Glacier National Park offers a wealth of activities beyond the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. From scenic hikes and wildlife viewing to lesser-known drives and hidden gems, visitors can experience the park’s beauty without relying on its most popular route. This guide explores alternative adventures, showcasing the park’s diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking vistas accessible through other means.
What Are the Best Hiking Trails in Glacier National Park?
Glacier National Park boasts an extensive network of hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. Here are some of the top trails that don’t require access to Going-to-the-Sun Road:
- Trail of the Cedars
- Length: 1 mile round-trip
- Difficulty: Easy
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Features: Ancient cedar forest, Avalanche Gorge views
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Avalanche Lake Trail
- Length: 4.5 miles round-trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
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Features: Dense forest, crystal-clear lake, mountain vistas
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Apikuni Falls Trail
- Length: 2 miles round-trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
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Features: 700-foot elevation gain, waterfall views
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Hidden Lake Overlook Trail
- Length: Under 3 miles round-trip
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
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Features: Mountain panoramas, wildlife sightings
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Highline Trail to Grinnell Glacier Overlook
- Length: 10-11 miles round-trip
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Features: Ledge trail, Garden Wall, glacier views
Where Can You Find Scenic Drives Besides Going-to-the-Sun Road?
While Going-to-the-Sun Road is the most famous drive in Glacier National Park, there are other scenic routes worth exploring:
- Two Medicine Area
- Less crowded alternative
- Access to hiking trails and lakes
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Historical significance as the first visited area
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Many Glacier Area
- Scenic drives around Many Glacier Hotel
- Access to lakes and hiking trails
- Mountain and lake vistas
What Are the Best Wildlife Viewing Opportunities?
Glacier National Park is home to diverse wildlife. Here are some prime locations for wildlife spotting:
| Location | Best Time | Wildlife |
|---|---|---|
| Hidden Lake Overlook Trail | Early morning/late afternoon | Mountain goats, bighorn sheep, grizzly bears |
| Avalanche Lake Trail | Early morning/late afternoon | Moose, black bears, various bird species |
| Two Medicine Area | Early morning/late afternoon | Grizzly bears, black bears, mountain goats |
How Accessible Is Glacier National Park Without Going-to-the-Sun Road?
Accessibility in Glacier National Park can be challenging without Going-to-the-Sun Road, but there are still options:
- Public Transportation:
- Limited shuttle services in certain areas
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Reliance on personal vehicles or guided tours
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Parking Facilities:
- Available at major trailheads and scenic areas
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Early arrival recommended during peak season
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Accessibility Challenges:
- Some trails involve narrow ledges and steep ascents
- Limited cell phone coverage in remote areas
What Are Some Hidden Gems in Glacier National Park?
Discover these lesser-known attractions in Glacier National Park:
- Polebridge
- Remote outpost on the park’s western edge
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Famous for huckleberry bear claws at Polebridge Mercantile
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Bowman Lake
- Secluded lake in the park’s northwest corner
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Perfect for kayaking and peaceful picnics
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Kintla Lake
- Northernmost lake accessible by vehicle
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Ideal for solitude and primitive camping
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Sperry Chalet
- Historic backcountry lodge
- Accessible only by trail, offering a unique overnight experience
How Can You Plan a Visit Without Using Going-to-the-Sun Road?
Planning a visit to Glacier National Park without Going-to-the-Sun Road requires some strategy:
- Research Alternative Entrances:
- West Glacier: Access to Lake McDonald area
- East Glacier: Gateway to Two Medicine region
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Many Glacier: Entrance to the northeast section
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Consider Timing:
- Visit during shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) for fewer crowds
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Plan early morning starts to secure parking and avoid peak times
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Utilize Park Resources:
- Check the official park website for current conditions and closures
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Speak with rangers at visitor centers for personalized recommendations
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Book Accommodations in Advance:
- Lodges and campgrounds fill up quickly, especially in summer
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Consider staying in nearby towns like Whitefish or East Glacier Park Village
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Prepare for Limited Services:
- Pack plenty of water, snacks, and emergency supplies
- Fill up on gas before entering the park
By exploring these alternatives, visitors can experience the majesty of Glacier National Park without relying on Going-to-the-Sun Road. From serene hikes and wildlife encounters to scenic drives and hidden gems, the park offers countless opportunities for adventure and discovery off the beaten path.
References:
1. https://www.earthtrekkers.com/best-things-to-do-in-glacier-national-park/
2. https://www.erinexploring.com/blog/glacier-national-park-west-side
3. https://roadtrippers.com/magazine/activities-outside-glacier-national-park/