Activities at Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is located along the Rocky Mountains in the northwest corner of Montana. It is a perfect place to visit for outdoor enthusiasts and those who appreciate nature. From hiking to bike riding and camping, there are several activities in which to partake, whether young or old. The following is a detailed list of four activities recommended for those who take the venture to Glacier National Park.

1. Hiking: There are over 700 miles of hiking trails in Glacier National Park. Hikers can choose quick day trips or extend their adventure to a multiple day excursion. The Red Eagle Lake Trail starts in St. Mary, Montana and offers an easy course for a beginner hiker or someone who wishes to walk along low-elevation terrain. The moderate hiker can enjoy an adventure on The Highline Trail, one of the most popular trails in Glacier National Park. The trail starts at Logan Pass on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, in east Montana, and spans for about 20 miles to Fifty Mountain Campground. Hikers wishing to continue their adventure can continue on to the Waterton Valley Trail. Guided day-hiking and backpacking tours can be planned from mid-May until September.

2. ATV Tours: From May to October, visitors staying in St. Mary can book an ATV tour of the eastern portion of Glacier National park. St. Mary Lodge and Resort guests have the option to book an ATV tour through the lodge. The 39-mile tour takes about four hours. These tours allow visitors to experience breath-taking views and to spot wildlife including elk, moose, deer, and possibly bears.

3. Horseback Riding: Guided horseback riding tours are available during the summer months. Beautiful views and wildlife may be spotted no matter which trail visitors decide to blaze. The guided tours can accommodate to any riding skill level and range from hour to a full day. The tour around Lake McDonald, the largest alpine lake in Glacier National Park, is a favorite of horseback riders. One of the most popular day trips includes a tour of Sperry Chalet, and the scenic two hour tour through Upper McDonald Creek Trail gives horseback riders a chance to view picturesque scenery and views.

4. Red Bus Tour: The Red Bus tours are known throughout Glacier National Park because of the historic nature of the buses. There are 33 touring coaches in total that were built between 1936 and 1939. The tours allow visitors to experience traveling throughout all parts of Glacier National Park, including a road trip experience along the famed Going-to-the-Sun Road. Each bus features a roll back canvas top, allowing tourists to experience spectacular views right from the road. Between 1999 and 2002, the entire fleet was renovated, at a cost of $250,000 per bus, so the safety features could be updated and the buses could continue to service the park visitors.

No matter what activities visitors of Glacier National Park choose to do, there are plenty of adventures in which to participate. Outdoor enthusiasts and general visitors can all appreciate the beautiful scenery and exciting adventures Glacier National Park, located in Montana, has to offer.