Glacier National Park, located in the Rocky Mountains of Montana, is a stunning destination known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and numerous outdoor activities. So, in this article, read about how to curate your Glacier National Park itinerary 7 days with the best things to do in Glacier National Park.
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Glacier National Park Itinerary 7 Days – Things to do in Glacier National Park
This itinerary for Glacier National Park covers day-wise things to do, must-visit spots, activities, and tips to make your visit memorable.
Day 1: Arrival – Glacier National Park Itinerary
You will drive towards Apgar Village, which is 10 miles from the West Entrance of Glacier National park and is approximately 20 minutes by car.
Activities:
- Visit Apgar Visitor Center: Gather information, maps, and ranger-led programs.
- Rent a Bike or Kayak: Explore Lake McDonald by kayak or bike along nearby trails.
Hotel-Stay: Village Inn at Apgar. Enjoy stunning views of Lake McDonald from this charming lakeside inn.
Day 2: Going-to-the-Sun Road
On day two of your Glacier National Park itinerary, drive towards Logan Pass, 32 miles from Apgar Village, approximately 1.5 hours by car. You will drive through Going-to-the-Sun Road and pass through many scenic spots, waterfalls, and stunning hikes.
Activities:
- Drive Going-to-the-Sun Road: This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and waterfalls.
- Stop at Scenic Points: Don’t miss the Jackson Glacier Overlook and Weeping Wall.
You can do this Hidden Lake Overlook Trail on this route: 5.4 miles round trip, moderate difficulty. This trail is famous for its panoramic views of Hidden Lake and the surrounding peaks.
Waterfalls Stopover: Bird Woman Falls: Visible from the road, this 560-foot waterfall is a spectacular sight.
Hotel Stay: Rising Sun Motor Inn & Cabins at Rising Sun, along the Going-to-the-Sun Road near St. Mary Lake. You can stay at rustic cabins and motor inn rooms with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and easy access to scenic trails and viewpoints. The Rising Sun area is conveniently located for continuing your journey the next day to Many Glacier.
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Day 3: Many Glacier Area
On day three of your 7 day Glacier National Park itinerary, you will visit Many Glacier, which is 70 miles from Logan Pass and approximately 2.5 hours by car. You will enjoy many beautiful activities, hikes, and scenic stopovers in between.
Activities:
- Boat Tour on Swiftcurrent Lake: Take a scenic boat tour and enjoy the surrounding mountain views.
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot grizzly bears, moose, and other wildlife in this area.
Hotel Stay: Many Glacier Hotel is a historic Swiss-style lodge with stunning views of Swiftcurrent Lake and surrounding mountains.
Must-Do Hike: Grinnell Glacier Trail is a strenuous 11-mile round trip that offers spectacular views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and lakes.
Waterfalls Stopover: Redrock Falls, accessible via a moderate 4-mile round-trip hike. Enjoy the serene setting and cascading falls.
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Day 4: Two Medicine Area
Drive to Two Medicine, 55 miles from Many Glacier, and approximately 1.5 hours by car. During this drive, you will stop for many activities and spot stunning waterfalls and hikes.
Activities:
- Boat Tour on Two Medicine Lake: Experience the lake’s serene beauty surrounded by rugged mountains.
- Visit Running Eagle Falls: A unique waterfall that flows through a cave.
Hotel Stay: Since there are fewer mid-budget lodging options near Two Medicine, consider camping at the Two Medicine Campground or staying in nearby East Glacier Park Village, which offers several lodging options, such as the Mountain Pine Motel.
Must-Do Hike or Scenic Point Trail: This strenuous hike is a 6.2-mile round trip with panoramic Two Medicine Valley views.
Day 5: North Fork Area
Drive to Bowman Lake, 32 miles from Apgar Village, approximately 1.5 hours by car.
Activities:
- Kayak on Bowman Lake: Enjoy the tranquil waters and picturesque mountain backdrop.
- Hike the Quartz Lake Loop: It is a 12.8-mile round trip of moderate difficulty with stunning views of Quartz and Cerulean Lakes.
Hotel Stay: Polebridge Mercantile & Cabins – Experience rustic cabins with easy access to the North Fork area’s natural beauty.
Must-Do Hike or Numa Ridge Lookout: This strenuous, 11.4-mile round-trip hike provides panoramic views of the park and surrounding wilderness.
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Day 6: Hiking and Exploring
Drive towards Avalanche Lake, 16 miles from Apgar Village, and approximately 30 minutes by car.
Activities:
- Hike to Avalanche Lake: 4.5 miles round trip, moderate difficulty. The trail follows a creek and ends at a stunning glacial lake.
- Visit Trail of the Cedars: An easy, wheelchair-accessible 0.7-mile loop through an ancient cedar forest.
Waterfalls to stop at: Avalanche Gorge: Along the Trail of the Cedars, stop at a beautiful gorge with cascading waterfalls.
Hotel Stay: Lake McDonald Lodge—It lies near the shores of Lake McDonald, approximately 10 miles from Avalanche Lake, about 20 minutes by car. Lake McDonald Lodge is a historic Swiss-chalet-style lodge offering cozy rooms with beautiful views of Lake McDonald and the surrounding mountains.
Day 7: Departure – Best Things to do in Glacier National Park
On day seven, drive towards West Glacier, 10 miles from Apgar Village, approximately 20 minutes by car, with many scenic stopovers, and then depart to your home.
Activities:
- Visit Lake McDonald Lodge: Explore the historic lodge and enjoy a final lake view.
- Souvenir Shopping: Stop by gift shops in Apgar Village for last-minute souvenirs.
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FAQs – Glacier National Park Itinerary 7 Days
Let’s check some of the frequently asked questions for planning the Glacier National Park itinerary 7 days tour
- When is the best time to visit Glacier National Park?
The best time to visit Glacier National Park is from late June to mid-September, when the weather is most favorable and the park’s roads and facilities are fully open. This period offers the best conditions for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.
- Do I need a permit to visit Glacier National Park?
Yes, you will need a park entrance pass, which can be purchased at the park entrances or online. Some areas, such as the Going-to-the-Sun Road, may require additional vehicle reservations during peak season, so check the park’s official website for current requirements.
- How can I get around the park?
The best way to get around Glacier National Park is by car. The park’s shuttle service is available on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, offering an alternative to driving and helping reduce congestion. Hiking or guided tours are recommended for some trailheads and remote areas.
- What should I pack for the trip?
Pack layered clothing to prepare for varying weather conditions, sturdy hiking boots, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, bear spray, a map, and a first aid kit. Don’t forget your camera to capture stunning landscapes!
- Are there any safety tips for hiking in Glacier National Park?
Always hike with a partner, carry bear spray, and know how to use it. Stay on marked trails, be aware of your surroundings, make noise to avoid surprising wildlife, and follow park guidelines for safe food storage. Check trail conditions before heading out.
- Do we get a chance to spot wildlife in Glacier National Park?
Yes, Glacier National Park is home to various wildlife, including grizzly bears, black bears, mountain goats, moose, and bighorn sheep. Wildlife viewing is best in the early morning or late evening. Always observe animals from a safe distance and never approach or feed them. 
- What are the accommodation options in the park?
Glacier National Park offers a range of accommodations, including historic lodges, inns, and campgrounds.
- Are there dining options within the park?
Yes, many of the lodges and inns within Glacier National Park have on-site dining options, including restaurants, cafes, and snack bars. Bringing snacks and picnic supplies’s also a good idea, especially for long hikes or remote areas.
- What are some must-do activities in Glacier National Park?
Must-do activities include driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road, hiking to Hidden Lake Overlook, taking a boat tour on Swiftcurrent and Two Medicine Lakes, and exploring the Trail of the Cedars. Take advantage of scenic stops like Logan Pass, Bird Woman Falls, and Avalanche Gorge.
- How can I prepare for variable weather conditions in the park?
Glacier National Park’s weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for everything from sunny skies to rain and even snow at higher elevations. Wear layers, bring a waterproof jacket, and always check the weather forecast before heading out for the day.
- What are the road and highway rules in Glacier National Park?
Follow all posted speed limits, which are generally 45 mph or lower in the park. Be prepared for narrow, winding roads and share the road with wildlife, bicyclists, and pedestrians.
- How do I access Glacier National Park entrances?
The park has several entrances.
- West Entrance: Located near West Glacier, it is the most popular entrance and provides access to the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
- St. Mary Entrance: Located on the east side of the park, providing access to the Going-to-the-Sun Road from the opposite direction.
- Many Glacier Entrance: This entrance is located in the northeast part of the park and provides access to the Many Glacier area.
- Two Medicine Entrance: This entrance is located in the southeast part of the park and provides access to the Two Medicine area.
- Polebridge Entrance: This entrance is located in the northwest part of the park and provides access to the remote North Fork area.
These FAQs will help you craft Glacier National Park itinerary and a safe trip to Glacier National Park. Enjoy your adventure!
Why Visit Glacier National Park?
- Scenic Beauty: Home to majestic mountains, pristine lakes, waterfalls and lush forests, the park offers unparalleled natural beauty.
- Wildlife Viewing: The park is a habitat for various wildlife, including grizzly bears, mountain goats, and moose.
- Hiking Trails: Over 700 miles of hiking trails cater to all levels, providing access to stunning vistas and serene spots.
- Historic Lodges: Stay in charming historic lodges that blend rustic ambiance with modern comforts.
I hope you enjoyed this detailed itinerary for Glacier National Park. It will allow you to experience the best things to do in the Park, including its iconic roads, scenic vistas, challenging hikes, and serene lakes.
So save and share this Glacier National Park itinerary 7 days and Enjoy your adventure!
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