Whenever we talk about our Glacier National Park vacation, we’re always bursting with excitement. There was so much to see and do, and we wanted to make the most of every minute. The key to our successful journey was none other than having a proper plan. We needed to find the perfect balance between enjoyable activities and breathtaking adventures. Think of admiring the pristine lakes and conquering scenic hikes. If you also want to plan your Glacier trip, you’re at the right place, as we’re about to show you our Glacier National Park 5-day itinerary. For us, 5 days were exactly what we needed to maximize our time in the park and create memories that would last a lifetime.
Table of contents
Our trip overview
We visited the Glacier National Park last September, which was one of the best months to visit. We didn’t only get the chance to enjoy scenic drives but also breathtaking views and some of the most iconic spots in the park. However, remember that the park has a short season, typically June through September. So, make sure to book the accommodation and any required permits in advance, especially during peak season. Also, another important thing to note is that vehicle reservations are required on Goin-to-the-Sun Road from late May to mid-September.
You can technically enjoy the national park in just one or two days. However, since we wanted to check every box on our list, we decided that five days was the ideal duration for us.
Below is what our journey looked like:
- Arrival in the evening before
- 1st day: West Glacier
- 2nd day: Going-to-the-Sun Road
- 3rd day: St. Mary & Virginia Falls
- 4th day: Many Glacier & Swiftcurrent Lake Trail
- 5th day: Two Medicine & departure
Arrival
After a long flight, our team finally landed at Glacier Park International Airport in Kalispell, Montana. Stepping out of the plane, we immediately felt the crisp mountain air. We then continued to pick up our rental car, eagerly hitting the road towards West Glacier, the park’s western entrance.
Enchanted by the towering mountains and pristine lakes, the almost-an-hour drive seemed to fly by. Since we arrived in the evening, we decided first to have a proper rest at Paddle Ridge. While there are so many amazing accommodations in West Glacier, Paddle Ridge remains a standout.
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We booked the one-bedroom cabin, which was super relaxing. The fully equipped kitchen, too, allowed us to whip up a quick meal immediately, as we were starving. The rustic cabin vibe, complete with a wooden porch swing overlooking a stunning mountain vista, was the perfect way to start our Glacier adventure.
If you want more accommodation recommendations, check out these best hotels near Glacier National Park!
Day 1
We made the right decision to stay at Paddle Ridge, as we had a good night’s sleep. After packing our things and making sure we didn’t have our sleepy faces anymore, we said goodbye to the hotel and enjoyed a slice of huckleberry pie from the Glacier Highland Restaurant. The pie truly tasted so good. It was sweet and almost addicting! Apparently, huckleberry pie is a Montana must-try, and what better way to start our Glacier adventure than with a local favorite?
New day, new accommodation. Next stop: Under Canvas Glacier. Glamping under the stars in Glacier National Park is an unforgettable way to experience the park, and Under Canvas seems to have mastered the art of luxury camping. We booked the Deluxe Tent, and ours had a private bathroom. We also loved how there was a lovely terrace where we could relax and soak in the beautiful scenery. While the lack of electricity might seem daunting at first, we were still provided with two solar lanterns with USB ports so we could charge our gadgets.
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Once we were settled in, we headed to the Apgar Visitor Center to grab our park pass. There, we talked with a friendly ranger to learn about current trail conditions and any hidden gems they might recommend.
After an informative pitstop, we then took a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake McDonald, the largest lake nestled within the park. The pristine waters and the surrounding mountain scenery were mesmerizing, and we were awed for the rest of the day.
To finish our incredible first day, we treated ourselves to a delicious dinner with a view at Russell’s Fireside Dining Room, which is located at Lake McDonald Lodge. We ordered the Curry Lentil Soup, Double R Signature Ribeye, and so much more. And in case you’re wondering, you don’t have to be a guest at Lake McDonald Lodge to enjoy the food. However, we have to admit that the hotel is amazing. As one of the best lodgings inside Glacier National Park, it offers fantastic accommodations, a variety of on-site dining options, and plenty of activities nearby.
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Day 2
Then came the second day. We woke up with excitement buzzing for a full day of exploring Going-to-the-Sun Road. This legendary 50-mile scenic drive promised breathtaking views and access to some of Glacier’s most popular hikes. We packed a picnic lunch for flexibility, knowing dining options would be limited along the way.
Our first stop was the Logan Pass Visitor Center, where we were immediately captivated by the panoramic vistas unfolding before us. The center offered fascinating insights into the park’s unique ecosystem, helping us appreciate the delicate balance of nature at play. Feeling a connection to the landscape, we embarked on the short interpretive trail to the Grinnell Glacier Overlook. From there, we gazed out at the awe-inspiring Grinnell Glacier, a stark reminder of the park’s ever-changing environment.
With lunchtime approaching, we opted for the scenic route—literally! Pulling over at a particularly stunning overlook, we savored our picnic lunch surrounded by the majesty of the mountains. Once we were refueled and refreshed, we continued our journey, eager to hit the trails.
Our next stop was the Grinnell Glacier Trailhead. We spent the afternoon traversing the path, mesmerized by the gorgeous scenery. The hike was a perfect way to connect with the park’s natural beauty on a deeper level.
As the day drew to a close, we made our way to St. Mary Village on the park’s east side. Nestled near St. Mary Lake, this historic lodge exuded a classic Montana feel, offering the perfect ambiance to unwind after a day of adventure. We booked the Queen Room, and though not exactly big, it was super cozy. We were able to take in the views of the park from our room, and the log cabin-inspired decor was nothing short of charming. It felt like we were back in the ’50s.
For dinner, we went to the on-site Snowgoose Grille. It’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so you can go there anytime you want. Aside from that, the hotel also boasts Curly Bear Cafe. Trust us, you don’t want to miss the ice cream there! If you plan to stay in St. Mary, you should definitely consider this lodging.
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Day 3
Let’s continue our five-day Glacier National Park itinerary! On the third day, we started with a leisurely stroll around our hotel, St. Mary Village. If you decide to stay here, you should do the same. We were glad we decided to wake up a little early to take in the crisp mountain air and stretch our legs while enjoying the tranquility of the morning. Once refreshed and ready for the day, we returned to the hotel’s Snwogoose Grille for a delicious breakfast.
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Then, we embarked on a moderate 3-mile hike to Virginia Falls, a true Glacier icon. The trail meandered through a forest, sunlight dappling through the leaves as we climbed. Every turn offered us breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. The sound of rushing water grew steadily louder as we neared the falls, building the anticipation. We were awed by Virginia Falls in all its glory when we emerged from the trees. The cascading water was a powerful sight, mist spraying cool droplets on our faces. We spent a good amount of time marveling at the falls, snapping photos, and soaking in the natural beauty.
For the afternoon, we decided to take a scenic boat tour on St. Mary Lake. As we glided across the calm water, the boat captain shared fascinating stories about the history and geology of the area. We kept our eyes peeled for wildlife and were lucky enough to spot a family of loons cruising on the lake’s surface. A playful otter even popped its head up for a brief moment. The boat tour was a relaxing way to enjoy the stunning scenery from a different perspective and the perfect way to end the day.
Day 4
Our fourth day was dedicated to exploring the remote beauty of Many Glacier, a postcard-perfect area on the east side of Glacier National Park. In fact, visiting Many Glacier is one of the top things to do in Montana Glacier National Park. The drive itself was a treat, with towering mountains unfolding before us with every turn. What can you expect from Many Glacier? Imagine turquoise lakes and alpine meadows. Initially, we wanted to go straight to our next hotel, but the views were too good to be missed. That’s not all, as Many Glacier also has plenty of great spots for picnics and swimming.
After soaking in the views, we checked into the Many Glacier Hotel. Stepping into the historic lodge was like entering another era, with its grand lobby and large windows framing a breathtaking panorama of Swiftcurrent Lake. Speaking of which, we think this is one of, if not the best, hotels inside the park. There are plenty of activities right at the hotel, and the rooms are charming and comfy.
Like many other lodges in the area, Many Glacier Hotel might lack modern amenities. However, we think this is somehow in keeping with its old-world charm. We booked the Deluxe Room and had a blast. It was cozy and equipped with everything we needed. The private bathroom was spotless, too!
“If you’re into charming, historic lodges, you won’t be disappointed with the Many Glacier Hotel, which will enchant you in many ways.”
WOW Travel
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Refreshed after settling in, we set off for an afternoon hike on the Swiftcurrent Lake Trail. The trail meandered along the edge of the lake, offering fantastic perspectives of the surrounding peaks and the pristine water. One of the main reasons we looked forward to this hike was because it’s great for people of all ages and abilities. The Swiftcurrent Lake Trail is commonly known to be a relatively easy and flat trail. It took us around an hour to complete the trail, but we spent so much time taking in the stunning views.
With legs pleasantly tired, we made our way back to the Many Glacier Hotel. To call it a day, we enjoyed a casual dinner at the on-site Ptarmigan Grill.
Day 5
5
All good things must come to an end, and so it was with our Glacier trip. On our fifth and final day, we bid farewell to the magical scenery of Many Glacier and headed to the quieter Two Medicine area, known for its serenity and abundant wildlife.
Our morning began with an easy 1.5-mile hike to Upper Two Medicine Lake. The trail was pleasant, and the reward at the end was breathtaking. The crystal-clear lake reflected the surrounding mountains, and with a little luck, we spotted some marmots or curious pikas basking in the sun.
Once we were done there, we returned to the Many Glacier Hotel to check out. For lunch, we had two delicious options: a picnic lunch by the shore of Lower Two Medicine Lake, soaking in the beauty one last time, or grabbing a juicy burger and fries at the Two Medicine Grill, a great spot to fuel up before our journey home. You’re right – we got both!
After lunch, we took a scenic drive back towards West Glacier, keeping our eyes peeled for wildlife sightings along the way. Finally, it was time to say goodbye to the park. With a heart full of memories, we made our way back to Glacier Park International Airport, ready to share our Glacier adventures with everyone. We hope our 5-day Glacier National Park itinerary can help you plan the perfect Glacier adventure!
Tips for visiting Glacier National Park
During those five days, Glacier National Park offered us some priceless experiences. Here are some important tips so you can also fully enjoy your trip!
- Always plan ahead! Glacier National Park is a popular destination, especially during summer. To avoid crowds and ensure you get the camping spots or guided tours you want, be sure to book your accommodations and activities well in advance. Consider how many days you want your trip to be and plan your itinerary properly.
- The weather in Glacier National Park can change rapidly, so be sure to pack layers of clothing, including rain gear, sunscreen, and a hat. The park is at a high elevation, so the nights can be cool even in the summer.
- Glacier National Park is a bear country, so it’s crucial to carry bear spray with you whenever you’re hiking or camping. Before you go, be sure to know how to use bear spray properly.
- There are limited dining options available in the park. Thus, pack plenty of food and water for your hikes. You should also bring more water than you think you’ll need, especially during the summer months.
- Additionally, Glacier National Park offers many different hiking trails and scenic drives. Before you go, be sure to pick up a park map and familiarize yourself with the park rules.
- Glacier National Park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, moose, and deer. Always give the wildlife plenty of space and never approach or feed them.
Are two days enough in Glacier National Park?
It depends on your itinerary. For some, two days is a good amount of time to get a taste of Glacier National Park’s stunning scenery and hiking trails. You can see some of the park’s highlights, like Lake McDonald and Going-to-the-Sun Road. But to delve deeper into the wilderness, you may want to spend more days.
Which entrance to Glacier National Park is best?
While the answer might be subjective, the West Entrance is the most popular entrance. It offers easy access to the Going-to-the-Sun Road, the park’s main thoroughfare, and Lake McDonald.
What is the best town to stay in to see Glacier National Park?
This also depends on what you’re looking for in your trip. If you want to be closest to the park entrance and have the most lodging options, West Glacier is the best choice. However, if you’re looking for a charming town with a wider variety of restaurants and shops, Whitefish is a good option, though it’s a bit further from the park.
