The Crown of the Continent
An in-depth guide to the alpine majesty, pristine lakes, and legendary trails of Glacier National Park.
Plan Your Visit
Glacier's remote location and extreme weather demand careful planning. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
The Reservation System is Key
Action Required!
During peak season (late May to mid-September), a Vehicle Reservation is required to access the Going-to-the-Sun Road and other popular areas like the North Fork. These are released on Recreation.gov and book up extremely fast. Plan months ahead!
Choosing Your Season
Lodging Strategy: The Split Stay
Glacier is not a park you can easily see from one base. The Going-to-the-Sun Road is slow, and driving from the west side to the east side (e.g., Many Glacier) can take hours. The most efficient strategy is a **split stay**:
- West Side (2-3 nights): Base in or near West Glacier, Apgar, or Whitefish. Explore Lake McDonald, Avalanche Lake, and the western part of the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
- East Side (2-3 nights): Base in or near St. Mary or Many Glacier. This provides prime access to the world-class hiking in Many Glacier and Two Medicine valleys.
Must-See Sights
From a world-famous road to valleys carved by ancient ice, these are the landscapes that define Glacier.
Going-to-the-Sun Road
The park's 50-mile centerpiece and an engineering marvel. It's one of the most scenic drives on Earth, crossing the Continental Divide at Logan Pass. The road is narrow, winding, and offers non-stop, jaw-dropping views. Allow a minimum of 3 hours to drive it one way without stops.
Logan Pass
The 6,646-foot summit of the Going-to-the-Sun Road. The visitor center here sits in an alpine wonderland of meadows that explode with wildflowers in July. It's the starting point for the Highline Trail and a prime spot for seeing mountain goats and bighorn sheep. The parking lot fills before sunrise.
Many Glacier Valley
Often called the "Switzerland of North America," this is the park's premier hiking destination. The valley is surrounded by towering, chiseled peaks and home to the historic Many Glacier Hotel. It offers the best chance to see grizzly bears and access to iconic trails like Grinnell Glacier and Iceberg Lake.
Lake McDonald Valley
The hub of the park's west side. Lake McDonald, the largest lake in the park, is famed for its crystal-clear water and colorful rocks. Apgar Village at its southern tip provides services, boat rentals, and stunning views back toward the mountains.
Signature Hikes
Hiking is the soul of the Glacier experience. These trails offer some of the most spectacular alpine scenery in the world.
Trail Comparison: Length & Gain
Wildlife of the Crown
Glacier is renowned for its intact ecosystem and iconic Rocky Mountain fauna. Always maintain a safe distance and carry bear spray.
Grizzly Bear
The park's apex predator. Best viewing chances are in Many Glacier and at lower elevations in spring. Carry bear spray and make noise while hiking.
Mountain Goat
The park's official symbol. These incredible climbers are frequently seen at Logan Pass and along the Highline Trail.
Bighorn Sheep
Often seen at Logan Pass and in the Many Glacier area. Look for their massive, curved horns.
Moose
These large, solitary animals are often found in marshy areas and near lakes, particularly in the Many Glacier and Two Medicine valleys.