One Weekend in Glacier National Park: A Quick Trip Guide
Introduction
Glacier National Park is a dream destination, but most visitors only have a weekend to experience its rugged peaks, iconic lakes, and endless trails. As someone who’s explored this part over multiple seasons, I know how to maximize a short stay without missing the essence of this incredible park.
If you’re here for a taste of this place, this guide will help you plan your weekend efficiently, from scenic drives to quick hikes. For those wanting a deeper dive, my Uncut Guide to Glacier National Park and the Surrounding Area offers full details, insider tips, and adventure recommendations.
Day 1: full day hike (or two short ones)
Morning: Start early to catch morning light on the mountains or better yet, sunrise. Driving Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must, the views from Logan Pass are spectacular.
Tip: Make sure to secure reservations, but keep in mind if you enter the park early enough you’ll beat the crowds and the timed entry. Here’s some more information on the current seasonal entry for 2025 (I’ll update this post each year).
Late Morning Hike: Choose a short hikes to warm up with. This guide has my favorite lower effort options in the park that are worth the hype especially if you have physical limitations without sacrificing views. Just remember to pack a lunch and have a summit sandwich (and local canned beer if you’re into that kind of thing). If you’re ready for a high effort longer day, these are my top longer hikes in the park:
Grinnell Glacier Trail
Highline Trail
Ptarmigan Tunnel with Iceberg Lake (in the same day)
Evening: Sunset views at Apgar Village along shore of Lake McDonald. The long days in early summer will allow for this even after a big hike.
Day 2: Scenic Highlights & Quick Adventures
Morning: Consider a half-day hike with dramatic views from the six options I provided on day one (trust me they are all worth doing).
Yo, I’m sick of hiking. Give me a different option.
Alternative Morning: Get out on the water! Rent a kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or book a boat ride. Rentals and tickets are available from Apgar, Many Glacier, and Two Medicine. If you’re wanting to start closer to the valley, look for rentals and tours on Flathead Lake or Whitefish Lake.
Afternoon: Make sure to drive the entire duration of Going-to-the-Sun Road. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and visit a new area of the park that you haven’t explored yet. Make sure to stop at Wild Goose Island which is the most photographed spot in the park! As an afternoon rest, book a boat ride tour or horseback ride in the park to mix up your adventures.
Tip: Always have your camera ready. Glacier landscapes are unforgettable and you likely will see plenty of wildlife in the park.
Evening: Grab dinner locally or relax at your hotel accommodation. This would be a great time to check out the downtown areas if you’re staying in the valley. Take this rest time to reflect on your adventures and plan a longer return visit.
Expert Tips for a Weekend in Glacier National Park
Timing: arrive early to beat the crowds and catch the best light
Weather: bring layers, mountain weather changes fast
Crowds: weekends can be busy, consider weekday visits if possible
Gear and Prep: Check out my day hike packing guide to prepare for your trip and if you’re lucky to get a backcountry campsite I wrote an expanded article on gear for backpacking trips
Trip Duration: Trust me, no matter how long your trip is, you’ll always want more time. Hang lose with ever changing mountain conditions, road and trail closures, and show up prepared. If you do all that, you’ll have the trip of a lifetime no matter how long you visit.
Offseason Visit: Check out this adventure if you’re arriving and Going-to-the-Sun Road isn’t open yet.
Why a Weekend Is Just the Beginning
A single weekend is a fantastic introduction, but you could explore this park alone for a lifetime. For adventurers ready to dive deeper, here’s my Uncut Guide to Glacier National Park and the Surrounding Area which gives detailed notes on day hikes, full itineraries, overview of the land, and donations to support local organizations.
Wrapping up your trip
Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, this weekend guide is meant to get your feet on the trails and your eyes on the peaks. Stay tuned for more tips, gear guides, and seasonal recommendations from my Montana adventures. Another plug to shop local when visiting and be kind to business, fellow travelers, and residents in the area. Comment below if I missed any of your must see spots!
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Discover Glacier National Park and the surrounding area with an in-depth insider guide. Packed with personal tips, detailed itineraries, customized map for ease of use during your trip, and unique perspectives from months of exploration. This guide is your ultimate companion for planning an unforgettable trip to Montana.
A portion of proceeds from this guide goes directly to preserving and protecting Glacier National Park. For every guide sold, $2 will be donated to Glacier National Park Conservancy & $2 will be donated to the Piikani Lodge Health Institute