#8 - Glacier National Park
Why Go To Glacier National Park
Visiting Glacier National Park offers a unique and captivating experience that combines natural beauty with adventure. Here are some compelling reasons to consider visiting this iconic park:
1. **Stunning Scenery**: Glacier National Park is famed for its breathtaking landscapes that include rugged mountains, pristine forests, and spectacular glacial lakes. The park’s vistas, such as those from Going-to-the-Sun Road, are some of the most photographed in North America.
2. **Diverse Wildlife**: The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It’s home to a variety of animals, including grizzly bears, moose, mountain goats, and an array of bird species. Observing these creatures in their natural habitat can be a thrilling experience.
3. **Hiking Opportunities**: With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier offers routes ranging from short scenic strolls to challenging backcountry treks. Popular hikes include the Trail of the Cedars and the challenging hike to Grinnell Glacier.
4. **Cultural Heritage**: The park has a rich cultural history, encompassing the heritage of Native American tribes such as the Blackfeet and the Salish. Visitors can learn about the area’s history through cultural programs and visits to historic sites like the Many Glacier Hotel.
5. **Recreational Activities**: Beyond hiking, the park offers a variety of other activities, including boating, fishing, and cross-country skiing. For those who prefer a guided experience, ranger-led tours and talks provide insights into the park’s ecology and geology.
6. **Photographic Paradise**: Photographers, from amateurs to professionals, flock to Glacier for its lighting, landscapes, and wildlife. The park’s dynamic environment, ranging from wildflower-filled meadows to icy glacier peaks, offers endless subjects for photography.
7. **Environmental Education**: Glacier is an excellent place for learning about environmental conservation and glaciology. The retreat of the park’s glaciers serves as a visible indicator of climate change, making it an important site for educational and scientific research.
8. **Solitude and Reflection**: The vastness and tranquility of the park provide a perfect backdrop for solitude and reflection. It’s an ideal place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature.
Visiting Glacier National Park can be a transformative experience, offering not only a feast for the eyes but also a deeper appreciation of nature’s beauty and the importance of preserving such treasures for future generations.
When visiting Glacier National Park, finding a comfortable place to stay enhances the overall experience. Here are some of the best hotels and lodges in and around the park, each offering unique amenities and spectacular views:
1. **Many Glacier Hotel** – Located inside the park on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake, Many Glacier Hotel is considered the “Gem of the West.” This historic hotel offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and easy access to numerous hiking trails.
2. **Lake McDonald Lodge** – Also within the park, this lodge sits on the eastern shore of Lake McDonald. Built in 1913, it features a rustic, hunting lodge-style atmosphere and serves as an excellent base for exploring the west side of the park.
3. **Glacier Park Lodge** – Situated just outside the park in East Glacier Park Village, this grand lodge was built by the Great Northern Railway in 1913. It boasts an impressive lobby with towering Douglas fir columns and is close to the Amtrak station, making it accessible for those traveling by train.
4. **The Izaak Walton Inn** – Located in Essex, Montana, this historic inn is a favorite among train enthusiasts and hikers alike. Originally built as a railroad lodge, it offers a variety of accommodations, including traditional rooms, cabins, and even converted cabooses.
5. **St. Mary Village** – Positioned at the east entrance of the park, St. Mary Village provides a range of lodging options from motel rooms to cottages. It’s a convenient starting point for trips along the Going-to-the-Sun Road and for exploring the St. Mary Valley.
6. **Apgar Village Lodge** – Located near the west entrance of the park, this family-run lodge offers rustic cabin and motel accommodations. It’s within walking distance of Lake McDonald and Apgar Village, where you can find visitor services and boat rentals.
7. **Grouse Mountain Lodge** – Outside the park in Whitefish, Montana, this lodge offers upscale accommodations with amenities such as a golf course, indoor pool, and a shuttle service to Whitefish and Glacier National Park.
8. **Belton Chalet** – Just outside the west entrance of the park in West Glacier, this historic chalet has been welcoming guests since 1910. It offers fine dining and authentically restored accommodations, providing a glimpse into the early days of park tourism.
Choosing the right hotel depends on your preferences for convenience, scenery, and the type of experience you wish to have. Each of these hotels offers a unique way to experience the splendor of Glacier National Park.
