Glacier National Park was by far one of the most beautiful places I have ever been to. I was in utter awe around every turn and peak I was fortunate enough to explore. With 1,500+ square miles and offering over 700 trails, it can be a lot to take in or fit into a trip if you don’t have a ton of time. Below was my perfect 3 day itinerary in Glacier National Park, enjoy!
Glacier National Park Itinerary Day 1: Hike the Highline Trail
The Highline Trail is a 14 mile round trip out and back trail that is one of the most popular in the park. The trail stretches from Logan Pass Visitor Center to the Granite Park Chalet. It’s not extremely difficult as there are only a few heavy inclines (about 2 – 2.5 miles altogether) but the views are incredible with a very high probability of seeing wildlife. Bring layers as the temperature and weather can be unpredictable, always have bear spray and snacks to keep you going throughout the hike. Get to the trailhead early as the parking lot can fill up really fast. When we were there it was a bit hazy from the smoke from surrounding wildfires, so always keep a close eye on the weather. Worth the 14 miles!
Glacier National Park Itinerary Day 2: Many Glacier + Lake Josephine
Located on the east side of Glacier National Park, Many Glacier and Lake Josephine are about 1.5 hours from the West Entrance driving the full length of Going-to-the-Sun Road. Its the farthest north in the park you can actually drive and it’s full of majestic lakes and mountain peaks to be admired. Grab a bite to eat at Many Glacier Hotel, named the “Switzerland of North America” and you can see why immediately. The Swiss style hotel sits on Swiftcurrent Lake with a direct view of Mount Gould and Altyn Peak that is absolutely breath taking. Once we got there and explored the hotel, we hiked the 1 mile nature walk to Lake Josephine. With pristine clear blue water with mountain ranges in the distance, this is a great easy trail to take a break from sitting in the car.
Lake Josephine Nature Trail Many Glacier Hotel Saint Mary Lake Lake Josephine
Glacier National Park Itinerary Day 3: Avalanche Lake Trail + Lake McDonald
Both Avalanche Lake + Lake McDonald are a must when visiting Glacier National Park. The beauty of these lakes and the surrounding mountains is unlike any other. Avalanche Lake is a moderate 5.9 miles out and back hike that opens up to Avalanche Lake. Its beyond picture-esq and the amount of pictures I took of it is a little embarrassing. Definitely get to the trailhead early, the parking lot is small and gets packed since its a family friendly trail. After the hike, stop at Lake McDonald Lodge for a quick bite. Similarly built as Many Glacier Hotel, Lake McDonald Lodge sits on the largest lake in Glacier National Park. You can walk right down to the lake and bask in its beauty, great spot for sunset too!
Avalanche Lake Lake McDonald Avalanche Lake Lake McDonald
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