Perfect Glacier National Park Itinerary for 3 Amazing Days

A visit to Glacier National Park seems like a daunting trip. Its status as one of the most-visited national parks in America means that it comes with a plethora of activities and sights to see.

This is exactly why I created this comprehensive Glacier National Park itinerary – to make planning easier! This guide is for a 3-day itinerary on seeing all the must-see highlights and some tips to make your trip easier.

And with the rest of Backpacker’s itineraries, there’s also advice on how to extend your one day and make this trip a travel weekend or week, with practical advice on:

• Glacier National Park timed entry reservation system 2024
• When to visit Glacier National Park
• How To Get There And Tips For Parking
• In-park and nearby lodging options
• Travel & Packing Tips for the Adventurous Soul inside you.

Beyond excited to plan the perfect Glacier National Park vacation? Pass the details, let us plan out!

Discover the Expansive Wilderness of Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park, nestled along the northern reaches of Montana at the United States-Canada border, spans over one million acres of striking natural beauty. The park is known for its towering mountain peaks, cascading waterfalls, abundant wildlife, and, of course, the iconic glaciers that give the park its name.

A key feature of Glacier National Park is the 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road, a breathtaking two-lane route that crosses the park. This scenic drive winds through the Rocky Mountains, traversing the Continental Divide and offering some of the most remarkable views the park has to offer.

The Going-to-the-Sun Road links the West Glacier Entrance on the western side to the St. Mary Entrance on the eastern side, guiding visitors through the park’s central regions, including Lake McDonald and St. Mary & Logan Pass.

For those exploring beyond the main corridor, the Two Medicine and Many Glacier areas can be accessed from the eastern side via Highway 89. Meanwhile, the North Fork and Goat Haunt sections offer a more secluded experience in the park’s northern reaches, ideal for visitors seeking tranquility and remote wilderness.

Here’s a snapshot of what each area of Glacier National Park has to offer:

• Lake McDonald: The park’s largest lake, this area features the historic Lake McDonald Lodge, the serene Trail of the Cedars, and Avalanche Lake. Lake McDonald is ideal for families and offers trails suitable for all abilities, including those needing handicap-accessible routes.
• Logan Pass and St. Mary: The highest and arguably most striking point along Going-to-the-Sun Road. Here, you’ll encounter the Logan Pass Visitor Center and renowned trails such as the Highline Trail, Hidden Lake Overlook, and St. Mary Falls.
• Two Medicine: A quieter region of the park, home to the beautiful Two Medicine Lake and the scenic Pitamakan-Dawson Loop. It’s a great spot for those seeking fewer crowds.
• Many Glacier: A hiker’s paradise, this area boasts iconic trails like Grinnell Glacier, Iceberg Lake, and Ptarmigan Tunnel. You’ll also find the famous Many Glacier Hotel, offering a picturesque place to rest after exploring.
• North Fork & Goat Haunt: These remote areas in the park’s northern reaches are harder to access, with North Fork reachable only via unpaved roads and Goat Haunt requiring backcountry hiking. Though challenging to reach, these spots reward visitors with unparalleled solitude and pristine natural beauty.

2024 Glacier National Park Reservation Guidelines

In 2024, the National Park Service will require visitors to secure reservations to access Glacier National Park’s most frequented spots. From May 24 to September 8, 2024, between 6 AM and 3 PM, reservations will be mandatory for the following areas:

• Going-to-the-Sun Road: Reservation needed at the Apgar Check Point (Note: Reservations are not required when driving from east to west).
• Many Glacier Area: Reservation is required starting July 1.
• North Fork Area: Reservation is required during this period.

As much of the park is under reservation, it makes sense to do this in advance biting at whatever slots are available by the time you arrive.

Reservations will be available online starting January 25, 2024. Most can be booked 120 days prior to your visit, while a portion will become available the evening before.

Exemptions to the reservation system apply if you have lodging or tour reservations in those areas. For full details on how the system works, be sure to check the official reservation guidelines before your trip.

Planning Your Time in Glacier National Park: A Flexible Itinerary

To experience the best that Glacier National Park has to offer, it’s recommended to spend at least three days. This allows enough time to take in the main sights and enjoy the top hikes. Within three days, you can explore the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, visit Lake McDonald, take in the views at Logan Pass, and venture into both the St. Mary and Many Glacier areas.

For those with less than three days, focusing on the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor will provide the most rewarding experience. Spend your time exploring Logan Pass, St. Mary, and Lake McDonald to make the most of a shorter trip.

If you’re fortunate enough to have more than three days, you can dive deeper into Glacier’s offerings. This extra time will allow for longer hikes, such as the stunning Iceberg Lake trail. You can also visit lesser-known areas like Two Medicine or North Fork, and perhaps enjoy a boat ride or one of the famed Red Bus tours for a different perspective of the park.

Optimal Time to Visit Glacier National Park: A Seasonal Guide

Summer is the prime time to visit Glacier National Park when the weather is mild, the snow has melted, and all amenities, roads, and trails are open. However, due to the limited peak season, this is also the busiest period at the park.

Winter in Glacier is long and challenging, with snowfall beginning as early as October and continuing until May or even June. As a result, high-elevation areas like Logan Pass are typically accessible only from July through September, as clearing the snow takes months after the heavy winter conditions.

Given the short window for peak tourism, expect large crowds in the summer. To avoid the worst of the congestion, it’s recommended to visit in September. After Labor Day, visitor numbers drop, but the weather remains pleasant for several weeks.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season at Glacier National Park:

• Spring: Spring temperatures are chilly, with daytime highs in the 30s or 40s and nighttime lows in the teens or 20s. With much of the park still closed, visitor numbers are low, with fewer than 2,000 people visiting daily. However, this is a wonderful time to see the Lake McDonald area draped in snow.
• Summer: From late May, temperatures rise into the 70s and 80s, with overnight lows in the 30s and 40s. Summer is the busiest season, with daily visitor numbers exceeding 20,000 in July and August after Going-to-the-Sun Road opens. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting on weekdays or around sunrise and sunset.
• Fall: Crowds and temperatures both begin to decrease in early September, especially after Labor Day. By October, daytime highs are in the 40s and 50s, with freezing temperatures at night. Going-to-the-Sun Road typically closes by late September or early October.
• Winter: Winter brings harsh conditions to Glacier, with temperatures often remaining below freezing and heavy snow blanketing the park. Most areas close for the season, but winter offers opportunities for activities like skiing and snowshoeing.

The itinerary provided in this post is tailored for the summer months when the park is fully accessible. If visiting during other seasons, adjustments will be necessary based on available roads and trails.

Check current park information before planning your visit for the latest updates on conditions and seasonal closures.

How to Reach Glacier National Park: Airports and Travel Tips

Glacier National Park is located in northern Montana, near the Canadian border. Many travelers combine their visit to Glacier with a trip to Yellowstone and Grand Teton, creating an unforgettable national park adventure.

The most convenient way to access Glacier National Park is by flying into Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana. This airport is only a 40-minute drive from the West Glacier Entrance, making it the closest airport to the park. Airlines like Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, Sun Country, and United provide service to this airport.

In addition to Kalispell, there are several other airports within driving distance to Glacier National Park. Below is a list of nearby airports and their proximity to park entrances:

• Glacier Park International Airport (FCA): 40 minutes to West Glacier Entrance
• Lethbridge Airport (YQL): 1.5 hours to St. Mary Entrance
• Missoula Montana Airport (MSO): 2.5 hours to West Glacier Entrance
• Great Falls International Airport (GTF): 2.5 hours to St. Mary Entrance
• Calgary International Airport (YYC): 3 hours to St. Mary Entrance
• Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN): 5 hours to St. Mary Entrance

These options provide flexibility for travelers arriving from various regions, allowing you to choose the most convenient airport for your trip.

Accommodations in and Around Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park offers seven lodges and 13 campgrounds, providing a distinct opportunity to stay within the park’s breathtaking surroundings and minimize travel time to its popular sites.

That said, staying inside the park is not your only option. There are several nearby towns with great accommodations, offering both convenience and comfort.

Use the interactive map below to explore all available hotels and rental properties near Glacier National Park. Simply scroll and click to find the perfect spot for your stay!

Glacier has a variety of lodging choices, both inside the park and in nearby towns. Here are some top recommendations for a short, 3-day visit:

For this itinerary, I suggest booking a stay on the east side of the park in locations like Many Glacier, St. Mary, or Babb. This will help you reduce driving time and make the most of your trip.

For those who prefer camping, there are 13 campgrounds within Glacier National Park. You can find more details on the available campgrounds here.

Efficient Ways to Navigate Glacier National Park

The best way to see Glacier National Park is by car and it’s also the most convenient for exploring.

However, due to vehicle restrictions on Going-to-the-Sun Road, vehicles longer than 21 feet or wider than 8 feet are prohibited. As such, bringing an RV may not be practical unless you plan to tow a smaller vehicle or rent a car during your stay.

During the summer, parking lots at popular trailheads, such as Logan Pass, tend to reach capacity by 8 AM. To secure a spot, it’s wise to begin your day early to avoid the crowds and find parking with ease.

For added convenience, Glacier National Park provides a free shuttle service along Going-to-the-Sun Road during the summer months. This shuttle runs between Apgar Village and the St. Mary Visitor Center. While this service is helpful for one-way hikes like the Highline Trail, it doesn’t cover areas like Two Medicine or Many Glacier, so plan accordingly.

Related: 6 Hidden Dangers at Going to The Sun Road

Ready for a Memorable 3-Day Adventure in Glacier National Park?

This guide divides your trip into three full days, helping you make the most of your time by visiting top spots like Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier, and Logan Pass.

With just a few days to spare, arriving early in Kalispell on your first morning is strongly suggested. This early arrival allows ample time to explore and get situated before the day ends, offering you a head start on enjoying all that Glacier National Park has to offer.

Day 1: Exploring West Glacier & Going to the Sun Road

Morning: Arrive at Glacier Park International Airport in Kalispell. Begin your adventure by heading to the West Glacier Entrance, where you can show your park reservation. Stop by Apgar Village to stamp your national park passport, chat with park rangers, and gather useful information before venturing deeper into the park.

Afternoon: Take your time driving along the renowned Going-to-the-Sun Road, pausing at several breathtaking viewpoints. A few must-see stops along the western half of the route include:

• Lake McDonald Lodge: This charming lodge, designed in a Swiss chalet style, sits along the clear waters of Lake McDonald. You can rent kayaks or join a boat tour offered by Glacier Park Boat Company.
• Avalanche Lake via Trail of the Cedars: This popular moderate trail weaves through ancient forest near Lake McDonald. If you’re short on time, opt for the shorter Trail of the Cedars section, which is accessible and equally rewarding.
• The Loop: A dramatic switchback on Going-to-the-Sun Road, offering a parking area with striking views of Heaven’s Peak.

Evening: Conclude your day by catching the sunset at Wild Goose Island Overlook. This spot, known for its small island on St. Mary Lake, gained fame from the opening scene of The Shining. It’s an ideal location to enjoy the soft pink and purple hues of the setting sun.

Day 2: Many Glacier Adventures and Grinnell Glacier Hike

Morning: Start your day with the scenic Many Glacier Boat Tour, run by Glacier Park Boat Company, a family-owned business operating since 1938. This tour takes you across Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine, with a brief and easy quarter-mile hike in between the lakes. It’s an ideal way to experience the tranquil beauty of Glacier National Park from the water.

Mid-Day: Embark on the Grinnell Glacier Trail, a challenging yet rewarding hike. Spanning 10.6 miles with a 1,600-foot elevation gain, the trail offers remarkable close-up views of glaciers and pristine landscapes. You can also book the Many Glacier Boat Tour as part of a split round trip, saving yourself over 3 miles of hiking by taking the boat to and from the trailhead at Lake Josephine Dock. The hike ascends to Lower and Upper Grinnell Lakes, where the striking blue waters, framed by glaciers, create an unforgettable scene.

Pro Tip for Hiking Grinnell Glacier with the Boat Tour

If you’re opting for the boat, booking the 8:30 AM or 9:00 AM tours gives you plenty of time to complete the hike and return by the last boat at 5:30 PM. If you don’t make it back by then, you’ll need to hike an additional 2 miles back to Many Glacier Hotel. Boats will continue running for any hikers at the dock by 5:30 PM.

Alternate Activity: If the Grinnell Glacier hike feels too strenuous, you can choose a shorter hike to Grinnell Lake (6.8 miles round trip or 2.2 miles with the boat). Another option is the Redrock Falls Trail, a 3.6-mile round trip that offers great wildlife spotting opportunities, including moose and bears. Glacier Park Boat Company also offers guided tours to Grinnell Lake for those wanting a more relaxed experience.

Evening: After your day of hiking, enjoy a well-earned gourmet dinner at the Ptarmigan Dining Room located in the Many Glacier Hotel. The restaurant offers a selection of local dishes. To secure a table, make sure to put your name on the list early. While you wait, enjoy a drink at the cozy Swiss Lounge or explore the hotel’s charming gift shop.

Night: Glacier National Park is designated as a “dark sky park” by the International Dark-Sky Association, offering some of the best stargazing opportunities in the country. On nights with a new moon, you might even catch a glimpse of the Milky Way with the naked eye. Find a quiet spot in the park with minimal light pollution and enjoy the breathtaking night sky. Be sure to check the Clear Sky Charts beforehand for cloud coverage and visibility predictions.

Day 3: Hiking the Highline Trail or Hidden Lake Overlook

Morning: Arrive at Logan Pass Visitor Center before 7:30 AM, as parking tends to fill up early. Logan Pass serves as the starting point for some of Glacier National Park’s most iconic trails: the Highline Trail and Hidden Lake Overlook. This area is also prime for spotting mountain goats and bighorn sheep in their natural habitat.

Option 1: Hike the Highline Trail (11.8 miles)

For those seeking a more extensive adventure, the Highline Trail offers a diverse experience, showcasing Glacier’s range of landscapes. Starting across the road from Logan Pass, the trail leads along a rocky ledge before transitioning to grassy mountainsides with panoramic views. About halfway through, a steep side trail takes you to the Grinnell Glacier Overlook, offering a bird’s-eye view of Upper Grinnell Lake and its glaciers. The trail also crosses the Continental Divide, revealing stunning vistas of both Lake McDonald Valley and Many Glacier Valley. After a stop at Granite Park Chalet, you’ll descend into a fire-scarred forest, eventually reaching The Loop, where a free shuttle can take you back to Logan Pass.

Option 2: Hike Hidden Lake Overlook (2.8 miles)

If you prefer a shorter hike, the Hidden Lake Overlook trail is a great choice. Starting behind the Logan Pass Visitor Center, the trail winds through a scenic meadow on a boardwalk, leading to a viewpoint that offers sweeping views of the mountains encircling Hidden Lake. For those looking for a bit more, you can continue down to the shores of Hidden Lake before retracing your steps back to Logan Pass.

Option 3: A Combination of Hidden Lake Overlook and Part of the Highline Trail

Can’t decide? Try hiking both! Begin with the Hidden Lake Overlook trail, then return to Logan Pass and cross the road to the Highline Trail. You can hike as far along the Highline as you’d like – whether it’s just a few miles or more – soaking in views of Lake McDonald Valley and prominent peaks like Mt. Oberlin and Mt. Cannon. When you’ve had your fill, simply turn back along the same path.

Exciting Side Trips from Glacier National Park

If you’re seeking more adventures beyond Glacier National Park, here are some nearby options worth considering for day trips:

• Waterton Lakes National Park, Canada: Enjoy a scenic boat tour or set out on hiking trails to explore this neighboring gem across the border.
• Whitefish, Montana: Spend a day window shopping and indulging in local dining in this charming town.
• Swan Mountain Outfitters: For a taste of the outdoors, book an excursion with Swan Mountain Outfitters, offering activities like horseback riding or fly fishing.

In addition to these day trips, several other national parks are within road trip distance, perfect for extending your journey:

• Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming – around 8 hours away
• North Cascades National Park, Washington – about 8 hours away
• Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming – approximately 6 hours away
• Banff National Park, Canada – approximately 6 hours away
• Mount Rainier National Park, Washington – roughly 9 hours away

Essential Items to Pack for Your Glacier National Park Adventure

National Park Pass: Glacier National Park requires an entry fee. If you’re planning to visit multiple national parks in the coming year, consider getting the America the Beautiful pass, which provides access to over 60 national parks and more than 400 monuments and sites for 12 months. It’s a great deal at $80 for an annual pass.

Binoculars: Glacier is an incredible spot for wildlife viewing. A good pair of binoculars allows you to observe animals safely from a distance. For an entry-level option, the Occer binoculars on Amazon are a solid choice. If you’re after higher-quality optics, the Nikon Monarch M5 offers excellent clarity.

Hiking Boots: Trails in Glacier demand reliable footwear. Bring sturdy, comfortable hiking boots or trail shoes with good grip. Be sure to break them in before your trip to avoid blisters and discomfort.

Merino Wool Socks: Keep your feet happy on hikes by wearing moisture-wicking Merino wool socks. Darn Tough socks are a trusted choice, available in various styles, from low-cut to full-cushion boot socks, designed to keep your feet dry and blister-free.

Hiking Backpack and Essentials: Always bring a hiking backpack with room for water, snacks, and gear. Don’t forget the 10 essentials for hiking safety, including items like a map, compass, first-aid kit, and extra layers.

Layers: Weather in Glacier can shift throughout the day, with cool mornings and warm afternoons. Pack moisture-wicking shirts for hiking, along with fleece layers to stay warm when temperatures drop.

Rain Jacket: Summer months bring frequent rain showers, so it’s wise to have a rain jacket or poncho handy. Expect an average of 17 rainy days per month during summer, even if they’re brief.

Sun Hat and Sunscreen: Many trails in Glacier offer little shade, so sun protection is key. A wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen will shield you from harmful rays while keeping you comfortable on exposed hikes.

Key Tips for Planning a Glacier National Park Trip

Book early: Reservations for lodging and tours fill up fast. Lodges inside the park should be booked up to a year in advance, while campsites are best reserved six months ahead. For boat tours, plan to book 4–6 weeks before your visit.

Start your day early: Parking lots at popular spots like Logan Pass and Many Glacier fill up by 8 AM. To avoid delays, aim to arrive by 7 or 7:30 AM, especially during peak season.

Bear spray logistics: If you’re hiking, bear spray is essential, but since it’s prohibited on flights (even in checked luggage), plan to buy or rent it upon arrival. The Kalispell airport rents bear spray, and many Airbnbs or rental properties offer it as part of your stay.

Prepare for limited cell service: Glacier National Park has spotty cell coverage, so download your park entry reservation details before your trip. Print or save them offline to avoid complications at the entrance stations.

Offline navigation: Since service is scarce, download Google Maps for offline use. To do this, open the Google Maps app, select your profile, then choose ‘offline maps.’ Drag and select the Glacier National Park area to ensure you can navigate without needing service.

Respect wildlife boundaries: Keep a distance of at least 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from all other animals. If you encounter wildlife, stay calm and slowly back away. Keep your bear spray easily accessible, such as in a belt clip or backpack holster.

Monitor park conditions: Glacier’s conditions can change rapidly. Keep an eye on the official Glacier National Park website for updates on road closures, trail conditions, and campsite restrictions, especially due to bear activity.

Final Reflections on This 3-Day Glacier National Park Itinerary

Spending three days in Glacier National Park allows ample time to experience its standout locations. During this time, you’ll be able to explore the beauty of West Glacier, Logan Pass, St. Mary, and Many Glacier, leaving you with a sense of fulfillment from visiting the park’s most remarkable areas. Three days offers a balanced opportunity to appreciate the stunning scenery and wildlife that make Glacier such a memorable destination.