Glacier NP & Whitefish Activites

Glacier National Park

Our favorite National Park! You'll find Jess and Dan spending most of their down time here -- join them or explore on your own timeline, but don't forget to check it out! It's known for the famous, Going-to-the-Sun-Road, a 50 mile road carving through the mountains with epic view points. As a reminder, you will need a Glacier NP timed reservation pass & a National Park pass to enter! You can get the timed reservation pass on GNP's website, and the park pass at the point of entrance into the park.

Lake Mcdonald & Apgar Village

Lake McDonald is 10 miles long & 500 feet deep, it's the largest lake in the park, & is known for it's clear water and colorful glacier rocks -- Apgar Village is the "hub" of the lake, and it's here that you can rent bear spray, bikes, kayaks, row boats, paddle boards, & sign up for tours such as horseback rides & boat tours. Apgar has a grocery store, gift shop, restaurant, ranger station, visitor center, boat dock, & more. You can also check out the historic Lake Mcdonald Lodge to learn more about the national park's history or check out the giftshop inside.

Going-to-the-Sun Road

Drive the 40 mile long road, while it climbs around the mountains, twisting and turning as you hug the cliffside. The road crosses the Continental Divide and reaches a heigh of 6,646 feet. Going-to-the-Sun Road or GTTSR is the main road that gets you from the west and east side of the park, it offers sightseeing & hiking opportunities along the way. A national park shuttle service is also provided for your convenience, but is not required.

Trail of the Cedars

Trail of the Cedars is an easy 1 mile board-walk hike that meanders through the old growth forest. It has benches and informational signs along the way. This trail is popular because it provides access to one of the park's most famous trail - Avalanche Lake. At the far end of the loop, you will find the Avalanche Gorge - clear blue waters carving through the gorge; one you don't want to miss if you're looking for a leisurely stroll. To get here: From the west entrance, drive north for 2 miles until your first intersection. Turn right, and travel 14.5 miles north along the GTTSR. The start of the trail will be on the right, but parking is available on both sides of the street.

Avalanche Lake

This moderately difficult trail is 4.6 miles roundtrip and gains about 500 feet in elevation. It branches off the Trail of the Cedars near the Avalanche Gorge and heads deeper into the mountains. Despite the distance, it's well maintained, but expect other hikers to be reaching this destination with you. When you reach the end of the trail, you'll be mesmerized by the mountain fed lake -- not only will the hike take your breath away, but so will the view.

Logan's Pass

Logan's Pass is the "hub" for the most iconic trails in the national park. There is a visitor center, but parking is limited -- you'll want to arrive earlier than later to find a spot to park, or better yet, grab some buddies and carpool. This area will get you to the trailheads of the Highland Trail & Hidden Lake -- two must-do hikes!

Highland Trail

The Highland Trail is the most iconic trail in Glacier NP, and is known to be on all hikers' bucketlists. You'll have phenomenal mountain views as you travel along this trail carved into the dramatic mountain side. This hike is rated moderate to difficult, & is not recommended if you're afraid of heights. It is also a popular spot to see a variety of wildlife including mountain goats, bears, & rams. To get here: Park at Logan's Pass, and follow signs to the trailhead. Even if you do a mile or two, this trail is one for the books!

Hidden Lake Overlook

Rated moderate to difficult, this 2.8 mile roundtrip hike takes you up a climbing boardwalk of 460 feet to the most picturesque overlook of Hidden Lake. This spectacular lake sits at the base of the dramatic Bearhat Mountain, & provides the most beautiful views in the park. You can also continue on, and reach the shores of Hidden lake, but it requires an additional 2.4 miles roundtrip with a 780 foot loss of elevation to the overlook. Often, this part of the trail closes to grizzly activity, so make sure you stay up to date with the ranger station & bring that bear spray!

Two Medicine Lake Area

After driving the GTTSR, continue on and view the Two-Medicine Lake area -- it features a mountain backdrop, with a campsite and picnic area to sit back and take in the view. Don't forget to scan the mountains for mountain goats, or take a stroll around the lake. It's a popular site for moose!

Poleman Mercentile & Bowman Lake

This hidden gem is a bumpy drive out of the park, but takes you to a quaint, old cowboy outpost. Stop in at Poleman Mercantile, a cute little gift store and bakery that has been serving the area for more than 100 years. Don't forget to grab a fresh huckleberry bearclaw donut or a beer. Continue on to Bowman lake, set up a picnic, grab a fishing pole, go swimming, or take a hike around the lake itself. It's recommended to take this trip slow, especially in a rental car -- the ride is bumpy one -- better yet, grab a group and rent an ATV for the day and take the trip in style :)

Boat Tours, Horseback riding, & Kayak rentals

All activities can be found within Glacier National Park. You can reserve a tour online, or you can inquire in person at Apgar Village! Both tours, allow you to enter the park without a timed entrance pass.

Activities & Things To See in Whitefish:

Whitewater Rafting Glacier - Half Day

Experience the ultimate half-day whitewater raft trip near Glacier National Park! Lasting about 2-3 hours depending on the season, this experience is filled with family-friendly class II-III rapids that guarantee smiles and a fun time for everyone, all with the outstanding backdrop of Glacier. Book a trip at glaciertourbase.com !

Bonsai Brewing

Great spot for brews, tours, & food!

Jeremiah Johnson Brewing Company

Great hangout spot for beer, vibes, & tasty food!

Spotted Bear Spirits

Rumor has it this distillery has an amazing huckleberry margarita!

Buffalo Cafe

Great joint for a hearty breakfast!

Whitefish Lake State Park

Whitefish Farmers' Market

Enjoy local produce, baked goods, food trucks, and crafts every Tuesday from 5:00-7:30pm May 28th - Sept 24th.

Illuminated Glass Kayak Sunset Tour

A fun night-tour at Whitefish Lake.

Montana Reined Cowhorse Futurity

This prestigious futurity celebrates the Western heritage and the art of reined cowhorse training. Whether you’re a horse enthusiast or new to the sport, this event offers exciting action and an authentic Montana experience. Hosted on Sept. 20th at Majestic Valley Arena.