Glacier Trip

Question

Have a trip to Glacier planned for August. Staying a week at a place in West Glacier.

Know all about the vehicle reservation system and closers to parts on the east side, but had a few other questions:

1) what hikes are ones not to be missed?

2) How bad is parking near the trailheads for the can't miss hikes?

3) Is making the trip up to Polebridge/North Fork worth the trip? What is there to do in that area besides the small town? Any specific hikes or other activities in this area?

4) Besides hiking, what other activities/tours would people recommend?

5) If we're looking for a break from the park, is there anything in Whitefish or Kalispell worth seeing? Or any other nearby places for that matter?

Thanks!

Answer

It sounds like you're going to have a fantastic trip to Glacier National Park! Here are answers to your questions to help make your visit even better:

1) Must-Do Hikes in Glacier: There are many spectacular hikes in Glacier, but some truly stand out:

Highline Trail: One of the most iconic hikes in the park. It’s about 11 miles one way and offers incredible views of the Logan Pass area. It’s a strenuous hike with some exposure to heights, but the views are worth it.
Grinnell Glacier: This hike takes you through meadows and past stunning lakes to the glacier itself. It’s around 7-8 miles, depending on the route, and offers some of the best views in the park.
Hidden Lake: A shorter, moderate hike that’s around 3 miles round trip. It begins at Logan Pass and offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and a beautiful alpine lake at the top.
Iceberg Lake: This is a must-do if you enjoy hiking to lakes. It's about 9.7 miles round trip and features incredible alpine views. The lake often has floating icebergs in August, making it a perfect photo spot.

2) Parking Near Trailheads: Parking at popular trailheads, especially in the busy months of summer, can be a challenge. Here's a breakdown:

Logan Pass: The parking lot at Logan Pass fills up early (around 7-8 AM), especially for popular hikes like the Highline Trail. If you plan to hike here, try to get an early start or consider taking a shuttle from the Apgar Visitor Center or other parking lots to avoid the rush.
Grinnell Glacier: Parking near the Grinnell Glacier trailhead at Many Glacier is also limited, but it tends to be less crowded in the mornings. Try to arrive early or use a shuttle if available.
Other Trailheads: Many trailheads in Glacier have limited parking, and during peak season, you may have to park at overflow lots or nearby areas and walk to the trailhead. Be prepared for this and plan ahead.

3) Trip to Polebridge/North Fork: The Polebridge area is definitely worth the trip, especially if you're looking for a more secluded and rustic experience. It's a bit off the beaten path, and the drive itself is an adventure, but it's worth it for the quiet and the views. Here’s what you can do there:

Polebridge Bakery: Stop by this small, rustic bakery for some of the best pastries, especially their famous huckleberry bear claws.
North Fork Area: This area is less developed and offers some great hiking opportunities. The Bowman Lake area is particularly scenic and a great spot for kayaking or canoeing.
Hikes: There are several less-crowded trails in the North Fork area, such as the Bowman Lake Trail and the Numa Ridge Lookout Trail. These hikes are a bit more remote and less frequented than those on the east side of the park.

4) Other Activities/Tours in Glacier: Besides hiking, there are a variety of other activities to enjoy:

Boat Tours: Consider taking a boat tour on one of the park's stunning lakes, such as Lake McDonald or St. Mary Lake. These offer unique views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
Scenic Drives: If you're short on time or just want to relax, the Going-to-the-Sun Road offers breathtaking views of the park. Driving this road is an activity in itself, especially with stops at various overlooks.
Ranger-Led Programs: Check out ranger-led programs and talks for a deeper understanding of the park’s geology, wildlife, and history. These programs are a great way to learn about the park beyond the trails.

5) Break from the Park - Whitefish and Kalispell: Both Whitefish and Kalispell offer plenty to see and do if you're looking for a break from the park:

Whitefish: Known for its charming small-town vibe, Whitefish offers great dining, shopping, and a lively arts scene. You can also explore Whitefish Lake or take a gondola ride up to Big Mountain for great views of the surrounding area.
Kalispell: The larger town of Kalispell is a short drive from the park and offers a number of museums, shops, and restaurants. A visit to the Conrad Mansion Museum gives you a glimpse into the area’s history. Kalispell is also home to some great breweries if you're into craft beer.
Flathead Lake: If you’re looking for another outdoor activity, Flathead Lake, located between Kalispell and Polson, is a great place to enjoy swimming, boating, or picnicking with scenic views.

Glacier is an incredible destination with so much to offer, and I’m sure you’ll have an unforgettable time. If you enjoy quieter, less crowded areas, the North Fork and Polebridge area will be a great addition to your trip. Happy travels!

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