Glacier National Park (Montana)

Glacier National Park borders Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada — the two parks are known as the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, and were designated as the world's first International Peace Park in 1932. The parks were designated by the United Nations as Biosphere Reserves in 1976, and in 1995 as World Heritage sites.

Glacier National Park is a stunning display of the geological processes that changed North America over the last billion years. The rock formations in the park are almost entirely sedimentary, laid down between 1600 and 800 million years ago when this area was an inland sea. They were uplifted during the formation of the Rockies beginning around 170 million years ago, and today contain some of the best Proterozoic fossils in the world. The mountains were carved into their present form by the advance and retreat of glaciers during the last ice age, and the park, as its name suggests, contains an abundance of glacial features, including lakes, valleys, and remnant glaciers (although these have diminished significantly in the last century).

The park offers many opportunities to see wildlife, and its ecosystems are almost unchanged from what they were at the time of Lewis and Clark. Different trails offer visitors close encounters with animals from mountain goats to pine martens. The park is also one of the largest remaining natural grizzly habitats, and during late summer, grizzlies will often come to lower elevations to eat the area's popular berries and catch fish in the lakes. In addition to grizzly bears, the park is also home to two other endangered species: the Canadian lynx and the bull trout. 23 species of fish live in park waters, and fishing is a popular park activity. Birdwatchers will find many species of waterfowl in addition to larger birds of prey, including bald eagles.

Coniferous forest is the predominant ecosystem, although the forest is visibly different on the east and west sides of the Divide. Trails wind through subalpine meadows full of wildflowers and alpine tundras.

Weather at Glacier National Park is often different depending on your elevation and whether you are east or west of the Continental Divide. The western side of the park tends to receive the most rainfall, whereas the eastern side tends to have higher winds and more sun. The Rockies effectively disrupt the movement of air currents over the North American continent, leading to this disparity in climate. The National Weather Service issues separate weather forecasts for the two halves of the park, which may be accessed online or checked a park information station before setting out.

During the park's summer season, temperatures during the day can reach as high the 90s Fahrenheit (over 30 °C), but nighttime lows in the highest elevations can occasionally be around 20 °F (less than -5 °C). Snow can fall during any part of the year, as demonstrated in August 1992, when a foot of snow fell on the northeastern corner of the park. If you are planning to visit the park during the winter season, expect most of the park to be snow-covered, and make sure you have the right gear. Some trails and roads are closed off-season (and bridges removed). Always prepare for a variety of conditions and always bring rain gear. See also weather.

Wildfires are also a more or less common occurrence in the park.

The park has become an important case study for climate scientists studying climate change. Research performed by the Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center constructed parallel models of glacial melting and ecosystem change in the park based on a linear temperature extrapolation scenario and a carbon dioxide-induced global warming scenario, and estimated that in the latter case, the park's glaciers would be entirely gone by the year 2030.

• Park website

• Exploring Glacier National Park, David Rockwell. ISBN 0762723548 An insightful and well-written Falcon Guide to Glacier National Park, with essay-style information on the flora, fauna, and geology of the park.
• Hiking Glacier & Waterton Lakes National Parks, Erik Molvar. ISBN 1560447184. A comprehensive guide to the trails of both parks, complete with maps, difficulty assessments, elevation charts, and useful and concise information about the natural history relevant to the trail.

If you have the extra time and want to see more of the country, the train is a good option for traveling to Glacier National Park. Since much of the early development of the park was led by the Great Northern Rail company, the railroad is an integrated part of the park's history (and vice versa). Amtrak's Empire Builder train service runs from Seattle and Portland through northern Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin to Chicago. The Empire Builder westbound train arrives in the evening while the eastbound train arrives in the morning daily at the three stations serving the park. Travellers should arrange accommodations or waiting time accordingly.

• 🌍 West Glacier Park Station (Amtrak station code: WGL) - This historic railroad depot has a small historical museum but no ticketing office or automated ticketing machines. Hwy 2 and Going-to-the-Sun Rd., West Glacier, Montana
• 🌍 East Glacier Park Station (Amtrak station code: GPK) - This station is open from May 1 through October 1.400 Highway 49 North, East Glacier Park. (After October 1 and prior to May 1, Amtrak trains stop at Browning instead of Glacier Park. Browning is not a staffed station.)

Buses can take you inside the park from West and East Glacier Park:

• Red Bus Tours, ☏ +1-855-733-4522. It offers a shuttle between West Glacier, Village Inn at Apgar and Lake McDonald Lodge. Reservations are required due to limited space. The fare is $6 between the Amtrak station and the Village Inn and $10 between the Amtrak station and Lake McDonald Lodge. 
• Glacier Park Inc., ☏ +1 406-892-2525 (U.S.), +1 403-236-3400 (Canada). Offers shuttle buses between Glacier Park Lodge near the East Glacier Park Amtrak station to Two Medicine, Cut Bank Creek, Saint Mary Lodge, Saint Mary Visitor Center, Many Glacier Hotel, Swiftcurrent Chief Mountain Customs and Prince of Wales Hotel. Fees vary from $15 to $75 depending on how far you want to travel. The fee to enter the park is not included in the bus fee; you'll need to pay extra to enter the park. You will need to make a reservation if you want the bus to drop and pick you up at Saint Mary Visitor Center. The bus to Cut Bank Creek stops 5 miles away from the campgrounds and trailhead on route 89 and Cut Bank Creek Road. You will need to hike the 5 miles to Cut Bank. 

In addition, trains will stop at the Izaak Walton Inn at 🌍 Essex Station, by request. The train does not wait longer than 10 minutes, therefore passengers should be ready to board immediately upon the trains arrival.

The train ride from Seattle and Portland is overnight and arrives in Glacier National Park in the morning; the train from Chicago arrives in the evening. The seats' ample legroom and lack of seat belts make them far superior to their airplane counterparts, and in combination with the train's Sightseer Lounge Car and reasonably-priced dining car contribute to a relatively comfortable journey.

A full-service Amtrak terminal (and one of their busiest) is available at Whitefish, west of West Glacier, and north of Kalispell. The station at East Glacier is also staffed May 1-October 1.

Visitors to the park may fly to 🌍 Glacier Park International Airport near Kalispell, Montana (FCA ^IATA) (25 mi/40 km from West Glacier). It's possible to rent cars at the airport or take a shuttle (inquire first before making reservation to a particular airport if you do not wish to drive). Also, the destination of Missoula, Montana (MSO ^IATA) is possible, though an additional 120 miles (190 km) must be driven. If you are flying from Los Angeles, San Francisco or Phoenix, there are non-stop flights to Missoula, so, unlike Kalispell, you won't have to connect.

At Glacier Park Airport, U.S. Airlines and their connection cities include Alaska Airlines via Horizon Airlines (Portland (seasonal) and Seattle); Allegiant Air (Las Vegas, Los Angeles (seasonal), Oakland (seasonal), and Phoenix (seasonal)); American Airlines (All seasonal: Chicago and Dallas); Delta Air Lines (Atlanta (seasonal), Los Angeles (seasonal), Minneapolis, Salt Lake City); and United Airlines (Chicago (seasonal), Denver, Los Angeles (seasonal), and San Francisco (seasonal; weekends only)).

Those already residing in the Inland Northwest have very few options besides driving or taking Amtrak. Airline service from Spokane (the largest city in the region) to Calgary and Kalispell has been suspended. To fly, you must go through Seattle on Horizon air, then on to Kalispell, It's quite costly (relative to the direct distance) to backtrack like that.

Calgary International Airport (YYC ^IATA) is across the Canadian border, 4½ hours north of Glacier National Park. YYC offers nonstop seasonal and year-round flights from Europe (Amsterdam, Dublin, Frankfurt, London, Paris, Zurich), Asia (Tokyo) with Air Canada, British Airways, Condor, Edelweiss, KLM, and WestJet. There are flights with Air Canada, Alaska, American, Delta, Frontier, United, and WestJet from the US. Car rentals are available or a one way airport "charter" van shuttle service with Airport Shuttle Express of Calgary to Glacier National Park, MT and Calgary, Banff or Lake Louise. If needed, be sure you have a multiple-entry visa for Canada (if flying out from there), and a U.S. visa as well.

Do not fly with bear spray, as it's a prohibited item, even in checked luggage.

From the east: Take I-90 freeway to about 8 miles west of Missoula, then exit at US Hwy 93 north (Exit #96). In Kalispell, turn right at US Hwy 2 East (Idaho St.) From there it's 32 miles to the West Glacier entrance. Or, if you're approaching from North Dakota on US 2, it's a straight shot to Glacier Park. Heading west on I-94 across North Dakota, the shortest route to Glacier is exiting at Glendive to Montana Highway 200s to Circle, then north on Montana 13 to east of Wolf Point, then west on Montana 25 to Wolf Point, then US 2 to Glacier Park.

If coming from the south (Great Falls) or East (Havre) and your destination first is Waterton Lakes National Park, the fastest way is taking US 2 to Cut Bank, and then going north on Montana secondary 213 to Del Bonita, where it becomes Alberta Highway 62. At the "town" of Del Bonita, Alberta (2 miles from the border) turn west on Alberta secondary 501 and go to Cardston, and then directly to Waterton Lakes on Alberta Highway 5. This is significantly faster than US 2/89 via Browning.

For East Glacier there are various routes including the I-15 Fwy (see From the South below). However, from the freeways, East Glacier via West Glacier is about the same time and distance. The best route for those wanting to avoid Montana's freeways and save over 250 miles is to follow I-94 just inside Montana from North Dakota and exit #211. State Hwy 200S becomes 200 (no turns) and later becomes shared with US Hwy 87. On the west side of Great Falls where the highway merges into the freeway, take I-15 North for 12 miles and Exit #290 in Vaughn. On US Hwy 89 go 105 miles to Browning in the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. At the museum, turn left and take US Hwy 2 into East Glacier. (If using I-90 you can join this route via Billings. Follow State Hwy 3 at Exit #450, which is later shared with US 12 & 191. Turn left at the end of the highway at "Eddies Corner" and follow as above going to Great Falls.)

Don't underestimate the huge size of the state of Montana (550 mi/880 km wide). Glacier Park is closer to Seattle than it is to far eastern Montana.

From the west: Take I-90 freeway to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho (Exit #12, turn left) on to US Hwy 95. Where US Hwy 2 and 95 split north of Bonners Ferry, turn right to get US Hwy 2. From there, it's 167 miles to the West Glacier entrance. Don't forget to set clocks an hour ahead when entering Montana.

A slightly more ambitious (though fully paved) short cut is to stay on the I-90 freeway up to St. Regis, Montana (Exit #33). Then turn left on State Hwy 135 and go 21.6 miles, left on State Hwy 200 for 8.3 miles, right on State Hwy 28 for 46.7 miles, and left on US Hwy 93 in Elmo on Flathead Lake. In Kalispell, turn right at US Hwy 2 East (Idaho St.) This is a very scenic route along the Clark Fork River and Flathead Lake (which both contain all the waters of Glacier Park west of the Continental Divide) with farmlands in between. However, gas (petrol) and other services are limited between the freeway and Elmo.

Using Hwy 200 east from Sandpoint, Idaho is not recommended, as all north-south connections with US Hwy 2 in between Libby and Kalispell are not paved! There's just no quick and easy way to get through the Cabinet Mountains beyond 15–20 miles from the Idaho border.

From the north (Canada): If first visiting Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, take Canada Hwy 2 south to the junction of the Crowsnest Hwy 3. Then go west (towards BC) 43 km and turn left at Pincher Station on Canada Hwy 6 for another 50 km. Turn right at the junction of Hwy 5 to enter the park. Upon leaving to get to Glacier, make two right turns just after exiting the park, and follow Canada Hwy 6 for 22 km to the U.S. border. This becomes State Hwy 17; turn right in 23 km onto US Hwy 89. The first park entrance is Many Glacier in 7 km (just after Babb).

The international border is closed overnight between Waterton and Glacier, so via Cardston is only way in (see below). Bring US/Canadian passport, passport card or enhanced driver's license. If bypassing Waterton, take Canada Hwy 2 south to Cardston and cross the U.S. border. This becomes US Hwy 89. The first park entrance is Many Glacier 17 km from the border.

From the south: Take freeway I-15 North to Shelby, Montana (Exit #363) and turn left onto US Hwy 2. From there it's 70 miles to East Glacier. A short cut would be to exit I-15 in Vaughn, Montana (Exit #290) and take US Hwy 89 to Browning in the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. At the museum, turn left and take US Hwy 2 to East Glacier.

For West Glacier, transfer to I-90 West from I-15 (Exit #121) just before Butte, Montana and see From the East above.

The Continental Divide Trail, a 3,100-mile United States National Scenic Trail, has its northern trailhead in Swiftcurrent Campground, accessible by car from Babb on Glacier Route Three. An alternate route starts from the Apikuni Trailhead, also along Glacier Route Three. This trail exits the park at Marias Pass to the south and runs south along the Continental Divide to Mexico.

Getting around the different parts of Glacier National Park is easiest by car, although some shuttles and tour buses do run inside the park, particularly on Going-to-the-Sun Road. Shuttles can be relatively expensive ($10 for each major segment of the routes, which connect the Belton Chalet to St. Mary's Visitor Center and even cross the border to enter Waterton National Park in Canada, where they terminate at the famous Prince of Wales Hotel. Red tour buses called Jammers (so named after the old practice of jamming the gears in place to climb steep hills) are much more expensive but a beloved fixture of the park to many tourists. They have now been modernized to run on natural gas.

The National Park Service also operates free shuttles along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. These shuttles run every fifteen or thirty minutes. However, intervals may differ depending on road construction.

Visitors without cars should acquaint themselves well with the shuttle schedules before setting out as they run infrequently and often fill up fast.

Hitchhiking is also a viable way to travel among destinations along Going-to-the-Sun Road, but be sure to thumb vehicles down from a turn out or shuttle stop so that they can safely pull over to pick you up.

Cycling is permitted on Going-to-the-Sun Road, and the ride may be beautiful and rewarding. However, the elevation gain makes the route strenuous and many segments are along steep cliffs without shoulders. Some portions of Going-to-the-Sun Road are closed to cyclists during high-traffic hours of the day for this reason. Bicycles are not allowed on trails.

With over 700 miles (1100 km) of trails, Glacier Park is best enjoyed through hiking. A good waterproof topographic trail map of Glacier National Park and Waterton National Park is available from National Geographic, complete with GPS checkpoints. Major trail-heads are located at the Swiftcurrent Motor Lodge, Logan's Pass, and at the Lake McDonald Lodge. Trails range from short, handicap-accessible paths to 8-12 mile day hikes to long extended backpacking trails. If you plan to camp at backcountry sites, reservations will be necessary (see Backcountry section). Popular trails include:

• Trail of the Cedars (0.7 miles) - handicapped-accessible, partially paved and partially a boardwalk. Beautiful views of old-growth forest and Avalanche Gorge. Trailhead at Avalanche Creek Campground on Going-to-the-Sun Road.
• Garden Wall portion of the Highline Trail (11.6 miles) - day-hike accessible even to beginners. Trail follows the Garden Wall, a striking ridge along the continental divide. Views of sub-alpine meadows and alpine tundra as you skirt the dramatic face of the Garden Wall. Trailhead at Logan's Pass Visitor's Center. The Granite Park Chalet, a no-frills historic chalet which sells food and water to hikers (and provides potable water to guests with reservations), is located along the trail at mile 7.6. The trail ends at the Loop, from where you can take a shuttle back to Logan's Pass.
• The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (3,100 miles) - the least well-maintained of the triumvirate of National Scenic Trails (along with the Pacific Crest Trail and the Appalachian Trail), the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail runs from Waterton in Canada to Marias Pass on the southern edge of Glacier National Park before continuing south all the way to Mexico. The trail includes a variety of terrain within the park and can be accomplished in about ten days, depending on the backpacker's speed.

For visitors intending to hike extensively in Glacier National Park, the Falcon Guide Hiking Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks (ISBN 1560447184) is a comprehensive and invaluable guide, offering trail distances and thorough descriptions.

During the winter, some trails and roads will be closed due to snow, and in the summer a one-way system may be in operation at busy times.

See Read for maps and other material to help you plan your trip.

Dollar Rent-a-Car has pick-up and drop-off at all the major train stations, and the Kalispell airport. There's no one-way fee, if for example, you arrive by train and leave by plane. All of the Dollar Rent-a-Car locations around Kalispell, Whitefish, and Glacier Park are run by the same franchise. Some aren't fully staffed and have a key drop. If you demand full-service, Avis has several staffed locations, but it's more expensive. Always check before taking rental cars into Canada, but most companies will allow. Also, inquire in advance if you plan on driving on unpaved roads and what the company's towing policy is. Unlimited mileage is almost a must in a big state like Montana, so check online first. In a pinch, there are also car rental facilities in the town of Cut Bank (see Go next section below).

If you wish to travel one way between Montana and Canada most car companies will not rent you a car. Round trip yes, but not one way. Canadians usually can not rent a car from Montana to Alberta Canada, one way or return. Airport Shuttle Express of Calgary Canada does provide a one way charter van service between Banff/Calgary and Great Falls, Shelby, Browning, East Glacier, Essex, West Glacier and Whitefish.

• 🌍 Going-to-the-Sun Road. The most spectacular viewpoints in the park are along this road. It is closed to traffic in Winter and open from June - Oct. Depending on weather, it will be open as early as Memorial Day weekend (last Monday in May). You can check the road status online. Highlights include Lake McDonald, Logan Pass at the Continental Divide, Rising Sun, and St. Mary Lake. Road construction is possible in the summer with just one lane open to traffic (and opposing traffic held back). At about 6,600 feet (2,000 meters), Logan Pass is the highest drivable point in or near the park. The car park at Logan Pass fills up early in the morning and becomes a chaotic fight for a space the rest of the day. Though a "must see" for anyone visiting the park, it is not a shortcut from Lake McDonald to St. Mary. Despite the distance being several times longer, it is almost always faster to go around via US Hwy 2 and 89. 
• US Hwy 2. On the south side of the park. Also crosses the Continental Divide, though at a lower elevation than Logan Pass on the Going to the Sun Road. This is the route used by the Amtrak trains. The view of the forest, river, train tracks and a railroad tunnel all together in one location is very scenic. Several wilderness areas (no roads) are just to the south. 
• Looking Glass Hill Road (State Hwy 49). Has an excellent view of Lower Two Medicine Lake from the top of the hill. Also, it's a shortcut (though narrow and winding) from East Glacier to the east side of the park, so you don't have to go all the way to Browning and back. Beware there is no guardrail on this road. If concerned, only go in the northbound direction, so you won't be driving in the outer lane above the steep edge. 
• US Hwy 89. Connects with roads going into the park at St. Mary (Going to Sun Road) and Babb (to Many Glacier). It then continues north where it intersects with Chief Mountain International Highway (see below). Excellent views of St. Mary and the lake from the hills north and south of the town. Though unmarked, the Hudson Bay/Gulf of Mexico Divide is 4.5 miles south of the Going to the Sun Highway junction in St. Mary with Divide Mountain on the west side. 
• Chief Mountain International Highway (State Hwy 17). Connects Glacier National Park with Waterton Lakes in Alberta. Bring your passport, passport card, or enhanced driver's license if you plan to enter Canada. 
• Two Medicine Road. Begins four miles north of East Glacier, and runs on the north side of Lower Two Medicine Lake. A very easy (no hills) and short path goes to Running Eagle (Trick) Falls. Bears are frequently spotted in this area. 
• Cut Bank Creek Road. An unpaved road on the park's east side 14 miles south of St. Mary. A trail (not for beginners) goes to Triple Divide Pass where the Continental Divide splits three ways between the Pend Oreille-Columbia Rivers (mouth near Portland, Oregon at Astoria), Missouri-Mississippi Rivers (mouth near New Orleans), and the Saskatchewan-Nelson Rivers (to western Hudson Bay in Manitoba). Facilities are primitive, and this area is only for the most adventurous. However, it's 5 miles west of the US 89 Hwy, making a quick visit for a few photos possible also. 
• Inside North Fork Road. An unpaved road running north on the west side of the park which begins just north of Apgar at Lake McDonald. All the campgrounds on this far western side of the park are primitive, without running water. This road may be closed at times. 
• Camas Road. Runs nearly parallel to Inside North Fork Road but is paved. It leads to the Huckleberry Mountain Nature Trail. Both roads will eventually take you to Polebridge, but this route is paved most of the way -- except for a section in the middle. Note that all the campgrounds on this far western side of the park are primitive, without running water. 
• 🌍 Swiftcurrent Lake. A beautiful little lake almost a mile above sea level. West of the lake, mountains raise 3000 ft above it, and on the eastern shore sits the large century-old Many Glacier Hotel which is a starting point for many trails. (updated May 2018)

Leaving your car for a day hike or extended backpack gives you access to the park's extensive trail system. Trails for all ability levels and time frames exist (see Getting Around section). Investigate the park at a more leisurely place and see its stunning geologic formations, lakes, waterfalls, glaciers, and wildlife for yourself. Sights well worth the effort include:

• 🌍 Sperry Glacier. Sperry Glacier Overlook can be reached by a steep climb up a trail from the Sperry Chalet (2.5 miles to Comeau Pass). The hike takes you by secluded alpine lakes and boulder-strewn meadows and up a stairway hewn into the rock, from which you emerge at Comeau Pass to be greeted by breathtaking views of the Little Matterhorn, Bearhat Mountain, and Mt. Reynolds. Another mile, marked (sometimes confusingly) by cairns, takes you to the edge of the glacier, where there is now a sign with information about the glacier's history. This trail is also one of the best places in the park to see families of mountain goats up close. The glacier is worth seeing, since scientists predict that it have completely disappeared between 2030 and 2050. The Sperry Chalet is also worth seeing, and has a dining hall where non-guests can purchase a hot lunch from an a la carte menu. 
• 🌍 Lake McDonald and 🌍 St Mary Lakes The first and second largest lakes in the park, on the west and east side of the continental divide, respectively. The lakes provide opportunities for various activities like boating (canoe and rowboats may be rented from concessions in Apgar and other locations), swimming, fishing, and some of the most beautiful sunsets and sunrises in the park. Both can be accessed by Going-to-the-Sun Road and each is home to campgrounds and historic lodges.

• 🌍 Glacier Park Lodge Lobby, 499 MT-49, East Glacer Park, toll-free: +1-844-868-7474. Built in 1913 on the eastern edge of the park, the Glacier Park Lodge was one of Great Northern's luxurious hotels that provided an entry point from the railroad into the park. The lobby is an impressive display of the park's early aesthetics. (updated Jan 2020)
• 🌍 Iceberg Lake. Iceberg Lake is a beautiful and popular destination that can be reached by a 4.5-mile (7-km) hike out of a trailhead at Swiftcurrent Inn. The lake is aquamarine with glacial silt, and surrounded by steep, glacier-carved cliff faces. On the hike you will have the opportunity to see the Ptarmigan Falls, the Ptarmigan Wall, many wildflowers, mountain goats, and perhaps even grizzly bears. 

Additional hotel options can be found outside of the park in the nearby towns of Essex, East Glacier, West Glacier and Babb.

• 🌍 Apgar Village Lodge, Lake View Dr, West Glacier, ☏ +14068922525. Cabins on edge of wood near to lake and river. Have showers and toilets. (updated Jul 2015)
• 🌍 Granite Park Chalet (West Glacier), ☏ +18883452649, office@graniteparkchalet.com. This historic chalet, dating from ca. 1914, is accessible only through hiking trails. It is the only chalet remaining of the original six operated by Great Northern, and is supplied by weekly or biweekly mule trains. The Granite Park Chalet ($108 first person, $80 each additional person) can be most easily reached by a 7.6 mile hike from Logans Pass along the Highline Trail, and is now a simple backpacker's lodge. A kitchen and composting toilets are available to guests, as well as potable water (which guests are asked to assist in fetching themselves). Accommodations are spartan, and linens are provided for an extra $15. The chalet offers complimentary hot drinks for their guests in the evening. The season is from July to September, and reservations should be made months in advance. All trash must be packed out. 
• 🌍 Lake McDonald Lodge & Complex, 288 Lake McDonald Ldg Lp, West Glacier, reserve-glacier@xanterra.com. Lake McDonald Lodge & Complex is 11 miles inside the park from the west entrance on the Going To The Sun Road. This hotel has 100 rooms, ranging from motel style to upmarket hotel suites. The main dining room overlooks Lake McDonald and has an excellent, moderately priced menu. Televisions, elevators and air conditioning are not available. (updated Jul 2020)
• 🌍 Many Glacier Hotel, 1147 Rte 3, Browning, ☏ +13032657010, reserve-glacier@xanterra.com. Many Glacier Hotel is Glacier National Park's largest hotel with 208 rooms and is in the northeast area of the park and is 11 miles west of Babb on Highway 89. Premier service as the flagship lodge of the Park in beautiful location. Tries to give a Swiss style look, impressive looking building but of basic construction so do not expect modern hotel comforts. One good restaurant, one diner/bar and one snack outlet. Also souvenir shop. (updated Jul 2015)
• 🌍 Swift Current Motor Inn, East Glacier Park, ☏ +18557334522, reserve-glacier@xanterra.com. Offers basic cabins and motel style rooms. Renovated old wooden buildings, some have showers and toilers, none have refrigerators or TV but oddly an ironing board and iron. The onsite restaurant has Italian style cooking and good breakfast. (updated Jul 2015)

There are 13 developed campgrounds in the park. These campgrounds may be accessed by car. Unless noted as "primitive", all contain a disposal station for trash. The sites are generally for a maximum of one vehicle, two tents, and eight people. Payment seems to be mostly on the honor system (the National Parks system doesn't ask much and needs more), though you must register within half an hour of arrival. Plan to keep your food and scented items in your vehicle. Campers without vehicles may find the larger developed campsites more like a suburban cul-de-sac with SUVs in every driveway than a wilderness retreat; if you backpack in you can feel outnumbered by other park visitors who brought their own firewood, fresh ears of corn, wine, cosmetics, and other heavy luxuries. Nightly fees are per campsite.

• 🌍 Apgar, US Hwy 2, West Glacier (1 mile northeast of the west entrance at the southern end of Lake McDonald), ☏ +14068887800. 194 sites (25 can accommodate a trailer or RV), 10 group sites. All sites are first-come, first-served. Apgar campground is the largest campground in Glacier National Park. Amenities include flush toilets, sinks with running water (no showers), and summer evening programming at the Apgar Amphitheater. Apgar Village has a restaurant, gift shops, and a ranger station. Swimming and boating possible in Lake McDonald, and boat rentals and horseback ride reservations are available nearby. Open late Apr to early Oct. The campground itself is situated in trees and provides tent and RV campers with shade and some privacy. Free in winter, $20 per night in summer (2020 rates). (updated Jun 2020)
• 🌍 Avalanche (15.7 miles from the west entrance via Going-to-the-Sun Road, 34 miles from the St. Mary entrance), ☏ +14068887800. 87 sites. All sites are first-come, first-served. Avalanche campground in located in one of the most popular sections of Glacier National Park west of the Continental Divide. The campground accommodates tent and RV campers, however only 50 sites will accommodate vehicle lengths up to 26 feet. The campground provides access to Trail of the Cedars and Avalanche Creek trailheads. Flush toilets, running water (no showers), evening programs at Avalanche Amphitheater. Open late Jun to mid-Sep. $20 per night (2020 rates). (updated Jun 2020)
• 🌍 Bowman Lake, North Fork Area (From Going-to-the-Sun Road, take Glacier Route 8 to Glacier Route 7 (Inside North Fork Road). Shortly after passing through Polebridge, where there is a ranger station, take a right onto a bumpy dirt road for Bowman Lake.), ☏ +14068887800. 48 primitive sites. All sites are first-come, first-served. Primitive campsite right on Bowman Lake, with access to Quartz Lake Loop, Bowman Lake, and Numa Ridge Lookout trailheads. Potable water and pit toilets. Open mid-May to early Aug. The drive to Bowman Lake is a very slow, dusty, and bumpy ride on dirt roads. RVs and trailers not advised. The campground is located close to the shore of Bowman Lake and camp sites are within trees for shade and some privacy. Tent campers looking for peace and quiet will enjoy Bowman Lake for its serenity and remote location. $15 per night (2020 rates). (updated Jun 2020)
• 🌍 Cut Bank (The campground is accessed by a 5 mile dirt road off of highway 89 between Two Medicine and St. Mary.). 14 sites. All sites are first-come, first-served. Primitive and secluded campsite, with access to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. RVs and trailers not advised. No potable water (bring your own water or some means of purifying water from Cut Bank Creek). Open late May to mid-Sep. The Cut Bank campground is located on the east side of Glacier National Park and provides a sense of peace and quiet that may not be found in larger campgrounds within the park. The campground is accessed by a 5 mile dirt road off of highway 89. Cut Bank Campground operates in primitive status all season, meaning it has no flush toilets or disposal station. The campground should not to be confused with the town 50 miles to the east. $10 per night (2020 rates). (updated Jun 2020)
• 🌍 Fish Creek (just off the Camas Road approximately 2.5 miles from Apgar Village on the west side of Glacier National Park), ☏ +14068887800. 178 sites, 18 of which accommodate RVs or trailers. Large campground near but not directly on Lake McDonald offering flush toilets, running water, and nightly evening programs at the Fish Creek Amphitheater. Access to Howe Lake, Howe Ridge, and McDonald Lake trailheads. Fish Creek is the second largest campground in the park. Fish Creek is one of two campgrounds in the park that take reservations. Advance reservations may be made online or by phone +1-800-365-2267 but are not required. Open late May to early Sep. Sites within the campground are surrounded by trees and provide shade and some privacy to both tent and RV campers. $23 per night (2020 rates). (updated Jun 2020)
• 🌍 Kintla Lake, North Fork area (from Going-to-the-Sun Road, take Glacier Route 8 (Camas Road) north until reaching the righthand turn onto a dirt road that leads to Kintla Lake), ☏ +14068887800. 13 sites. All sites are first-come, first-served. Glacier National Park's smallest and most remote car-accessible campground. Due to its remote location, the campground is very quiet and is very rarely filled, offering tent campers a sense of solitude. Non-motorized boats allowed on lake, and lake is full of trout. Site is primitive but has a potable water source. Open early Jul to early Aug. It is located in the upper most northwest section of the park known as the North Fork, approximately 40 miles from the west entrance. Access is via a rough dirt road. Trailers not advised. $15 per night (2020 rates). (updated Jul 2020)
• 🌍 Logging Creek, North Fork area (from Going-to-the-Sun Road, take Glacier Route 8 (Camas Road ) to Glacier Route 7 (Inside North Fork Road)), ☏ +14068887800. 7 sites. All sites are first-come, first-served. Very small, primitive, secluded campground with no potable water (bring your own). Access to Logging Lake trailhead. No reservations. Open early Jul mid-Sep. The Logging Creek Campground is located on the west side of the park, south of Polebridge. Access is via the Inside North Fork Road, a dusty narrow winding road. Caution is advised when traveling this road and RVs are not recommended. Once there, campers will find a small primitive campground with all the solitude one could want. The trailhead to Logging Lake is nearby and the easy hike to the lake is a great family day hike. $10 per night (2020 rates). (updated Jun 2020)
• 🌍 Many Glacier (from Highway 98, take Glacier Route 3 west into park; the large lake on the left is Lake Sherburne), ☏ +14068887800. 109 sites, 1 group site. 41 sites can be reserved in advance. Large, popular campsite near the Swiftcurrent Motor Lodge, restaurants, token-operated showers, and the Swiftcurrent Pass, Piegan Pass, Grinnell Glacier, Iceberg Lake, and Ptarmigan trailheads. Also useful for backpackers through-hiking the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (of which Switftcurrent Pass and Piegan Pass Trails are a part). The campground is situated within trees for tent and RV campers, though there are only 13 sites that can accommodate vehicle lengths up to 35 feet in length. Bring your binoculars, as there are opportunities to view wildlife like bighorn sheep, moose, and bears. Flush toilets, sinks, and nightly ranger-led programming. Open late May to late Sep. $20 per night in the off-season, $23 per night in summer (2020 rates). (updated Jun 2020)
• 🌍 Quartz Creek, West Glacier (north of Logging Creek campground on Inside North Fork Road), ☏ +14068887800. 7 sites. All sites are first-come, first-served. This primitive campground is the smallest developed campground in the park, accessible only by a rough, dusty, dirt road with many blind curves and few pullouts. Trailers are not advised. Quartz Creek trailhead is easily reached from the campsite. No potable water. Pit toilets. Open late Jun 30 to late Oct. $10 Quartz Creek (2020 rates). (updated Jun 2020)
• 🌍 Rising Sun, East, Browning (6 miles (9.6 km) from St. Mary entrance and halfway along St. Mary Lake, adjacent to Rising Sun Motor Inn), ☏ +14068887800. 84 sites, 10 of which can accommodate vehicles up to 25 ft.. All sites are first-come, first-served. Rising Sun Campground is located just west of St. Mary and halfway along St. Mary Lake. Campers at Rising Sun will enjoy beautiful sunrises in the morning with Red Eagle Mountain as a backdrop, and the campground serves as a convenient base camp to many day hikes located east of Logan Pass. Some sites are open, allowing for cool breezes throughout the day, while others are located among trees, accommodating those seeking some shade and privacy. Amenities include showers, flush toilets, a disposal station, camp store, restaurant, and nightly programming. Shuttle stop. Open early Jun to early Sep. $20 per night (2020 rates). (updated Jun 2020)
• 🌍 Sprague Creek (on the northeast shore of Lake McDonald approximately 9.5 miles (15.2 km) from the West Entrance of the park), ☏ +14068887800. 25 sites. All sites are first-come, first-served, and due to the size of this campground, it is suggested you arrive early. About a mile south of Lake McDonald Lodge, the Sprague Creek campground is sandwiched between Lake McDonald and Going-to-the-Sun-Road. Towed vehicles and RVs prohibited, and one group site reserved until 10PM for bicyclists or backpackers. The beauty of Lake McDonald is marred by the campground's proximity to the highway - traffic, including motorcycles, is both visible and audible well into the night. The campsite is not convenient to any trailheads so if you want to hike, plan to drive first. Flush toilets, picnic tables, and a communal bear box are provided. Evening programming at Lake McDonald Lodge. No showers. The campground is located within trees, providing shade during warm summers. Some sites near the shore have unobstructed views of Lake McDonald. Open early May to early Sep. $20 per night (2020 rates). (updated Jun 2020)
• 🌍 St. Mary (approximately one half mile west of the park boundary, near the town of St. Mary), ☏ +14068887800. 148 sites, 25 of which can accommodate RVs/trailers, 2 group sites. St. Mary campground is the largest campground on the east side of Glacier National Park and is open year round. Beautiful views of the lake, flush toilets, running water, shuttle service, and the small town of St Mary about half a mile away, outside the park. Though shade may be sparse, aspen trees grace St. Mary campground with soothing sounds from spring and summer breezes, and colorful splashes of yellow late in the season. St. Mary is one of two campgrounds in the park that take reservations, and advance reservations can be made online or by calling 1-800-365-2267. Open late May to early Sep. Free in winter, $10 from April to May 19, $20 from May 20-31, $23 in summer (2020 rates). (updated Jun 2020)
• 🌍 Two Medicine, East Glacier (approximately 13 miles from the small town of East Glacier Park on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation), ☏ +14068887800. 100 sites, 13 of which can accommodate RV/trailer up to 35 ft, 1 group site. All sites are first-come, first-served. Two Medicine is located approximately 13 miles from East Glacier. Sites are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Sites within the campground at Two Medicine are generally shaded by trees, and offer some privacy from other campers. Located on the shore of Pray Lake, the campground is also a short distance from Two Medicine Lake. There are numerous day hiking opportunities available, including a handicap accessible trail to Running Eagle Falls. Campstore in only building remaining of historic Two Medicine Chalet. Flush toilets. Open late May to late Sep. $10 per night off-season, $20 per night in summer (2020 rates). (updated Jun 2020)

Glacier National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the US for backcountry camping, and backcountry sites offer great opportunities for extended trips through some of the park's more remote areas. Backcountry camping permits ($4/night/person or $50 for the park for the year) are required and can be obtained from any of the visitor centers before 4:30 PM and within 24 hours of your departure on a first-come first-served basis. To be issued the permit, the member of your party designated as the "trip leader" will have to watch a 15-minute movie about safety precautions in Glacier National Park. All of the backcountry sites require reservations, and some sites fill up months in advance (especially Gunsight Lake, Lake Ellen Wilson, and Sperry campgrounds, along the Gunsight Pass Trail, among others). Advance reservations can be made by calling +1 406 888-7800. These cost extra. Trail status, campsite availability, and general information on Glacier's backcountry is available at a National Park Service website. Campgrounds generally have designated sites with tent pads and separate areas for cooking and eating, bearpoles (a convenient way to hang your food and scented items out of the reach of bears), and pit toilets (in which no toilet paper or other trash may be thrown). Campers are required to pack out all of their garbage; when you receive your permit a ranger will give you plastic bags for this purpose.

To ensure a safe and comfortable stay in the back-country of Glacier National Park, visitors are urged to bring their own backpackers' stove (not all campgrounds allow fires, and firewood may be hard to find in the winter), rope (about 40 feet to hang bags from bear pole), and water purification system (pump filter of 1 micron or less, chlorine or iodine tablets). None of the backcountry campsites have potable water. See section on Safety for more detailed information.

Outfitters in West Glacier can arrange all-inclusive guided backpacking trips.

Glacier National Park is the rare area of the United States where all of its pre-Columbian predators are still alive and well. The most dangerous of these are bears - both grizzly bears and the smaller black bears. The park is a great habitat for bears, and signs at every major trailhead warn that you are "entering grizzly country". Most hikers in the park prefer to buy bear spray (~$50, available at camping stores in West Glacier and St. Mary), which has a range of 30–40 feet and is known to deter a bear in the rare case that it becomes aggressive. The best precaution against bears, however, is to make noise while you are hiking to avoid surprising one and to allow it to identify you as human. When entering thickets or rounding corners, simply start talking to let any animals know you are coming. Some people carry whistles or bells to make noise on the trail, but others consider this measure useless or even counter-productive. Should you encounter a grizzly bear, avoid eye contact, turn sideways to appear smaller and less threatening, and slowly back away. It is rare that a bear would become aggressive, but if a grizzly bear charges, clacks its teeth, makes woofing or huffing noises, or waves its head from side to side, drop to the ground on your stomach or in the fetal position, protecting your face and neck (big backpacks are helpful for this). Most grizzly charges are "mock" charges, and while terrifying the bear normally turns away. During black bear encounters, gather your group together to appear as large as possible, and make noise to help the bear identify you. In the very rare case that the bear becomes aggressive, fight back. When you get your permit, you will be given up-to-date information about recent bear activity on your planned route. Pets are prohibited on trails because they may provoke bears.

Most bear encounters occur as a result of incorrect food storage. Bears are attracted to odors, so do not leave your pack unattended and be sure to hang any food, cooking equipment, scented toiletries, and clothes used for cooking from bear poles at night. Do not wash dishes or eat near your sleeping area as bears may come into camp looking for scraps. When leaving a car in the park overnight, remove all scented items (including toiletries) and store them in bear-proof lockers.

Other predators include mountain lions. While more reclusive than bears, mountain lions have still been known to maul hikers. If you encounter a mountain lion, make your self appear as large as possible and speak to it in a loud, firm voice.

It is essential to drink lots of water while you are hiking to avoid dehydration. Unless you are going on a very short hike, you should consider carrying at least 2 liters of water with you. If you will be going a long distance, make sure you know where you can get more water. Lakes, streams, and waterfalls are good sources but all water obtained in the backcountry should be purified with a hand pump (filter of at least 1 micron) or iodine or chlorine tablets to remove contamination by Giardia lamblia, a common parasite caused in Glacier Park mainly by beaver feces. Infection causes giardiasis, a type of gastroenteritis that manifests itself with severe diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Other symptoms can include bloating, flatulence, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and weight loss.

Weather can be unpredictable, and snow or rain are possible throughout the summer. Make sure to have a waterproof layer. In cold weather, bring a warm layer, and make sure if you're camping that your sleeping bag stays dry.

Rainfall can be frequent in the spring, late summer, and fall. The driest time of year is around the July 4th holiday. However, the highest elevations frequented by visitors normally have snow on the ground every month of the year except August (i.e. trail to Hidden Lake from Logan Pass). If you do come in August (the most popular month), have alternate plans in case it rains (see Go next section below). The east side has less rainfall than the west side does, so sometimes it can be wet on one side and sunny on the other. Go all the way east to the US 89 Hwy; just traveling a mile or two down the mountain pass is not sufficient.

Calling +1-800-226-7629 will provide you with information about weather and road conditions.

Wildfires are a natural part of the ecosystems in Glacier National Park. They are allowed but controlled by the National Park Service and fire response teams. Before you set out, check for fire warnings with a ranger. Trails in dry areas are sometimes closed due to high sensitivity to wildfires.