lacier National Park's shining, glaciated peaks, plunging
valleys, and turquoise-blue lakes make it one of the most
dramatic landscapes in North America. Glacier's untamed
vertical spires of banded granite and ice have earned it the
nickname "Backbone of the World," and these peaks are as
wild as they are majestic. Retaining nearly all of its natural
ecology, the park is home to such iconic species as grizzly
bears, gray wolves, mountain goats, moose, and even
wolverines. Spending just a day in the vast Glacier wilderness
will yield a sighting of at least one of these "locals," and it is
sure to leave visitors with a lifelong sense of awe for the park's
rugged beauty.
Glacier National Park offers abundant and diverse recreation
opportunities. Glacier is well-known for its hiking, and the park
does boast some of the most beautiful and iconic hikes on the
continent. In addition, the park also has the most incredible
turquoise water. Taking to Glacier's waters is a terrific way to
beat the crowds and much of the shoreline is very remote,
making it a serene experience in a busy park. Kayak and other
boat rentals are available at marinas at Two Medicine, Rising
Sun, and Apgar Village.
Another little-known way to beat the crowds at Glacier
National Park and potentially save substantial costs on your
trip, is to visit the east side of the park and fly into Great Falls,
Montana (GTF). Did you know Glacier National Park has three
entrances on the east side compared to just one on the west
side? Rental Cars and often flights are cheaper in Great Falls.
You can day trip from Great Falls to Glacier in about three
hours or check out lodging options in Cut Bank, Chouteau, or
Shelby, MT, and you will pay a fraction of the cost of staying
on the West side. From these locations, it is also easy to visit
the Canadian portion of Glacier National Park which is called
Waterton Lakes.
Gateway to National Parks
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Great Falls Area Chamber of Commerce www.greatfallschamber.org
Glacier National Park
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Photo by Photo Solutions
Photo by Photo Solutions
