20 Things to Do in Glacier National Park On Your Next Getaway

1. Visit The Glacier National Park Conservancy

The Glacier National Park Conservancy serves as a vital steward of Glacier National Park, dedicated to supporting conservation efforts and enhancing visitor experiences. As the park's official nonprofit partner, the Conservancy funds critical projects that safeguard the park's ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and historical landmarks.

Through donations, memberships, and partnerships, the Conservancy enables the preservation of Glacier's natural beauty while fostering educational programs that promote environmental stewardship and cultural understanding.

Visitors can engage with the Conservancy by participating in guided hikes, attending educational events, and exploring interpretive exhibits that deepen their appreciation of the park's ecological significance and the ongoing efforts to protect its pristine landscapes.

2. Backpack To Swiftcurrent Pass

Swiftcurrent Pass in Glacier National Park is a renowned backpacking destination, offering breathtaking alpine vistas and a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience. Situated in the heart of the park, the trail to Swiftcurrent Pass winds through lush forests, past tranquil lakes, and ascends to panoramic views of rugged peaks and glacial valleys.

Hikers can expect encounters with diverse wildlife and the chance to immerse themselves in pristine mountain landscapes. Whether for a day hike or a multi-day backpacking adventure, Swiftcurrent Pass promises unforgettable scenery and a true alpine wilderness experience in Glacier National Park.

3. Visit Going-to-the-Sun Road

Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-experience route for anyone visiting Glacier National Park. This scenic mountain road offers breathtaking views of the park's dramatic landscapes, making it one of the top things to see in Glacier National Park.

Whether you drive or take a shuttle, you'll traverse stunning alpine terrain, with opportunities to see cascading waterfalls, towering peaks, and abundant wildlife along the way. Key highlights include Logan Pass, the Weeping Wall, and the sweeping vistas of the Garden Wall, each providing unforgettable glimpses into the park's natural beauty.

4. Go On A Wildlife Spotting Trip

Wildlife viewing in Glacier National Park is a truly immersive experience, offering visitors a chance to witness a diverse range of animals thriving in their natural habitats. From the majestic grizzly bears and agile mountain goats to the elusive bighorn sheep and vibrant birdlife, the park's varied landscapes provide ample opportunities for observation.

Early mornings and evenings are optimal times for wildlife spotting, when animals are often more active and visible along trails, meadows, and near water sources. Many Glacier, with its alpine meadows and lakes, Logan Pass with its high-altitude vistas, and Two Medicine with its tranquil lakeshores are renowned hotspots for wildlife sightings.

Whether you're a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a casual observer, Glacier National Park promises unforgettable encounters with some of North America's most iconic and fascinating creatures, making wildlife viewing one of the most thrilling and rewarding activities in the park.

5. Take A Boat Tour

Taking a scenic boat tour on Lake McDonald or St. Mary Lake is one of the many fun things to do in Glacier National Park. These boat tours offer a unique perspective of the park's stunning landscapes, allowing visitors to glide across crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests.

Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the park's history, geology, and wildlife, enhancing the experience. Whether you're seeking a relaxing excursion or a photo opportunity, these boat tours provide a memorable and enjoyable way to explore Glacier National Park.

6. Trail Of The Cedars

Trail of the Cedars offers an easy hike through an enchanting ancient cedar forest in Glacier National Park. This accessible loop trail, with boardwalk sections, meanders through towering cedar and hemlock trees, some of which are over 500 years old.

The trail provides a serene and shaded walk, with interpretive signs along the way to enhance your understanding of the unique ecosystem. Highlights include views of Avalanche Gorge, where crystal-clear waters carve through the rocky landscape.

As one of the fun things to do in Glacier National Park, Trail of the Cedars promises a peaceful and educational experience in a majestic old-growth forest.

7. Visit Many Glacier Hotel

Many Glacier Hotel is one of the top things to see and an iconic destination within Glacier National Park, offering visitors a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure.

Perched serenely on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake, this historic Swiss-style lodge dates back to 1915, its rustic charm and elegant architecture providing a picturesque retreat amidst the rugged Montana wilderness. Guests can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and pristine waters or relax in the tranquil mountain setting. 

Whether staying overnight to immerse in the hotel's rich ambiance or stopping by for a meal with a view, Many Glacier Hotel promises an enchanting experience that embodies the spirit of Glacier National Park.

8. Explore Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park stands as a remarkable testament to international cooperation and natural beauty, encompassing both Glacier National Park in Montana and Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada. This UNESCO World Heritage Site spans the U.S.-Canada border, showcasing a diverse range of landscapes from rugged mountains to pristine lakeshores.

Visitors to the Peace Park can explore scenic trails that traverse alpine meadows and dense forests, providing opportunities to encounter a rich variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, elk, and rare bird species. Boat tours on the crystal-clear lakes offer stunning views of the surrounding peaks mirrored in the water.

The park's establishment in 1932 symbolizes the enduring friendship and shared commitment to conservation between the United States and Canada, making it not only a unique destination for outdoor enthusiasts but also a powerful example of international collaboration in preserving natural heritage for future generations.

9. Red Bus Tours

Red Bus Tours in Glacier National Park offer a historic and scenic experience in the park's iconic, vintage red buses. These tours provide a delightful way to see the park's stunning landscapes, narrated by knowledgeable drivers who share fascinating insights about the park's history, geology, and wildlife. 

Riding in these classic open-top buses allows for unobstructed views of Glacier’s majestic mountains, verdant valleys, and pristine lakes. As one of the fun things to do in Glacier National Park, Red Bus Tours combines nostalgia and natural beauty, making for a memorable and informative adventure.

10. Hike To Triple Divide Peak

Hiking to Triple Divide Peak is one of the fascinating things to see and do in Glacier National Park. This unique geological feature is the hydrological apex of North America, where water flows into three different oceans: the Pacific, the Atlantic, and the Arctic. 

The challenging hike rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Reaching the summit of Triple Divide Peak offers not only a stunning visual experience but also a remarkable insight into the interconnectedness of the continent's waterways.

11. Night Sky Viewing

Night sky viewing is one of the captivating things to see and do in Glacier National Park. The park's remote location and minimal light pollution create ideal conditions for stargazing. Visitors can marvel at the Milky Way, spot constellations, and occasionally witness meteor showers in the pristine, dark skies.

Many Glacier and Logan Pass are popular spots for night sky viewing, offering expansive vistas and clear horizons. Whether you're an amateur astronomer or simply enjoy the beauty of the night, Glacier National Park provides an unforgettable stargazing experience.

12. Hike To Avalanche Lake

Hiking to Avalanche Lake is one of the must-do things to see and do in Glacier National Park. The trail begins at the Trail of the Cedars and takes you through a picturesque landscape of dense forests and cascading waterfalls.

After a moderate hike, you reach the stunning Avalanche Lake, nestled in a bowl surrounded by towering mountains and fed by multiple waterfalls. The serene, crystal-clear waters and dramatic scenery make it a perfect spot for picnicking, photography, and enjoying the natural beauty of the park.

13. Camping

Camping in Glacier National Park is one of the most immersive things to see and do in the park, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature. The park boasts numerous campgrounds, each providing a range of amenities and access to various trails and scenic spots.

Whether you're staying at the popular Many Glacier Campground, the serene St. Mary Campground, or one of the more remote options, you'll be surrounded by the park's stunning landscapes. Overnight stays allow you to experience the beauty of Glacier National Park at all hours, from sunrise to the starlit skies, enhancing your appreciation of its natural wonders.

14. Admire Bird Woman Falls

Admiring Bird Woman Falls is an awe-inspiring experience in Glacier National Park. Situated near Logan Pass, this magnificent waterfall descends approximately 560 feet down the rugged cliffs of Mount Oberlin.

Visible from the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, Bird Woman Falls captivates visitors with its powerful cascade, especially during the spring and early summer when snowmelt amplifies its flow. The falls create a dramatic spectacle as they plunge into the verdant valley below, surrounded by lush forests and jagged peaks.

Accessible viewpoints along the road provide perfect vantage points to appreciate this natural wonder, offering a glimpse into Glacier's majestic beauty and the dynamic forces that shape its landscapes throughout the seasons.

15. Discover St. Mary Falls and Virginia Falls

Hiking to St. Mary Falls and Virginia Falls is one of the picturesque things to see and do in Glacier National Park. The trail to these stunning waterfalls starts near St. Mary Lake and winds through a scenic forested area. St. Mary Falls, with its powerful cascades, is the first stop, offering a dramatic display of rushing water.

Continuing on the trail, you'll reach Virginia Falls, a taller and equally beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The hike provides ample opportunities for photography, picnicking, and enjoying the serene natural beauty of Glacier National Park.

16. Trek to Iceberg Lake

Trekking to Iceberg Lake is one of the unforgettable things to see and do in Glacier National Park. This moderately challenging hike takes you through breathtaking alpine scenery, with wildflower-filled meadows, dense forests, and stunning mountain views.

The trail culminates at Iceberg Lake, a pristine, turquoise lake surrounded by towering cliffs and often dotted with floating icebergs, even in the summer. The dramatic landscape and serene environment make Iceberg Lake a must-visit destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking to experience the park's extraordinary beauty.

17. Attend Ranger Program

Ranger Programs is one of the enriching things to see and do in Glacier National Park. These programs offer guided hikes, informative talks, and engaging evening presentations led by knowledgeable park rangers. Participants can learn about the park's diverse ecosystems, geology, wildlife, and cultural history.

Whether you're joining a nature walk, listening to a campfire talk, or attending a stargazing session, ranger programs provide valuable insights and enhance your appreciation of the park's natural wonders. These activities are perfect for visitors of all ages and offer a deeper connection to Glacier National Park.

18. Hike To Grinnell Glacier

Hiking to Grinnell Glacier offers a captivating glimpse into Glacier National Park's glacial landscapes. This challenging yet rewarding trek begins at the Many Glacier area, where hikers traverse through alpine meadows adorned with vibrant wildflowers and past tranquil lakes.

The trail ascends steadily, offering panoramic views of towering peaks and valleys carved by ancient glaciers. Upon reaching Grinnell Glacier, adventurers are greeted by a breathtaking scene: a pristine glacier and turquoise glacial lake surrounded by rugged cliffs.

Witnessing the glacier's icy expanse and the shimmering waters below underscores both the park's natural beauty and the impact of climate change on these delicate ecosystems.

19. Enjoy Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Kayaking and paddleboarding on Glacier National Park's pristine lakes is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the park's natural beauty. Whether you're gliding across the serene waters of Lake McDonald, exploring the crystal-clear depths of Bowman Lake, or navigating the picturesque shores of Two Medicine Lake, these activities offer a peaceful and scenic experience.

With stunning mountain backdrops and opportunities for wildlife sightings, kayaking and paddleboarding provide a unique perspective of Glacier's diverse landscapes. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, these water activities promise unforgettable moments in this iconic national park.

20. Wildflower Viewing

Enjoying vibrant wildflower displays is a delightful experience in Glacier National Park. Throughout the park's meadows, valleys, and alpine regions, a diverse array of wildflowers bloom from late spring through summer, creating a tapestry of colors against the backdrop of majestic mountains.

Popular spots for wildflower viewing include Logan Pass, Many Glacier, and the Hidden Lake Trail. Visitors can witness a variety of species, from lupines and Indian paintbrushes to asters and glacier lilies, each contributing to the park's rich biodiversity. Whether hiking, picnicking or simply exploring, Glacier National Park offers abundant opportunities to appreciate its stunning wildflower displays.