Glacier National Park is so vast that it stretches across the border into Canada, under the name of Waterton Lakes National Park! It is important not to confuse it with Glacier National Park in Canada, which is located near Revelstoke, BC. The American park is by far the more impressive of the two.
Glacier National Park features 25 glaciers, more than 700 lakes and dozens of hiking trails for exploring the beauty of nature. It also offers an ideal habitat for a wider diversity of wildlife than can be found anywhere else in the Rockies. If you are lucky you may see wolves, coyotes, cougars or bears.
GLACIER NATIONAL PARKSeason: Open year-round, 24 hours a day Visitor Centers:
Shuttle service in the park? Yes (see box below). |
What makes this park stand out is the primitive and unspoiled beauty of its landscapes. Since being established as a national park in 1910, special attention has been made to preserving its natural ecosystem. More than one hundred years later, these efforts allow visitors to enjoy a truly exceptional experience.
Many Native Americans still call the park "the Backbone of the World" in recognition of the immensity, solidity and awe-inspiring nature of its landscapes. Since the 19th century, Glacier National Park has also come to be known as "the Crown of the Continent".
On the Canada/USA border between Glacier and Waterton Lakes parks lies the Waterton Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO Historical Site. To visit the Peace Park, you will need to check the border crossing operating hours.
AUTHENTIK TIPWatch out for the valley's natural inhabitants: it is important to remember that deer, coyotes and bears are part of the landscape. Drive slowly, especially in the vicinity of wildlife. You will better appreciate the scenery and avoid causing any unfortunate accidents. As a preventive measure, do not leave food in your vehicle and always keep your distance when photographing wild animals. |
GOING-TO-THE-SUN ROAD
The highlight you won't want to miss during your visit to Glacier National park is the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road, a spectacular 84-km drive from West Glacier to St Mary, with a stop at Logan Pass to walk to the lake. The vistas are breathtaking and there is a good chance of sighting wildlife, such as bighorn sheep and mountain goats.
Many hiking trails can be accessed from Going-To-The-Sun Road, offering magnificent views. Trail of the Cedars is a short, easy hike for families with children. The Hidden Lake Overlook trail (a 4.8 km loop) provides good opportunities to see wild animals in their natural habitat.
Note: the road does not open until mid-May or mid-June, and closes again in mid-September or mid-October due to heavy snowfall.
Also note that it is not possible to drive from Avalanche Creek to Sun Point with a vehicle more than 21 feet long or 8 feet wide. You can use the park's free shuttle service to make the most of your visit.
If you plan to go hiking, be sure to bring warm outer layers of clothing, as it can be much colder at higher elevations. Good hiking boots are also essential, as you could encounter snow even in the middle of summer!
SHUTTLE SERVICEA free hop on, hop off shuttle system provides two-way service along Going-to-the-Sun Road, from early July to early September. Two routes are available: West Side Service from Apgar Visitor Center to Logan Pass, and East Side Service from St Mary Visitor Center to Logan Pass. To travel the entire length of the Going-To-The-Sun-Road from the Apgar Visitor Center to St. Mary Visitor Center and back, or vice versa, is approximately 7 hours and you will need to change buses at Logan Pass. Be sure to plan your day accordingly. |
