National Parks

Ultimate Guide to Glacier National Park: Best Things to Do in Glacier with Kids

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There’s something about giant mountain vistas that just speaks to my soul and visiting Glacier National Park with kids just fills that cup right up for me. We’ve visited a few times as a family and have loved finding the best things to do in Glacier National Park!

We loved exploring the park with our family, and want to share some tips, tricks, and some of the best Glacier activities. Whether you’re camping, picnicking, or hiking in Glacier, or even just learning about the history of the park from home, I hope this Glacier National Park guide is helpful and informative. You’ll find info on Glacier activities, lodging, and food, as well as indigenous history of the lands, book recommendations, and more.

I hope you enjoy this Glacier National Park travel guide!

Learn About Glacier National Park

Before we visit a national park, our family loves learning about it! It helps us enjoy it more and appreciate the people who have stewarded it well before us. We love learning about the Indigenous history, as well as about wildlife and ecosystems.

Here are a few things to learn about the park either before a visit or as part of a Glacier virtual tour!

Glacier National Park History & Natural Features

  • Humans have occupied the land presently known as Glacier National Park for over 10,000 years.
  • Explorations to the area by white trappers as early as the 1700s opened the area to trading among European settlers and tribal communities. As resources were depleted, the tribes eventually signed treaties that would increasingly confine native people to reservations and leave them dependent on the U.S. government.
  • By the middle of the 1800s, the mountainous region of Glacier National Park had been “discovered” and explored by early white explorers. The Blackfeet Indians continued to dominate the region until the 1870s.
  • With railroad tracks over Marias Pass completed in 1891, and the number of homesteads in the area increased. People came to the area to run trap lines, establish home sites, prospect for coal, metals, and oil, or just enjoy the scenery.
  • Under pressure from miners, the mountains east of the Continental Divide were acquired by the U.S. government from the Blackfeet in 1895. Miners came searching for copper and gold. They hoped to strike it rich, but no large copper or gold deposits were ever located. 
  • Glacier National Park, established in 1910, predates the National Park Service itself, which was created in 1916.
  • Three major North American watersheds arise from Glacier National Park (Arctic, Atlantic and Pacific). Two climate zones (Pacific Maritime and Prairie/Arctic) are separated by the Continental Divide. Biomes range from the lower elevation pacific cedar-hemlock forest to the high alpine tundra.
  • Glacier National Park’s glaciers support the American way of life by contributing meltwater to irrigation for agriculture, to cold streams for wildlife, and to lakes for recreation. The national park was named for its many active glaciers. Losing these glaciers may be a lesson about the significance of the climate crisis.
  • (Source) (Source) (Source) (Source) (Source)

Glacier Indigenous History

  • Indigenous peoples have used the land in and surrounding what is presently the national park for for hunting, fishing, ceremonies, and gathering plants.
  • Tribes that have inhabited – and continue to inhabit – the area include the Blackfeet, Salish, Pend d’Oreille, and Kootenai.
  • The Blackfeet prided themselves on being hunters living primarily off the large herds of buffalo roaming the plains, but they were also familiar with the plants in their environment. They made use of at least 185 species of plants for food, medicine, ceremonial, and construction purposes.
  • More at home in the foothills and mountains than either the Blackfeet or Salish tribes, the Ktunaxa (Kootenai) continued to make buffalo hunting excursions onto the plains even after the Blackfeet had asserted dominance there. However, buffalo were never the chosen game animal of the Ktunaxa. They preferred the hides and meat of mountain animals like big horn sheep, elk, moose, and woodland caribou. Known as the “fish trap people” or “the fish eaters” by neighboring tribes, the Ktunaxa balanced their diet of fish with red meat and vegetation. 
  • The Salish had a well-balanced diet of plant foods and meat. They occasionally hunted in the mountains and spent time hunting buffalo on the plains. The Salish resided mainly in the valleys and had access to such root crops as bitterroot, camas, biscuit root, wild carrots, and onions.
  • Each of these tribes used lodgepole pine extensively for construction, food, and medicine. In the days before skin tipis, lodges were constructed from lodgepole, western red cedar, willow, birch, and tule or rushes. Canoes were made from cedar and birch.
  • By the late 1890s, bison were hunted to near extinction by settlers, and winter food sources for tribes dwindled. Soon after, the land became a target for mining, and a series of bad-faith deals with the US government left the tribe with limited rights to their ancestral homelands. When Glacier National Park was established in 1910, the tribes lost the ability to hunt and gather on the land.
  • Today, the 1.5-million acre Blackfeet Indian Reservation, which shares Glacier’s eastern border, is home to about 8,600 members of the Blackfeet Nation, the largest tribe in Montana. The Flathead Indian Reservation encompasses approximately 1.3 million acres mostly along the Flathead River and is home to approximately 7,000 members of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Nation.
  • To see videos of tribal peoples discussing their relationship to this land, view the At Home In This Place series.
  • (Source) (Source) (Source) (Source)

Featured Glacier Picture Book: Bold Women in Montana History

Available on Amazon

Glacier Packing List: What to Pack For a Glacier Family Vacation

Weather is always unpredictable in Glacier. Come prepared for changing conditions and potentially cold and blustery days. Expect colder temperatures and more extreme conditions at higher elevations. Packing extra layers is the key to a comfortable visit regardless of season.

Glacier National Park Packing List

  • Carry-all backpack – this is our favorite grown-up pack to carry essentials for a day hike
  • Kids’ Hiking Backpack – our kids absolutely love these 18L hiking backpacks. They’re perfect as a day pack or for travel – they hold a ton, are sturdy, comfortable, and have a spot for a water bladder. They even work really well on my short torso and I alternate between one of those or this women’s day pack. We also love this 12L kids day hike backpack for younger kids.
  • Backpacking Backpack – if you’ll be doing any overnight adventures, we really love this 40L pack for overnights.
  • Layers
    • Wool base layers + Socks – great for regulating temperature and moisture wicking. Excellent for cold weather, too. Here are all our favorite wool base layers & socks for the whole family.
    • Sun protective gear
  • Sturdy shoes
    • I like these hiking boots for women and men, and these hiking sandals for women and men.
    • I’d recommend either sneakers with good tread or hiking shoes when exploring Glacier trails with kids. My kids love either hiking sandals, hiking boots, or regular sneakers depending on the type of hike. (I like these and these for kids because they’re also waterproof.)
  • First aid kit and my favorite bandages
  • Sunscreen
    • I love this kind for kids – it’s mineral-based, provides great protection, great for sensitive skin, and rubs in easily. This is my favorite facial sunscreen for myself (use code LPF15 for 15% off).
  • Insect Repellent
    • It can definitely get buggy around here, especially in the summer. We love this deet-free repellent (use code LPF15) and this Picardin-based bug repellent in areas that don’t have a high prevalence of disease-carrying mosquitos (we use Deet in Zika/dengue/malarial areas).
  • Quick-Dry Towel
    • We like to have one of these quick-dry towels on hand in case of rain or any spills.
  • Hat
  • Camera equipment
  • Water/snacks
  • Child hiking carrier – Glacier National Park has a number of wonderful hikes, and we love having a carrier to pack along a baby or toddler when visiting Glacier with kids. This is our favorite backpack hiking carrier for visiting Glacier National Park with toddler that also has plenty of room for snacks and even our big camera. We also love this soft structured carrier for younger babies.

How To Get to Glacier National Park

The closest airport to Glacier National Park is Glacier Park International, near Kalispell, MT. It is approximately 30 miles west of the West Entrance. Once in the park, families can use the Going-to-the-Sun Road Shuttle but to explore the park more fully and have increased flexibility you may want to rent a car.

The next closest airport options:

  • Missoula International Airport is located approximately 150 miles south of the West Entrance.
  • Great Falls International Airport is located between 130 miles and 165 miles east of the St Mary, Two Medicine, and Many Glacier Entrances.

There is also the option to take a train to Glacier National Park! Amtrak’s historic Empire Builder train line stops year-round at West Glacier, and the Izaak Walton Inn at Essex, and seasonally at East Glacier Park. In the summer, Glacier National Park Lodges provides a shuttle (for a fee) that transports West Glacier Amtrak passengers between the train depot, Apgar Village, and the Lake McDonald Lodge. Reservations are required.

How Many Days Should I Spend at Glacier National Park?

Glacier is one of those national parks where there’s a lot to see and you’ll want to spend as much time as possible experiencing the sights. I would recommend at least 3 days in Glacier National Park – 5 days in Glacier would be even better! Three days in Glacier would give you enough time to explore Going-to-the-Sun Road along with a couple hikes and a ranger program. With 5 days in Glacier National Park, you will be able to fully experience both East Glacier and West Glacier and add in a rafting or boating excursion and participate in more ranger programs.

Where to Stay Near Glacier National Park: Glacier Lodging for Families

Camping in Glacier National Park

Camping in Glacier National Park is a great way to experience this spectacular place. There are 13 front country campgrounds, and each campground varies in use. Whether you wish to tent-camp, camp with an RV or other vehicle, one or more of the park campgrounds should suit your interest.

Many campgrounds are available by reservation and can be booked on Recreation.gov. Reserving a site is highly recommended as the park offers only a few first-come, first-served campgrounds.

If your family is interested in hiking to a remote campsite, learn more about Wilderness Camping in Glacier.

Glacier Lodging with Kids

Glacier is one of the few national parks that has a number of options for lodging within the park.

There are also a number of lodging options for families outside the park. Here are some recommended places to stay near Glacier National Park for families: NEED TO UPDATE WITH AFFILIATE LINKS

Where to Eat Near Glacier National Park

Because there’s quite a bit of driving needed to see the sights in Glacier, you’ll want to stay in the park for meals. Here’s where to eat in Glacier National Park:

Apgar

Lake McDonald Lodge

Many Glacier

How to Get Around Glacier National Park: Glacier Transportation

It’s most convenient for families to have a car to get into Glacier National Park, even if you take the public shuttle while inside the park. Here’s more info on the Going-to-the-Sun Road Shuttle.

Here’s my favorite place for discount car rentals

Best Time to Go to Glacier: Glacier National Park Weather

Glacier’s weather is highly variable and can be extreme. In winter, most of the park is covered in several feet of snow, and there are many cloudy, snowy days. Glacier doesn’t see many visitors in winter, but the quiet snow makes for a beautiful time to visit. If you’re a fan of snow sports like snowshoeing or cross country skiing, winter would be a great time to visit Glacier National Park.

If you want fewer crowds but less snow, try visiting Glacier during a shoulder season. In spring, rainy days and cooler temperatures are common, even throughout the month of June. In fall, temperatures begin cooling down, and snow may occur even at lower elevations as early as mid-September.

Summer in Glacier National Park is very popular, and with good reason. This is when you’ll be able to take advantage of the breadth of programming the park has to offer. Hot days and cool nights are normal throughout July and August. Hikers setting out on a warm summer day should expect changing conditions and bring rain gear and extra layers of clothing.

Top Glacier Checklist of the Best Things to Do in Glacier National Park

If you have limited time and are wondering about what to see in Glacier National Park, here are some of our favorites for a short trip to Glacier. These would all be wonderful as part of a Glacier National Park itinerary and are the top things to do in Glacier National Park.

These activities will give you a wonderful overview of the best things to do in Glacier National Park, including its wildlife and ecosystems, in a short period of time. If you have longer, be sure to visit Avalanche Lake or Iceberg Lake.

Best Things to Do in Glacier National Park: Glacier National Park Itinerary & Unique Things To Do in Glacier National Park

If you’re still not convinced and are wondering, “Is Glacier National Park kid friendly,” here’s more detail on family friendly activities when on a Glacier family vacation:

1. Check Out the Visitor Centers

Staff at the park’s three visitor centers (St. Mary, Apgar and Logan Pass) can help with trip planning and answering any questions you may have. Be sure to pick up free maps check other park publications via the visitor center bookstores. Hours vary with the seasons, so check the Basic Information page for current information about each visitor center and other ranger stations and offices.

2. Attend a Native America Speaks Program

Each summer, members of the Blackfeet Nation and Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes share personal knowledge of their history and culture as part of the Native America Speaks program. This program began in 1982 and is the longest running Indigenous speaker series in the National Park Service. Native America Speaks programs are generally offered at park campgrounds and historic lodges, and in locations throughout the Blackfeet Nation. In addition, cultural presentations are offered at the 1913 Ranger Station, along Two Medicine Lake, in Apgar Village, and at Logan Pass star parties. To learn more about Native America Speaks, view this short film made in 2019 that chronicles the history of the program through the voices of the presenters. For the most up to date schedule go here.

3. Junior Ranger Program

The Glacier Junior Ranger Program was designed to be completed during a visit to the park and includes place-based requirements and activities. You can become a Junior Ranger in Glacier National Park by completing the steps and activities in the self-guided Glacier Junior Ranger Activity Booklet during your stay. Reader and pre-reader versions of the Glacier Junior Ranger Activity Booklet are available at visitor centers and ranger stations throughout the park. Once you complete the required steps and activities, share your completed booklet with a park ranger at any visitor center or ranger station during operating hours to become a new Glacier Junior Ranger and receive your Junior Ranger Badge.

4. Hike a Glacier Trail: Best Hikes Glacier National Park

With over 700 miles of trails in Glacier providing outstanding opportunities for both short hikes and extended backpacking trips, there’s something for everyone. Some self-guided walks interpret trailside features with signs. The Trail of the Cedars, Forest and Fire, Hidden Lake, Running Eagle Falls, and Swiftcurrent Nature Trails encourage hikers to experience the park at their own pace. The Trail of the Cedars and Running Eagle Falls trails are wheelchair accessible. 

Glacier Guides offers guided half-day, full-day, overnight, and chalet hikes. Equipment rentals and porter services to deliver your gear to wilderness campsites are available.

Trail conditions and statuses change frequently. To be the first to know, sign up for Glacier National Park Notifications. Text GNPTRAILS to 333111. You’ll receive live updates and be the first to know trail closures and postings!

5. Rent a Boat or Take a Guided Boat Tour in Glacier

Glacier National Park is a land of big lakes. Boat tours with commentary are available at Many Glacier, Two Medicine, Rising Sun, and Lake McDonald. Optional guided hikes are offered on some cruises at Many Glacier, Two Medicine, and Rising Sun. Small boat rentals available at Apgar, Lake McDonald, Two Medicine, and Many Glacier. For more information, including tours north of the border in Canada, see this page.

6. Go on a Guided Horseback Ride in Glacier National Park

Guided horseback rides are available inside the park at Many Glacier, Lake McDonald, and Apgar. Swan Mountain Outfitters offers drop camp services, packing visitor’s gear into certain backcountry campgrounds using stock. This can be an enjoyable alternative to backpacking. A backcountry permit and advance coordination are required. Make a reservation with Swan Mountain Outfitters.

7. Join a Ranger-Led Activity

Ranger programming at Glacier includes evening programs, guided walks and hikes, ranger talks about the natural and cultural history of the park, astronomy programs, and a walking tour of the historic Many Glacier Hotel.  Most activities are offered during the months of June through September. For details about each activity and a programs calendar, visit the Ranger-led Activities page. You can also check locally at visitor centers for special programs throughout the season.

8. Take a Raft Tour at Glacier

Several raft companies operate commercially guided raft trips on the Middle Fork and North Fork of the Flathead River. Both forks are within the Flathead Wild and Scenic River designation and are jointly managed by Glacier National Park and the Flathead National Forest. See this page for raft companies have permits from the US Forest Service.

9. See the Sights on a Glacier Bus Tour

Skip the traffic and parking and see the sights with a Glacier bus tour! Sun Tours offers interpretive tours, on air conditioned 25-passenger window coaches, highlighting Blackfeet culture. Daily service from West Glacier, East Glacier, St. Mary, and Browning during the peak season.

10. Go Cross Country Skiing or Snowshoeing in Glacier National Park

Winter would be a gorgeous time to visit Glacier National Park! Glacier’s winter recreation opportunities are diverse, with trails and routes available for all skill levels. Ski and snowshoe rentals can be found at various private businesses in surrounding communities, but there are no rental opportunities in the park. Guided cross-country ski and snowshoe activities are available for those who’d like to experience Glacier with the assistance of someone who’s familiar with different aspects of the park. See this page for guided tour options.

Weather conditions, as well as minimal park operations and services, can present challenges for many visitors. Be sure to check conditions in advance and throughout your winter stay!

11. River camping in Glacier National Park

If you love getting on the water, you have the opportunity to go river camping in Glacier National Park. The Flathead National Forest, administered by the US Forest Service, provides primitive camping locations at Ford Creek, Big Creek and Glacier Rim. Glacier National Park has one designated river campground at Round Prairie available for overnight boater use. Glacier also allows limited, undesignated camping along the North Fork. Be sure to speak with a Wilderness Ranger at one of the Wilderness Permit Centers if you are thinking about a river camping trip. Learn more about river camping in Glacier here.

12. Fishing in Glacier National Park

Fishing is permitted when consistent with preservation or restoration of natural aquatic environments, and visitors can fish in Glacier National park without a fishing license. There are a number of regulations to be aware of, including closed waters and tribal regulations. There are also catch and possession limits. For full details, including information about bait, fish identification, and bear precautions, check this page.

13. Bicycling in Glacier National Park

Cycling in popular in Glacier, especially on portions of Going-to-the-Sun Road. Be aware that bicycles are allowed only on paved roads, unpaved roads, and multi-use paths (bike paths), unless otherwise posted. There is also an option to do bike camping! A limited number of sites at Apgar, Fish Creek, Sprague Creek, Avalanche, Rising Sun, St. Mary, Many Glacier, and Two Medicine Campgrounds are set aside for those arriving by bicycle or on foot (hiker/biker sites).

Be sure to gather seasonal information such as available services, bicycling restrictions, area closures, and road and weather conditions. Further details about safety and regulations can be found here.

14. Photography in Glacier National Park

Glacier is a photographer’s paradise! Here are a few ideas for photo ops in the park:

  • Summer wildflowers at Logan Pass
  • Sunset from Going-to-the-Sun Road
  • Astrophotography – or, better yet, try to catch the northern lights! Check the  Aurora Forecast and look for a KP rating of 5 or above, with forecasted clear weather through the night.
  • Waterfalls or other waterways like Avalanche Lake and the famous colorful pebble shorelines, which are all over the park. Popular spots to capture these multicolored rocks are along the southeastern edges of Lake McDonald.
  • Wildlife – look for animals in the morning or evening, at high elevations for goats and sheep, open meadows for bear and elk, creek sides for moose and deer, and forests for songbirds. 

Here’s the photography equipment we bring along:

Photo equipment – NEED TO UPDATE THESE LINKS

Enjoy Your Visit to Glacier National Park with Kids!

We’ve loved putting together this Glacier National Park travel guide to take an in person or virtual visit to Glacier with kids. We’d love to hear if you do any of these activities on a family trip to Glacier National Park!

We hope to inspire curiosity and connection through exploring and learning, and we hope this guide helps you and your families. Please share any activities you do with us over on our Instagram. And we’d be delighted if you passed this guide to Glacier National Park with kids along to others, as well!

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