Glacier National Park is easily one of the most beautiful national parks you can visit with its towering peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and lush alpine meadows.
It’s also home to one of the most scenic drives in the world. So, naturally, figuring out exactly what to do in just a few days can seem daunting.
That’s where this three-day Glacier itinerary comes in. You’ll get to experience all the park’s main highlights, stand-out hikes, and must-see spots in just three days!
So, stick around if you want to know all the details, from planning essentials to tips and a practical 3-day Glacier itinerary.
Want to See More of Montana? Check out this perfect three-day winter itinerary in Western Montana.
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Planning Essentials for a 3-Day Visit to Glacier National Park
Being well prepared is key to making the most out of three days in Glacier. Which is why you should consider these planning essentials before you go.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Glacier?
Nothing beats a three-day Glacier National Park trip around mid-June through mid-September.
This is the warm summer season, and overall, the best time to go weather-wise, with sunny days and cool nights. Plus, the conditions are ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
There’s usually access to all park roads, including the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, and most ranger programs, shuttle services, and visitor centers are fully operational.
Lastly, the wildlife is more active, and the scenery is picturesque as the wildflowers bloom.
How to Get to Glacier National Park
Getting to the Glacier depends on where you’re coming from and the side of the park you’re visiting.
That said, the park has two main entrances: West Glacier and St. Mary (East Entrance).
Visiting with your own car (or renting one if you’re from outside the United States) will be the most convenient and flexible way to reach and explore the park.
Especially if you want to go on a scenic drive, such as the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, which actually connects the east and west sides.
If you’re visiting in summer, you can take the free shuttle service offered by the park along the Going-to-the-Sun Road with limited stops.
If you’re not able to rent a car outside the summer season, you can board Amtrak’s Empire Builder Line, a train that stops at Belton Station near the west entrance.
What to Pack for a Trip to Glacier National Park
Don’t forget the following essentials when planning a trip to Glacier National Park:
Clothing
- Moisture-wicking base layers
- An insulating layer, like a fleece or down jacket
- A top layer, like a waterproof rain jacket
- Quick-dry pants
- Wool or synthetic socks
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Swimsuit
Daypack
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks
- Park pass and entrance fee receipt
Footwear
- Hiking boots
- Camp shoes/sandals
Safety Gear
- Bear spray
- Map (printed or downloaded) or a GPS device (cell service is limited)
- First Aid Kit
- Bug spray
Extras
- Power bank
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Camping gear (if you decide to camp in the park)
Where to Stay During Your Glacier National Park Vacation
Why not camp inside Glacier National Park? This would be the ultimate experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Here’s where you can camp:
- West Side: This includes the West Glacier, Apgar, or the Lake McDonald area.
- East Side: Stay in St. Mary, Many Glacier, or East Glacier.
If camping it out is not an option for you, then consider the following hotels within the park:
- Many Glacier Hotel –This lakeside motel is located in the Swiftcurrent area in East Glacier National Park. The rooms are simple and a bit old school, but the mountain and lake views make up for it.
- Cedar Creek Lodge – Offering a more elegant stay with modern amenities, this hotel features an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, a hot tub, and Wi-Fi throughout the property.
- Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and Cabins – If you prefer some quiet time and privacy, book yourself a little cabin near some exciting trails in the park. Cabins sleep up to four, with an onsite restaurant and laundry facilities among other amenities.
Visiting Glacier National Park for 3 Days
Ready to experience the best of Glacier National Park? This three-day itinerary will take you to all the top spots and attractions to give you the most memorable time.
Day One: West Glacier & Lake McDonald Area
Morning:
Your first day in Glacier National Park kicks off early with a quick stop at Apgar Visitor Center after entering through the West Glacier Entrance. This is when you can get updates on road closures, wildlife, etc.
After that, spend a few minutes admiring Lake McDonald and taking stunning photos.
Then hop on the easy Trail of the Cedars hike, which takes under 20 minutes to complete, for a lovely introduction to the park.
Afternoon:
Drive the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road that stretches about 50 miles with incredible viewpoints.
Expect to spend no less than two hours on this road, especially if you make plenty of stops along the way.
Its most breathtaking stops include The Loop, Bird Woman Falls Overlook, Weeping Wall, Jackson Glacier Overlook, and Logan Pass.
After the drive, you can make your way to the Hidden Lake Overlook trailhead to stretch your legs and do a bit of sightseeing. This trail is beautiful during sunset and if you’re lucky, you might see mountain goats!
Evening:
By now, you should be tired, so you can retreat to your hotel and rest up for day two.
If you’re camping in the park, you’ll spend the rest of the evening setting up. And when you’re finally plopped into a camping chair, don’t forget to look up at the stars.
Day Two: Many Glacier & Afternoon Picnic
Morning:
Day two also begins bright and early (there’s no time to sleep in at Glacier).
Get an early start to secure a parking spot at Many Glacier, where the fun begins. This tucked-away area brims with natural beauty from sparkling lakes to gushing waterfalls and wildflower-dotted alpine meadows.
The rest of your morning will be spent hiking.
Opt for either the Grinnell Glacier Hike, which is a strenuous, five-hour out-and-back trail, or go for the much easier and shorter Swiftcurrent Lake loop.
If you’re lucky, you can spot some elk or moose in the Swiftcurrent Lake area.
Afternoon:
A picnic is a must-do in Glacier National Park since there are many gorgeous picnic areas within the park.
Some popular spots include Rogers Pass Summit, Apgar, Rising Sun, Sprague Creek, Bear Creek Falls, Illecillewaet, and Hemlock Grove. Each one offers unique views and experiences.
Day Three: Explore Two Medicine Valley
Morning:
The last day of this Glacier itinerary is spent at the Two Medicine Valley, a stunning and rugged area within the park.
Here, you’ll see dramatic mountain and lake scenery with endless hiking trails and abundant wildlife.
You can hike up to Scenic Point for some unmissable views of the area. Just know that this is a tough, five-hour hike with insanely strong winds.
The less adventurous option is to hike and partially take a boat shuttle offered by Glacier Park Boat Company to Twin Falls.
Afternoon:
Enjoy a lakeside picnic or head over to Two Medicine Grill, an American diner that serves hearty meals like huckleberry pie, pancakes, and French toast.
Spend the rest of the afternoon taking it easy and resting before you return to the West Entrance in the evening.
Top Tips for Visiting Glacier National Park
The great outdoors is no stranger to surprising challenges. That said, here are a few tips to keep in mind before you visit Glacier.
- Book your accommodation early if you are camping or lodging in the park, about 6-12 months in advance. This is simply to secure your spot, especially during the peak summer season.
- Buy your park pass online and check if you need a reservation for Going-to-the-Sun Road. You’ll need a vehicle reservation to access Going-to-the-Sun Road and other areas during peak season (typically mid-May to mid-September).
- Keep a safe distance from wildlife and carry bear spray.
- Visit the National Park Service website or visitor centers for updates on bear activity, snow, road closures, and other essential information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some popular FAQs about Glacier National Park.
1. What Are the Top Things to Do in Glacier National Park?
Glacier offers a wide variety of activities. Some stand-outs include driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road, visiting Lake McDonald, and hiking trails like Grinnell Glacier, Avalanche Lake, and Hidden Lake Overlook.
2. What Are the Best Hikes in Glacier National Park?
Here are some exciting trails you shouldn’t skip:
- Highline Trail
- Trail of the Cedars
- Hidden Lake Overlook
- Avalanche Lake Trail
- Grinnell Glacier Trail
Discover more: Information about these must-do hikes in Glacier.
3. Are Three Days Enough in Glacier National Park?
Three days are just enough to see Glacier’s top highlights and to pick up a few trails. However, if possible, spend one or two more days exploring more of its diverse and hidden areas.
4. What Is the Best Town to Stay in to Visit Glacier National Park?
If you want to stay outside the park, Whitefish or West Glacier (and West Glacier Village) are generally the top choices, thanks to their proximity and lodging options.