See the most dramatic, wildlife-rich side of Glacier National Park from the passenger seat, with a local guide doing the driving, the parking and the park logistics.
The East Side tour is a full day built around Many Glacier and St. Mary Lake, the park’s most iconic east-side scenery. It is an ideal experience for first-time visitors, families, photographers, and anyone who wants to see Glacier’s highlights without committing to a long or strenuous hike. Your guide combines scenic pullouts, short optional walks, and in-depth interpretation of the park’s geology, wildlife and human history.
How the Day Goes
We meet at our shop in Columbia Falls and begin with the scenic drive toward Glacier’s east entrance while your guide shares the park’s landscapes, wildlife corridors and cultural history.
Along the St. Mary Lake scenic corridor we stop at viewpoints to photograph towering peaks, glacial valleys and crystal-clear water.
In the Many Glacier valley, the park’s crown jewel, we stop at Swiftcurrent Lake, the Grinnell Glacier viewpoints and prime wildlife habitat, with photo opportunities, short walks and time to soak in the scenery.
Lunch is provided in the Many Glacier area or another scenic spot in the park.
The afternoon focuses on wildlife movement areas, where sightings of moose, bears, bighorn sheep and mountain goats are possible depending on conditions, then the return drive with additional scenic stops as time and conditions allow.
The exact itinerary varies with weather, wildlife activity, road conditions and National Park Service restrictions. This tour focuses on quality over quantity, with flexible stops designed around the real conditions of the day.
Why Go With a Guide
You get into Glacier’s most iconic region with no vehicle reservation stress and no parking hassles, frequent chances for wildlife viewing and photography, context you will not get on a self-guided drive, and a small-group format for a more personal experience.
What to Bring
Comfortable clothing for changing mountain weather, warm layers and a rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a refillable water bottle, a camera or phone, personal snacks if you like, and a gratuity for your guide. Binoculars are recommended. Bear spray is carried by your guide. The park entrance fee is not included.
The Other Side of the Park
For Lake McDonald, Going-to-the-Sun Road’s west side and Hungry Horse Dam, see the West Glacier scenic tour. For bison, elk and Flathead Lake, see the wildlife tour.
