Explore Glacier National Park.

Looking for the best resources to help plan your Glacier National Park vacation?

Then you’ve come to the right place!

Hi, I’m Natalie, and I am a national parks-obsessed mom who has compiled all of the details, itineraries, dining guides, and hiking information for the perfect trip to the world’s first national park.

Whether you need to know how to get vehicle reservations or which trail inside Glacier National Park is best for your kids, you’ll find it here.

I only write about places I’ve been and experiences that I’ve had, so you’re getting up-to-date advice from a parent who has been there.

Glacier at a glance

  • Covers 1.013 million acres

  • Located in Montana

  • Best known for its incredible mountain views and scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road

  • Has glacier-fed lakes that are brilliantly blue

Start here.

If you only read one of my Glacier guides, make it this one.

This Glacier National Park with kids guide shares everything you could possibly think about when planning a vacation here from where to stay to where to pick up your Junior Ranger booklets.

Complete Itineraries

All you’ll need to do is book the plane tickets and hotel rooms. These complete itineraries take care of the day to day planning for you with suggestions on hotels, dining, and activities for the entire family.

Take a drive.

Driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road is the best way to see the highlights of Glacier National Park from the towering, snow covered mountains to the summer waterfalls flowing to the valleys.

Here’s everything you need to know about this trip, including reservations requirements, must-see stops, and tips on what to bring.

Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails

  • Grinnell Lake Trail in Glacier: A Hiking Guide

    One of the best easy hikes in the entire park with a brilliant blue lake at the end.

    Read more

  • Trail of the Cedars in Glacier Hiking Guide

    A beautiful loop hike through ancient cedar trees and past a fairytale gorge

    Read more

Glacier National Park Must Haves

  • GuideAlong Audio Tour

    We LOVE these inexpensive but excellent tours for our national parks visits. Purchase the Glacier National Park GuideAlong audio tour to learn about the park’s history, geology, wildlife, and important figures as you drive.

    It doesn’t need wifi after you’ve downloaded the tour, and it starts and stops automatically as you approach areas of interest!

  • Hiking Shoes

    To truly experience the beauty of Glacier National Park, you’ll want to make sure that everyone in your family has the proper footwear.

    I swear by my Altra Timp Trail Runners, which are lightweight and sturdy.

    I also love my Keen Newport H2 hiking sandals, but only bring these if you’re visiting Glacier in the summer.

  • AllTrails + National Park Pass

    Do not go to Glacier National Park without this incredible deal!

    For just a few dollars more than the cost of a regular NPS annual pass, you can get an annual AllTrail subscription and your national parks pass bundle.

    Now, you’re ready to hit the trail and explore the parks!

  • Garmin InReach Mini

    I never go hiking without this tiny GPS attached to my pack.

    Since I’m often hiking alone with my kids, the Garmin InReach gives me peace of mind that we could get help quickly if one of them (or me!) got hurt or sick on the trail.

    Glacier has terrible cell reception, but you can always reach help with this unit.

  • Rental Car

    While there are public shuttles along Going-to-the-Sun Road during peak season, I’d still recommend the flexibility of your own vehicle while exploring the park.

    Check for the best rates at RentalCars.com with convenient pick-up options at all area airports.

  • Travel Insurance

    Glacier National Park is a trip of a lifetime, and you don’t want to let sickness or flight delays to ruin your trip.

    Be sure to secure travel insurance from Visitors Coverage before you leave, and you’ll be ready for whatever life throws at you.

Other Helpful Resources