If you’re planning your Glacier National Park itinerary, I know how overwhelming it can feel.
The first time I set foot in Glacier National Park, I honestly thought I had driven straight into a postcard.
The park is huge, the trails endless, and you want to make the most of every day.
You’re probably wondering about the best time to go, where to stay, and the top things to do in Glacier National Park.
That’s exactly where I’m going to help you.
Whether you’re chasing epic hikes, taking one of America’s most scenic road trips, or simply craving time in nature, this itinerary will help you make the most of this incredible place.
Why Visit Glacier National Park?
Glacier has earned its nickname as the “Crown of the Continent” for good reason.
With more than 700 miles of trails, rugged alpine scenery, and wildlife ranging from mountain goats to grizzly bears, this is a place that shows off the very best of the Rocky Mountains.
One moment you’re winding along the cliff-hugging Going-to-the-Sun Road, staring at glaciers gleaming in the distance.
Next, you’re wandering through a lush cedar forest that feels more like the Pacific Northwest than Montana.
Then there are the stunning lakes. They are deep, glacial-blue pools that almost seem to glow from within, very other-worldly.
Best Time to Visit Glacier National Park
Summer is the most popular time to visit, and for good reason.
July and August bring long days, warm sunshine, and open access to the park’s famous roads and trails.
It’s also when you’ll find the largest crowds. However, if you’re dreaming of tackling bucket-list hikes and driving the full length of Going-to-the-Sun Road, summer is the time to come.
In September, the crowds thin out, the air cools, and the park bursts into fall colors.
Wildlife is especially active at this time of year, and the trails are still mostly accessible.
Glacier National Park in September is peaceful, beautiful, and full of life.
October can be a gamble. Some years, you’ll catch golden autumn days with crisp air and quiet trails.
Other times, early snow sweeps in and shuts down a lot of the main routes by mid-month.
If you’re visiting Glacier in the autumn, check out my Montana fall outfits guide.
Winter is an entirely different experience.
From November through April, Glacier is snowbound, and there is very limited access.
It becomes a playground for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing rather than hiking and driving.
It’s magical in its own way, but not ideal for a first visit.
Spring brings waterfalls at their peak and far fewer crowds.
In May and early June, the snowmelt turns every stream into a roaring cascade.
But much of the park is still closed, including Going-to-the-Sun Road, which rarely opens before late June.
If it’s your first trip, summer and early fall are your best bet for accessibility and scenery.
If you’re prepared for snow and love solitude, spring and winter have their own quiet beauty.
How Many Days Do You Need in Glacier National Park Itinerary?
You could spend weeks here and still not see it all, but most visitors plan for three to five days.
With three days, you can cover the highlights: drive Going-to-the-Sun Road, stop at Logan Pass, explore Many Glacier, and finish with time at Lake McDonald.
This is the classic Glacier National Park 3-day itinerary, and it’s a perfect introduction if you’re short on time.
With five days, you’ll have space to dive deeper.
You can add quieter corners like Two Medicine, or even cross the border into Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park for a combined adventure.
More days mean more flexibility, and Glacier rewards those who take their time.
Glacier National Park Itinerary Breakdown
This suggested route covers the classic highlights and gives you a mix of scenic drives, iconic hikes, and unforgettable experiences.
If you’re looking for the most essential things to do in Glacier National Park, this is where to start.
Day One: Going-to-the-Sun Road
On your first day, begin with the drive that defines the park: Going-to-the-Sun Road.
It’s one of the most beautiful drives in the world, winding past towering cliffs and glacial valleys.
Stop at viewpoints like Wild Goose Island and Jackson Glacier, then make your way up to Logan Pass.
From there, the short hike to Hidden Lake Overlook will give you unforgettable views of alpine meadows and mountain peaks.
End your day with a quiet sunset at St. Mary Lake.
Day Two: Many Glacier
Your second day should be spent in Many Glacier, which feels like Montana’s answer to the Swiss Alps.
This is where you’ll find some of the park’s most famous hikes, including Grinnell Glacier and Iceberg Lake.
Both are challenging, but worth every step for their sweeping views and wildflower meadows.
If you’re lucky, you might spot moose around Fishercap Lake.
Staying at the historic Many Glacier Hotel makes the day feel extra special.
Day Three: West Glacier and Lake McDonald
On the third day, head to West Glacier and Lake McDonald.
Start in Apgar Village, where you can rent a kayak or paddleboard to experience the lake’s shimmering colors up close.
Then hike the Trail of the Cedars, which leads to the beautiful Avalanche Lake.
Finish the day with golden-hour photos of Lake McDonald, where the colorful rocks glow beneath the water’s surface.
Day Four: Two Medicine
If you have a fourth day, explore Two Medicine.
It’s one of the quieter areas of the park, but no less stunning.
You can hike to Aster Falls or take the boat ride across Two Medicine Lake for more remote trails.
It’s peaceful, less crowded, and feels like a secret tucked into the park’s corner.
Day Five: Waterton Lakes National Park
With the fifth day, consider crossing into Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park.
Bring your passport and spend a day exploring this charming town and the surrounding lakes.
Combining Glacier and Waterton gives you a taste of the international peace park these two places form together.
Best Hikes on your Glacier National Park Itinerary
Glacier is truly a hiker’s paradise. For something easy, I recommend Trail of the Cedars, which winds through an ancient forest, or the short walk to Running Eagle Falls.
If you’re up for more of a challenge, Iceberg Lake and Hidden Lake Overlook are two unforgettable trails that reward you with alpine lakes framed by dramatic peaks.
For serious hikers, the Highline Trail is legendary.
It follows the edge of the Continental Divide with sweeping views that make you feel like you’re walking on top of the world.
Grinnell Glacier is another must for those willing to take on a longer trek.
These hikes are demanding, but they’re the kind you’ll remember forever.
Hiking in Montana doesn’t get much better.
Where to Stay in Glacier National Park
Accommodation can be tricky here, so planning is essential.
Inside the park, the classic choices are Many Glacier Hotel and Lake McDonald Lodge.
Both are historic lodges with unbeatable views, but they book up quickly, often a year in advance.
If you can’t snag a room in the park, look just outside the entrances.
Whitefish is a charming town with a lively downtown, plenty of restaurants, and a mountain resort vibe.
Good Medicine Lodge is a great option here.
Kalispell is a larger city with more affordable hotels and amenities.
Either makes a great base if you don’t mind a little extra driving.
Cottage at Foys Lake Montana has amazing reviews.
Glacier National Park Itinerary: Travel Essentials
Here are my tips on how to pack lightly. using a carry-on when traveling to Montana. And WHY it is almost a necessity!
This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors.
These RFID sleeves are another solution.
This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.
My daughter gifted me this FugeTek selfie stick and tripod setup for my birthday. It is made of lightweight aluminum and is so easy to use.
I never leave home on a trip without a non-disposable water bottle.
Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle would work well for you as well.
This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great for a daily go-pack.
These quick-dry slip-on Aqua shoes will be useful if visiting hotel pools to unwind.
These men’s quick-dry trunks are essential.
For women, this one-strap one-piece bathing suit is amazing.
Consider bringing along quick-dry super-absorbent microfiber towels.
This wet-dry bag with handles is a good option.
These unisex polarized sunglasses come in many lens colors and frame designs and are extremely affordable, too.
If you like aviator-style sunglasses, these polarized aviators may interest you.
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Glacier National Park Itinerary Fundamentals
The weather in Glacier changes quickly.
One minute you’re in sunshine, the next you’re pulling on a rain jacket. Layering is key.
Bring a fleece, a waterproof jacket, and quick-drying clothes.
Sturdy hiking boots are essential, along with good socks to avoid blisters.
Don’t forget a refillable water bottle, snacks for the trail, and bear spray if you’re heading into backcountry areas.
Knowing your Glacier National Park itinerary will really help with your packing.
Here is a Montana winter packing list that will help.
Essential Tips for Visiting Glacier National Park
In summer, reservations are required for vehicles on Going-to-the-Sun Road, so book early.
Parking lots at trailheads fill quickly, often before 8 am, so plan to start your days early.
The park shuttle is a great backup if you can’t find a spot.
Wildlife safety is serious here. Keep your distance from bears and moose, and always carry bear spray if you’re hiking.
Food and gas are limited once you’re inside the park, so stock up before you go.
Cell service is almost nonexistent, so download maps and trail info ahead of time.
