Hike/food/any suggestions/final quest around final itinerary

Question

I do have the estimates of times on different hikes. Just any suggestions what I should plug in where? Any once in a lifetimes. I will check the park events as we get closer. I am a plan for the best then just go with the flow. Thx

7/24 Arrive 1 pm- rental car

Day 1 Ordered ticket for entrance to gttsr

Rent bear spray. WHERE? Should everyone have their own?

Sacred H2O brewing in Kalispell.

Groceries/wine WHERE?

Should we go to polebridge mercantile/bakery?

Glacier National Park conservancy store in w. Glacier @belton train station

Hotel: wonder stone glacier in Columbia Falls

7/25.

Day2. Open

HOTEL: McDonald

7/26. 9:15 am. Eastern Alpine bus tour

Day 3

HOTEL: Rising Sun Motor Inn

7/27 8:45 am. Scenic round trip boat 2 medicine

Day 4

HOTEL: rising sun motor inn

7/28. 9 am. Round trip boat to hike grinnel (8hr)

Day 5 Bring lunch/food for waterfall section

HOTEL: Many glacier

7/29. 1 pm reservations for lunch or tea Prince of Wales Hotel

Day 6

HOTEL: many glacier

7/30. Return flight leaves at 1 pm

Day 7

Answer

Your trip to Glacier National Park sounds amazing, and it’s great that you have a solid itinerary planned out. Below are some suggestions and tips to help make the most of your trip:

Bear Spray

Bear spray is definitely something to consider in Glacier National Park, especially if you plan to hike on trails where bear encounters are more likely. You can rent bear spray in Kalispell at places like Sportsman & Ski Haus, REI, or Glacier Outfitters. It’s a good idea for each person to have their own bear spray, as it’s important to have it readily accessible in case of an encounter. Don’t forget to check that the canisters are full and functional before hitting the trails!

Sacred H2O Brewing in Kalispell

Sacred H2O Brewing is a great stop! It’s a unique microbrewery with a cozy atmosphere. If you enjoy craft beers, it’s worth a visit. Kalispell also has several other breweries if you're interested in exploring more local spots, like Kalispell Brewing Co.

Groceries/Wine

For groceries, you can stop by Super 1 Foods in Kalispell or Albertsons for general grocery needs. For wine, Montana's Best Liquor & Wine in Kalispell is a good option. You can also pick up snacks, sandwiches, or quick bites at the Polebridge Mercantile & Bakery, which is also a great spot to try local treats!

Polebridge Mercantile/Bakery

Definitely make time to visit the Polebridge Mercantile & Bakery if you can. It’s a hidden gem on the west side of the park and offers fresh-baked goods like their famous huckleberry bear claws. It’s also a great place to grab snacks for hikes in the area. Keep in mind that the roads leading to Polebridge are gravel and can be a bit rough, so plan accordingly.

Glacier National Park Conservancy Store

The Glacier National Park Conservancy Store at the West Glacier Visitor Center (Belton Train Station) is a great place to pick up park-specific gear, souvenirs, and educational materials. It's an excellent stop before you head into the park for your first day of exploration.

Day 1 – Arrival (July 24)

Your hotel at Wonderstone Glacier in Columbia Falls is well-located for easy access to both the park and nearby towns. It’s a good base for the first night. If you arrive early, you might have time for a short hike like the Trail of the Cedars, which is a quick, easy loop with views of old-growth forest and a beautiful stream.

Day 2 – Open Day (July 25)

For your open day, consider hiking a short, scenic trail like the Lake McDonald Trail or the Apgar Lookout Trail if you want more of a challenge. Both are accessible and provide stunning views of Lake McDonald.

Lake McDonald Trail: A flat, easy hike perfect for an introduction to the park.
Apgar Lookout Trail: A moderate hike with a bit of elevation gain but rewarding views at the top.

Day 3 – Eastern Alpine Bus Tour (July 26)

The Eastern Alpine Bus Tour is a fantastic way to get a guided overview of the eastern part of the park. It’s also a great way to learn about the wildlife and history of the area. Afterward, you’ll be staying at McDonald Lodge, which is another great location right on the edge of Lake McDonald. If you’re up for it, consider a sunset boat tour of the lake to cap off the day.

Day 4 – Scenic Round Trip Boat to Two Medicine (July 27)

The scenic boat tour in Two Medicine is one of the most beautiful areas of the park. The Two Medicine area is a little less visited, making it a perfect spot for a more peaceful and scenic experience. Don’t forget your camera for photos of the dramatic mountains and pristine lake.

Day 5 – Grinnell Glacier Hike (July 28)

The hike to Grinnell Glacier is a classic in the park, and it can be challenging but rewarding. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. The 8-hour round-trip hike is tough, so be prepared for a long, physically demanding day. You can pack a lunch for the waterfall section or purchase food from the Many Glacier Hotel if needed.

Day 6 – Lunch/Tea at Prince of Wales Hotel (July 29)

The Prince of Wales Hotel in Waterton Lakes National Park (just over the border in Canada) is a stunning place to enjoy lunch or afternoon tea. It offers magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. This is a great spot to relax after a busy few days of hiking and exploring. You could also consider exploring Waterton Lakes itself, which is less crowded than the U.S. side of the border.

Day 7 – Departure (July 30)

For your last day, if you have time before your flight, consider stopping by West Glacier Village for one final stroll or a relaxing visit to the Glacier Distilling Company for a local spirit before heading back to Kalispell for your flight.

Enjoy your trip to Glacier National Park! It’s an incredible destination, and with this itinerary, you’ll be able to experience both the beauty and the adventure it has to offer.

Hike/food/any suggestions/final quest around final itinerary

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