Visiting Glacier National Park in Montana will transport you to another world. Dramatic mountain peaks along with large pristine lakes can be seen at every turn. Moose, grizzly and black bear sitings are common. The Montana park (just south of the Canadian border) is essentially the width of the Rocky Mountain range so weather systems moving from the east or the west converge on rapidly rising terrain. This makes weather very dynamic and difficult to predict. One moment it could be clear and sunny, and 20 minutes later you could be standing in a cloud. During the summer months the sun rises early and sets very late, which is helpful because there are so many areas to discover. I prefer to categorize the park as 5 distinct areas separated by enough driving time that one could almost consider them separate parks.
West Glacier
The West Glacier area is the home of the majestic Lake McDonald that has beautifully colored glacial till, which dazzles in the crystal clear water.
Pebbles
Lake McDonald – Glacier National Park
Small Moments
Lake McDonald – Glacier National Park
Logan’s Pass
The famous Going-to-the-Sun-Road quickly climbs the mountain range and gives every visitor a chance to feel what it is like to truly be in the mountains. Logan’s Pass with Mt Reynolds, Bearhat Mountain and Hidden Lake are the center of attention here, but make no mistake there are amazing scenes all along this road.
Mt Cannon in the Mist
Awaken the Soul
Many Glacier
Upon arriving to the Many Glacier area the photogenic Swiftcurrent Lake is the obvious showcase here (with the Hotel located right on it’s banks). However the area is also home to several amazing hikes which are all worth doing, (I haven’t been able to explore all of them).
Glistening Waters
Swiftcurrent Lake – Glacier National Park
Heavenly
Two Medicine
Two Medicine Lake is the region located in the lower east side of the park. There is something about this place that feels different than the other parts, while at the same time providing that same familiar feeling of being deeply rooted in a mountain kingdom.
The Yearning
Two Medicine Lake – Glacier National Park
The Western Lakes
The western lakes, often missed by travelers who have so many other things to see in this park, are large bodies of glacial water set against the wall of the snow capped Rocky Mountains, you may just become an alpine lake snob.
Lucky Charm
Bowman Lake – Glacier National Park
Cobalt Whispers
Bowman Lake – Glacier National Park
Three days and you will just begin to scratch the surface of this gem of America. In seven days, you will probably have done enough to feel satisfied and completely exhausted. Long drives and challenging hikes are the norm here, but the hard work to explore this area is humbling in a very good way. More than likely though you will leave yearning to come back as each month is significantly different while the landscape is changing year to year. The vast open spaces, towering peaks, pristine water systems, wildflowers, and dynamic weather is the perfect setting to reconnect with nature. This is a land that is rich in heritage and energy. Let yourself be open to what this place has to offer, and perhaps you will discover something vitalizing about your relationship with mother nature.
