Glacier National Park is surrounded by a wealth of natural wonders and exciting attractions. From pristine lakes and scenic hiking trails to cultural experiences and thrilling adventures, the area offers a diverse range of activities for all types of travelers. Discover hidden gems like the Jewel Basin Hiking Area, relax at the Hungry Horse Reservoir, or explore the charming lakeside communities around Flathead Lake. These cool places near Glacier National Park provide unforgettable experiences and breathtaking landscapes that complement the park’s majestic beauty.
What Are the Must-Visit Attractions Near Glacier National Park?
Glacier National Park is surrounded by a plethora of attractions that offer unique experiences for visitors. Here are some of the must-visit places:
- Jewel Basin Hiking Area
- Location: East of Kalispell, west of Hungry Horse Reservoir
- Features: 35 miles of trails, 15,349 acres of wilderness
- Activities: Day hikes, backpacking
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Note: Encourages Leave No Trace principles
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Hungry Horse Reservoir
- Location: 15 miles from Glacier’s west entrance
- Activities: Camping, boating, fishing, water skiing, hiking, huckleberry picking, hunting, snowmobiling
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Highlight: Scenic loop around the reservoir
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Whitefish Mountain Resort
- Location: Near Whitefish, Montana
- Attractions: Aerial Adventure Park, zipline, alpine slides, tubing slide
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Amenities: On-site lodging and dining options
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Flathead Lake
- Description: Largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi
- Features: Multiple islands, including Wild Horse Island
- Activities: Camping, recreation, fishing
- Highlight: Various lakeside communities offering unique experiences
What Are Some Hidden Gems Near Glacier National Park?
While the well-known attractions are certainly worth visiting, there are also some lesser-known spots that offer unique experiences:
- Iron Shield Creative
- Description: Guided hikes led by Blackfeet Nation tribal members
- Focus: Indigenous stories and cultural heritage
- Amenities: Healthy lunches provided
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Highlight: Participation in Native America Speaks programs
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Museum of the Plains Indian
- Location: Browning, Montana (Blackfeet Indian Reservation)
- Exhibits: Art, clothing, and traditional handwork of the Blackfeet Nation
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Tip: Combine with a Sun Tours bus tour for a comprehensive cultural experience
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Montana Vortex
- Location: 13 miles from West Glacier along Highway 2
- Attractions: Gravitational anomalies, mind-bending phenomena
- Features: Twisted trees, objects seemingly defying gravity
- Amenities: Fascinating tour and gift shop
Where Are the Best Scenic Viewpoints Near Glacier?
For those seeking breathtaking vistas, here are some of the best scenic viewpoints near Glacier National Park:
- Mount Aeneas
- GPS Coordinates: Approximately 47.6333° N, 113.5333° W
- Hike: Moderate 7 miles with significant elevation gain
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Views: 360° panorama, potential mountain goat sightings
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Wild Horse Island on Flathead Lake
- GPS Coordinates: Approximately 47.8333° N, 114.2333° W
- Access: Only by boat
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Views: Scenic vistas of Flathead Lake and surrounding mountains
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Columbia Mountain Trail
- GPS Coordinates: Approximately 48.6333° N, 114.2333° W
- Features: Several waterfalls along the trail
- Views: Scenic waterfalls and mountain landscapes
What Outdoor Activities Are Available Near Glacier National Park?
The area surrounding Glacier National Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts:
Hiking and Backpacking
- Locations: Jewel Basin Hiking Area, Flathead National Forest, trails around Flathead Lake
- Tours: Guided hikes available through Iron Shield Creative
- Equipment: Rentals available from local outfitters
- Difficulty: Ranges from easy day hikes to challenging backpacking trails
- Note: Check local regulations and trail conditions; some areas may require permits
Ziplining and Aerial Adventures
- Locations: Whitefish Mountain Resort, Glacier Highline (Coram), Glacier Zipline (Columbia Falls)
- Tours: Guided tours with equipment provided
- Difficulty: Varies from beginner-friendly to more challenging courses
- Tip: Check pricing and age/health restrictions with each location
Water Activities
- Locations: Flathead Lake, Hungry Horse Reservoir, Middle Fork of the Flathead River
- Activities: Fishing, boating, whitewater rafting
- Equipment: Boat rentals and guided tours available
- Difficulty: Ranges from calm lake activities to Class 2 and 3 rapids for rafting
- Note: Adhere to boating and fishing regulations
What Are Some Recommended Day Trips from Glacier National Park?
For those looking to explore beyond Glacier National Park, here are some recommended day trips:
| Destination | Travel Time | Distance | Key Attractions | Logistical Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Waterton Lakes National Park, Canada | 2-3 hours | ~100 miles | Hiking, boat cruises, scenic drives | Ensure necessary travel documents for border crossing |
| Bigfork, Montana | 1 hour | ~60 miles | Bigfork Summer Playhouse, breweries, farmers’ markets | Parking available in historic Bigfork Village |
| Hungry Horse Dam and Powerplant | 30 minutes | ~15 miles | Visitor center with dam and powerplant information | Free admission, parking at visitor center |
These day trips offer a diverse range of experiences, from international parks to charming small towns and impressive engineering marvels.
How Can Visitors Make the Most of Their Trip to Cool Places Near Glacier National Park?
To maximize your experience at the cool places near Glacier National Park, consider the following tips:
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Plan Ahead: Research attractions and make reservations where necessary, especially during peak season.
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Respect the Environment: Follow Leave No Trace principles and adhere to local regulations to preserve these beautiful areas.
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Be Prepared: Pack appropriate gear for various activities and weather conditions.
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Stay Flexible: Weather can change quickly in mountain areas, so have backup plans for outdoor activities.
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Engage with Local Culture: Take advantage of opportunities to learn about the region’s rich Native American heritage.
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Explore Off the Beaten Path: While popular attractions are worth visiting, don’t miss out on hidden gems that offer unique experiences.
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Consider Guided Tours: Local guides can provide valuable insights and enhance your experience, especially for cultural or adventure activities.
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Support Local Businesses: Patronize local restaurants, shops, and tour operators to contribute to the local economy.
By following these tips, visitors can ensure a memorable and enriching experience exploring the cool places near Glacier National Park.
References:
1. Glacier MT Blog
2. U.S. National Park Service
3. Bigfork Montana