12 Must-See Destinations in Glacier National Park in 2025

You guys, I literally had to pull over five times during my first drive on Going to the Sun Road in Glacier National Park. Not because I was scared, but because my jaw kept dropping at those massive peaks towering over me. Even my camera roll is embarrassing—just 200 photos of me trying to capture the same ridiculously beautiful mountains.

I’ve hiked all over this park to bring you the most beautiful places in Glacier National Park that’ll knock your socks off. The moment I watched a mountain goat casually stroll past me at Hidden Lake, with those turquoise waters below, I knew this place was different. These 12 spots will show you exactly why everyone who visits this slice of Montana can’t shut up about it.

Must-See Destinations to Visit in Glacier National Park

Looking to explore Glacier National Park’s most beautiful places? From the stunning vistas of Going-to-the-Sun Road to the serene waters of Lake McDonald, Glacier National Park is packed with stunning scenery. Stroll through the lush trails of Many Glacier, marvel at the natural beauty of Grinnell Glacier, or explore the rugged landscapes of Logan Pass. Discover the tranquil allure of Two Medicine, the breathtaking views from Hidden Lake, or the vibrant wildflowers of Iceberg Lake. Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife, or mountain vistas, here are 12 of Glacier National Park’s most breathtaking spots!

1. Bowman Lake

• 📍 Location: Northwestern corner of Glacier National Park, Montana, 30 miles from the west entrance
• 🏆 Best For: Solitude seekers 🧘, paddlers 🛶, photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Kayaking on pristine waters, hiking the Bowman Lake Trail, camping under starry skies
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July through September when the access road is reliably open and clear of snow ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Bowman Lake Campground – Rustic lakeside camping with breathtaking mountain views

Escape the digital notifications and find yourself at Bowman Lake, where that work-life balance you’ve been chasing actually exists. This pristine 7-mile glacial lake offers jaw-dropping scenery without the Instagram crowds. The bumpy dirt road journey filters out tour buses and rewards you with crystal-clear waters mirroring dramatic mountain peaks. I’ve never seen stars shine brighter than during a night camped along its shores. Paddling on the glassy morning surface ranks among Glacier’s most magical experiences, with rental equipment available in nearby Polebridge. 

Hikers can follow the moderate trail along the northern shore for spectacular views. The area’s remote location also makes it one of Montana’s premier stargazing spots, with the Milky Way putting on a show that no smartphone camera will truly capture.

2. Elizabeth Lake

• 📍 Location: Eastern side of Glacier National Park, Montana, accessible from the Many Glacier area
• 🏆 Best For: Day hikers 🥾, wildlife watchers 🦌, backcountry campers 🏕️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the Elizabeth Lake Trail, spotting moose and bears, backcountry camping
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late June through early September when snow has melted from higher elevations 🌄
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Many Glacier Hotel – Historic lodge with Swiss chalet style just minutes from the trailhead

Need a digital detox that actually offers? Elizabeth Lake sits nestled beneath towering peaks of Ptarmigan Wall and Mount Wilbur, rewarding those who make the effort to reach it. This alpine jewel requires a moderate 4.8-mile hike from the Many Glacier Hotel, but the journey showcases stunning terrain worth every step. The trail follows bubbling Ptarmigan Creek through forests before revealing sapphire-blue waters framed by jagged mountain spires. This area is prime grizzly and moose habitat, making wildlife sightings almost guaranteed. My favorite moment was spotting mountain goats traversing the ridges while enjoying lunch by the shore. 

The lake’s backcountry campground offers one of Glacier’s most coveted overnight experiences. Even as a day hike, the journey has quintessential Glacier scenery without the overwhelming crowds found at more accessible locations.

3. Hidden Lake

• 📍 Location: Heart of Glacier National Park, Montana, accessible from Logan Pass Visitor Center
• 🏆 Best For: Family-friendly hiking 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, wildlife encounters 🐐, photography enthusiasts 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail, spotting mountain goats, capturing the iconic view of Bearhat Mountain
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Mid-July through September when Logan Pass is accessible and alpine wildflowers are blooming 🌼
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Rising Sun Motor Inn – Charming accommodations along Going-to-the-Sun Road with easy access to Logan Pass

Want Instagram gold without an all-day hike? Hidden Lake offers Glacier’s most epic views for minimal effort. This alpine gem lies just 1.5 miles from the busy Logan Pass Visitor Center, making it perfect for families or those short on time. The trail crosses the famous Hanging Gardens, an explosion of wildflowers in summer where marmots whistle from rocky perches. The observation platform rewards you with the money shot. Turquoise waters nestle beneath the distinctive pyramid of Bearhat Mountain. Wildlife encounters are practically guaranteed here. Mountain goats often wander right past hikers while bighorn sheep traverse surrounding slopes. This spot remains my favorite sunrise location in the entire park. 

For those with extra energy, continue another 1.5 miles down to the lakeshore, where crowds thin significantly and reflections create perfect mirror images of surrounding peaks.

4. Iceberg Lake

• 📍 Location: Eastern section of Glacier National Park, Montana, accessible from the Many Glacier area
• 🏆 Best For: Moderate hikers 🥾, wildlife watchers 🐻, geology enthusiasts 🏔️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the Iceberg Lake Trail, swimming among floating ice chunks, wildflower photography
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late July through August when icebergs are still visible but trails are snow-free 🧊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Swiftcurrent Motor Inn – Rustic cabins and motel rooms minutes from the trailhead

Looking for a hike that will dominate your vacation photos for years? Iceberg Lake lives up to its name with miniature icebergs floating in frigid waters well into summer. This perfectly circular lake sits in a spectacular amphitheater carved by ancient glaciers. Sheer 3,000-foot cliffs create one of Glacier’s most dramatic settings. The moderately strenuous 4.8-mile trail climbs steadily through meadows exploding with wildflowers in July and August. Ptarmigan Falls provides a perfect rest stop halfway through your journey. 

As you approach the lake, the temperature noticeably drops, creating natural air conditioning even on the hottest days. The truly brave can take a quick polar plunge among floating ice chunks. I still remember the shocking cold that literally took my breath away. Plan for a full day to enjoy this hike properly. Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms that frequently roll through the area.

5. Lake McDonald

• 📍 Location: Western side of Glacier National Park, Montana, just inside the West Entrance
• 🏆 Best For: Scenic drives 🚗, boat tours 🚢, sunset watchers 🌅
• 📸 Top Experiences: Skipping the famous colored stones along the shore, taking the historic wooden boat tour, driving Going-to-the-Sun Road
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June through September for water activities, October for fall colors and fewer crowds 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lake McDonald Lodge – Historic Swiss chalet-style lodge right on the lakeshore

Need the perfect background for your videoconference humble-brag? Lake McDonald stretches 10 miles long and over a mile wide as Glacier’s largest and most accessible lake. The glacially carved valley offers a gentler introduction to the park’s wonders with densely forested shores rising to spectacular mountain views. The lake’s multicolored pebble beach creates nature’s most beautiful mosaic. Historic wooden boat tours aboard the DeSmet offer a perfect way to experience the lake while learning about its fascinating history. 

Rent kayaks from Apgar Village for unbeatable mountain reflections on calm mornings. Sunset here transforms the landscape completely. Alpenglow paints distant peaks in shades of pink and purple that reflect perfectly on the lake’s surface. The historic Lake McDonald Lodge provides the ideal setting for evening relaxation. Its massive stone fireplace and rustic-luxe ambiance make it hard to leave even when adventure calls.

6. Logan Pass

• 📍 Location: Continental Divide at the highest point of Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park, Montana
• 🏆 Best For: Scenic drives 🚗, accessible hiking 🥾, wildlife viewing 🐐
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the Highline Trail, spotting mountain goats and bighorn sheep, photographing wildflower meadows
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Mid-July through September when the pass is reliably accessible after snow clearing 🌄
• 🏨 Where to Stay: St. Mary Village – Comfortable lodging near the east entrance with easy access to Logan Pass

Craving a mountain high without the mountain climb? Logan Pass marks the literal high point of any Glacier visit at 6,646 feet elevation. As the crown jewel of the spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road, the pass offers immediate access to alpine terrain. Arrive early to secure parking, as this popular spot fills quickly during peak summer. 

The legendary Highline Trail begins here, hugging the Garden Wall with vertigo-inducing drops and panoramic views. Even walking just a mile offers unforgettable vistas. The pass itself surrounds visitors with subalpine meadows that explode with wildflowers during the brief growing season. 

Mountain goats and bighorn sheep appear so regularly that rangers sometimes manage “wildlife jams” as visitors stop for photos. The visitor center exhibits explain the forces that created this majestic landscape. This remains the most accessible place to experience the true alpine heart of Glacier.

7. St. Mary Falls

• 📍 Location: Eastern side of Glacier National Park, accessible via St. Mary Lake area
• 🏆 Best For: Waterfall enthusiasts 💦, day hikers 🥾, photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to the falls, capturing turquoise waters, continuing to Virginia Falls
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Summer months (July-September) when trails are clear of snow ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: St. Mary Village – A magnificent hotel just outside the park entrance

Need a nature fix without killing your knees? St. Mary Falls has Instagram-worthy views without demanding a full-day hike. This stunning waterfall drops 35 feet through narrow rock walls, with brilliant blue-green water that seems artificially enhanced but is completely natural.

The 1.7-mile round-trip trail is moderately easy with some elevation changes. You’ll enjoy intermittent views of St. Mary Lake before reaching the main event. I’ve never seen a more perfect picnic spot than the rocky outcrops near the falls. For those with extra energy, continue just 0.8 miles further to reach Virginia Falls, a taller cascade equally worth visiting. This popular trail gets crowded midday during summer, so aim for early morning to experience the magic without the masses. The payoff-to-effort ratio makes this a must-do for any Glacier visitor.

8. The Grinnell Glacier Trail

• 📍 Location: Many Glacier area on the east side of Glacier National Park
• 🏆 Best For: Serious hikers 🥾, wildlife watchers 🦌, glacier enthusiasts ❄️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to the glacier, spotting wildlife, photographing alpine lakes
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late July through September when trails are open and wildflowers bloom 🌼
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Many Glacier Hotel – A hotel with stunning views of Swiftcurrent Lake

Want to see a disappearing wonder before it’s gone forever? The Grinnell Glacier Trail takes you face-to-face with climate change in the most beautiful classroom on earth. This challenging trail has constant jaw-dropping scenes that make the effort worthwhile.

The 7.6-mile round-trip hike climbs over 1,600 feet through mountain scenery so dramatic you’ll fill your phone storage with photos. Crystal-clear alpine lakes and wildflower meadows create perfect rest stops along the way. Wildlife sightings are almost guaranteed, with mountain goats and bighorn sheep frequently spotted. The moment when the turquoise glacial lake comes into view remains one of my favorite memories in any national park. Consider taking the boat shuttle across Swiftcurrent Lake to shorten the hike if you’re short on time. This trail showcases everything that makes Glacier National Park special in one unforgettable day.

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9. Trail of the Cedars

• 📍 Location: Near Avalanche Creek on the west side of Glacier along Going-to-the-Sun Road
• 🏆 Best For: Families with children 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, accessibility seekers ♿, ancient forest lovers 🌲
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the accessible boardwalk, seeing old-growth cedars, visiting Avalanche Gorge
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall, especially during morning or evening 🌄
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lake McDonald Lodge – Stunning accommodation located on the shores of Lake McDonald

Craving a genuine Pacific Northwest forest experience without the grueling hike? Trail of the Cedars lets you wander among giants without breaking a sweat. This 0.8-mile loop features wooden boardwalks through towering western red cedars and hemlocks that create a natural cathedral.

The fully accessible trail makes this perfect for strollers and wheelchairs. Moss-draped trees and lush ferns create a cool retreat even on hot summer days. Halfway through, stop at the dramatic overlook of Avalanche Gorge, where rushing waters have sculpted a narrow slot canyon. The forest here feels more like Olympic National Park than typical Glacier terrain. This trail connects to the popular Avalanche Lake Trail if you want to extend your adventure. When temperatures soar on Going-to-the-Sun Road, this shaded walk provides the perfect escape with minimal effort but maximum impact.

10. Two Medicine Lake

• 📍 Location: Southeast corner of Glacier National Park via a separate entrance road
• 🏆 Best For: Paddlers 🛶, solitude seekers 🧘, photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Canoeing on the pristine lake, hiking to nearby waterfalls, watching sunrise
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July through September when roads are open and weather is reliable ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Two Medicine Campground – A hotel with lakeside sites and mountain views

Tired of fighting crowds for the perfect view? Two Medicine Lake offers Glacier’s stunning landscapes without the tour buses and parking headaches. This crystal-clear lake sits beneath Rising Wolf Mountain and creates mirror-perfect reflections on calm mornings.

Once the main destination for train-arriving tourists before Going-to-the-Sun Road existed, this area retains a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path feel. Rent a canoe from the small boat dock or take a scenic tour with Glacier Park Boat Company. Several excellent hiking trails radiate from the lake, including paths to Appistoki Falls and Upper Two Medicine Lake. The area boasts spectacular sunrises that turn mountain peaks golden. I’ve spent entire mornings here watching the light change without seeing another soul. 

11. Virginia Falls

• 📍 Location: Eastern side of Glacier National Park, 1.8 miles beyond St. Mary Falls
• 🏆 Best For: Waterfall enthusiasts 💦, photographers 📸, moderate hikers 🥾
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the scenic trail, feeling the spray from the 50-foot cascade, seeing two falls
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Mid-June through September when trails are snow-free 🌿
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Rising Sun Motor Inn – A beautiful hotel along Going-to-the-Sun Road near St. Mary

Looking for that perfect cool-off spot after a hot summer hike? Virginia Falls offers nature’s most refreshing shower with a view that beats any resort. This 50-foot cascade creates a misty veil that cools hikers who venture close enough to feel its spray.

The 3.6-mile round-trip hike gives you two waterfalls for one effort, passing St. Mary Falls first before continuing upward. Multiple footbridges cross Virginia Creek, offering various vantage points of the rushing water. Small side paths lead to perfect photo spots where you can safely feel the refreshing mist. The surrounding forest shows fascinating regeneration from past wildfires, with vibrant wildflower displays in early summer. This moderate-difficulty hike suits families with older children or anyone wanting a satisfying half-day adventure with an excellent effort-to-reward ratio.

12. Waterton Glacier International Peace Park

• 📍 Location: Spans the US-Canada border, combining Glacier (US) and Waterton Lakes (Canada) parks
• 🏆 Best For: International travelers 🌎, peace advocates ☮️, wildlife enthusiasts 🦬
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Prince of Wales Hotel, taking the boat tour, hiking across the border
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July through September when all facilities in both parks operate 🍁
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Prince of Wales Hotel – A stunning hotel with dramatic views of Waterton Lake

Ever visited two countries in one hike? Waterton Glacier International Peace Park lets you experience the world’s first International Peace Park while crossing an international border surrounded by stunning wilderness.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site unites two magnificent national parks into one protected ecosystem. The Canadian side centers around the charming Waterton townsite and stunning Waterton Lake, where prairie meets mountains dramatically. Don’t miss the scenic Red Rock Parkway drive or a visit to Cameron Lake. The International Peace Park Boat Tour crosses the border on Upper Waterton Lake, providing fascinating commentary on the area’s history. For ambitious hikers, the Goat Haunt trail crosses the international border (passport required). The unique combination of alpine peaks, pristine lakes, and prairie-mountain landscape makes this international treasure truly unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Glacier National Park

Keen on deepening your insights into Glacier National Park’s scenic gems? Here are some typical questions about its must-visit spots.

What is the most beautiful part of Glacier National Park?

Glacier National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, and while it’s hard to pinpoint just one “most beautiful” part, many visitors are particularly captivated by the serene beauty of Two Medicine Lake, the cascading waters of Virginia Falls, and the breathtaking vistas from Logan Pass. Each area of the park offers its own unique charm and beauty.

What not to miss in Glacier National Park?

There’s a plethora of sights and experiences that are a must in Glacier National Park. From the mesmerizing views at Hidden Lake, the tranquility of Bowman Lake, to the historic significance of Waterton Glacier International Peace Park, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to explore the Trail of the Cedars and take a hike along the Grinnell Glacier Trail for an immersive experience.

Where is the best place to see a Glacier in Glacier National Park?

In Glacier National Park, there are several glaciers to see, but some are more accessible and impressive than others. Here are some of the best places to see a glacier in the park:

1. Grinnell Glacier: One of the most iconic glaciers in the park. Grinnell Glacier can be reached via the Grinnell Glacier Trail. This moderately strenuous hike offers stunning views of the glacier and the surrounding mountains. The trail provides an up-close view of the glacier and the beautiful Grinnell Lake with its turquoise waters.
2. Jackson Glacier: This is one of the easiest glaciers to view from a roadside viewpoint. The Jackson Glacier Overlook is located along the Going-to-the-Sun Road and offers a distant but clear view of the glacier. It’s one of the largest remaining glaciers in the park.
3. Sperry Glacier: Located near the Sperry Chalet, this glacier can be viewed after a strenuous hike to Sperry Glacier Basin. The trail offers panoramic views of the park and a close look at the glacier’s expanse.
4. Avalanche Lake: While not a glacier viewpoint per se, the Avalanche Lake Trail offers views of the meltwater from Sperry Glacier, and the surrounding mountains have glacial features.

Where to go in Glacier National Park for the best sunrise views?

Lake McDonald offers some of the most stunning sunrise views. The early morning light reflecting off the calm waters, with the mountains as a backdrop, is truly a sight to behold.

What is the most popular view at Glacier National Park?

The most popular view at Glacier National Park is arguably from Logan Pass, which is located along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Logan Pass offers a panoramic vista of the park’s rugged mountain peaks, vast valleys, and expansive meadows. The view from here encompasses the grandeur of the park and showcases the raw beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

From Logan Pass, visitors can see the towering Mount Reynolds and Clements Mountain, among other peaks. The pass is also the starting point for the popular Hidden Lake Overlook Trail, which provides even more breathtaking views as you hike towards the overlook. On a clear day, the sight of Hidden Lake, with its turquoise waters set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, is truly mesmerizing.

Another iconic view is the one overlooking Saint Mary Lake with Wild Goose Island in the center, especially during sunrise. This view is often photographed and is one of the most recognized scenes from Glacier National Park.

While Logan Pass and Saint Mary Lake are among the most iconic, the park is filled with countless viewpoints, each offering its own unique and stunning perspective of Glacier’s diverse landscapes.

Are there any Glacier National Park beauty spots ideal for photography?

Absolutely! Iceberg Lake, with its floating ice chunks in the summer, provides a unique photography opportunity. Additionally, the vistas from Logan Pass and the dense forests around Trail of the Cedars are perfect for capturing the park’s essence.

Which are the most beautiful cities in Glacier National Park area?

While Glacier National Park is primarily a natural reserve, nearby towns like Whitefish and Columbia Falls offer charming experiences, local culture, and are gateways to the park.

How can one best experience Glacier National Park scenery during a short visit?

If time is limited, consider driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road. It offers a condensed experience of the park’s diverse landscapes, from dense forests and alpine meadows to rugged mountain peaks.

What is the prettiest part of Glacier National Park?

Glacier National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty. Each part of the park offering its own unique charm. However, one of the most iconic and often considered the prettiest part of the park is the Going-to-the-Sun Road and the areas it traverses.

The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a scenic mountain road that spans the width of the park. It offers breathtaking views of the park’s diverse landscapes. As you drive or take the shuttle along this road, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of glacial valleys, pristine alpine meadows, dense forests, and rugged mountain peaks.

Logan Pass is another highlight along this route. As the highest point on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, it provides stunning views of the Continental Divide and is the starting point for several popular hikes, such as the Hidden Lake and Highline Trail. The meadows around Logan Pass burst into a riot of wildflowers in the summer, making it a photographer’s dream.

Lake McDonald, the largest lake in the park, is also a contender for the prettiest spot, especially during sunrise or sunset when the surrounding mountains are reflected in its clear waters.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is more than just a collection of scenic spots and hiking trails. It’s a testament to the awe-inspiring power of nature. From its shimmering lakes and cascading waterfalls to its rugged mountain peaks and serene meadows, every inch of this park whispers tales of ancient geology, diverse ecosystems, and the timeless beauty of the wild. As you explore its many wonders, you’ll discover that the park’s true charm lies not just in its landscapes but in the feelings they evoke. 

Feelings of wonder, tranquility, and a deep connection to the natural world. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Glacier National Park promises an experience that will linger in your memories long after you’ve left its boundaries. So, pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and set out on an adventure to discover the many beautiful places in Glacier National Park. It’s not just a destination; it’s a journey into the heart of nature’s majesty.