Glacier National Park, renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems, offers visitors two distinct experiences on its eastern and western sides. Each side has unique attractions, hiking trails, and scenic vistas, making it challenging to determine which is superior. This comprehensive comparison of the east and west sides of Glacier National Park will help you decide which area best suits your preferences and travel style.
What Are the Key Differences Between East and West Glacier?
The east and west sides of Glacier National Park offer contrasting experiences for visitors:
-
Visitor Numbers: The west side tends to be more popular, with the West Entrance receiving 869,026 visitors in 2023 compared to 435,710 at the Saint Mary entrance on the east side.
-
Amenities: West Glacier boasts more amenities, including multiple gas stations, restaurants, and recreational activities. East Glacier has fewer services but offers a more rugged, less developed experience.
-
Accessibility: The west side is generally more accessible, with better infrastructure and easier access to the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. The east side can be more challenging to navigate, especially during construction periods.
-
Scenery: Both sides offer breathtaking views, but the east side is known for its dramatic mountain vistas and glacial valleys, while the west side features lush forests and serene lakes.
Which Side Has Better Hiking Trails?
Both the east and west sides of Glacier National Park offer exceptional hiking opportunities, but they cater to different preferences:
East Glacier Trails
- Grinnell Glacier Trail
- Length: 10.3 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
-
Highlights: Close-up views of Grinnell Glacier, wildlife sightings
-
Iceberg Lake Trail
- Length: 9.3 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
-
Highlights: Iceberg-filled lake, wildflower meadows
-
Many Glacier Valley Trails
- Various lengths and difficulties
- Highlights: Lakes, glaciers, alpine meadows
West Glacier Trails
- Sperry Chalet Trail
- Length: 14 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Strenuous
-
Highlights: Historic chalet, option to extend to Sperry Glacier
-
Highline Trail
- Length: 15 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Granite Park Chalet, panoramic mountain views
The east side tends to offer more diverse trail options, while the west side provides access to some of the park’s most iconic hikes.
Where Are the Best Photographic Opportunities?
Both sides of Glacier National Park offer stunning photographic opportunities, but they showcase different aspects of the park’s beauty:
West Glacier Photography Spots
- Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Scenic drive with numerous pullouts
-
Best for: Mountain vistas, waterfalls, wildlife
-
Lake McDonald
- Largest lake in the park
- Best for: Sunset reflections, boat tours
East Glacier Photography Spots
- Many Glacier Valley
- Picturesque glacial valley
-
Best for: Glaciers, lakes, wildlife
-
St. Mary Lake
- Second-largest lake in the park
- Best for: Sunrise shots, mountain reflections
The east side generally offers more dramatic mountain scenery and wildlife opportunities, while the west side provides lush forest landscapes and iconic lake views.
How Do the North Fork Access Points Compare?
The North Fork area, accessible from the west side of the park, offers a unique and less-visited experience:
- Location: Northwest part of the park, near Polebridge
- Accessibility: Gravel roads, challenging for large vehicles
- Attractions: Bowman Lake, Kintla Lake
- Experience: Less crowded, more remote feel
While the North Fork area is more difficult to access, it rewards visitors with a serene, off-the-beaten-path experience that contrasts with the busier areas of the park.
What Are the Best Seasonal Activities on Each Side?
Glacier National Park offers diverse activities throughout the year on both sides:
| Season | East Glacier | West Glacier |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | Hiking, wildlife viewing, scenic drives | Boating on Lake McDonald, hiking, ranger programs |
| Fall | Fall foliage viewing, less crowded hikes | Scenic drives, photography, fishing |
| Winter | Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing | Snowshoeing, winter wildlife viewing |
| Spring | Wildflower blooms, waterfall viewing | Early season hiking, spring wildlife activity |
The east side tends to offer better winter activities, while the west side is more accessible year-round.
Which Side is Better for Families with Children?
When considering which side of Glacier National Park is better for families with children, several factors come into play:
West Glacier for Families
- More amenities: Restaurants, shops, and accommodations cater to families.
- Easier access: Better roads and infrastructure make travel less stressful.
- Lake activities: Boat tours and swimming opportunities at Lake McDonald.
- Visitor centers: More educational programs and ranger-led activities.
East Glacier for Families
- Wildlife viewing: Better chances to see bears, moose, and mountain goats.
- Scenic drives: Less crowded roads with stunning views.
- Family-friendly hikes: Shorter trails with big payoffs in the Many Glacier area.
- Authentic Montana experience: Less developed, more rustic feel.
Generally, the west side may be more suitable for families with young children due to its amenities and accessibility, while the east side could be preferable for families seeking a more adventurous experience.
How Do Accommodation Options Differ Between East and West?
Accommodation options vary significantly between the east and west sides of Glacier National Park:
West Glacier Accommodations
- Lake McDonald Lodge: Historic lodge with stunning lake views
- Apgar Village Lodge: Rustic cabins near park entrance
- West Glacier Village: Modern accommodations with various amenities
- Camping: Several developed campgrounds with facilities
East Glacier Accommodations
- Many Glacier Hotel: Grand historic hotel with spectacular views
- Swiftcurrent Motor Inn: Simple rooms and cabins in Many Glacier Valley
- Rising Sun Motor Inn: Basic accommodations near St. Mary Lake
- Camping: More primitive campgrounds with fewer amenities
The west side generally offers a wider range of accommodation options, from luxury to budget, while the east side provides a more authentic, rustic experience.
Which Side Offers Better Wildlife Viewing Opportunities?
Wildlife viewing is a major attraction in Glacier National Park, and both sides offer unique opportunities:
East Glacier Wildlife
- Common sightings: Grizzly bears, black bears, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goats
- Best locations: Many Glacier Valley, Two Medicine area
- Viewing tips: Early morning and dusk are prime times for wildlife activity
West Glacier Wildlife
- Common sightings: Black bears, elk, deer, various bird species
- Best locations: Along Going-to-the-Sun Road, Avalanche Lake trail
- Viewing tips: Use pullouts along roads for safe viewing
While both sides offer excellent wildlife viewing, the east side is generally considered superior due to its more open landscapes and diverse habitats.
In conclusion, determining which side of Glacier National Park is better depends largely on personal preferences and travel style. The west side offers more amenities, easier access, and a wider range of accommodations, making it ideal for first-time visitors and families. The east side provides a more rugged, less crowded experience with dramatic scenery and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, appealing to those seeking a more adventurous trip. Ultimately, to fully appreciate the park’s diversity, consider exploring both sides if time allows.
References:
1. East vs West Glacier National Park | 7 Key Things To Know – TravelAwaits
2. GNP Announces 2023 Visitation Data – Glacier National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
3. Glacier National Park Drive Itinerary – Glacier Highline