Glacier National park
GPS:; Elevation: 4670 ft.
website
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www.nps.gov/glac
blog/facebook/social media site
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facebook page, frequently updated
Maps
Getting Oriented to the Park
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Glacier was established in 1910 and encompasses
1.4 million acres. It is a big place and visitors could easily spend a week or
more taking it in. But, most visitors just won't have the time. Even if you
plan a several day trip to Glacier, places are far away, roads are few and can
be quite crowded, and weather is unpredictable. To make the most of your trip,
try to focus on no more than one area per day.
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One Day? If you only have one day, do The Going
to the Sun Road, with stops along the way.
When
to go: Glacier gets two million visitors, almost all of them in July and
August. If you don't like crowds, you either need to go in June or September or
you need to get off the main drag. In
early June, snow may limit your ability to get around, depending on the
accumulation that year. September usually has less risk of snow but it can be
cold. Expect The Going to the Sun Road to be open for sure by the end of June,
but the actual opening date depends on the snowfall that year. Hikers and
cyclists can use the road unimpeded before it opens to cars.
Deciding
where to go: First, you need to figure out if you are going to arrive from
the west or east side. They are quite different visibly, though both sides have
full services. The east side has wide open vistas that seem to encompass the
entire Eastern part of the United States. On the West side, you are surrounded
by mountains, forests and lakes. Once
you've determined which side you'll enter, take a look at the Areas below to
orient yourself to what each area has to offer. When you enter the park, you'll
get the Glacier Park Newspaper telling you what's going on and where. Take a
few minutes to look through that (or better yet, download it before you go so
you can make your plans around the activities you hope to include). Most of Glacier is back country and most
visitors will stick to Going to the Sun Road and the Many Glaciers area, just
north and east of the road, and accessible only from the east side of the park.
Getting
Around
Glacier uses a shuttle on the Going to the
Sun Road (see below).
A free shuttle takes visitors around Apgar
Village, connecting the campground, the village and the Transit Center every
15-30 minutes from 7am-7pm.
Glacier Park, Inc offers a shuttle between
West Glacier and Apgar Village or Lake McDonald Lodge (406-892-2525,
www.glacierparkinc.com).
Going
to the Sun Road: (Detailed road description below under scenic drives) The
park is divided by 52m Going to the Sun Road which runs through the southern
end of the park from east to west. The road tends to open in late June, with
earliest opening May 16 and latest on July 13. The road is regularly repaired
at the beginning of each season, so closures and very slow traversing are not
unusual in June. In fact, on one of our trips, we spent several hours on the
road because half of it has been washed out the night before, and there was
only one lane left. Don't plan on getting across the road quickly. Not only is
its condition unpredictable, almost every visitor (all 2 million!) use this
road to get through the park. Travel early in the morning (before 8am) if you
are in a hurry. No trailers over 20ft are allowed to go over Logan Pass and
will have to turn around before reaching it.
Weather:
The continental divide runs through the park and affects weather. The east side
of the park is the higher side of the park and tends to be warmer, windier and
dryer. The west side of the park tends to be cooler, less windy and wetter. On
our first visit to Glacier, my husband and I stepped out of our car at the same
moment, opening the doors on both sides, literally everything that wasn't
pinned down blew out of the car and we spent the first fifteen minutes running
around the parking lot trying to gather up everything. No matter how warm you
were before you traveled to Glacier, do not be surprised if Glacier is cold.
Packing:
Weather is unpredictable in Glacier, really, really unpredictable. So come
prepared. Bring a rain jacket and a wind breaker and water proof hiking shoes. A
fleece is great in case the temps happen to plunge 20 or 30 degrees. Carry that
fleece with you if you go on a long trail. You might start out at 80 degrees
and end up at 50. If you plan on doing any hiking at high elevations, you might
consider bringing crampons or other appropriate footwear for slippery icy
conditions.
Wildlife:
Bring your favorite bear repellent. Some people swear by bells, others by
pepper spray and still others think talking is enough. We've been to Glacier
three times, traveled in three different areas and have had close encounters
with bears each time.
Areas (listed from West to East)
Below, you will find a description of each area of the park.
Details about lodging, dining, hiking and other activities are listed under
each heading by area.
Polebridge
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Seldom visited area of the park, 20 miles north
of West Glacier with limited services (including no electricity) and accessed
over a dirt road. It's easiest to get here on the Outside North Fork Rd, but
the inside North Fork Rd will also take you here. There are a few lodging
options, a store (with great baked goods!) and no electricity. This area is
commonly referred to as North Fork Country because it is drained by the North
Fork of the Flathead River, and is vast, a mixture of prairie grasslands and
lodgepole and ponderosa forest. In the distance are the remote peaks of the
Livingston Range. Prime wildlife viewing area.
See Map for Polebridge and North Fork below in
Hiking.
West Glacier
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The West Entrance area is a commercial area
along the southwest side of Lake McDonald. Visitors will find all services
available here.
Camas Road
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11mile road goes Northwest from the Going to the
Sun Road. Scenic drive has no services but access to the back country.
Lake McDonald/Apgar
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Inside the park's West entrance, Apgar Village
rests on the north shore of Lake McDonald. Going to the Sun Road has its
western terminus here. Lake McDonald is Glacier's biggest lake at ten miles
long and 472ft deep. In early mornings and at dusk, the pictures are incredible
over the glassy lake with the mountains in the background . The lake is fed by
upper McDonald Creek and gets its water from snow melt making for very cold,
crystal clear water.
Logan Pass
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The main visitor center is located here. Logan
pass crosses the Continental Divide at 6646 ft. Good wildlife viewing area
where the Marmot, Pikas and Mountain Goats have gotten pretty accustomed to
people.
Heads up: in July and August, the parking lot here
gets packed. Want to make sure you get a parking place? Arrive before noon.
Rising Sun
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Small area of basic services including, lodging,
camping, small store, restaurant and a boat dock.
St Mary
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The most commercial area of Glacier on the
eastern side. The Going to the Sun road has its eastern terminus here. St Mary
lake is ten miles long and this area is a mix of lake, prairie and waterfalls.
Cut Bank
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primitive area just south of St Mary Lake with a
campground and ranger station accessed over 5 miles on a dirt road. There is
also a larger town in Montana, an hour from Glacier, called Cut Bank. This
campground is NOT that town.
Many Glacier
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Just north of St Mary near the town of Babb on
Hwy. 464. Small picnic area. One of the most beautiful valleys in the park.
Bring binoculars to view bears on the hillside north of the hotel.
East Glacier
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Small village with full services including car
rentals, golf, laundry, etc. No car mechanic, however.
Walton and Essex
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Southern tip of the park
Laundry
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East Glacier
Swiftcurrent motor lodge has laundry facilities
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West Glacier
Laundry is available behind the Glacier Raft
Co., 2m from the Village Inn
West Glacier Laundromat sits behind the
Alberta Visitor Information Center
West Glacier KOA and West Glacier Campground
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St Mary
Laundromat is at St Mary Lodge (behind the
convenience store), St Mary KOA and Johnsons
Grocery
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Not surprisingly, Groceries in the park are
expensive. Outside, gateway towns will have cheaper supplies. The two closest
towns are Columbia Falls (Super 1 Foods, 2100 9th St W) on the southwest side
and Browning (Teeples IGA, 209 W Central Ave) on the southeast side both on
Hwy. 2.
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Polebridge
Polebridge Mercantile, 265 Polebridge Loop,
406-888-5105, www.polebridgemercantile.com, 8am-6pm, groceries, coffee, home
baked treats, gas, propane, beer, coffee
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West Glacier
West Glacier
Mercantile, Going to the Sun Rd, 406-888-5403, www.westglacier.com, fresh
produce, fishing supplies, sandwiches, beer and wine, camping supplies,
firewood
Glacier General
Store and Cabins, 10630 Hwy. 2 East, 406-871-3746, glaciercabins.net, 5m from
West Glacier entrance, wifi, convenience store items mostly snacks
Heads up: tends to be a bit less of a mark up on the
shop goods
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Apgar/Lake McDonald
Lake McDonald Campstore, camping, hiking and
fishing supplies and groceries
Eddie's Cafe and Gifts, 406-888-5361,
eddiescafegifts.com
Groceries and camp supplies
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Rising Sun
Rising Sun Motor Inn Campstore, groceries, beer and
wine, camping, hiking and fishing gear
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St Mary
Country Market, at St Mary's Lodge, 7am-10pm,
bakery, beer, wine, fishing supplies
Park Cafe, 406-732-4482, parkcafe.us,
7:30-10pm, great beer selection and convenient store items
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East Glacier
Glacier Park
Trading Company, 316 Hwy. 2, 406-226-9227, facebook page, a bit of everything
including fresh baked pastries, fudge
Brownies Grocery,
1020 Hwy. 49, 406-226-4426, brownieshostel.com,
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Many Glacier
Thronson's General Store, 4013 Hwy. 89,
Babb, 406-732-5530, facebook page, 9am-6pm, convenience store items, no alcohol
Swiftcurrent Campstore, Many Glacier Rd,
406-892-2525, 7am-10pm, snacks, camping, fishing and hiking gear, beverages
Heidi's Snack Shop and espresso stand,
basement of Many Glacier Hotel, 406-892-2525, 8am-9pm, bakery items and
sandwiches
Activities
Visitor Center
West Glacier
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Glacier (Natural History) Association, 12544
Hwy. 2, located in the historic Belton Railway Station, 406-888-5756,
www.glacierassociation.com, 8am-4:30pm
Excellent source for posters, books and maps with a
focus on natural history including flora and fauna as well as geology and
culture.
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Alberta Tourist Information Center, 125 Going to
the Sun Road, 406-888-5403
Mini museum and an emphasis on visitors heading over
the border into Waterton Glacier National peace Park and Alberta..
Lake McDonald/Apgar
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Apgar Visitor Center, 406-888-7800, 8-6, hub for
Glacier free shuttle bus
Visual displays and electronic kiosks introduce
visitors to the park. Across the street is a small cabin, which is staffed by
interpretive rangers and focuses on wildlife, geology and natural history of
the park.
Logan Pass
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Logan Pass Visitor Center, Going to the Sun
Road, 34m from West Glacier entrance, 406-888-7800, 8am-4:30 seasonal, books,
maps, no food service
Rangers staff the two level center and give
ten minute talks on the high alpine environment. The unusual structure is built
to reflect the mountain behind it and almost blends into the hillside. Often
possible to see the white mountain goats so common in this alpine park. On cold
days, visitors can view the outside scenery from inside the toasty visitor
center.
Heads up: at the height of summer season,
this parking lot is often jammed packed. Arrive early to ensure a parking spot.
St. Mary Visitor Center
St Mary
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St Mary Visitor Center, seasonal hours, transit
center, slide presentation
Largest visitor complex in the park. The building
itself, part of the Mission 66 building project, was completed in 1967 and
combines native stone with timber to create a center in harmony with the
surrounding environment. Exhibits include an interactive section that showcases
the main Native tribes of the area, the Blackfeet, Salish, Kootenai and Pend
d'Oreille. It's an excellent place to get an introduction to the history of the
area. Local artist exhibits are also featured.
Horseback Riding
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West Glacier
Swan Mountain
Outfitters, West Glacier Corral is located behind the Rawhide trading post at
12000 Hwy. 2 East, 406-387-4405, www.swanmountainoutfitters.com, one hour $40,
half day $115
Trail rides for a couple of hours or a couple of
days. Check out the ride
schedule and fees. You can get meals catered by Glacier Rawhide.
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Apgar
Swan Mountain Outfitters, Apgar Corral follow signs on Hwy. 2
inside Glacier West Entrance to Horseback Rides, 406-387-4405, www.swanmountainoutfitters.com,
one hour $40, half day $115
Trail rides for a couple of hours or a couple of days. Rafting
and riding combinations are also offered. Check out the ride
schedule and fees.
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Lake McDonald
Swan Mountain Outfitters, east side of Lake McDonald, Entrance
to Horseback Rides, 406-387-4405, www.swanmountainoutfitters.com, one hour $40,
half day $115
Trail rides for a couple of hours or a couple of days. . Check
out the ride
schedule and fees
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Many Glaciers
Swan Mountain Outfitters, located across the parking lot from
the Many Glacier Hotel, Entrance to Horseback Rides, 406-387-4405, www.swanmountainoutfitters.com, one hour $40,
half day $115
Trail rides for a couple of hours or a couple of days. .
Check out the ride
schedule and fees.
Fishing
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West Glacier
Wild River Adventures, 11900 Hwy. 2 East,
800-700-7056, www.riverwild.com, half and full day fishing and fishing school.
Great Northern Glacier Park and Resort
Rafting, 12127 Hwy. 2 East, 800-735-7897, www.glacierparkraft.com, fly fishing
Glacier Raft Co, 12400 Hwy. 2 East,
800-235-6781, www.glacierraftco.com, half and full day guided fishing and
fishing lessons. Also multi-day fishing trips and pond fishing.
Rafting and Boating
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Motorboats are only allowed on Lake McDonald,
Sherburne Lake, St. Mary Lake, Two Medicine lake and Waterton Lake. Boats over
12ft must be registered and must be launched from a boat ramp. Most bodies of
water are open to non-motor boats but occasionally closed to protect wildlife
so check with rangers. No personal watercraft or airboats are allowed on waters
in the park.
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West Glacier
Wild River Adventures, 11900 Hwy. 2 East, 800-700-7056,
www.riverwild.com, half, full and multi-day rafting, kayaking, dinner and float
trips.
Half day trips depart at 10:30-12:30-2 and 4 for 2-4
hours, $42 youth and $52 adult.
Great Northern Glacier Park and Resort Rafting, 12127 Hwy. 2
East, 800-735-7897, www.glacierparkraft.com, half and full day rafting, dinner
trips and scenic floats as well as inflatable kayak rentals.
Half day class 2 and 3 rafting departs at 10:15, 11:15, 2:15
and 3:15 and last 2-4 hours, $42 youth, $52 adult.
Glacier Raft Co, 12400 Hwy. 2 East, 800-235-6781, www.glacierraftco.com,
float, raft and kayak rental, reservations required
Half day class II-IV trips depart at 10, 11, 12, 1:30, 2:30
and 4pm and last 2-4 hours, $42 youth, $52 adult. Float and dinner cruises are
also offered.
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Lake McDonald
Glacier park boats, 406-257-2426, www.glacierparkboats.com,
info@glacierparkboats.com, cruises and row boat and power boat rentals, $16.25
adults, $8 kids for cruise
Scenic hour long cruises.
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Many Glacier
Glacier park boats, 406-257-2426, www.glacierparkboats.com,
info@glacierparkboats.com, cruises and row boat and kayak rentals, $24 adults,
$12 kids for cruise
Scenic 1.5 hour long cruises and optional guided hikes
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St Mary Lake
Glacier park boats, 406-257-2426, www.glacierparkboats.com,
info@glacierparkboats.com, cruises, $24 adults, $12 kids for cruise
Scenic 1.5 hour long cruises with optional guided hikes.
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East Glacier/Two Medicine
Glacier park boats, 406-257-2426, www.glacierparkboats.com,
info@glacierparkboats.com, cruises, kayak, canoe and motorboat rentals, $12
adults, $6 kids for cruise
Scenic 45 min long cruises with optional guided hikes.
Biking
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There are not a lot of good biking options in
Glacier. Bikers are not allowed on trails, but they may be ridden on roads.
Going to the Sun Road has strict limitations at the busiest times. Check with
rangers for bike closures. There are no bike rentals in the park.
·
Going to the Sun Road, starts either at St.
Marys or West Glacier, 3300 ft over 32 miles from the Apgar Visitor Center to
Logan Pass, average gradient is 5.7%.
This is one hard but beautiful ride and can only be
done at certain times. Check with rangers for riding limitations. If the road
is open to biking and you do attempt to tackle it, some things to keep in mind,
there is NO shoulder for most of the road, and the road can be VERY busy in
season. There are many blind and winding curves. Having said all that, many see
this as one of the most do rides in the country.
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North Fork Area
North Fork Rd is a 14m gravel road with an optional
6m excursion to Bowman Lake. This is probably one of the best rides in the park
for a sturdy bike. It's not much traveled and the views are great.
·
Two Medicine Area
Two Medicine Road,
begins 4m North of East Glacier, 9m road that runs on the north side of Lower
Two Medicine Lake and often provides bear views. The road is fairly easy to
Running Eagle Trick Falls.
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Many Glacier Area
Many Glacier Road,
12m bumpy ride
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West Glacier Area
Old Flathead
Ranger Station Ride, go towards the Glacier Park Institute past the horse
corals to a gravel road and then towards the Old Flathead River Ranger Station
trail, 10m RT, easy
Dirt trail that was once a road accessible to bikes
and hikers but not to cars. Road travels through a forest and leads to a high
bluff overlooking the Middle Fork and North Fork of the Flathead River.
Historic Tamarack
Lodge, 9549 Hwy. 2 East, 877-387-4420, historictamaracklodge.com, bike rentals
McDonald Creek
Bike Path, 50yards south of Apgar Visitors Center, 2m asphalt path from West
Glacier to Apgar Visitor Center
Camas Rd, Camas rd
is cleared fairly early in the season and is a good paved route in the late
spring and early fall. See information under scenic drives. Connects to the
North Fork Rd (see above).
Hiking
North Fork
·
North Fork area has secluded, quiet, often with
wildlife viewing trails, but views are in short supply. Most trails wind
through woods or burned out forest only opening up to vistas at their ends.
Most trails in this area are open in May
North Fork Area
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Trails at or near Bowman Lake Ranger Station (directions
to Ranger Station area: on MT 486, turn right onto Polebridge Loop and in .3m
turn left to stay on Polebridge Loop. In .7m continue on Glacier Dr for 1 mile
to the turn off for Bowman Lake Rd. It's 5.5m on Bowman Lake Rd.). Trails start
at the south end of Bowman Lake.
o
Akokala Lake Trail, 5.8m, elevation gain 1000ft,
starts at Bowman Lake campground
Meadows, lakes and rolling hills take hikers to
Akokala Lake, framed by beautiful mountain ranges
o
Numa Lookout, 11m RT, elevation gain 2380ft,
starts at Bowman Lake Ranger Station and follows the west side of the Lake to a
trail turn off to the north.
Trail starts out in the forests and then rises above
the tree line for some excellent views, ending up at the Fire Lookout. It's
hard to describe the 360 degree views from the lookout.
o
Lower Quartz Lake, 7mRT, elevation gain 1200ft,
trail starts at Bowman Lake Picnic Area and goes northeast
Out and back trail to Lower Quartz Lake through
meadows and forest and up the crest for great views
o
Bowman Lake Trail, 14m RT, rolling hills, park
at the self registration bulletin board and then follow the trail through the
pines toward the lake. Turn left on the road and bear right onto the trail past
the ranger cabin to the Upper Bowman campground.
Trail runs along the west side of Bowman Lake,
following the lake most of the way.
o
Quartz Lake Loop, 13m loop, begins at the foot
of Bowman Lake, just east of the picnic site
Trail heads out along the south edge of
Bowman lake and then across the meadows and forests and up the crest for great
views and then to Middle Quartz Lake and then south to the east side of Lower
Quartz Lake, winding back to Bowman Lake.
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Trails at or near Polebridge Lake Ranger Station
o
Covey Meadow Loop Trail, 1.5m, 200 ft elevation
change, rolling hills, starts near Polebridge Ranger Station off Inside North
Fork Rd
Trail moves through the remains of the Red Bench Fire
of 1988 and through meadows of wildflowers. Wildlife often wander the edges of
the open area. In the distance, the Livingston range is visible for most of the
hike.
·
Cyclone Lookout, 5m RT, 1000ft elevation change,
turn left from North Fork Rd onto Hay Creek and follow signs to Cyclone Peak
Trail starts on a road and then narrows to a trail of
gentle switchbacks. In spring, the trail is accessible early and in August, you
can pick huckleberries (but the bears like these as well!). Views out over
Glacier from the peak.
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Hornet Lookout, 2m RT, begins at Rd #9805
Trail travels up through some burned out forest and
meadows with wildflowers. Lookout is not used as a fire tower but is available
for campers to rent. This is also Grizzly bear territory.
·
Trails at or near Kintla Lake Campground, 15m of
rough road from Polebridge
o
Kintla Lake, 6.4m
Trail is used mostly for long backpacking trips.
o
Boulder Pass Trail, 17.5m overnight trail
West Glacier
·
Apgar Lookout Trail, 7m RT, 1845ft elevation
gain, follow the road after the West Glacier Entrance Station that goes to the
Glacier Institute to just before the horse corral with a left at the Y-junction
onto a rough dirt road for 2 miles (do not take 2-wheel drive when its wet)
Trail starts on an easy road and then starts
climbing on switchbacks. Hikers who make the effort to take this trail will be
rewarded at the end with views across Lake McDonald and the mountains in the
distance. On a clear day, the vibrant colors just beg for pictures. Most of the
trail climbs up through a burned out forest with only limited views until the
top. Visitors can climb up the no longer used fire tower.
Heads up: tends to be a good early season
hike when temps are a bit cooler. No shade on this hike.
Camas
·
Forest and Fire Nature Trail (previously the
Huckleberry Mountain nature trail), .9mRT, no elevation gain, turn south on the
paved road between the Camas creek entrance station and the Glacier National
park entrance sign
Trail guide available explaining the effects of fire
on the forest.
·
Huckleberry Lookout, 12m RT, 2725ft elevation
gain, 6m up the Camas Road from Apgar Village
This is an incredible trail that starts on a level
grade in dense forest and then starts climbing. It's a gentle but steady climb
with really amazing views from the ridge line. The lookout at the end of the
trail is staffed. And the huckleberries draw bears, so in late summer the trail
is often closed by rangers.
Lake McDonald/Apgar
·
Trails in this area start from Sperry Trailhead,
across from Lake McDonald Lodge, park on the east side of Lake McDonald Lodge.
Trails climb steeply through several switchbacks before branching off for the
individual destinations
·
Fish Lake, 6m RT, 1000 ft elevation change,
This peaceful trail winds up through old growth forest to
Fish Lake. There are no views on this trail. Expect use by horses as well.
·
Snyder Lake Trail, 8.7mRT, 2100 ft elevation
change
After the steep beginning, the trail becomes more gradual. Trail
follows Snyder Creek through a Riparian environment that is well-forested and
also good bear territory. Almost to the end of the trail you'll come out
overlooking the lake and then hike down towards it. The lake is surrounded by
towering mountains.
·
Sperry Glacier Trail, 4mRT, 1500 ft elevation
change, starts at Sperry Chalet
Continues from the Chalet above the tree line, past
waterfalls, lakes and with spectacular views. At the end of the trail, it's
possible to move out onto the glacier.
Sperry Glacier
·
Sperry Chalet Trail, 13.3m RT, 3300 ft elevation
change
This steep trail climbs up to a warm Chalet where you can
have lunch, spend the night or just rest before returning. You won't see the
chalet until near the end of the trail when the views open up.
·
Mt Brown Lookout, 11mRT, 4200ft elevation change,
take Sperry trailhead to turnoff 1.6m
This is the steepest day trail in the park. Expect use
by horses as well. Trail climbs steadily
and steeply until the end. Trail passes through huckleberry bushes, prime bear
habitat, so hikers are advised to make their presence known. No views for a few
miles but then the trail starts to open up. At the top, at 7500ft, a lookout
tower provides 360 degree views.
·
John's Lake Loop, 3mRT, 160ft elevation gain, north
of McDonald Lodge on the opposite side of the road,
Trail climbs gradually to a pond that has been given the name
"Johns Lake". The pond is
usually still and covered in lily pads, but you can see the mountains in the
lake. Trail also passes Mc Donald Falls, a 15ft drop of roaring water in the
wide
·
McDonald Falls, starts at John's Lake, stairs
descend to viewing area.
·
Trail of the Cedars Nature Trail, .5m, begins
across from the Avalanche Campground Ranger Station, 5.5m north of Lake Mc
Donald Lodge
Easy hike through a lush forest of Cedar. Trail follows
several boardwalks through the forest to Avalanche Gorge and some excellent
picture opportunities. At the Gorge, smooth rock guides roaring water through
the tightened channel.
·
Avalanche Lake trail, 4m RT, 730ft elevation
change, begins across from the Avalanche Campground Ranger Station, 5.5m north
of Lake Mc Donald Lodge
Take the eastern side of the Trail of the Cedars Nature trail
loop to the beginning of the Avalanche trail. Once you turn onto the trail,
you'll be in for a steep, quick climb that levels out through dense forest
along Avalanche Creek. Once at the lake, you'll see Bearhat Mountain rising
8694ft and Little Matterhorn to the south, at 7886ft elevation. Trail continues
around the lake for a bit. Also accesses John's Lake trail.
Old Growth Forest on Avalanche Lake Trail
Logan Pass
·
Loop Trail, 7.6m, 2000ft elevation gain
Hearty hikers attempt this trail from its beginning
in Logan Pass. Most hikers are actually coming down from the Highline trail and
only experience the elevation as a loss. Trail is not particularly scenic,
particularly with the recent burned over areas. Trail is shortest option to
Granite Park Chalet.
·
Hidden lake overlook (Hanging Gardens), 3m, 540ft
elevation change, starts at Logan pass visitor center,
Out the back of the visitor center, climb
the stairs and stay to the right to the Hanging Gardens trailhead. You'll hike
through alpine meadows known as Hanging Gardens. The trail is completely
exposed so expect sun, wind and/or rain. Trail follows a brief boardwalk and
then past a couple of ponds. Expect a bit of snow year round. You'll cross the
continental divide on the trail.
Heads up: one of the most popular hikes in
the park and can be very crowded. We did this hike one year with a group of
10-12 from age 3-80 in the midst of the snow. Some of us didn't make it very
far but for those of us who went high up, coming down was like foot sledding,
fast, slippery and often air borne.
Meadows on Hidden Lake Trail
·
Highline trail, 11m, 830ft elevation change,
starts at Logan pass visitor center, spectacular views
Trail is used to get to Granite Park Chalet
but is also open for general hikers. Panoramic views and mountain goats are
usually seen. There are some "technical" places on this hike that
older kids will like, including cables
bolted to the wall along a thin ledge with the Going to Sun Road below. And,
you'll often spot mountain goats, waterfalls and lake and mountain views. Lots of great wildflowers, especially bear
grass. Turn off to Grinnell Glacier Overlook.
Heads up: parts of this trail are dangerous.
Hiker have died up here. It's a good trail for extra caution and not for young
children.
Sun Point
·
St Mary's Falls Trailhead. Parking can be a
problem here, so the shuttle is recommended.
o
St Mary Falls, 2m RT, 215ft elevation gain
This short trail gives visitors a cool walk through
Douglas fir and Maple and a flowering meadow to a cool view. The Piegan Pass
trail is accessible about 2/3rd the way to the falls.
o
Virginia Falls, 3.6m RT, 525ft elevation gain
The hike begins with views of Mountains in all
directions and then enters the dense pine forest. You'll pass St Mary's fall, a
cool refreshing stop no matter what time of year. Continuing on the way to Virginia Falls,
you'll pass a several other falls until you reach the Virginia Falls viewpoint.
The St Mary Lake Trail is accessible at the end of this trail.
·
Siyeh Pass Trailhead at Sunrift Gorge Parking
Area
·
Baring Falls, .6m loop, 160ft elevation change,
begins at Siyeh Pass Trail, almost 10m west of Saint Mary Entrance or 2.2m east
of Logan Pass at the Sun Rift Gorge parking area, (or from the Sun Point
parking area, head west on the trail to Sun Rift Gorge).
Follow
the Siyeh Pass trail to a trail junction and turn right to a footbridge that
leads to the falls, at the edge of St Mary Lake.
·
Siyeh Pass, from Piegan pass trailhead 2240ft
elevation gain over 4.7m; from Sunrift Gorge trailhead, 3340ft in 5.6m.
Trail
branches off from the Jackson Glacier Overlook (Piegan Pass side) and through a
spruce forest until the trail starts to climb moving out of the forest and up
into the meadows that are a popular bear spot. As the trail opens up, mountain
views dominate. Trail ends overlooking a snow field and views of 8900ft Goat
Mountain. Trail is the highest elevation in the park.
·
Sun point nature trail, 1m self-guided trail,
starts at Sun Point parking area
Leads along the shores and cliffs of Saint Mary Lake
to the view point.
·
Jackson Glacier Overlook Trailhead/Gunsight Pass
trailhead (most trails run south of the road; the Piegan Pass trail can be
accessed here and it goes North of the road)
Trail drops down 650ft at the beginning of the trail
passing through some good grizzly bear fodder, so keep an eye out. Turn off to
St Mary Falls. Trail continues along Reynolds creek.
o
Deadwood Falls, 2.3m, 665ft elevation gain
Continue along Reynolds creek until you arrive at the
falls. The ten foot falls tumbles into a crystal clear pool. Good place for a
picnic.
o
Gunsight Lake, 12.6m RT, 1500ft elevation gain
Trail passes several falls including
Deadwood falls then to the Gunsight Lake junction. You'll pass through the
forest with occasional views of Mirror Pond and Mount Jackson, Gunsight
Mountain. Look carefully at Mirror pond where you might spot a moose. A side trail
heads off to Florence Falls. Soon after the side trail, you'll come out of the
woods, pass some Avalanche damaged areas and eventually come to the lake with
mountains all around. You can continue up to Gunsight Pass, a 1600ft, 1.5m
addition to the hike. You can take this trail to the Sperry Chalet, a 13.3m
hike.
heads up: can be a very mosquito filled hike
o
Florence Falls, 9.8m, 975ft elevation change,
eastern end of the parking area at the Piegan pass Trail.
Trail passes several falls including Deadwood falls.
The trail continues in the forest for most of its length and the damp area is
also a good place to see moose. Florence is a large, cascading falls.
Rising Sun
·
Otokomi Lake (Rose Creek Trail), 11mRT, 1900ft
elevation gain, beyond Rising Sun Motor Inn cabin 9a
You'll walk past rental cabins at Rising Sun to a
steep climb through a pine forest along the southern slopes of Otokomi Mountain
with Rose Creek below. You can get pictures of the gorge carved by the creek
periodically through the dense forest. Occasional waterfalls can also be seen.
Keep an eye out at the lake for moose.
St Mary
·
Beaver Pond Trail, 3.6m RT, 350 elevation gain, east
side of Historic 1913 Ranger Station Parking Lot,
Hike the loop in a clockwise direction for the
easiest hike and the best views. Starts out flat, passing the ranger station,
then through a stand of pines and another strand of burned acres along the
ridge where wildflowers are often visible through early summer. The pond is
excellent moose habitat.
·
Red Eagle Lake, 15mRt, 200ft elevation gain, Historic
1913 Ranger Station parking lot
Hike the loop in a
clockwise direction for the easiest hike and the best views. Starts out flat,
passing the ranger station, then through a stand of pines and another strand of
burned acres along the ridge where wildflowers are often visible. The pond is
excellent moose habitat. Continue to the Red Eagle trail junction and turn
left. The trail will descend towards St Mary Lake and past another beaver pond.
East Glacier/Two Medicine
·
South Shore Trailhead, the views from this
trailhead make it a worthwhile visit even you don't do the trails. In the
distance the mountains are reflected in the lake.
Head out on the trail looking for your
particular trail branch. First, though, you'll come to the turn off for
Paradise Point, a small side trail with startling views of Two Medicine Lake
and Rising Wolf Mountain. Several beaver ponds are also on the trail, prime
habitat for moose.
Two Medicine Lake
·
Cobalt Lake Trail, 11m RT, 1450 ft elevation
gain
passing
through Beaver ponds, forests, meadows and across a suspension bridge to climb
up some switchbacks to a valley and some huckleberries (yep, bears love them so
keep an eye out) to end at Cobalt Lake with excellent mountain views.
·
Aster Falls, 2.8m RT, 320ft elevation gain
The trail takes hikers to a 20ft waterfall. Continue
up 500ft to the Aster Overlook
·
Rockwell Falls, 7mRT, 375ft elevation gain
Pass over the suspension bridge where you'll have the
option of heading to Two Medicine lake to take a boat back to the trailhead or
continue towards Rockwell falls. Rockwell is a combo of two falls although the
second is a bit difficult to see because its one hundred feet behind the
forward one.
·
Appistoki Falls, 1.2m RT, 175ft elevation gain,
begins 2.7m west of the two medicine entrance station
Follow the short side trail about 1/2m into the hike
that leads to the falls.
·
Two Medicine Boat Dock
·
Twin Falls, 2.3m RT using the boat , 115ft
elevation gain, start the hike from the boat landing
A short boardwalk takes hikers over a sensitive boggy
area to a trail junction which you want to follow straight and across a
footbridge to another trail junction which you will follow on the Upper Two
Medicine Lake Trail. Before the next creek crossing, take the side trail
leading to Twin falls.
·
Upper Two Medicine Lake, 4.8m RT, 350ft
elevation gain (from North Shore trailhead add 4.8m; from South Shore trailhead
add 6.4m)
A short boardwalk takes hikers over a sensitive boggy
area to a trail junction which you want to follow straight and across a
footbridge to another trail junction which you will follow on the Upper Two
Medicine Lake Trail. The lake is 5500ft elevation.
·
No Name Lake, 5.4m, 905ft elevation gain (from
North Shore trailhead add 4m)
A short boardwalk takes hikers over a sensitive boggy
area to a trail junction which you want to follow straight to the North Shore
Trail junction. Turn right up to the Dawson Pass Trail and turn left where the
trail starts to climb on the Dawson Pass Trail to the No Name Lake Trail
junction, follow down to the lake. This small lake has a beach and a few tent
sites.
·
Dawson Pass, 9.4m RT, 2450ft elevation gain
(from North Shore trailhead, add 4m)
A short boardwalk takes hikers over a sensitive boggy
area to a trail junction which you want to follow straight to the North Shore
Trail junction. Turn right up to the Dawson Pass Trail and turn left where the
trail starts to climb on the Dawson Pass Trail. Eventually, you'll read the
Bighorn Basin where you might be lucky to see some Bighorn. Eventually, you'll
rise above the tree line and start to get some incredible views as you cross
the Continental Divide. As you reach the pass, expect cold temps and often,
lots of wind.
·
Running Eagle Falls (also known as Trick Falls),
.6m no elevation gain, 1m west of the Two Medicine Entrance Station
Lovely, short accessible trail to a double waterfall
although most visitors will only see one because they overlap one another.
North of Going to the Sun Road
Many Glacier
·
Iceberg Lake Trailhead, behind the cabins near
the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn. Not a lot of parking here.
Trails start with a steep climb to the Ptarmigan
Trail, rising 185ft in 1/4m. At the top of the climb, turn left. A turn to the
right leads to the Many Glacier Hotel. As you continue your hikes in this area,
keep in mind that this is prime bear territory, and it's not unusual for the
trail to be closed because of recent bear activity.
·
Iceberg Lake Trail, begins in Many Glacier
Valley, 9.7m, 1200ft elevation gain
Trail
climbs along the side of the mountains in the Valley with wide open views of
flowers and mountains. The vistas include far off snow fields and Ptarmigan
wall with over 1500 ft of wall visible above the meadows The trail ends at
Iceberg lake, a perpetually shade lake that has small icebergs floating in it.
We encountered a baby bear on this trail on our last visit. Be bear aware and
bear prepared.
·
Ptarmigan Falls, 5m RT, 768ft elevation gain
At 2.5m along the trail, you'll have a rather poor
view of the falls. Turn around here if you only want a 5m hike.
·
Ptarmgian Tunnel, 10.7m RT, 2300ft elevation
gain
After the falls, cross a footbridge over Ptarmigan
Creek and continue on the Ptarmigan trail.
Most people go to Iceberg lake at the junction so continuing on the
Ptarmigan trail is less busy but it's also quite steep, climbing 400ft in a
little over 1/2m. Lots of huckleberries here and likely bear stop. Directly
ahead above you will be the Ptarmigan tunnel and eventually views of the
ptarmigan wall with over 1500ft visible above the meadow. Waterfalls tumble
down Ptarmigan creek below the valley and the turn off to the lake. To reach
the tunnel, stay on the trail through two major switchbacks. Its a steep climb
but then you'll be able to walk through the 240ft tunnel.
·
Ptarmigan Lake, 9 mRT, 1700ft elevation gain
After the falls, cross a footbridge over Ptarmigan
Creek and continue on the Ptarmigan trail.
Most people go to Iceberg lake at the junction so continuing on the
Ptarmigan trail is less busy but it's also quite steep, climbing 400ft in a
little over 1/2m. Lots of huckleberries here and likely bear stop. Directly
ahead above you will be the Ptarmigan tunnel and eventually views of the
ptarmigan wall with over 1500ft visible above the meadow. Waterfalls tumble
down Ptarmigan creek below the valley and the turn off to the lake. Follow the
short trail down to the lake.
·
Many Glacier Hotel Boat Dock (take the boats
across Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine to the Many Glacier hotel boat
dock)
·
Hidden Falls, 2.5m RT, 250ft elevation gain
From the boat landing at Lake Josephine towards the
right to the junction with Grinnel Glacier trail. Go straight here through the
forest, past a couple of streams and thimbleberry patches. You'll also pass a
couple of pit toilets and then a suspension bridge to a short side trail to
the25ft falls.
·
Grinnell Glacier Trail, 10m, 1840ft elevation
change, begins at a picnic area just down the road from the Many Glacier Hotel,
pit toilet on trail, one of the most popular trails in the park
Trail
follows swiftcurrent lake then to Lake Josephine with a gradual increase in
elevation towards upper Grinnell Lake with many wide open, spacious views.
You'll come to a pit toilet and picnic area that's a great place for a lunch
break but it's not the end of the trail, which continues for another .5m.
Grinnell
glacier has already shrunk over 40% in the past thirty years, so it might not
be visible for much longer. The other
two visible glaciers from the top of the trail are Salamander Glacier, the long
slender glacier along the continental divide and a small, square glacier called
Gem Glacier.
·
Grinnell Lake Trail, 3m RT, 220ft elevation
gain, Many Glacier Hotel Boat Dock
From the boat
landing at Lake Josephine towards the right to the junction with Grinnel
Glacier trail. Go straight here through the forest, past a couple of streams
and thimbleberry patches. You'll also pass a couple of pit toilets and then a
suspension bridge pass the Hidden Falls then up to the lake.
·
Apikuni Falls Trail, 2m, 700ft elevation gain,
Poia lake trailhead, 2.8m west of the Many Glaciers entrance, limited parking
Trail starts in an open field known as Apikuni Flat
then through an Aspen grove to a steep ascent through the pine forest. You'll
climb 500ft in half a mile. Lots of short side trails lead to views over the
area. About 2/3rds of a mile into the trail, you'll start to hear the falls.
The falls tumbles in two different sections crashing over the rocks and to the
pool below.
·
Cracker Lake Trail, 12.6m RT, 1400ft elevation
gain, Cracker Lake trailhead south end of the parking lot above the Many
Glacier Hotel. Trail shared with horses
At the split in the trail, follow towards Cracker
Lake. The trail passes through thick forest with occasional views of Cracker
Flats. You'll climb some switchbacks to the ridge where you'll see a couple of
creeks flowing on either side. Through the trees, you'll glimpse a waterfall.
Berry patches are common and so are bears. After almost 5m, the trail opens up.
A bit further on, views of the lake are visible but continue to the end of the
trail for the best views.
·
Swiftcurrent Pass Trailhead, begins at the end
of Many Glacier Rd at the concession store
·
Swiftcurrent lake nature trail and pass trail,
8m RT to do the nature trail up to Bullhead Lake from the Grinnel Glacier
Trailhead, 500ft elevation gain; continue to the pass for another 8m RT. (to
reduce the hike by 5m, start the trail at the boat dock of the Many Glacier
hotel)
With
gradual climbs and long, straight stretches the beginning part of the trail
passes several lakes and makes for good views without a tremendous effort.
·
Bullhead Lake, 7.8m RT, 425ft elevation gain,
begins at the parking lot at the swiftcurrent motor inn
The trail starts in heavy forest. At .8m on the trail
there is a side trail that goes to Fishercap Lake which often has moose
sightings. You'll pass Redrock falls and lots of huckleberries, prime bear
food. The lake has some nice big boulders for sitting on while enjoying a picnic.
·
Redrock Falls, 4.2m, 285ft elevation change,
trailhead starts at the end of the parking area near Swiftcurrent Motor Inn
Stop first at Fishercap Lake a short distance from
the trailhead, and then along through some Aspens providing nice shade on hot
summer days. While most of the hike is shaded, the views do open up
periodically to great mountain views.
South of Going to the Sun Road
·
Harrison Lake Trail
·
Silver Staircase Falls, south side of Hwy. 2 at
mm 188, plenty of parking, 40ft fall
Scenic Drives and Byways
North Fork Road
There are actually
two North Fork Roads, the inside and the outside. The Inside begins just a few
miles north of Apgar Village. Both lead to Polebridge.
Heads up: If you are just trying to get to
Polebridge, take the Outside North Fork Rd.
·
The Outside North Fork Rd. is accessed off Camas
Rd and is in better shape than the bumpy Inside North Fork Rd even though it is
mostly gravel. The road passes historical cabins and lush meadows. Most people
are referring to this road when they say "The North Fork Road".
Polebridge Ranger Station, 13m, staffed year
round
Polebridge Mercantile, 13m, 265 Polebridge
Loop, 406-888-5105, polebridgemercantile.com, 7am-9pm, groceries, coffee, home
baked treats, gas, propane, beer, coffee
·
The Inside North Fork Rd (plan at least two
hours) starts at Glacier Park's Fish Creek Campground and is 42m long. The road,
listed on the National Register of Historic Places, follows the east side of
the Flathead river traveling through areas burned in the 2003 Robert Fire.
Gravel road in the mostly unvisited northwest corner of the park has
spectacular views in a largely undeveloped area that take visitors back to the
time of early settlers. Not only does the drive include views of the Livingston
Range in the distance and Sullivan Meadows car side but man-made structures
from the past, including many old cabins. Keep an eye out for wolves in the
meadows. They have been spotted here. The road ends at Kintla Lake Campground. NOT recommended for recreational or towed
vehicles.
Polebridge Ranger Station and Glacier Park
Entrance, 28m, see above
Polebridge Mercantile, 28m, see above
Bowman Lake Road, 30m
Northern Lights Saloon, see under dining
Logging Creek Campground, 17.5m, see under
lodging
Quartz Creek Campground, 20m, see under
lodging
Going to the Sun Road
·
This 52 mile road climbs 3300 feet to Logan Pass
at the Continental Divide and then descends 2100ft into St Mary. The road can
be driven or visitors might use the shuttle service run by the park. The
shuttle service runs from 7am-7pm with shuttles every 15-30 minutes. No charge
and no tickets required. Shuttle schedules are posted at each stop.
Shuttle Map
Stops are listed from West to East, and miles
are how far they are from West Entrance
·
Apgar Village and campground, 2.6m, shuttle see
individual listing
·
McDonald Falls, 2m, unmarked pullout with view
of cascading waterfall. Especially powerful falls at the beginning of summer
with spring runoff.
·
Sacred Dancing Cascades, 2.5 m, a series of
waterfalls and cascades along McDonald creek. Take path to footbridge for views
of the creek.
·
Avalanche Lake Campground, trailhead for
Avalanche Lake
·
Sprague Creek Campground, 9m, shuttle
·
Lake McDonald Lodge, 10.8m, shuttle, see
individual listing
·
McDonald Creek Overlook/Johns Lake, 12.8m, half
mile trail leads to Johns Lake where Moose often graze.
·
Avalanche Creek/Trail of the Cedars, 16m,
shuttle, see individual listing
·
West Side Tunnel, 24m, 126 ft tunnel drilled
through in 1926
·
The Loop, 24.6m, restrooms, shuttle stop
Loop trailhead and
Granite Park Chalet trailhead
·
Bird Woman Falls, 26.8m
560ft falls down
the slopes of Mt. Oberlin
·
Haystack Falls, 490 ft falls that runs right
under the road, pullout for pictures. Don't stop on the road!
·
Weeping Wall, 28.7m
the water from
this underground seep washes cars on the roadway so close your windows!
·
Big Bend, 29m
good place to view
bear grass in July and views of Mt. Canon and Mt. Oberlin. Excellent picture
stop and usually plenty of parking
·
Triple Arches, 30.5m
these arches are
actually under the road so you won't see them as you drive over them but you
can see them from the road as it winds.
·
Oberlin Bend, 31.7m
boardwalk with
views over the hanging valleys and possibly of mountain goats
·
Logan Pass, 32m, shuttle, see individual listing
·
Lunch Creek, 32.6m
one mile east of
Logan Pass, this meadow is full of wildflowers with Lunch creek flowing down a
natural rock staircase and Pollack Mountain in the background
·
East Side Tunnel, 33m
longest tunnel in
the park at 408 ft
·
Siyeh Bend, 34.2m, shuttle
access to Siyeh
Pass and Piegan pass
·
Jackson Glacier Overlook, 36.1m
if the clouds allow, you'll se the Jackson
Glacier, restrooms, access to trailheads Gunsight Pass
·
Gunsight Pass Trailhead, 36.3m, shuttle
·
St Mary Falls/Virginia Falls, 38.6m, shuttle
1.7m hike to the
falls, see listing under hikes
·
Sunrift Gorge, 39.4m, shuttle
short walk to a
water carved gorge, access to Baring falls and Siyeh Pass
·
Sun Point, 40m, shuttle, see individual listing
·
St Mary Lake Overlook
·
Wild Goose Island, 42.5m
little island in the midst of St Mary Lake
makes for fantastic pictures
·
Golden Staircase, 42.8m
Pullout with views of Saint Mary Lake and the road
itself for good pictures
·
Rising Sun, 43.8m, shuttle, see individual
listing
Access to Otokomi Lake
·
Two Dog Flats, 48m
Popular Elk meadow
·
St Mary Campground, 48.8m
·
View from Red Eagle Peak
·
St Mary Visitor Center, 49.3m, shuttle, see
individual listing
Two Medicine
·
Looking Glass Hill Road, 10m
·
Two Medicine Road, 9m road
Many Glacier Road
·
12m road
Lake McDonald/Apgar
·
Camas Road
·
Name, address, phone, email, website, hours,
days, price, RR, picnic area,
Guides and Tours
·
Red Bus Tours, 406-892-2525,
glacierparkinc.com/tour_detail.php
Tours are offered throughout the park. Check the
website for details.
·
Glacier Institute Field Camp, 137 Main St,
Kalispell MT, 406-755-1211, www.glacierinstitute.com,
Education courses and family camps are offered.
Personalized educational outings ($375 for a day) include an educator and
transportation
·
Sperry Glacier Tour, Sperry Chalet,
888-345-2649, www.sperrychalet.com
Visitors to Sperry Chalet can take advantage of tours
($60) that are occasionally offered. Reservations are required. Check the
website for dates or call.
·
East Glacier
Sun Tours, 800-786-9220,
www.glaciersuntours.com, 25 people vans, ac, 7 hour tour, $75 adults, $25
children, 4 hour tour is $40 adult, $20 children.
Drives the going to the sun road for photos
and highlights and a few short hikes. Run by Blackfeet guides, the perspective
includes Blackfeet philosophical and spiritual ideas of the area.
·
Many Glacier
Many Glacier hotel tours are offered by rangers usually at 4pm daily. Tours take
about an hour. Check at the visitor center or the hotel for information.
Art
·
Montana House, 198 Apgar Loop Rd, 406-888-5393,
www.montanahouse.info
Concerts and speakers perform and crafts and native
products are sold here.
Cultural and Historical Attractions
·
St Mary's Area
Historic 1913
Ranger Station, near St Mary, the road to the station is between the St Mary
Entrance Station and the Glacier National park Entrance sign
Ranger station was built in 1913 as permanent housing
and then seasonal housing up through 1972. It was added to the National
Register of Historic Places in 1972 and restored to its 1913-1920 appearance.
Rangers lead guided tours here.
·
West Glacier
Hungry Horse Dam
and Reservoir and visitor center, located 14m from Glacier's West Entrance off
Hwy. 2. Visitor Center is open from Memorial Day to Labor day, 8-3pm
The dam was built
in 1953 on the South Fork of the Flathead River. it rises 564 ft and is used to
control flooding on the Flathead Columbia Rivers. Visitor center has displays
and video but there is no dam tour.
Name, address,
phone, email, website, hours, days, price, RR, picnic area,
Natural Attractions
·
West Glacier
National Bison
Range, 6:30-9:30pm (when refuge gates close), $5, Federal pass accepted here, trails,
fishing. Visitor center has limited seasonal hours. Restroom in visitor center.
Visitors can drive the steep, winding, scenic
roads and walk a few short trails. The Bison range holds around 350 Bison as
well as numerous other creatures including prairie dogs and antelope. At least
211 bird species have been seen on the range. Visitor center has displays on
local and Native American history as well as on bison and a bookstore.
Trails
Nature trail (year round), located in day use area, 1m trail through
Cottonwoods and Junipers along several ponds an Mission creek. Some shade
Grassland Trail (Year round), behind visitor center, .25m trail through
prairie wildflowers
Bitterroot Trail (summer), along the Red Sleep Mountain Dr, .5m RT along
bitterroot flowers
High Point Trail (summer), along the Red Sleep Mountain Dr, 1m RT, restrooms,
climbs to the highest point in the reservoir at 4885 ft
Drives
West loop and prairie drive (open year round), 5m road where bison are
often spotted in summer.
Red Sleep Mountain Drive (seasonal), 19m loop that gains 2000ft in
elevation, big horn sheep are often seen at higher elevations
Winter Drive (seasonal), 10m RT with extension to Prairie Drive
Heads up: no vehicle over 30ft allowed on
the park roads except for West loop and Prairie Drive. No bikes or motorcycles.
Media Connection: download
brochure
·
Essex and Walton
Walton Ranger
Station, MP 180.5 Hwy. 2,
Walton Goat Lick
Overlook, 2m SE of The Walton Ranger Station, short paved path
exposed salts and minerals attract goats. Best times
to view are dawn and dusk
Shopping
·
West Glacier
Glacier Outdoor Adventure Shop, 12400 Hwy. 2
East, 800-235-6781, www.glacierraftco.com, info@glacierraftco.com
Fishing products and licenses, outdoor gear
and accessories and rafting and camping needs.
West Glacier
Mercantile, Going to the Sun Rd, 408-888-5403
Old time general
store with food, fishing tackle, beer and wine and camping supplies.
·
Apgar Village
Eddie's Cafe and
Gifts, 1 Fish Creek Campground, 406-888-5361, eddiescafegifts.com, 7am-through
dinner, wine and beer, groceries
The Cedar Tree at
Apgar Village, located near the edge of Lake McDonald, biggest shop in the
park. Seasonal. Clothes, gifts, books, toys.
·
East Glacier
Glacier Park Trading Company, Hwy 2, 406-226-9227,
wifi
groceries, deli, will do sack lunches, ice
cream, coffee, candy, books, souvenirs
·
St Mary
Trail and Creek Outfitters, St Mary Lodge, full
service outdoor specialty shop with fishing, hiking and camping gear.
Events
Eating
Polebridge
·
Home Ranch Bottoms, 8855 North Fork Rd,
406-888-5572 (seasonal phone), www.homeranchbottoms.com, facebook page, full
bar, wifi, laundry, showers, big screen tv
Pub/Tavern and store in a custom built log cabin.
Meals are varied with everything from pizza to burgers to Huckleberry shakes.
·
Northern Lights Saloon and Cafe, 265 Polebridge
Loop, 406-888-5669
Small cabin with rustic decor and casual food.
West Glacier
·
*Grill Dining Room and Taproom, Belton Chalet, 406-888-5000,
www.beltonchalet.com, wine and beer, indoor/outdoor seating
Pretty eclectic
menu for this area. Nachos made from potato chips, potted shrimp pate, tropical
salsa to name just a few of the unusual menu items. Regional choices also
available like buffalo meatloaf and Montana raised Wagyu beef. Fine dining in
the grill and casual dining in the taproom. 4.5* TA
·
Backwoods Breakfast and BBQ, 12070 Hwy. 2 West,
406-250-9993, 8am-12, 5pm-9pm, facebook page updated regularly
Big outdoor picnic tables and open coal cooking make
the BBQ an experience not just a meal.
Breakfast burritos, burgers and fish.
·
Historic Tamarack Lodge dining, 9549 Hwy. 2
East, 877-387-4420, historictamaracklodge.com
Coffee is available in the lodge great room, snacks
are available in the gift shop and meals in The Shak Southern BBQ in the
evenings.
·
Glacier Rawhide, 12000 Hwy. 2 East,
406-387-5999, glacierrawhide.com, full bar
Rustic western steakhouse with lots of fried stuff,
burgers and mesquite broiled steaks.
·
Glacier Highlander Restaurant, 12555 Hwy. 2 E,
406-888-5427, glacierhighland.com, 7am-10pm, beer and wine, TA: 4.5*
American food, much of it homemade including fresh
cut fries and homemade pies. Large space with simple wood tables.
·
Heaven's Peak Dining and Spirits, 12130 Hwy. 2,
406-387-4754, www.heavenspeakresort.com, TA: 4.5*
Large log building with spacious deck overlooking a
manicured rock garden. Upscale, fresh, local emphasis.
·
West Glacier Restaurant, 15 Going to the Sun
Road, 406-888-5359, www.westglacier.com, TA: 4*
Homemade soups,
pies and baked goods, traditional American meals, sacked lunch, ice cream,
cocktails
·
Great Northern Railway Cafe, 12127 Hwy. 2 E, 406-387-5340,
glaicerparkcafe.com, facebook page updated regularly, 8am-6pm, espresso,
coffee, outdoor dining,
Breakfast and
coffee shop offering panini, sandwiches, frozen yogurt and light snacks. And,
yes, food is served in a railroad car.
Lake McDonald/Apgar
·
Jammer Joe's grill and pizza, at Lake McDonald
Lodge, 11am-9pm
Serving large crowds lots of food in an all you can
eat format.
·
Russell's fireside dining, Lake McDonald Lodge,
6:30-10, 11:30-2, 5-9, beer and wine
Hunting lodge, rough hewn cedar decor with an
emphasis on local favorites and micro brews.
·
Eddie's Cafe and Gifts, 1 Fish Creek Campground,
406-888-5361, eddiescafegifts.com, 7am-through dinner, wine and beer, groceries,
TA: 3.5*
Coffee, tea, ice cream, cookies. Burgers, fish and
chips and some vegetarian choices like a portobello burger.
·
Sperry Chalet, seasonal, $195 includes meals,
second person is $137, people often leave their car at Gunsight Pass trailhead
at Jackson Glacier Overlook, dining on site, no electricity in rooms
A la carte lunch is available to hikers from11:30-5pm
including soup, sandwiches and snacks.
Logan Pass
·
No food service
Sun Point/Rising Sun
·
Two Dog Flats Grill, at Rising Sun Motor Inn
Breakfasts include eggs, fish and biscuits and gravy.
Lunch and dinner is casual with a wide variety of salads, sandwiches and
burgers and southwest influenced entrees like polenta cake, Taquitos and
Fajitas.
St Mary
·
*Park Cafe, 406-732-4482, parkcafe.us, 7am-10pm, seasonal, wifi,
espresso bar, beer, Yelp: 4*
"Pie for Strength" is the restaurant motto
and they've got lots of pie but also burgers, burritos, soup and sandwiches,
all homemade. Dinner includes steak, chicken and fish but also a selection of
baked potatoes with fun toppings like the Thai Baker. Serves Numi tea, Montana
Coffee Traders and Wilcoxson Ice Cream
·
Johnson's of St Mary, 406-732-4207,
www.johnsonsofstmary.com, info@johnsonsofstmary.com, breakfast, lunch and
dinner, serving until 9pm, Yelp: 3.5*
Fresh baked bread and family style meals are served
on big platters for the table. Lunch is soup and bread, dinner is soup and
bread with an entree and salad.
·
Curly Bear Cafe at St Mary Lodge, Hwy. 89 and
Going to the Sun Road, 888-778-6279, www.stmarylodgeandresort, TA: 3*
Pizza, buffalo burgers and rotisserie chicken as well
as hand scooped ice cream. Sub sandwiches are a favorite after a long hike.
·
Snowgoose Grille, Hwy. 89, The Resort at
Glacier, 406-732-4431, breakfast, lunch and dinner, 1* Fodors, TA: 3*
Upscale meals with fresh ingredients. Breakfast might
feature berry stuffed pancakes, lunches are salads and sandwiches and dinner
might include wild game.
East Glacier
·
The Great Northern Dining Room at Glacier park
Lodge, 1 Midvale Rd, 406-892-2525
·
Bison Creek Ranch Cafe, 2m West of East Glacier
on Hwy. 2, 406-226-4482, www.bisoncreekranch.com, 5-9pm, boxed meals
Hand cut fries with all kinds of stuff on them,
homemade bread, soup and Huckleberry Ice cream, burgers, steaks, salads and
fish.
·
Two Medicine Grill, 406-226-9227,
whistlingswanmotel.com, breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as coffee and
espresso
Sandwiches and fried food dinners. Lunch includes
burgers and fries. Homemade soup and salads. Also have huckleberry shakes.
·
Ramsey's Firebrand Food and Ale, 406-226-9374,
Pizza, pasta and gambling
·
Glacier Village Cafe, 304-308 Hwy. 2,
406-226-4464, www.glaciervillagecafe.com, breakfast, lunch and dinner
·
Serrano's Mexican Restaurant, 29 Dawson Ave,
406-336-9392, www.serranosmexican.com
Emphasis is on fresh and healthy Mex and southwest
food in a log cabin setting. Traditional Mexican complimented by a couple of
special dishes like Mole, Diablo stew and Indian tacos. Small selection of
American food.
North of Going to the Sun Road
·
*Two sisters Cafe, Hwy. 89 Babb, 406-732-5535,
twosistersofmontana.com, seasonal hours, open 7 days a week, TA: 4*
Set in a purple building with license plate decor,
two sisters is a comfortable spot for lunch, dinner and dessert. Beef and Bison
Burgers, huckleberry pie, shakes and lemonade,
Many Glacier
·
Ptarmigan Dining Room, Many Glacier Hotel,
6:30-10, 11:30-2, 5-9:30, TA: 3.5*
Towering ceilings, a stone fireplace and hard wood
floors and ceilings do make for a majestic setting. Large windows on one side
overlook spectacular views. Request a window table. Casual, first come, first
served restaurant with some eclectic offerings including Elk quesadillas and
pesto trout. Breakfast is buffet only.
·
Interlaken Lounge and Swiss Room, Many Glacier
Hotel, 11:30-10pm, full bar
Fondue, appetizers and television.
·
Italian Garden Ristorante, Swift Current Motor
Lodge, pizza and pasta
·
Heidi's Snack Shop and espresso stand, basement
of Many Glacier Hotel, 406-892-2525, 8am-9pm, bakery items and sandwiches with
fresh made bread
Walton and Essex
·
Izaak Walton Inn restaurant, full bar
casual atmosphere with wood floors and booths and a
relaxing lounge area. Hearty meals include seasonal and local favorites
including Buffalo and Fish.
·
Half-way restaurant, 406-888-5650,
www.thehalfwaymotel.com, breakfast, lunch and dinner
Family oriented dining
South of Going to the Sun Road
·
Healthy Haven Cafe, 14305 Hwy. 2 East,
406-888-5720, www.glacierhaveninn.com, TA: 4.5*
Home cooked meals with a buffet breakfast, sack
lunches and dinner using fresh products but also the usual fried choices.
Coffee Shops
·
West Glacier
Empire Cafe, in
the Glacier Park Lodge, serves espresso, hot chocolate, tea.
Brownies Bakery,
1020 Hwy. 49, 406-226-4426, www.brownieshostel.com
Pastries, espresso
·
Apgar/Lake McDonald
Lake McDonald
Lodge coffee Shop
Eddie's Cafe and
Gifts, 406-888-5361, eddiescafegifts.com
·
Sun Point/Rising Sun
Espresso Cart at Rising Sun Motor Inn, opens at
6:30am
·
St Mary's
Glacier Perk Espresso and Candy Shop, lobby of the St
Mary Lodge, opens at 6:30am
·
East Glacier
Two Medicine
Grill, 406-226-9227, whistlingswanmotel.com, breakfast, lunch and dinner as
well as coffee and espresso
·
Many Glaciers
Heidi's Snack Shop
and espresso stand, basement of Many Glacier Hotel, 406-892-2525, 8am-9pm,
bakery items and sandwiches
·
Name, address, phone, email, website, hours,
days, price
Lodging
Drop Camp services are offered by Swan Mountain Outfitters,
406-387-4405. See website
for details.
Polebridge
·
Northfork Hostel and Inn and Square Peg Ranch,
80 Beaver Drive, 406-888-5241, nfhostel.com, $45-80 for own unit, $20 for bunk,
$15 for camping; bring your own bedding, pit toilets, wifi
Rustic cabins and teepees make up this
lodging with propane lamps, solar lights, community showers and kitchen
Polebridge Area
·
Polebridge Ranch Cabins, 8950 North Fork Rd,
406-662-1552 (seasonal phone), www.polebridgemontana.com, 5m before the
Polebridge ranger station, 9m north of the Camas Rd entrance to the park,
restrooms and shower facilities
Cabins and bunkottages are offered with electricity
and water.
·
The Way Less Traveled Bed and Breakfast, 16485
North Fork Road, 3m South of Canada and 17m north of Polebridge, 406-261-5880,
www.thewaylesstraveled.com, wifi, $95-115
Big comfy beds, colorful rooms and light make this a
welcoming treat in a pretty primitive area.
·
Kintla Lake Campground, access from the Inside
or Outside Northfork Rd (Outside is easier)
·
Bowman Lake Campground, access from the Inside
or Outside Northfork Rd (Outside is easier)
·
Quartz Creek Campground, Inside North Fork Rd.
·
Langton Lodge, 610 Glacier Drive, 601-705-2429, cabin
for four
West Glacier
·
West Glacier Motel and Cabins, very basic rooms,
18 unit drive up motel. Motel rooms in village and rooms on the bluff, $90-196,
no wifi
·
*Glacier Guides Lodge, 120 Highline Blvd, .5m
from park, 800-521-7238, www.glacierguides.com, info@glacierguides.com, 5*TA,
queen bed and full bath, CB, wifi, air con, trail lunch can be ordered for $15,
$140-180
Attractive log style lodge with drive up rooms
·
Great Northern Resort, 1 mile from entrance and
within walking distance of restaurants, 800-735-7897, www.greatnorthernresort.com, log
cabins, decks, gas grill, mountain views, $175-235
From 1-3 bedroom units with extensive living areas
and outside decks with gas grill.
·
Abbott Valley Homestead, 1150 South Fork Rd,
Martin City, 10 minutes from Glacier, 888-307-4436, www.abbottvalley.com,
stay@abbottvalley.com, full baths, laundry,
picnic table, gas grill, on-site trail system, $225-295
Historical cabins and guest houses with updated and
comfortable interiors set in a secluded and beautiful valley with the mountains
as a backdrop.
·
Glacier Outdoor Center Cabins, 12400 Hwy. 2
East, 800-235-6781, www.glacierraftco.com, info@glacierraftco.com, full baths,
wifi, fireplaces, satellite tv, air con, gas grill, private trout pond, 12
units, $220-399
Cozy cabins with one or two bedrooms nestled among
the trees with large shaded porches for mountain viewing.
·
West Glacier KOA, 2.5m from West Entrance, pool,
hot tubs, game room,
RV, camping and cabins arranged along a paved road.
Little shade for sites. Cabins offer bathrooms and even a full kitchen.
·
Smoky Bear Ranch B&B Lodge Cabins Tipis,
800-555-3806, www.smokybear.com, smoky@smokybear.com, wifi, $125-145
Nestled among the trees, the cedar lodge and cabins
overlook a pond where wildlife can often be viewed. Cedar walls, small
bathrooms and simple furnishings with large picture windows for great views.
·
Glacier General Store and Cabins, 10630 Hwy. 2
East, 5m from West Glacier entrance, 406-871-3746, glaciercabins.net,
peacefulescape@live.com, wifi, large porches, full baths, air con, $105
Basic, clean cabins offer reasonably priced lodging
and some special extras like nightly campfires, lodgepole pine furnishings and
high quality mattresses.
·
Glacier Highland Resort, 12555 Hwy. 2 East,
800-766-0811, glacierhighlandresort.com, 33 units, full baths, hot tub, dish
TV,
knotty pine rooms
·
Glacier Cabins, 9478 Hwy. 2 East, 8m from West
Glacier entrance, 406-387-5339, 5 cabins
Some cabins have kitchens and fireplaces.
·
West Glacier Village, 15 Going to the Sun Road,
406-888-5662, westglacier.com, 18 units, $90-176
Rustic, simple motel lodging.
·
Historic Tamarack Lodge, 9549 Hwy. 2 East,
877-387-4420, historictamaracklodge.com, CB, wifi,
Lodge rooms, small and larger family cabins. Lodge
has a great room with fireplace where guests can gather. Outside, the cabins
are nestled under trees and picnic tables are spread across the shaded grounds.
·
Belton Chalet, 12575 Hwy. 2 East, one mile from
West Glacier entrance, 888-235-8665, www.beltonchalet.com, $125-250, no air
con, spa on site, 2 restaurants on site, box lunches available, $99-300
Looking like one would expect a National
park lodge to look, Belton has a large front porch on the lodge and cottages
nestled among the trees. Inside, accommodations are upscale rustic with a
formality of yesteryear. Several common
areas invite leisurely reading or board games. There is also a shuffle board
and ping pong table for those seeking more active pursuits. Variety of room
options from a standard queen to balcony rooms to cottages.
Heads up: Amtrak does run a train twice a day
in front of the lodge.
Lake McDonald/Apgar
·
Village Inn, Lake McDonald Apgar , Lake View Dr,
408-892-2525, glaicerparkinc.com, $139-185, 36 rooms, lake views and patios, no
AC
Two story motor lodge with one and two bedroom units,
some with kitchens. Rooms are rustic.
·
Lake McDonald Lodge, $75-182, rustic lodge from
1914 but also has 1950 motor lodge rooms which aren't very appealing, lakeside
veranda
·
Sperry Chalet, seasonal, 17 rooms, $195 includes
meals, second person is $137, people often leave their car at Gunsight Pass
trailhead at Jackson Glacier Overlook, dining on site, no electricity in rooms
The historic lodge is reached only through a hike.
Built in 1913 of native rock, it is listed as a Historic Landmark. Guests will
find comfortable beds but few amenities. And garbage must be hauled out. Three
meals are included in room rates. Restroom facilities are outside and there is
no hot water.
Logan Pass
·
Granite Park Chalet
Views from the Granite Park Chalet Deck
Sun Point
·
Rising Sun Motor Inn and Cabins, Going to the Sun Rd, 406-732-5523, 128-135
Inn is set at the edge of St Mary Lake. Rustic rooms.
·
Rising Sun Campground, showers (only campground
in the park with showers)
St Mary
·
Johnson's of St Mary, 406-732-4207,
www.johnsonsofstmary.com, info@johnsonsofstmary.com, $149, online reservations,
no phones, no tv, laundry, wifi, air con, camping
Great views of Glacier and attractive, individually
decorated rooms. Cabins have porches with great views.
·
Pinnacle Cottages, 106 West Shore Drive,
406-599-9285, info@glacierparkcottages.com, www.glacierparkcottages.com, wifi,
satellite tv, $375 a night
Two bedroom, one bath cottages with fully stocked
kitchen. Large deck and gas grill available. Guests have access to the St Mary Glacier Park
KOA, 1.5m away and its pool and hot tub. Views from the decks are incredible.
·
St Mary Lodge, cabins and motel, $98-293, 115
guest rooms, some with air con, some with private deck
Great Bear lodge
rooms and cabins are quite nice, main lodge and west and east motel are not so nice.
Main St Mary Lodge has a large great room.
·
KOA Campground Kabins and Resort, 1m from St
Mary entrance, www.goglacier.com, cabins, tent and RV sites, heated pool, hot
tub, splash pool, store, coffee shop, ice cream, laundry, wifi
East Glacier
·
East Glacier Motel and Cabins, 1107 Hwy. 49,
406-226-5593, www.eastglacier.com, 17 units, full baths, some kitchens, $76-101
Small motel and eleven cottages all lined up in a
row.
·
Lone Elk Lodge, 20631 Hwy. 2, 406-226-9285,
loneelklodge.com, 4 condo units, air con, full kitchen, laundry, bbq grill,
deck, wifi, $150-395
Large lodge is set on 2.5 acres with great views.
Large great room with tv and fireplace in each unit.
·
Glacier Park Lodge, 1 Midvale Lane,
406-892-2525, $140-209, 161 rooms, 2*fodors
The Lodge was built in 1912 and features a giant
great room for guests. Verandahs also provide seating and great opportunities
to enjoy the views. The hotel is old and shows it. Excellent option for those
seeking a classic National Park lodge experience.
·
Jacobson's Cottages, 1204 Hwy. 49, 406-226-4422,
www.jacobsonscottages.com, $70-105, direct tv
1960 A-frame units set among the pines. Some two room
units.
·
Whistling Swan Motel, 406-226-4412,
www.whistlingswanmotel.com, satellite tv, $68
Basic motel in knotty pine
·
Mountain Pine Motel, Hwy. 49, (7m from entrance
to park) 406-226-4403, www.mtnpine.com, 25 units, tv, full bathrooms, wifi,
picnic tables, $75-98
Small wood framed lodge in a pine setting with
standard motel room decor. Picnic tables and lawn chairs available.
·
The Brown House, 406-226-9385,
brownhouse333@gmail.com, 3 units, TA: 5*
Simple country decor in a home all with private
entrance and private bath.
·
Sears Motel, 406-226-4432, www.searsmotel.com,
16 units, campsites, full bath, $65-79
This little motel is set in a miniature golf course.
·
Bison Creek Ranch, 20722 Hwy. 2 West, 406-226-4482,
888-226-4482, www.bisoncreekranch.com, $84-132
Simple cabins with bath include breakfast. Some units
include kitchens and porches with great views.
·
Dancing Bears Inn, 40 Montana Ave, 406-226-4402,
www.dancingbearsinn.com, satellite tv, fridge, TA 4*
Simple older motel rooms with knotty pine and larger
cabins
·
Traveler's Rest Lodge, 406-226-9143, www.trlodge.com,
bscalese@gmail.com, $129-159
New cabins among the aspens with kitchenette and
covered porches.
·
Backpacker's Inn, 406-336-9392, 29 Dawson Ave, www.serranosmecian.com,
$15 per person for a bed and $40 per cabin
North of Going to the Sun Road
Many Glacier
Many Glacier Hotel
and Swiftcurrent are a mile apart
·
Many Glacier Hotel, $155-202, built in 1915, on
swiftcurrent lake, five stories, 215 rooms, 3*fodors,
The setting of Many Glacier Hotel is
absolutely beautiful as the earth colored lodge, built in 1913, is nestled in
at the edge of the mountains in the midst of meadows and at the edge of
Swiftcurrent Lake. It's hard to get a more beautiful setting. Inside, the lodge
has open hallways that overlook the central lobby, which is dominated by a
fireplace. Outside, visitors can take a
seat on the deck and take in the views.
This is a less commercial area of the park
for sure, but it's also quite busy because of its beautiful setting and
wonderful hikes.
Heads up: even if you don't stay here, it's worth a view.
Heads up: even if you don't stay here, it's worth a view.
·
Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and Cabins, $76-135,
1*fodors, restaurant, camp store,
showers, cabins and laundry
While also located in an attractive center, this
motor inn is exactly what you expect of a Motor Inn.
·
Many Glacier Campground, across the parking lot
from the Swiftcurrent Inn
Walton and Essex
·
Half-way Motel, 14840 Hwy. 2, 406-888-5650,
www.thehalfwaymotel.com, $99, satellite tv, wifi, TA 4.5*
Totally remodeled inside in 2011 including updated
wooden furniture and flat screen tvs
·
Stanton Creek Lodge, Hwy. 2 and MM 170, 16m east
of West Glacier, 406-888-5040, www.stantoncreeklodge.com, cabin rentals ($79-149)
and RV sites
·
Izaak Walton Inn, 290 Izaak Walton Inn Rd,
406-888-5700, izaakwaltoninn.com, start at $99. Inn has no tv, telephone,
elevator or air con. Wifi available in nearby bar.
Luxury rail cars and historic lodge with a variety of
rustic to luxurious lodging experiences.
·
Glacier Haven Inn, 14305 Hwy. 2 East, 20m from
West Glacier entrance and 35m from East Glacier entrance, 406-888-5720,
www.glacierhaveninn.com, wifi, HBO, info@glacierhaveninn.com, cabins, rooms,
camping, full bathrooms, $75-299
Simple rooms with lodge pole pine beds and
scenic quilts.
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