Glacier National Park: A Geological Wonder With Fossils And Rich Wildlife

Oct 28, 2024

Last Updated on: Aug 29, 2025

Travel Guides

Glacier National Park, or the “Crown of the Continent,” boasts unique geology, fossils, ecosystems, and thriving wildlife. 

Far away in northwestern Montana, hidden from view by clustering mountain-peaks, lies an unmapped corner—the Crown of the Continent.” – George Bird Grinnell, Editor, Forest and Stream

It is also a hiker’s paradise with trails of varying difficulty levels. In addition, a drive through the park will allow you to visit more than 700 lakes and learn about the history of American-Indian tribes like the Blackfeet, Kootenai, Salish, and more!

Let’s explore the miles of wonders and help you make an itinerary with a guide on things to do and places to stay in the park. Having said that, the park offers boating, bus rides, and horse riding tours. However, hiking is the best way to get to know the park well. 

Where Is Glacier National Park? How To Reach It?

Where Is Glacier National Park? How To Reach It?

The 1,583 square miles of wilderness of Glacier National Park is in northwestern Montana, United States. It is close to Waterton Lakes and the Canada-United States border. 

Furthermore, Columbia Falls is the nearest city to this national park. If you want to visit the park, you can reach its southern boundary through Highway 2. However, if you want to enter the park from its east side, you must take Highway 89. 

Moreover, the nearest airports to this national park are Kalispell and Great Falls. From there, you will have to reach the park by road. 

Visitor Centers of the Park

  • Apgar Visitor Center
  • St. Mary Visitor Center
  • Logan Pass Visitor Center

Operating Hours: The park is open 24 hours a day. You can visit the park on 365 days of the year. 

You will have to pay some fees at the entrance. The entrance stations will not always be human-crewed. However, you must make a self-payment following the instructions at the entrance. 

Where To Stay In Glacier National Park?

Where To Stay In Glacier National Park?

Once you have reached the park safely, you will, of course, look for safe accommodation. Camping and wilderness camping are surely the best options if you want to make the most of the park experience. 

However, you can always explore the lodging options for more comfort. The park also has restaurants and stores, providing you with basic amenities. 

Lodges In Glacier National Park 

Lodges In Glacier National Park 

Look at the table below for details about the lodging options at Glacier National Park.

Lodging Facility OperatesContact Information 
Glacier National Park Lodges/Xanterra Parks & ResortsVillage Inn MotelLake McDonald LodgeRising Sun Motor InnSwiftcurrent Motor Inn(855) 733-4522 (USA)(303) 265-7010 (Outside the USA)
Glacier Park Collection Apgar Village LodgeMotel Lake McDonald(844) 868-7474
Sperry Chalet & Granite Park Chalet (These are two backcountry chalets in Glacier National Park.)Sperry ChaletGranite Park Chalet(888) 345-2649

It is always better to check the availability at the lodges in advance. Further, some of these lodges have historic associations. For example, the Lake McDonald Lodge became a “National Historic Landmark” in 1987

Did you know that Lake McDonald Lodge is one of the best examples of Swiss chalet architecture, and it is a member of the Historic Hotels of America? Talk to the staff in the lodges to unearth more stories and anecdotes about these places. 

Camping In Glacier National Park

Camping In Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park has 13 front country campgrounds. Along with putting up a tent, these campsites are also suitable for RVs and other vehicles. 

These campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served, or reservation basis. So, let’s explore the options. 

Type of BookingName of the CampgroundHighlights 
First-Come, First-Served Bowman Lake CampgroundIt offers the best view of Bowman Lake.
Further, it is known for its serene ambiance. 
Cut Bank CampgroundThe Cut Bank Campground is the best for backcountry trips.
It is also close to many day-hiking trails. 
Kintla Lake CampgroundI found this campground the most picturesque camping destination in the park.
Sitting on the Kintla Lake, it is a quiet place for camping. 
Logging Creek CampgroundThis campground is close to Logging Lake.
Also, you will love it if you prefer some solitude. 
Quartz Creek CampgroundIt is the smallest campground in the park, and you will love it for its pristine charm. 
Rising Sun CampgroundYou can enjoy the best view of Red Eagle Mountain from this camping ground.
Further, as the name suggests, it offers beautiful sunrise views. 
ReservedApgar CampgroundThe evening programs at the Apgar Amphitheater are the most entertaining thing to do in the park.
You can take a short walk from this camping ground to enjoy the sunset views of Lake McDonald. 
Avalanche CampgroundAvalanche Campground is great for wildlife viewing, especially birdwatching.
In addition, it is connected to many day-hiking trails. 
Fish Creek CampgroundIt offers decent views of Lake McDonald.
Also, you can enjoy some privacy here. 
Many Glacier CampgroundIt is the best camping ground to experience wilderness in the park. 
Further, you can see bears and bighorn sheep here. 
St. Mary CampgroundIt is the hub of interpretive programs and many other events in the park.
Also, it is the largest campground on the park’s eastern side. 
Sprague Creek CampgroundCamping is comfortable here with shades of trees.
Further, it offers the best view of Lake McDonald. 
Two Medicine CampgroundIf you want red bus and boat tours, Two Medicine Campground is the best for you. 
Further, it offers better privacy than other campgrounds.
Also, it leads to the Running Eagle Falls and many other popular hiking trails. 

So, choose a campground based on your desired experience and other preferences. For reservation, contacting the park authority at least six months before your visit is better.  

Wilderness Camping In Glacier National Park

Wilderness Camping In Glacier National Park

You will need a wilderness permit if you’re going to do wilderness camping in the park. If you ask me, camping by the riverside is the best option. Further, if you want to be more adventurous, you can try wilderness camping in winter with special permits. 

Here, I will only discuss the best riverside camping options in the wilderness. You will need river camping permits and must abide by the camping regulations on the riverside. 

North Fork Flathead River

The undesignated wilderness camping along the North Fork Flathead River is a great place if you want to try paddling or angling. Boating in the river is also a popular activity here. 

Middle Fork Flathead River 

The Middle Fork Flathead River camping is the best choice to explore the Bob Marshall Wilderness. Further, the primitive setup here offers you the most adventurous camping experience. 

What To Do In Glacier National Park? Try Hiking To Know The Park’s Best 

What To Do In Glacier National Park? Try Hiking To Know The Park's Best 

It does not matter whether you want a short hiking expedition or a long backpacking experience. The Glacier National Park has you covered. So, let’s know about some of the trails. 

Avalanche Lake 

Avalanche Lake 

Difficulty Level – Easy to Moderate

Trek Distance – 5.9 Miles 

This trek route is close to the Lake McDonald Lodge, and before you start the trek, you can enjoy a boat ride in Lake McDonald before starting your day. 

You will see many waterfalls and mountains while hiking through this beautiful and easy trail. 

Highline Trail

Highline Trail

Difficulty Level – Moderate

Trek Distance – 7.2 Miles 

If you want to experience the core essence of the Glacier National Park in one day, you must trek through the Highline Trail. You will visit Alpine meadows, snow-capped peaks, and the best wildflowers throughout your hiking expedition.

Further, the Continental Divide makes the pain-stricken hike worth it. However, be careful during the last 4 miles of the trek, as trekking downward through the trail is Scary! 

Siyeh Pass

Siyeh Pass

Difficulty Level – Strenuous

Trek Distance – Over 10 Miles 

Siyeh Pass is the trekking trail you must explore to see the 1.5 billion-year-old fossils in the park. You will also get to see many glaciers throughout the trek. The glaciers visible in this trekking route are:

  • Blackfoot
  • Sexton
  • Piegan
  • Jackson

In addition, you will love trekking through the spruce and fir forests, and the wildflowers in the meadows are a treat for the eyes. 

Hidden Meadow 

Difficulty Level – Easy

Trek Distance – 3 Miles 

Hidden Meadow in Glacier National Park is a kid-friendly trail. Further, it is a short trek taking you through forests until you reach a meadow for an expansive view of the surroundings. 

Also, you will love the largest Douglas firs here. 

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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I was relaxing after a bath at the Kuang Si Falls and suddenly, an electric blue dragonfly came to visit me. It sat on my knees for some time, and then came another. Within 15 minutes or so, I spotted hundreds of dragonflies making the trees appear blue. I was immediately transported to my childhood days when chasing a dragonfly or finding one with the most unique colors was a fun game. Suddenly, my guide called me and said, “Let me show you something unique.” He took me to the “Do Not Enter” board.  He asked, “Want to go there? There is a secret pool.” I said, “Why not?” I found out a milky-blue calm basin. Local teenagers were hanging out there, and they were eating sticky rice from banana leaves. They offered us some, and it was the best sticky rice I ever tasted.  Food in Luang Prabang is magical, just as is the Mekong River, temples, and Buddhist culture here.  While coming back, my guide handed me a plastic bottle. 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However, visiting Tad Thong felt like finding a precious old book under a heap of dust.  Throughout the jungle walk, butterflies kept fluttering around, and the silence echoed through the rocks, making me feel a little cold after some time.  Lesser-Known Waterfalls: The Hidden Gems Of Luang Prabang  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bui Nhat Quang (@eziography__) Located near the Green Jungle Park, Hoi Khua Waterfall is a powerful waterfall with a height of 100 meters. Along with swimming in the crystal clear pool formed by the waterfall, you can also relax inside the open-air huts at the Green Jungle Park. Hoi Khua Waterfall also has an interesting lore associated with it. It is said that locals once took shelter behind this waterfall to protect themselves from the approaching soldiers. However, what happened to them is a mystery to date.  Are The Waterfalls In Luang Prabang Accessible? 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It has a vital role to play in the Ramayana, and we get the mention of the golden deer many times in the stories about the previous lives of Lord Buddha.  In addition, the story has given the waterfall a distinct cultural identity cherished by the locals. So, today, the Kuang Si Waterfall is more than a waterfall with a grand physical beauty. Mr. Boun, a Kuang Si Park Ranger, told me, “We protect the forest and teach kids about the golden deer legend. Kuang Si is sacred to us.” 2. Waterfalls In General Have A Connection With Buddhism Waterfalls in Luang Prabang are mostly located near the temples. The water from these falls is also used in cleansing rituals conducted by temples and monks.  Furthermore, offerings are made to these waterfalls during Pi Mai Lao or the Lao New Year.  3. Bear Rescue Center’s Cultural Role The Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre is more than a tourist attraction in Luang Prabang. It is an important center for the implementation and education of the local conservation efforts. The center also raises awareness about illegal wildlife trade.  Furthermore, many locals consider black bears sacred.  4. Butterfly Park Near Kuang Si You cannot miss the Butterfly Park located within walking distance of the Kuang Si waterfall. This park is peaceful with colorful butterflies fluttering around.  Butterflies have deep symbolism in Buddhism. These lively creatures teach us the art of letting go and how we can evolve and transform.  5. Caves Behind the Falls The hidden caves behind the upper tier of the Kuang Si Waterfalls are a telltale of the rich geological history of the region. These caves are missed by most visitors. So, these are ideal for a short meditation period or spending some moments of introspection.  Cultural Etiquette Tips For Foreigners Visiting Luang Prabang Waterfalls Some areas and pools near the waterfalls are considered sacred, and they are reserved for religious and spiritual activities. Conde Nast Traveller says, “Luang Prabang’s waterfalls offer a spiritual escape into nature.” So, swimming or access to those areas is not allowed. So, you have to adhere to these norms.  There are many other dos and don’ts you need to follow while exploring the waterfalls of Luang Prabang.  Dos ✅Don’ts ❌• Dress Modestly.• Wear a sarong or a towel over your swimsuit when walking around. • Seek permission from the locals before photographing them. • If a sign says “No Swimming” or “Do Not Enter,” respect it. These rules often protect sacred zones, wildlife, or fragile ecosystems.• Locals value quiet and respectful behavior, especially around sacred sites. Ensure children don’t climb on statues, splash excessively, or disturb wildlife.• If invited to join a blessing or offering ceremony, observe first, follow others’ lead, and avoid interrupting or asking too many questions during the ritual.• Using shampoos or soaps while bathing in the natural pools. • Touching the monks or offering them money directly. • Playing loud music or expecting a party vibe at the waterfalls. Waterfalls are often used for meditation, rituals, and family gatherings.• Littering is deeply frowned upon. Waterfalls are natural and spiritual spaces, and locals expect visitors to treat them with reverence. Secrets And Lesser-Known Facts You Did Not Know About Luang Prabang Waterfalls  The turquoise color of Kuang Si’s pools comes from the calcium carbonate particles of the limestone rocks. These particles reflect sunlight. Thus, create the iconic blue shade.  This turquoise blue color looks the most beautiful during the dry season.  Also, locals often bring picnic baskets and spend entire afternoons at waterfalls. Vendors near Kuang Si sell grilled chicken, sticky rice, and jaew bong for this purpose. It’s a cultural experience and the locals are welcoming enough to often ask the tourists to join them in.  Food And Dining Near The Waterfalls In Luang Prabang  You can visit the following areas for food and dining near the waterfall areas.  AreaFood And Dining SpotsLocationKuang Si AreaKuang Si Kitchen and ResortClick HereTad Sae AreaMainland StallsLocal restaurants in the mainland boat landingTad Thong AreaThe Living Land FarmClick Here What Are The Photography Tips For Visiting The Waterfalls In Luang Prabang?  The beautiful waterfalls of Luang Prabang are ideal for photography, and they are quite popular on social media. You need to keep in mind the following instructions for photography at these waterfalls.  Best TimeGears RequiredInstagram Spots • Daily: Golden Hour: 7:00–8:00 AM and 4:30–6:00 PM• Annually: Rainy Season• Wide-angle lens• Tripod for long exposure• ND filter for silky water effect• Kuang Si’s top tier• Bamboo bridge near Tad Sae• Jungle trail at Tad Thong So, visit the Luang Prabang waterfalls and have the best moments exploring the mighty cascades and soaking in their cultural and spiritual vibe.  Luang Prabang Waterfall Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Luang Prabang waterfall guide.  1. Can I Swim In Kuang Si Falls? Yes, you can swim in the designated pools of Kuang Si Falls and other waterfalls. However, some pools are reserved for spiritual and religious activities. So, swimming is not allowed there. 2. Are There Lockers Or Changing Rooms? Yes, there are changing rooms near the Kuang Si waterfall entrance. However, you will not get a locker. You have to carry a dry bag and keep your valuables there, or if you are traveling in a group, you can enjoy the swim in turns.  3. Is Tad Sae Open Year-Round? No, the Tad Sae waterfall is not open year-round. August to November, or the rainy season, is the best time to visit the waterfall. It does not have water in the dry season (February to July).