Glacier National Park

Exploring Glacier National Park felt like stepping into another world. Known for its rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and over 700 miles of hiking trails, this park offers breathtaking views at every turn. Driving along the famed Going-to-the-Sun Road was a highlight, with panoramic vistas of towering glaciers, valleys, and waterfalls. I spent time hiking along alpine trails, spotting wildlife like mountain goats and bighorn sheep and taking in the beauty of the park's namesake glaciers. From glorious hikes to serene lake views, Glacier is a true adventurer's paradise.

Stops Along Going-To-The-Sun Road

Going-To-The-Sun Road is one of the most breathtaking drives in the world, winding 50 miles through the heart of Glacier National Park. The iconic road takes you from lush valleys to high alpine terrain, offering stunning views of glaciers, waterfalls, and towering peaks along the way.

Wild Goose Island Lookout

Wild Goose Lookout offers one of the most picturesque views along Going-to-the-Sun Road. From the serene vantage point, you can take in stunning views of St. Mary Lake, framed by rugged mountain peaks and the iconic Wild Goose Island. It was my first stop along Going-to-the-Sun Road and was the perfect spot to pause and capture the beauty of the park.

Sun Point Nature Trail

Sun Point Nature Trail is a scenic hike along the shores of St. Mary Lake, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and crystal clear water. The trail is relatively short but packed with stunning vistas, making it a great spot for photos and a peaceful walk through Glacier's beautiful landscape.

Jackson Glacier Overlook

Jackson Glacier Overlook provides one of the best views of a remaining glacier in Glacier National Park. From this vantage point, you can clearly see Jackson Glacier nestled among the peaks, offering a glimpse into the park's icy past and its ongoing natural changes.

Logan Pass

Logan Pass, the highest point on Going-to-the-Sun Road, offers panoramic views of Glacier National Park's rugged peaks and alpine meadows. At 6,646 feet, it's a prime spot for wildlife sightings - I saw a mountain goat, longhorn sheep, hoary marmot, and many chipmunks! Hidden Lake Trail (2.6 miles roundtrip) begins here and provides stunning views along the entire trail. The parking situation here can get extremely packed and hectic unless you arrive very early in the day. I suggest driving down to The Loop and taking the shuttle back up from there.

Big Bend Overlook

Big Bend Overlook offers stunning views of Glacier National Park's towering peaks and sweeping valleys. The overlook is named for the dramatic curve in Going-to-the-Sun Road, providing a perfect vantage point to take in the surrounding mountains and spot wildlife.

Bird Woman Falls Overlook

Bird Woman Falls Overlook provides a view of one of Glacier National Park's picturesque waterfalls. Cascading from a glacier-fed source high on Mount Oberlin, Bird Woman Falls drops over 500 feet, surrounded by lush greenery and rugged cliffs. The overlook provides the perfect vantage point to admire the beauty and power of this stunning waterfall.

The Loop

The Loop is a well-known switchback along Going-to-the-Sun Road, offering a sharp curve in the road with dramatic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It's a popular stopping point for travelers, as the winding road reveals magnificent scenery and access to hiking trails. I did not hike from this point but did take the shuttle from the stop at The Loop back up to Logan Pass due to a jam packed paking lot at Logan Pass.

McDonald Falls Overlook

McDonald Falls Overlook offers a peaceful and scenic stop along Going-to-the-Sun Road, where you can view the cascading waters of McDonald Creek as it tumbles over rocks into a beautiful, rushing waterfall. Surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, the overlook provides a tranquil spot to take in the sounds and sights of the park's natural beauty.

Lake McDonald Lodge

Lake McDonald Lodge is a charming historic lodge located on the shores of Lake McDonald, Glacier National Park's largest lake. The lodge offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, with a Swiss-chalet-style architecture that feels like stepping back in time. I enjoyed exploring the lodge's interior as well as the serene lakeside setting. There are boat tours that leave off the dock and the most beautiful sunsets over the lake every evening.