6 Takeaways From Our Latest Glacier National Park Trip
Glacier National Park is the kind of place that captures your heart the moment you arrive. With its dramatic mountain ranges, glacial lakes, and endless miles of trails, it’s no wonder it’s a bucket-list destination for so many. Our family recently revisited this breathtaking park, and while we had an unforgettable time, we came away with a few lessons and tips that will make future trips even better. Here are six takeaways from our latest adventure in Glacier National Park.
Glacier National Park is the kind of place that captures your heart the moment you arrive.
1. Take Your Time to Explore
Glacier National Park is massive, spanning over 1,500 square miles. With so much to see, it’s easy to feel like you need to cram everything into one trip. We learned the hard way that rushing between popular areas like Logan Pass and Many Glacier takes away from the experience.
Next time, we’re dedicating more time to fewer spots. Instead of trying to check off all the best hikes, we’ll linger at places like Avalanche Lake or the Trail of the Cedars to truly soak in the beauty.
Pro tip: Plan a few half-day or full-day excursions and leave room for spontaneity.
2. Start Early for the Best Views (and Parking)
One of the biggest challenges during the summer months is parking. The parking lots at popular trailheads, like Logan Pass and Hidden Lake Trail, fill up quickly—sometimes as early as 6 AM. Starting early not only secures a spot but also lets you enjoy the park during its quietest and most magical hours.
We caught sunrise at the Jackson Glacier Overlook one morning, and it was absolutely worth the early start. The soft light over the mountains and the tranquil atmosphere made it one of our favorite moments of the trip.
Read More: How to get your Going-to-the-Sun Road Pass
3. Pack the Right Gear
It’s no secret that Glacier’s wildlife, including grizzly bears, black bears, and mountain goats, is one of the park’s biggest draws. While spotting these animals from a safe distance is incredible, preparation is key.
Must-Have Items:
Bear spray: Essential for hiking—we always kept ours accessible.
Layered clothing: Weather changes quickly in the park, especially at higher elevations like the continental divide.
Plenty of snacks and water: Many areas, like the North Fork, are remote and don’t have nearby amenities.
Don’t forget to stop at a general store or the Apgar Visitor Center if you need last-minute supplies.
4. Shuttle Services Are a Game Changer
The shuttle services along the Sun Road were a lifesaver during this trip. With limited parking at major stops like Lake McDonald Lodge and Logan Pass, hopping on a shuttle made it easy to visit these iconic spots without the stress of finding a parking space.
The shuttles also gave us a chance to relax and take in the views along one of the most scenic drives in the United States. For families, it’s also a great way to keep kids engaged as they look out the windows for wildlife like bighorn sheep or mountain lions.
5. Don’t Skip Lesser-Known Areas
While the Going-to-the-Sun Road and Many Glacier are must-sees, Glacier is full of hidden gems that often get overlooked. We ventured to Two Medicine Lake on a whim and were blown away by its tranquility and stunning alpine meadows.
The North Fork area, including Bowman Lake, is another great spot for families seeking a quieter side of the park. The lack of crowds made it feel like we had the whole park to ourselves. These areas may require a little extra driving, but they’re well worth the effort.
Read More: How to Spend One Epic Day in Glacier National Park
6. Plan Around the Best Time to Visit
Timing is everything in Glacier. While the peak season in late June through early September offers the best weather and access to trails, it also comes with crowds. For fewer people and just as much beauty, consider visiting in early July or late September.
During our trip in early September, we noticed thinner crowds on trails like the Highline Trail and better parking availability at the West Glacier Entrance. The weather was still mild, and the fall colors were starting to peek through—a magical time to be in the park.
Bonus Tips for Your Glacier National Park Adventure
Ice Cream at Apgar Village: After a long hike, nothing beats a sweet treat from the gift shop in Apgar Village.
Boat Rides: Taking a boat ride on Swiftcurrent Lake or St. Mary Lake is a relaxing way to see the park from a different perspective.
Short Hikes for Kids: Trails like Trail of the Cedars and the Hidden Lake Trail are perfect for families with younger kids. Both offer spectacular views with minimal effort.
Dining Options: The Lake McDonald Lodge has a cozy atmosphere and hearty meals to refuel after a day on the trails.
Final Thoughts
Every trip to Glacier National Park teaches us something new, and this visit was no exception. From the importance of starting early to the joy of discovering lesser-known corners of the park, our family came away with unforgettable memories and a renewed appreciation for this crown of the continent.
Have you visited Glacier National Park? What are your favorite spots or tips for making the most of a trip? Let us know in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow us on socials and sign up for our newsletter for more family travel inspiration and tips to plan your next great adventure. Let’s explore together!