike Tours: In late spring (typically May to mid-June), before the road opens to cars, it becomes a paradise for cyclists. Join a Glacier Hikes & Bikes e-bike tour to pedal the alpine section car-free. It’s a serene, unforgettable way to absorb the grandeur of the landscape without engine noise or traffic.
Park Shuttles: Once the road is fully open, our hiker shuttles offer a hassle-free solution. We can drop you off at popular trailheads like Avalanche Lake or Logan Pass, allowing you to hike without worrying about finding a parking spot or coordinating a one-way trek.
Pro Tip: Using a shuttle service not only eliminates parking stress but also opens up possibilities for one-way hikes. For example, you can hike a portion of the spectacular Highline Trail without having to backtrack to your car.
Essential Planning Tips
Best Time to Go: For a car-free biking experience, aim for late May through June. For driving, the road is typically open from late June/early July to mid-October.
Difficulty/Duration: Driving the full 50 miles without stops takes about two hours, but you should plan for at least a half-day to enjoy the views and short walks. Biking duration varies by tour.
Safety First: Weather changes rapidly. Bring layers, as temperatures at Logan Pass can be 15-20 degrees cooler than at the park entrances. Always check the official road status before you go.
For a detailed guide to all the can’t-miss vistas and pull-offs, explore our breakdown of the top 10 must-see spots along the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
2. Backcountry Camping & Backpacking
For those looking to truly immerse themselves in the wild heart of Montana, nothing compares to a multi-day backcountry trip. With over 700 miles of trails, backpacking in Glacier National Park offers unparalleled solitude and access to pristine alpine lakes, remote valleys, and stunning mountain passes that day hikers rarely see. It’s an opportunity to disconnect from the crowds and reconnect with one of the most rugged and beautiful landscapes in North America.
Planning a backcountry adventure requires significant preparation, as permits are mandatory and highly competitive. Popular routes include the stunning Gunsight Lake Trail and the epic Pitamakan-Dawson Loop. Success hinges on securing a permit, being well-prepared for grizzly country, and understanding Leave No Trace principles.
A Better Way to Prepare for the Backcountry
While we do not offer guided backpacking trips inside Glacier National Park, we can help you gear up for your adventure. Proper equipment is essential for safety and enjoyment, but acquiring it can be a major investment.
Ultralight Gear Rentals: Lighten your load and travel easier by renting top-of-the-line equipment. Our new ultralight backpacking gear rentals provide everything you need without the commitment of purchasing.
Guided Trips in Flathead National Forest: If you want a guided wilderness experience, we offer incredible guided backpacking trips in the adjacent Flathead National Forest. It's a fantastic way to build skills and confidence before tackling a self-guided trip in Glacier.
Pro Tip: Don't let a lack of gear stop you. Renting equipment is a cost-effective way to try backpacking with high-quality, lightweight gear that makes a huge difference on the trail.
Essential Planning Tips
Best Time to Go: July through September offers the most reliable weather and snow-free high-elevation passes.
Difficulty/Duration: Trips range from overnight hikes (like Gunsight Lake) to strenuous multi-day loops (like the Pitamakan Pass Loop), requiring 3-5 days.
Safety First: Bear safety is paramount. Always carry bear spray, make noise on the trail, and use designated food storage systems (bear canisters or poles). Check trail and weather conditions with a ranger before you depart.
For more information on outfitting your next adventure, check out our guide to ultralight backpacking gear rentals from Glacier Hikes and Bikes.
3. Take a Historic Boat Tour on a Glacial Lake
One of the most serene and historically rich things to do in Glacier National Park is to experience it from the water. Taking a scenic boat cruise across one of the park’s pristine, glacially-fed lakes offers a unique perspective of the towering peaks and hanging valleys. These narrated tours, often conducted in classic wooden vessels, provide fascinating insights into the park's geology, history, and wildlife.
Many of these tours provide more than just a cruise; they serve as a launchpad for incredible adventures. For instance, boat tours in the Many Glacier valley drop passengers off at trailheads, offering a shortcut to stunning destinations like Grinnell Lake and Grinnell Glacier. Similarly, tours on Lake McDonald and Saint Mary Lake reveal views inaccessible by road.
A Better Way to Explore the Lakes
Combining a boat tour with a hike is an excellent way to access the park's more remote backcountry without the long trek from a primary trailhead.
Hike & Cruise Combo: Take the boat across Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine in Many Glacier. This cuts nearly four miles off the round-trip hike to Grinnell Glacier, making a challenging day hike much more manageable for many visitors.
Park Transportation Synergy: Use our hiker shuttle to get to a boat launch location like the Lake McDonald Lodge or Many Glacier Hotel. This eliminates the stress of finding parking in these extremely congested areas, ensuring you don't miss your reserved tour time.
Pro Tip: Book your boat tours well in advance, especially for July and August. They are operated by a park concessioner and often sell out weeks or even months ahead of time.
Essential Planning Tips
Best Time to Go: Tours typically run from late May or early June through September, depending on lake ice and weather conditions.
Difficulty/Duration: Tours range from 45-minute scenic cruises to multi-hour experiences combined with short, guided walks.
Safety First: The wind can be strong and cold out on the water, even on a sunny day. Dress in layers and bring a windproof/waterproof jacket. Tours can be canceled due to high winds, so always check the forecast.
For a comprehensive look at the different options, see our guide to incorporating a Glacier National Park boat tour into your itinerary.
4. Wildlife Viewing & Photography
One of the most unforgettable things to do in Glacier National Park is witnessing its incredible biodiversity. The park is a sanctuary for an iconic array of North American wildlife, including grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, moose, and the park’s official symbol, the sure-footed mountain goat. Prime viewing locations are often found along Logan Pass, the Many Glacier valley, and quieter trails, with dawn and dusk offering the best opportunities.
Spotting these animals in their natural habitat is a thrilling experience, but it requires patience, respect, and a commitment to safety for both you and the wildlife. Popular spots like the Grinnell Glacier Trail are famous for frequent mountain goat and bighorn sheep sightings, while the Belly River area is prime habitat for moose.
A Better Way to See Wildlife
Maximizing your chances for wildlife encounters often means getting to the right place at the right time, which can be logistically challenging. Our services can help you access key habitats safely and efficiently.
Hiker Shuttles: Use our shuttles to reach trailheads in prime wildlife corridors like Many Glacier or Logan Pass early in the morning. This allows you to begin your hike during peak animal activity hours without the stress of securing a parking spot in a competitive lot.
E-Bike Tours: Quietly gliding along the Going-to-the-Sun Road on an e-bike, especially during the car-free spring season, increases your chances of spotting animals near the road without the disturbance of engine noise.
Pro Tip: Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Hike in groups, make noise on the trail, and never approach or feed wildlife. A telephoto lens is your best tool for getting a great photo from a safe and respectful distance.
Essential Planning Tips
Best Time to Go: Early morning (just after sunrise) and late evening (before sunset) are when animals are most active. The fall season is particularly good for spotting bears as they forage in preparation for winter.
Difficulty/Duration: Wildlife viewing can be as simple as pulling over on the road or as strenuous as a full-day hike into the backcountry. Patience is key; plan to spend several hours waiting and watching quietly.
Safety First: Maintain a minimum distance of 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from all other wildlife. Store food securely and dispose of all trash in wildlife-proof containers.
For those seeking a guided experience, we offer incredible guided hikes just outside the park in the stunning Flathead National Forest, another fantastic location for wildlife spotting.
5. Scenic Driving & Overlooks
While the Going-to-the-Sun Road is the star, Glacier National Park is laced with other breathtaking scenic drives that offer incredible views with minimal physical effort. These corridors provide access to different regions of the park, each with its own unique character, and are dotted with pullouts and overlooks perfect for soaking in the scenery. Exploring these roads is one of the top things to do in Glacier National Park for visitors of all ages and abilities.
Beyond the main artery, routes like the Many Glacier Road offer a journey into a valley renowned for its dense wildlife populations and dramatic peaks, culminating at the historic Many Glacier Hotel. Similarly, the drive along Highway 89 on the park's eastern edge provides expansive views of the Rocky Mountain Front meeting the Great Plains.
A Better Way to See the Vistas
Maximize your scenic driving experience by letting someone else handle the logistics, ensuring you don’t miss a single viewpoint while navigating traffic or searching for parking.
Custom Shuttles: Planning a day focused on photography or sightseeing? Our custom shuttle service can create a personalized itinerary for your group. We can transport you to key overlooks like Jackson Glacier Overlook or the viewpoints along Many Glacier Road, allowing you to relax and focus on the views.
Hassle-Free Trailhead Access: Use our hiker shuttles to reach scenic areas that serve as gateways to stunning hikes. We can drop you at the Swiftcurrent Lake area, allowing you to enjoy the views before embarking on a hike, all without the stress of finding a parking spot in the often-congested lot.
Pro Tip: Sunrise and sunset drives offer magical lighting and fewer crowds. The east side of the park, particularly along Highway 89, is spectacular for sunrise as the first light hits the mountain faces.
Essential Planning Tips
Best Time to Go: July through September offers the best road conditions and weather. Fall brings stunning golden foliage, especially the aspens in the Many Glacier and Two Medicine valleys.
Difficulty/Duration: Plan for at least 2-3 hours for the Many Glacier Road round trip, plus time for stops. Allow a full day to combine multiple scenic drives with short walks at overlooks.
Safety First: Always use designated pullouts to stop and take photos. Be aware of wildlife on the road, especially at dawn and dusk. Keep a safe distance and never feed animals.
6. Summit a Glacier Peak
For those with a thirst for high-altitude adventure, summiting one of Glacier's majestic peaks is an unforgettable accomplishment. The park’s rugged terrain offers a wide range of ascents, from challenging non-technical scrambles accessible to experienced hikers to serious technical climbs requiring specialized gear and skills. Reaching a summit provides a unique perspective on the vast, wild landscape that few visitors ever see.
Popular objectives include Mount Jackson (10,052 ft), a demanding but non-technical scramble, and Mount Stimson (10,142 ft), which offers a more moderate challenge. These climbs are strenuous, often requiring over 10 hours of effort, but the panoramic rewards from the top are unparalleled.
A Better Way to Reach the Summit
While we don't guide climbs within Glacier National Park, our services can provide the crucial logistical support needed for a successful and safe ascent. Proper acclimatization and physical readiness are key to any summit attempt.
Acclimatization Hikes: Prepare your body for high elevations by joining one of our guided hikes in the surrounding Flathead National Forest. These treks help you adjust to the altitude and get a feel for the local terrain before you tackle a major peak on your own.
Hassle-Free Transportation: Use our hiker shuttles to get an early start. We can drop you at trailheads along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, saving you the stress of finding pre-dawn parking and positioning you perfectly for a long day in the mountains.
Pro Tip: Never underestimate Glacier's mountains. A non-technical scramble here can be as demanding as a formal climb elsewhere. Always carry the ten essentials, including a map, compass, and emergency communication device.
Essential Planning Tips
Best Time to Go: Late July through early September typically offers the most stable weather and snow-free routes on non-technical peaks.
Difficulty/Duration: Most peak ascents are full-day affairs, requiring 10-14 hours. They are extremely strenuous and should only be attempted by hikers in excellent physical condition with off-trail navigation experience.
Safety First: Start your climb before sunrise to allow maximum daylight. Check multiple weather forecasts and be prepared to turn back immediately if conditions deteriorate. Tell someone your exact route and expected return time.
7. Fishing in Alpine Lakes & Streams
Casting a line into a crystal-clear alpine lake is one of the most serene and rewarding things to do in Glacier National Park. The park is home to over 700 lakes and countless streams, offering pristine habitat for native westslope cutthroat trout and other species. Fishing here connects you to the landscape in a quiet, immersive way, far from the bustling viewpoints.
Locations range from easily accessible shores like those on Lake McDonald to remote backcountry gems like Grinnell Lake. The inlet streams of Saint Mary Lake are particularly excellent for targeting native cutthroat. A Montana fishing license is not required within the park, but you must adhere to all park-specific regulations.
A Better Way to Access Prime Fishing Spots
Reaching the best, most secluded fishing holes often requires getting to trailheads that suffer from extreme parking congestion. This is where planning your transport becomes key to a successful day on the water.
Hiker Shuttles: Use our hiker shuttle service to get dropped off at trailheads leading to coveted fishing destinations like Avalanche Lake or locations in the Many Glacier valley. You can focus on your gear and the fish, not on circling a full parking lot at dawn.
Float Trips: For a relaxing fishing experience on the Flathead River, which borders the park, consider a guided float trip. While not inside Glacier, it offers a fantastic opportunity to catch trout with an experienced guide managing the boat and logistics.
Pro Tip: Always practice catch-and-release with native species like westslope cutthroat and bull trout to help preserve these vital populations for future generations. Using barbless hooks makes for a much healthier release.
Essential Planning Tips
Best Time to Go: Summer and early fall (July through September) offer the most pleasant weather and accessible conditions for high-alpine lake fishing.
Difficulty/Duration: A fishing outing can be as short as an hour at an accessible lake or a full-day backcountry adventure. Your duration depends entirely on the location you choose.
Safety First: Be bear aware, especially along streams and lakeshores. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Always check the latest park fishing regulations for specific rules, bait restrictions, and closures.
8. Attend a Ranger-Led Program
To truly connect with the park’s soul, tap into the wealth of knowledge offered by its park rangers. Ranger-led programs provide an insider’s look into Glacier’s geology, wildlife, and cultural history, transforming a beautiful view into a deeply meaningful story. These programs are a fantastic way to understand the complex ecosystems and human history that make this one of the top things to do in Glacier National Park.
From engaging campfire talks under the stars to guided walks that reveal hidden ecological secrets, these activities are perfect for all ages and fitness levels. They offer a structured, educational, and often entertaining way to deepen your appreciation for the Crown of the Continent.
Making the Most of Ranger Programs
Engaging with an expert is one of the best ways to enhance your park experience. Here’s how you can take advantage of these offerings.
Guided Walks: Join a ranger for a short, interpretive walk to learn about topics like glaciers, wildflowers, or wildlife. Popular walks are often held at Logan Pass, St. Mary, and Many Glacier.
Evening Programs: Settle in at a campground amphitheater for a fascinating evening presentation. These talks cover everything from grizzly bear behavior to the park's celestial wonders.
Junior Ranger Program: This is a must-do for families. Kids can pick up a booklet at any visitor center, complete fun activities, and earn their own official Junior Ranger badge.
Pro Tip: Program schedules are posted at visitor centers and campgrounds. Check the listings as soon as you arrive, as popular guided walks can fill up quickly. Arrive early to get a good seat for evening programs.
Essential Planning Tips
Best Time to Go: Ranger programs are most frequent during the peak summer season, from late June through early September.
Difficulty/Duration: Programs vary from 30-minute campfire talks to two-hour guided walks on easy to moderate trails. There's something for every energy level.
Safety First: Even for short ranger-led walks, carry water, wear sturdy shoes, and be prepared for changing weather. Always maintain a safe distance from any wildlife you may encounter with the group.
While the park offers excellent ranger programs, if you’re seeking a more immersive guided hike outside the park boundaries, explore our guided hiking trips in the surrounding Flathead National Forest.
9. Cross-Country Skiing & Winter Activities
While summer crowds flock to Glacier, winter offers a completely different and profoundly peaceful park experience. The landscape transforms into a quiet, snow-covered wonderland, making it a premier destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Key areas like the Apgar Village and the closed sections of the Going-to-the-Sun Road become serene trails for winter adventurers.
This season strips the park down to its raw beauty, offering solitude and a unique perspective on its iconic scenery. The frosted trees, frozen lakes, and silent forests create a magical atmosphere that few visitors get to see, making it one of the most rewarding things to do in Glacier National Park for those willing to embrace the cold.
A Better Way to See the Winter Wonderland
Venturing into Glacier's winter landscape is best done with preparation and local knowledge. Our winter offerings are designed to help you safely explore this snowy paradise.
Guided Snowshoe Tours: Join one of our guided snowshoe trips just outside the park in the stunning Flathead National Forest. Our expert guides lead you through beautiful, snow-laden trails, sharing insights into the winter ecosystem and ensuring a safe, enjoyable outing for all skill levels.
Rentals for Your Adventure: If you prefer to explore on your own, we offer high-quality cross-country ski and snowshoe rentals. We can outfit you with the right gear and provide maps and recommendations for the best trails around Apgar and West Glacier based on current conditions.
Pro Tip: The unplowed section of the Going-to-the-Sun Road starting at Lake McDonald Lodge is a fantastic, relatively flat trail for beginners to cross-country ski or snowshoe. It offers incredible views of the lake and surrounding peaks without significant avalanche risk.
Essential Planning Tips
Best Time to Go: The prime winter season typically runs from January through early March when snowpack is most reliable. Always check local conditions before heading out.
Difficulty/Duration: Trails range from easy, flat routes near Apgar to more challenging terrain. A typical outing can last from two hours to a full day, depending on your chosen trail and fitness level.
Safety First: Winter conditions require respect. Dress in warm, non-cotton layers, carry extra food and water, and always check the weather and avalanche forecast before you go. Tell someone your plan, and be prepared to turn back if conditions worsen.
10. Visit Historic Lodges & Heritage Sites
Stepping into one of Glacier National Park’s grand lodges is like traveling back to the golden age of park travel. Built by the Great Northern Railway in the early 20th century to lure tourists west, these architectural marvels are destinations in themselves. They offer a tangible connection to the park’s cultural heritage and serve as stunning backdrops for your adventure.
Visiting these sites is one of the top things to do in Glacier National Park, blending history with magnificent scenery. From the Swiss-chalet-inspired Many Glacier Hotel on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake to the classic hunting lodge feel of Lake McDonald Lodge, each structure tells a unique story of the park’s development into a premier tourist destination.
A Better Way to Experience Park History
While staying overnight requires booking up to a year in advance, you don't need a room key to appreciate these historic treasures. Plan a day trip to explore the lobbies, dine in the historic restaurants, or simply relax on a porch with an incredible view.
Lodge Hopping: Use our hiker shuttles to easily move between different areas of the park. For instance, we can drop you at Lake McDonald Lodge for a morning visit, then transport you toward Logan Pass for an afternoon hike, making logistics simple.
Gateway to Adventure: The historic lodges often serve as hubs for other activities. Many Glacier Hotel is the starting point for boat tours on Swiftcurrent and Josephine Lakes, while the campstore at Lake McDonald Lodge is a perfect spot to grab a snack before exploring the area.
Pro Tip: Even if you're not a guest, many lodges offer free ranger-led talks or historical tours. Check the schedule at the front desk to learn fascinating stories about the architecture and notable guests.
Essential Planning Tips
Best Time to Go: The main lodges are open during the summer season, typically from late May/early June through September. Visit on a weekday or during the shoulder seasons to avoid the largest crowds.
Difficulty/Duration: Plan for at least 1-2 hours to explore each lodge, its grounds, and nearby points of interest. Dining will add to your time.
Book in Advance: If you wish to dine at a popular restaurant like the Ptarmigan Dining Room at Many Glacier Hotel, make reservations well in advance. Lodging reservations should be made 12-13 months ahead of your trip.
Making Your Glacier Adventure Happen
Glacier National Park is not just a destination; it's a profound experience. From the alpine majesty of a backcountry trek to the serene glide of a boat on a glacial lake, the park offers a lifetime of memories waiting to be made. As we've explored the top things to do in Glacier National Park, a clear theme emerges: this is a landscape that invites active participation. Whether you're pedaling up the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, casting a line into a crystal-clear stream, or simply soaking in the views from a historic lodge, the Crown of the Continent rewards those who dive in headfirst.
The sheer scale and wildness of Glacier are what make it so special, but these very qualities also demand thoughtful preparation. A successful trip hinges on navigating the park's logistics, which can often feel as challenging as its most strenuous trails. Vehicle reservations, limited parking at popular trailheads like Avalanche Lake and Logan Pass, and the ever-present need for bear safety are all critical components of a well-planned itinerary. Overlooking these details can lead to missed opportunities and unnecessary stress, turning a dream vacation into a logistical puzzle.
From Planning to Pavement: Your Actionable Next Steps
To transform your inspiration into a concrete plan, it's time to shift from "what to do" to "how to do it." Your first priority should be to secure the necessary access. This means marking your calendar for the day vehicle reservations open on Recreation.gov and being ready to book the moment they are released. If you miss out, don't despair; this is where strategic alternatives become your best friend.
Consider leveraging services designed to bypass these common hurdles. Instead of battling for a parking spot at Many Glacier, a shuttle can deliver you directly to the trailhead, ready to explore Grinnell Glacier or Iceberg Lake. Rather than worrying about the logistics of a one-way bike ride down the Going-to-the-Sun Road, an e-bike rental with shuttle support can create a seamless, unforgettable journey.
Here is a practical checklist to guide your next steps:
Book Accommodations: Whether it’s a campsite, a historic lodge, or lodging in a gateway town, book this 6-12 months in advance.
Secure Park Access: Set a reminder for the vehicle reservation release date and be prepared to book immediately.
Plan Your "Must-Do" Activities: Prioritize your list. Do you want to hike Highline Trail, see Grinnell Glacier, or bike the Sun Road? Build your itinerary around these core experiences.
Book Tours & Shuttles: For high-demand activities like boat tours or specialized e-bike trips, secure your spots well in advance. This not only guarantees your place but also simplifies your daily logistics.
Prepare for the Wild: Review bear safety protocols, pack appropriate layers for rapidly changing weather, and familiarize yourself with Leave No Trace principles.
For families, planning takes on another layer of complexity. Juggling the interests and energy levels of different age groups requires a special kind of strategy. For a humorous yet practical look at what to expect, this guide on 99 Things Parents Are Guaranteed To Do At A National Park offers relatable insights that can help you prepare for the beautiful chaos of a family adventure.
Ultimately, the most memorable Glacier adventures are those where you can focus on the stunning scenery and wildlife, not the logistical headaches. By planning ahead and utilizing local expertise, you can ensure your time in the park is spent making memories, not circling a full parking lot.
Ready to craft your perfect, hassle-free trip to the Crown of the Continent? Let Glacier Hikes & Bikes handle the logistics so you can focus on the adventure. Explore our e-bike tours, scenic floats, and convenient shuttles to experience the best of the park without the stress by visiting Glacier Hikes & Bikes today.
