Glacier National Park ruined my views of camping, because it was so amazing that I don't think any camping trip will be able to live up to it. Now to be fair, this was my first adult camping experience and it could have been that beginners luck thing or just the pure excitement that comes with the first of anything that it made it top on the list for me as far as national parks are concerned.
We spent 5 days and 4 nights in this paradise. See itinerary below;
Day 1: Arrive at Noon, Set up camp, Hike the Avalanche Lake Trail/ Avalanche Gorge
Day 2: Highline Trail, dinner and drinks at McDonald Lodge
Day 3: Lake McDonald Kayaking, Siyeh Pass, Stargazing
Day 4: Hidden Lake Overlook, St. Mary Falls & Virginia Falls, McDonald Lodge
Day 5: Leave early to go home
10 Tips for Visiting Glacier National Park:
1. Fly into Kalispell (FCA) airport which is about 30 miles away from the park.
2. There is a bus from the airport to the visitor center of GNP. We opted to take a taxi and get there quicker so we could get a hike in before sundown.
3. If you are on foot or bike when camping at GNP (if you aren't traveling with a car) there is a specific, communal spot where you can set up camp at every campsite. Therefore meaning you do not need a reservation!
4. GNP has an internal shuttle system in the park that runs in the summer July-September from 7am-7pm and its FREE! This made Glacier so much more affordable.
5. Hitch Hiking is completely acceptable and they way we got to and from McDonald Lodge after drinks.
6. McDonald Lodge is a perfect spot for after a long day of hiking and to take a dip in McDonald Lake with a Huckleberry Smash in hand!
7. If you want S'mores, bring your own and don't buy them in the park. They are ridiculously over priced!
8. Have a plan but don't get attached to that plan. Even in summer they close down
famous trails due to mating season and relocating wildlife.
9. Stargazing is amazing here! Logan Pass has a monthly stargazing party in the summer when the pass opens. However, just being out at midnight with a blanket and a beer your all set!
10. The glaciers are melting away, and quickly, so get there soon!
AVALANCHE LAKE TRAIL & GORGE
This was my favorite spot of the entire place. Although you can't see mountains from here, it felt like a whole different world.
MCDONALD LAKE
HIGHLINE TRAIL
Beargrass was in bloom everywhere!
Highline Trail with views at every point
AVALANCHE LAKE CAMPSITE
HIDDEN LAKE OVERLOOK
ST. MARY FALLS/VIRGINIA FALLS
Hope this gave some inspiration and helped you plan your trip to Glacier National Park! I would love to hear from you on your adventures here.
xo Taylor
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