Glacier National Park: A Treasure Trove of Nature and Adventure

If you’ve ever wanted to witness nature in all its jaw-dropping, bear-watching, glacier-gazing glory, Glacier National Park should be at the top of your list. Nestled in Montana’s Rocky Mountains, this national park is a paradise for adventure lovers, road trip enthusiasts, and anyone who thinks sweating profusely while hiking uphill is a great way to spend a vacation. From breathtaking mountain vistas to turquoise alpine lakes that look Photoshopped (but aren’t), Glacier National Park offers a little something for everyone. And by "everyone," I mean those who don’t mind dodging the occasional moose on a hiking trail.

3/25/20252 min read

mountains between blue lake under blue and white sky

How to Get There Without Losing Your Sanity

The closest airport to Glacier National Park is Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana. If you’re coming from farther away and don’t own a private jet (yet), you might need to connect through a larger hub like Denver or Seattle.

Once you land, renting a car is your best bet for exploring the park. Unless, of course, you enjoy hitchhiking with grizzly bears. Plan ahead and book your rental car early:

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Where to Stay (Because Sleeping Under the Stars Sounds Romantic Until It’s 30 Degrees)

Glacier National Park offers plenty of accommodations, from rustic lodges to campgrounds where you can experience the joy of sleeping on the ground. For those who prefer a bed and climate control, check out hotels in the nearby towns of Whitefish, Kalispell, or Columbia Falls.

Want to snag a deal on a hotel? Here you go:

Or, if you're feeling extra fancy and want to pair your mountain adventure with a luxury cruise (because why not?), check out Regent Seven Seas Cruises:

The Must-See Spots in Glacier National Park

Going-to-the-Sun Road – Possibly the most scenic drive in America. Expect heart-stopping views and the occasional mountain goat photobombing your pictures.
Lake McDonald – A stunning, crystal-clear lake perfect for canoeing, kayaking, or just staring at in existential awe.
Grinnell Glacier – A challenging but insanely rewarding hike that leads to—you guessed it—a glacier! Get there before climate change does.
Many Glacier – If you want postcard-worthy views and don’t mind sharing them with a herd of bighorn sheep, this is your spot.
Hidden Lake Overlook – A relatively easy hike with a breathtaking view at the end. Bonus: High chance of spotting a mountain goat casually judging your hiking speed.

What to Pack (Because Montana Weather is Unpredictable)

Layers, layers, layers – It can be sunny at the trailhead and snowing at the summit. Pack like you’re dressing for every season in one day.
Bear spray – Not for styling your hair, but for politely encouraging bears to stay away.
Hiking boots – Your flip-flops will not survive. Neither will your ankles.
Snacks – Because hiking is just walking, but with snacks.
Camera – Your phone’s camera works, but this place deserves more than a blurry selfie.

Final Thoughts: Just Go Already

Glacier National Park is the kind of place that makes you question why you ever considered a beach vacation. Whether you're hiking, road-tripping, or just standing in awe of nature, it’s an experience that sticks with you—kind of like the mosquito bites you’ll collect along the way.

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