Glacier National Park:Crown of the Northern Rockies

A Rich History: From Native American Lands to National Park

Before hikers and wildlife enthusiasts visited Glacier National Park, the Blackfeet, Salish, Kootenai, and Shoshone lived there. These tribes hunted, fished, and gathered food in the area for thousands of years, and their culture and traditions are still important to the park’s history and identity.

European explorers, fur traders, miners, and settlers arrived in the late 1800s. As they hunted and fished in large numbers and extracted resources, these people had a major impact on the land and wildlife. As the region became more populated, concerns about human activity on the environment grew, and calls to protect the area for future generations were made.

After years of conservationist and Native American lobbying, President William Howard Taft signed a bill creating Glacier National Park as the 10th national park in 1910. The park covered 1,500 square miles, including Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada. To preserve the area’s natural beauty and let people experience the Northern Rockies, the park was created.

A Changing Landscape: Glaciers and Climate Change

Before hikers and wildlife watchers discovered Glacier National Park, the Blackfeet, Salish, Kootenai, and Shoshone tribes lived there. These tribes hunted, fished, and gathered food for millennia. The park’s history and character reflect their culture and traditions.

European explorers, fur traders, miners, and settlers arrived in the late 1800s. Hunting and fishing in large numbers depleted the land and animals. More people meant more environmental concerns. There were also calls to preserve the area.

In 1910, President William Howard Taft signed a bill making Glacier National Park the 10th national park after years of environmentalist and Native American pressure. The park included Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park and covered over 1,500 square miles. The park was created to preserve the area’s natural beauty and show off the Northern Rockies’ size.

Endless Adventures: Activities for All

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or just someone who loves to take in the beauty of nature, Glacier National Park has something for everyone. Here are just a few of the things to do and see during your visit:

Hiking

Glacier National Park has 700 miles of hiking trails, from short strolls to multi-day backpacking trips. The Highline Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the park’s mountain peaks, and the Grinnell Glacier Trail, which leads to a glacier-fed lake surrounded by cliffs, are popular hikes. Due to unpredictable weather and difficult terrain, bring plenty of water, snacks, and gear.

Wildlife Viewing

Grizzly, black, mountain goat, bighorn sheep, and moose live in Glacier National Park. There are many opportunities to see these animals in their natural habitat. To see these magnificent animals, take a ranger-led wildlife viewing tour or drive the park’s scenic drives and pullouts.

Scenic Drives

Glacier National Park has many scenic drives. The most popular is the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which winds through the park and offers stunning views of glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain peaks. The Many Glacier Road and Two Medicine Road also offer stunning views and wildlife sightings.

Boating and Fishing

On hot summer days, Glacier National Park’s lakes and streams offer boating and fishing. Paddle Lake McDonald or Two Medicine Lake in a kayak or canoe, or fish for trout or whitefish in the park’s many rivers and streams. Follow park rules and get permits and licenses.

Ranger Programs

Finally, be sure to take advantage of the many ranger-led programs and activities offered by Glacier National Park. These programs teach about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife through guided hikes and educational talks. Junior Ranger badges and certificates for fun park activities and learning will delight kids.

A Haven for Wildlife: Discovering the Park’s Natural Beauty

Glacier National Park is famous for its wildlife, scenery, and environment. Here are just a few things you should know about the park’s unique ecosystem:

Wildlife

Grizzly, black, mountain goat, bighorn sheep, and moose live in Glacier National Park. These animals are fascinating to watch, but they’re wild and should be treated with respect. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife, and never attempt to feed or approach them. By following park regulations and guidelines, you can help ensure the safety of both yourself and the animals.

Ecosystem

Glacier National Park borders the Rocky Mountains, Great Plains, and Pacific Northwest. This unique ecosystem supports thousands of plant and animal species. From alpine meadows to dense forests, the park’s landscapes are constantly changing, offering visitors a truly immersive nature experience.

Glaciers

Glacier National Park has over 26 glaciers, including the massive Grinnell Glacier, a popular hiking spot. These ancient glaciers have shaped the landscape and provided habitat for many species for thousands of years. The park’s glaciers, which are shrinking due to climate change, are still impressive and a reminder of its unique natural history.

Wildflowers

In the summer months, Glacier National Park’s meadows and valleys burst into a riot of color as wildflowers bloom. From delicate lupines to bright yellow glacier lilies, the park’s wildflowers are a sight to behold. Many of these flowers are adapted to the park’s unique environment, including its high altitude and harsh climate, making them an important part of the park’s ecosystem.

Night Sky

Finally, be sure to take in the park’s stunning night sky, which is free from light pollution and offers unparalleled views of the stars. Glacier National Park has been designated as an International Dark Sky Park, recognizing its commitment to preserving the natural darkness of the night sky. Join a ranger-led astronomy program, or simply lay back and marvel at the beauty of the universe above.

Practical Information: Tips and Tricks for Visiting Glacier National Park

Before you pack your bags and hit the road to Glacier National Park, here are some practical tips and tricks to help make your visit a success:

Getting There

Glacier National Park is located in northwest Montana, and can be accessed by car, bus, or train. The nearest airport is Glacier Park International Airport in Kalispell, which is about a 30-minute drive from the park’s west entrance. If you’re planning to drive to the park, be sure to check the park’s road status page, as some roads may be closed due to weather conditions.

Lodging

There are a variety of lodging options within Glacier National Park, including lodges, cabins, and campsites. However, these accommodations can book up quickly, especially during peak season. Be sure to make your reservations well in advance to ensure availability.

Food and Supplies

Glacier National Park has a number of restaurants, cafes, and snack bars, as well as gift shops and general stores where you can purchase supplies and souvenirs. However, it’s always a good idea to bring your own snacks and water, especially if you plan on hiking or spending the day outdoors.

Weather

Glacier National Park’s weather can be unpredictable, even in the summer months. Be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and weather conditions by dressing in layers and bringing rain gear. Remember that the park’s high elevation can also increase your risk of sunburn and dehydration, so be sure to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Safety

Finally, remember that Glacier National Park is a wild and remote area, and it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Always follow park regulations and guidelines, stay on designated trails, and carry bear spray if you plan on hiking in bear country. Be aware of your surroundings, and never approach or feed wildlife.