Glacier National Park, often dubbed the ‘Crown of the Continent,’ is a paradise of stunning vistas, pristine lakes, and majestic mountains. With over 700 miles of trails, it offers unparalleled opportunities for adventure and exploration. Home to diverse wildlife and breathtaking scenery, it’s no wonder Glacier is at the top of every national park bucket list. Whether you are hiking, boating, or simply soaking in the views, Glacier promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Are you planning a trip to Glacier National Park and feeling overwhelmed? you are not alone. I have been there and that’s why I am writing this post to help you with your planning. So if you are ready to trade city lights for starry nights and office chairs for your hiking boots, this epic journey is for you.

Get ready to uncover the nitty-gritty on reservations, the scoop on when to go, and where to crash after a day of chasing waterfalls.

This itinerary is perfect for you if you are short on time and want to cover the highlights. In this blog post, I will cover exactly how to spend 4 days in the park.

Let’s Get Started!

Why Glacier National Park is perfect for a family adventure?

Glacier National Park is the perfect destination for a family adventure for many reasons. Firstly, the park’s stunning landscapes provide a picturesque backdrop for countless outdoor activities. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply taking a scenic drive, you’ll be surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Additionally, Glacier National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, offering ample opportunities for wildlife spotting and educational experiences for children.

The park also boasts a multitude of family-friendly trails, ensuring that even the youngest members of your family can participate in the adventure. From short and easy walks to longer hikes, there’s something for everyone. Moreover, Glacier National Park’s commitment to environmental preservation and sustainability makes it an ideal destination to teach children about the importance of protecting our natural resources.

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Important information and tips for visiting Glacier National Park

Before embarking on your family adventure in Glacier National Park, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Firstly, it’s crucial to plan your visit in advance, especially during the peak summer season when the park is busiest. Check the park’s website for any closures or restrictions and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

When packing for your trip, be sure to include layers of clothing to accommodate the fluctuating temperatures in the mountains. It’s also essential to bring sturdy footwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water and snacks. Additionally, make sure to download the maps onto your phone as there is little to no coverage inside the park and finally don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and wildlife encounters.

To make the most of your time in Glacier National Park, consider purchasing a park pass in advance. This allows you unlimited access to the park and can save you time and money. Finally, always prioritize safety and follow park regulations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire family.

1. National Park Reservations

To make the most of your Glacier escapade, reserve your spot well in advance like a pro. That means snagging your entrance pass, locking down accommodations, and reserving a spot on those sought-after ranger-led hikes. Trust me, you don’t wanna miss out on those, especially if you have little kids.

Glacier National Park requires all visitors to have a reservation to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road and enter North Fork, Many Glacier, and Two Medicine starting May 26 until September 10, 2023.

Read more about the reservation policies  Glacier National Park reservation system.

2. Best Time To Visit

So when is the best time to rock this adventure? Summer (June to August) is like prime time – warm weather, open roads and trails ready to be conquered. But if you are all about a quieter scene with more cooler vibes, spring and fall are your jam. Just remember though. Going-to-the-Sun-Road can play hard due to all snow until mid-June.

3. How To Get To Glacier National Park

Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell is the closest airport to Glacier National Park. Its about 12 miles from the town of Whitefish and 30 miles from the West Entrance of the Park.

Great Falls International Airport (GTF) located about 2 hours from St. Mary Entrance of the park on the East.

Missoula Airport (MSO) located about 3 hours from West Glacier. If you are flying into this airport, make sure to visit the Flathead lake along the way, the largest fresh water lake in Mississippi.

We personally flew to GTF airport since we got a great deal on Delta Flights for the Juneteenth weekend.

4. Where to Stay

Now let’s talk crash pads. Glacier’s got options for every vibe:

• Camping: For all the rugged souls who would love to wake to that fresh mountain air, there are 13 campgrounds, and reserving a site in advance is highly recommended. You can find out more about each of the campgrounds here.
• Lodges: If you want to feel like you have stepped into a nature themed fairy tale, stay at one of the in-park historic lodges. Think Many Glacier Hotel, Lake McDonald Lodge – rustic charm with killer views.
• Best places to stay in East Glacier:
  • Many Glacier Hotel inside the park in Many Glacier
  • Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and Cabins inside the park in Many Glacier
  • Rising Sun Motor Inn inside the park near St. Mary
  • St. Mary Village in St. Mary
  • The Cottages at Glacier in St. Mary
• Best places to stay on the west side of the park:
  • Lake McDonald Lodge inside the park on Lake McDonald
  • Village Inn at Apgar inside the park in Apgar Village
  • Great Northern Resort in West Glacier
  • North Forty Resort in Columbia Falls
  • Cedar Creek Lodge in Columbia Falls
• Backcountry Camping: Pro adventurer? Go deep with backcountry camping. Get your permits, go off the grid and embrace nature in its purest form

5. How To Get Around

The best way to get around Glacier National Park is by car.

4 Day Family Friendly Glacier National Park Itinerary, East Glacier:

Day 1: Checking in at “Cottages at Glacier, East Glacier”. Hiking the Three Falls.

Check in at the cozy “Cottages at Glacier” in East Glacier. This charming accommodation offers comfortable cabins with all the amenities you’ll need for a relaxing stay with a gorgeous view. After settling in, it’s time to hit the trails and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Glacier National Park.

Begin your hiking journey with the “Three Falls hike”. This great little hike is out 6 mile out and back that covers three scenic water falls. Start your hike at the Sunrift Gorge parking area and make your way down the trailhead for Baring Falls. After visiting Baring Falls continue on the trailhead to St. Mary Fall, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. The trail to St. Mary Fall is also relatively easy and suitable for all fitness levels. As you approach the falls, you’ll be greeted by the sound of rushing water and the refreshing mist in the air. Take a moment to admire the beauty of nature before continuing your hike.

Next, make your way up to Virginia Falls, a hidden gem tucked away in the park. The trail to Virginia Falls is slightly more challenging but well worth the effort. The reward is a mesmerizing cascade of water plunging down into a crystal-clear pool. Enjoy a picnic lunch near the falls, surrounded by the tranquility of the wilderness.

At this point turn around and retrace your steps back to the parking spot to complete your hike.

After a day of hiking, head back to the cottage and relax in the cozy atmosphere. Share stories of your adventures around a campfire or unwind in the comfort of your cabin, ready to recharge for the days ahead.

Day 2: Exploring the park’s iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, hiking cedar lake trail and avalanche trail

Day 2 of your Glacier National Park adventure is all about exploring the park’s iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. This scenic drive winds through the heart of the park, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Start early to beat the crowds and make the most of your day.

As you drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, be sure to make stops at the various viewpoints. These overlooks provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and valleys. Take your time to soak in the beauty of nature and capture memorable photographs.

Once you’ve reached the Logan Pass Visitor Center, lace up your hiking boots and embark on the Cedar Lake Trail. This family-friendly trail takes you through alpine meadows and offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, as deer and mountain goats are often spotted in this area.

After completing the Cedar Lake Trail, continue your hiking adventure with the Avalanche Trail. This trail leads you through dense forests and along a crystal-clear creek, culminating in the breathtaking Avalanche Lake. Encircled by towering peaks and lush greenery, Avalanche Lake is a true hidden gem of Glacier National Park. Although the trail is considered moderate, it is super strenuous for little kids and took us almost half a day to complete.

The start of the trail is also located about five miles from the McDonald Lodge if you’re coming from the west. After the hike drive to McDonald Lodge and treat yourself to a rustic dining experience at Russell’s Fireside Dining room at Lake Mc Donald Lodge and thereafter enjoy a relaxing time at the Lake Mc Donald.

As the day comes to a close, head back to your accommodation and reflect on the incredible sights and experiences of the day.

Day 3: Hiking the family-friendly trails in Glacier National Park Two Medicine Lake

For Day 3 of your family adventure in Glacier National Park head to the picturesque Two Medicine Lake, where you can rent a kayak or canoe and paddle across the serene waters, surrounded by towering mountains and the reflection of the clear blue sky.

After enjoying some time on the lake, lace up your hiking boots and explore the family-friendly trails surrounding Two Medicine Lake. The Aster Falls Trail/Aster Park is a great family option, featuring a short flat walk to a beautiful waterfall. The trail is well-maintained and is just under 3 miles out and back.

For those seeking a longer hike, the Scenic Point Trail is a fantastic choice. This moderate trail takes you to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking Two Medicine Lake and the surrounding mountains. Be prepared for some elevation gain, but the panoramic views at the top are well worth the effort.

Day 4: Wildlife spotting at Many Glacier Area

On the final day of your family adventure in Glacier National Park, get ready for wildlife spotting and scenic boat tours. Start your day by heading to the Many Glacier area, known for its abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes. Many Glacier area is a hiker’s paradise, all of the hikes in this area are amazing and you can’t go wrong with any one of them.

All these trails are fairly flat and all under 4 miles round trip.

Some of the best easy hikes that we did with kids

• Swift Current Nature Trail
• Lake Josephine Trail
• Fishercap Lake trail
• Hike to Redrock Falls.

This area is teeming with wildlife, offering ample opportunities for memorable encounters. Keep your eyes peeled for bears, moose, and bighorn sheep, and remember to keep a safe distance and observe from a respectful distance to ensure both your safety and the animal’s well-being.

After your wildlife adventure, make your way to your accommodation at SwiftCurrent Motor Inn and Cabins and relax the day away. As your family adventure in Glacier National Park comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on the incredible memories you’ve created together. The beauty of this national park and the experiences shared will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on each family member.

Exploring the hidden gems of Glacier National Park

While the itinerary outlined above offers a fantastic overview of Glacier National Park, there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Consider extending your stay or planning a return trip to explore lesser-known areas of the park, such as the North Fork region. These areas offer unique hiking opportunities and a chance to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the solitude of nature.