Glacier National Park
Montana
Glacier National Park, located in northwestern Montana along the Canada–United States border, spans over one million acres of pristine wilderness. It features two sub-ranges of the Rocky Mountains, more than 130 named lakes, and a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including species such as grizzly bears, mountain goats, and gray wolves. The park is renowned for its dramatic landscapes shaped by glacial activity, with rugged mountains, deep valleys, and remnants of over 25 active glaciers. Established in 1910, the park preserves historic hotels and chalets built by the Great Northern Railway, many of which are recognized as National Historic Landmarks. The iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, completed in 1932, offers scenic access through the park's heart. Glacier National Park is part of the larger Crown of the Continent Ecosystem, a vast protected area noted for its ecological richness. Visitors can explore over 700 miles of trails, witness diverse ecosystems ranging from prairie to tundra, and experience cultural heritage through Native American programs. The park is also internationally significant, paired with Canada's Waterton Lakes National Park as the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve.
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Tip: The best time to visit Glacier National Park is during the summer months when the Going-to-the-Sun Road is fully open and trails are accessible. Due to its popularity, plan accommodations and dining well in advance. Consider using the park shuttle for flexible travel along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Check current road and trail conditions before your visit, especially for wildfire updates or construction. Permits are required for backpacking trips. Take advantage of Native America Speaks programs to learn about indigenous cultural ties.
Interesting facts
- •Glacier National Park contains over 130 named lakes and more than 1,000 plant species.
- •The park's landscape was shaped by the Lewis Overthrust, a geological event 170 million years ago.
- •Only 25 of the estimated 150 glaciers present in the mid-19th century remain active today.
- •Glacier experiences forest fires nearly every year except 1964, with a record 64 fires in 1936.
- •The park and Canada's Waterton Lakes National Park form the world's first International Peace Park, established in 1932.
- •Designated a Gold Tier International Dark Sky Park in 2017, it is the first transboundary dark sky park in the world.
History
Originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Blackfeet and Flathead, the mountainous lands were ceded to the U.S.
government in 1895.
Glacier National Park was officially established in 1910.
The Great Northern Railway developed hotels and chalets soon after, many now protected historic landmarks.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road was completed in 1932, providing vital access across the park.
In 1932, Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada were jointly designated as the world's first International Peace Park.
Later recognitions include UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status in 1976 and World Heritage Site designation in 1995.
Place Guide
Going-to-the-Sun Road1932
A scenic mountain road completed in 1932, offering breathtaking views and access to the park's interior. It is a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark and a highlight for visitors.
Historic Hotels and ChaletsEarly 1900s
Built by the Great Northern Railway after the park's establishment, these structures are National Historic Landmarks that reflect early 20th-century tourism and architecture.
Crown of the Continent Ecosystem
A vast protected region encompassing Glacier National Park and surrounding lands, noted for its ecological diversity and pristine wilderness.
Contact
Phone: (406) 888-7800
