There’s something magical about planning a road trip itinerary to Glacier National Park in the summer or fall. The anticipation builds as you trace the route across the map, knowing those jagged peaks, glacial lakes, and winding mountain roads are waiting for you. Our family trip was one part carefully planned, one part spontaneous, and entirely unforgettable. If you’re looking for 3 days in Glacier National Park itinerary that covers the highlights—hikes, scenic drives, local eats, and tips on where to stay in Glacier National Park—this guide with travel tips is for you.
From the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road Glacier National Park drive to some of the best hikes in Glacier National Park, here’s how we spent several action-packed days exploring.
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Why Visit Glacier National Park? (What to Expect)
Glacier National Park is one of America’s most jaw-dropping wilderness destinations, famous for its rugged peaks, turquoise lakes, wildlife sightings, and the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. Whether you’re chasing epic hikes, scenic drives, or peaceful moments by the water, Glacier delivers that “national park magic” in every direction. Expect dramatic overlooks, glacier-carved valleys, waterfalls around every corner, and endless opportunities for adventure.
Best time to visit Glacier National Park
The best time for a Glacier National Park itinerary is late June through mid-September (summer months), when the Going-to-the-Sun Road is fully open and most trails are snow-free. July and August offer the warmest temperatures, the most hiking options, and the longest daylight hours (perfect for squeezing in multiple activities). If you prefer fewer crowds, early fall—mid-September to early October—is crisp, colorful, and surprisingly peaceful, though weather can change quickly. Winter visits are beautiful but extremely limited, with many roads and services closed.
How many days you need in Glacier National Park
For a first-time visit, a 3 day itinerary in Glacier National Park is ideal. It gives you enough time to explore both the West Glacier and Many Glacier sides, drive the full length of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, and squeeze in at least one stunning day hike. If you’re a photographer, wildlife enthusiast, or hiking lover, plan for 4–5 days to see Glacier’s quieter corners like Two Medicine, St. Mary, or Bowman Lake. Short on time? Even 1–2 days can deliver unforgettable views—but the more time you have, the more Glacier rewards you.
From our personal summer experience, we took a half-day to go to Two Medicine on our 3-day itinerary to Glacier National Park. Although this seems like an excellent place to hike, our main travel tip for Two Medicine in Glacier National Park is to have at least a full day to explore.
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What You Need to Enter Glacier National Park
Before you pack your hiking boots and hit the trails, it’s important to know that Glacier National Park requires two different types of passes during peak season:
1. Park Entrance Pass
Everyone entering Glacier needs an entrance pass. You can buy a standard 7-day Glacier pass at the gate or online. If you’re planning to visit more than one national park in a year, the America the Beautiful Pass is an even better deal. For $80, it covers entrance fees to all U.S. national parks and federal recreation lands for a full year — perfect if you’re road-tripping.
2. Going-to-the-Sun Road Vehicle Reservation
On top of the entrance pass, from mid-June to late September, you’ll also need a vehicle reservation if you plan to drive the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. The timed entry is needed between 7:00 am and 3:00 pm if you’re entering from the west side. This isn’t just any scenic drive — it’s a 50-mile engineering marvel that winds past glaciers, waterfalls, alpine lakes, and jaw-dropping mountain views. Reservations are timed and limited, so check the website for the most up-to-date rules.
👉 Pro travel tip for Glacier National Park: If you can’t snag a reservation, you can still access parts of the park without it, or hop on the free park shuttle once inside.
How Can I Do Going-to-the-Sun Road if I Didn’t Get a Timed Entry Pass?
If you weren’t able to get a Going-to-the-Sun Road vehicle reservation, don’t worry — you can still enjoy this iconic Glacier National Park drive. One option is to enter from the east. There is no pass requirements from that side of the park. However, take note that if you enter from the east and pass the west gate between 7 AM and 3 PM, you will NOT be able to go back through the west gate without a timed pass until after 3 PM. Another option for driving this iconic road without a pass is to enter before 7 AM or after 3 PM. We had passes for each day of our 3 days in Glacier National Park, however due to how fast some area fill up, we often entered before 7 am anyway.
Our Glacier National Park 3-Day Itinerary This Last Summer
Day 0: Arrival, Flathead Lake, and Lake McDonald Magic
We rolled into Montana with excitement buzzing in the car. Before heading straight into Glacier, we made a quick stop at Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. It’s a beauty, with deep blue water and mountain backdrops that make you want to grab a kayak or just sit and breathe it all in.
After stretching our legs, we headed to Blackslope Brewing for lunch. Road trip meals can feel hit-or-miss, but this stop was a winner—craft beer, hearty food, and a little time to decompress before the adventure ahead.
We checked into our Airbnb in Hungry Horse, a small Montana town just minutes from Glacier’s West Entrance. If you’re wondering where to stay in Glacier National Park, Hungry Horse is a smart pick. It’s affordable, close to the park, and has a couple of low-key restaurants that hit the spot after long hiking days. We stayed at the rental below and I highly recommend this place. They added a nice touch with a “welcome” bottle of wine and a small bowl of huckleberries. At the end of our days, after hiking miles and miles, nothing was better than that hot tub we soaked in.
That evening, we couldn’t resist making our way into the park for a first taste. Lake McDonald greeted us with calm waters that mirrored the mountains. The light at sunset gave the lake a warm glow, and standing there, you just knew—you’d made it to someplace special.
Day 1: Hidden Lake, St. Mary’s, and a Full Hiking Day
If you’ve ever done Glacier research, you know one thing: arrive early. So, alarms went off before dawn, and we made it to Logan Pass Visitor Center by 7 a.m. Parking is tight here, but the early start pays off. Even with an early start, we still couldn’t park in the Logan Pass parking lot. However, a few hundred yards outside of the lot, there was a place to park.
Our first hike? The iconic Hidden Lake Trail, one of the best hikes in Glacier National Park. The trail climbs above the treeline, offering sweeping views of jagged peaks and alpine meadows filled with wildflowers. We spotted mountain goats along the way, which felt like a personal welcome from Glacier’s wildlife. Standing at the overlook, gazing down at Hidden Lake framed by Bearhat Mountain—it’s one of those scenes you mentally file under “never forget.”
FAQs About Hidden Lake Trail, Glacier National Park
1. Where is the Hidden Lake Trail located?
The Hidden Lake Trail starts at the Logan Pass Visitor Center, which is along the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park. Parking fills up FAST, so get there early! We arrived around 7 am and it was full. There is some parking along side the road in pull-over lots, but you will need to walk a little further.
2. How long is the Hidden Lake Trail?
The hike to the Hidden Lake Overlook is about 2.7 miles roundtrip. If you continue all the way down to the lake, it’s closer to 5.5 miles roundtrip. A great length for a hike when you have 3 days in Glacier National Park.
3. How difficult is the Hidden Lake Trail?
Most people consider it a moderate hike. The section to the overlook is fairly accessible, with boardwalks and steady inclines, but the descent to the lake is steeper and more strenuous.
4. When is the best time to hike Hidden Lake Trail?
July through September is ideal since snow often lingers well into summer. Early mornings are best for parking at Logan Pass and for spotting wildlife.
5. What wildlife might I see on the trail?
It’s common to see mountain goats, bighorn sheep, marmots, and even grizzly bears. Always keep your distance and carry bear spray.
6. Is the trail family-friendly?
Yes, the hike to the overlook is manageable for families with kids, though the descent to the lake may be too challenging for younger children.
7. Do I need a reservation to hike Hidden Lake Trail?
Yes—since 2023, you need a vehicle reservation for Going-to-the-Sun Road during peak season, plus the standard park entrance pass.
8. What should I bring for the hike? Glacier National Park Travel Packing Tips
Good hiking shoes, layers for changing weather, plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and bear spray. Trekking poles can also help with the descent to the lake.
9. How long does the hike take?
The overlook hike takes about 1.5–2 hours roundtrip, while going all the way down to the lake usually takes 3–4 hours depending on pace.
10. Is the Hidden Lake Trail open year-round?
No. The trail is usually covered in snow until early summer and may close in fall due to weather or bear activity. Always check current trail conditions at the visitor center.
After a morning of hiking, we drove down toward the St. Mary’s area. This part of the park often feels quieter, and it gave us a chance to stretch our legs on some shorter but equally rewarding trails:
- Baring Falls – A quick and easy walk to a misty cascade.
- St. Mary Falls – A turquoise stunner, and one of the most photogenic waterfalls in the park.
- Sun Point Nature Trail – A short path with panoramic views that feel like a postcard.
FAQs About Hiking to Baring Falls & St. Mary Falls from the Sun Point Nature Trailhead
1. Where is the Sun Point Nature Trailhead located?
The Sun Point Trailhead is along Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, on the east side near St. Mary Lake. It’s well-marked with parking and restrooms.
2. How long is the hike to Baring Falls and St. Mary Falls from Sun Point?
From Sun Point to Baring Falls is about 0.7 miles one way. If you continue to St. Mary Falls, the total roundtrip distance is about 4.6 miles from the parking lot.
3. How difficult is this hike?
This is considered an easy to moderate trail. The route is relatively flat with some gentle ups and downs, making it a great family-friendly hike.
4. How long does it take to hike both waterfalls?
Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours if you’re hiking to both Baring Falls and St. Mary Falls from Sun Point. Add more time if you like to stop for photos or a lakeside picnic.
5. What makes this hike special?
This trail follows St. Mary Lake’s shoreline, so you get incredible lake and mountain views along with two beautiful waterfalls in one hike. It’s scenic without being too strenuous.
6. Can you connect this hike to Virginia Falls?
Yes! From St. Mary Falls, you can continue another 0.8 miles to Virginia Falls, one of the most impressive waterfalls in Glacier National Park. We didn’t have time to hike to Virginia Falls, but one of my Glacier National Park travel tips is to make time for this addition to your hiking here.
7. What wildlife might I see on this trail?
Deer, marmots, and ground squirrels are common. There’s also a chance of spotting black bears or even grizzlies, so always carry bear spray.
8. Is this hike family-friendly?
Absolutely. The distances are manageable, and the trails are well-maintained. Kids usually love the waterfalls and lakeshore views.
9. Do I need a reservation to access this hike?
Yes—if you’re visiting during peak season (typically late May through early September), you’ll need a Going-to-the-Sun Road vehicle reservation in addition to the standard park entry pass.
10. When is the best time to hike to Baring Falls and St. Mary Falls?
Summer through early fall is ideal. In June, water levels are high and the waterfalls are powerful; by late September, fall colors make the hike even more stunning.
By evening, hunger had caught up with us. We stopped at Paul Bunyan Bar and Grill, a local spot with hearty portions that tasted especially good after hiking miles in the mountain air.
Day 2: Avalanche Lake and Quiet Moments at Two Medicine
No Glacier National Park itinerary is complete without Avalanche Lake Trail. It’s a crowd-pleaser for good reason. The trail winds through ancient cedar forests before opening to a lake surrounded by waterfalls trickling down cliffs. It’s the kind of hike that feels accessible yet delivers an epic reward. This was one of my favorite hikes on our summer 3-day itinerary to Glacier National Park.
FAQs About Avalanche Lake Trail for your 3 Days in Glacier National Park Itinerary
1. Where is the Avalanche Lake Trail located?
The Avalanche Lake Trail begins at the Trail of the Cedars trailhead along Going-to-the-Sun Road on the west side of Glacier National Park, about 15 miles from the West Glacier entrance.
2. How long is the hike to Avalanche Lake?
The hike is about 4.5 miles roundtrip (2.3 miles one way) with an elevation gain of roughly 730 feet.
3. How difficult is the Avalanche Lake Trail?
It’s considered a moderate hike. The trail climbs gradually and is well-maintained, making it manageable for most hikers, including families with older kids.
4. How long does it take to hike to Avalanche Lake?
Most people complete the hike in 2–3 hours roundtrip, but plan extra time if you want to relax at the lake or take photos.
5. What makes Avalanche Lake a must-do hike?
Avalanche Lake is surrounded by towering cliffs with multiple waterfalls cascading down the mountainsides. The turquoise water and dramatic backdrop make it one of the best hikes in Glacier National Park.
6. Can kids hike Avalanche Lake?
Yes, the hike is family-friendly. While it has some uphill sections, kids usually love the shaded trail, Avalanche Creek’s rushing waters, and the rewarding lake view at the end.
7. What’s the best time of year to hike Avalanche Lake?
Late spring through early fall (June–September) is ideal. Early summer offers roaring waterfalls, while late summer and early fall bring calmer conditions and fewer crowds.
8. Is the Avalanche Lake Trail crowded?
Yes, it’s one of the most popular hikes in Glacier National Park. Arriving early in the morning or later in the evening helps avoid the biggest crowds.
9. Can you swim in Avalanche Lake?
You can wade in, but the water is ice-cold year-round. Most hikers just dip their feet in after the hike.
10. Do I need a vehicle reservation to hike Avalanche Lake?
Yes, if you’re visiting between late May and early September, you’ll need a Going-to-the-Sun Road vehicle reservation in addition to your park entry pass.
11. Are there bears on the Avalanche Lake Trail?
Yes, Glacier is bear country, and black bears and grizzlies are sometimes spotted in the area. Follow any Glacier National Park travel tips and always carry bear spray and make noise on the trail.
12. Can I continue past Avalanche Lake?
Yes, a short extension takes you to the far end of the lake, where you’ll get even better views of the waterfalls and fewer people.
After Avalanche, we wanted to experience a different side of the park. So, we headed toward Two Medicine, one of Glacier’s lesser-visited areas. If the west side feels bustling and Logan Pass feels busy, Two Medicine is like a deep breath. We walked to Running Eagle Falls, a unique waterfall that flows through a hole in the rock during spring melt. We only had a few hours here, but next time, we’d carve out a full day—Two Medicine deserves it.
Glacier National Park Travel Tip: Two Medicine are would be an excellent part of the park to hike and check out, but we needed more time for it on our 3-day itinerary to Glacier National Park.
That evening, back near West Glacier, we grabbed pizza. Sometimes, after a day on your feet, nothing tastes better than gooey cheese and a cold drink.
Day 3: Going-to-the-Sun Road to Many Glacier
If there’s one experience you absolutely cannot miss, it’s the Going-to-the-Sun Road (GTTSR) Glacier National Park drive. We set out early, windows down, cameras ready. The road clings to cliffs and curves past waterfalls, valleys, and jagged peaks—it’s one of the most spectacular drives in the U.S. We ended up driving GTTSR at least once a day during our 3-day itinerary in Glacier National Park in the summer.
Pro Tip: Going-to-the-Sun Road requires a ticket in advance to enter. This can be purchased through recreation.org. When we went, a reservation was needed between 7 AM and 3 PM. This can change year-by-year so be sure to check the website for the latest information. We also purchased our tickets 120 days in advance. They went on sale at 9 AM, but sold out in less than a minute. Knowing when the tickets go on sale and being ready to purchase at that time is crucial. If you fail to get tickets, don’t lose hope! You can still enter before 7 AM and after 3 PM.
Many Glacier (My Favorite Part of our 3-Day Itinerary in Glacier National Park)
By the time we reached Many Glacier, we were more than ready to lace up our boots again. Our goal: the Grinnell Lake Trail. This hike is a standout among the best hikes in Glacier National Park, weaving through meadows, along streams, and eventually to a glacier-fed lake that glows with milky turquoise water. Along the way, wildflowers framed the trail, and the silence was broken only by the rush of distant waterfalls. Many Glacier was one of my favorite parts of our Glacier National Park itinerary.
FAQs About Grinnell Lake Trail and Upper Grinnell Lake Trail
How long is the Grinnell Lake Trail?
The Grinnell Lake Trail is about 7 miles roundtrip with minimal elevation gain, making it a great option for families and casual hikers. It’s the perfect hike for your road trip itinerary to Glacier National Park.
How difficult is the Grinnell Lake Trail?
This hike is considered easy to moderate with mostly flat terrain and shaded forest paths. It’s accessible to most fitness levels.
How long is the Upper Grinnell Lake Trail (Grinnell Glacier Trail)?
The Upper Grinnell Lake Trail is approximately 11 miles roundtrip with over 1,600 feet of elevation gain. It’s a strenuous hike that requires good fitness.
What’s the difference between Grinnell Lake and Upper Grinnell Lake?
Grinnell Lake Trail leads to a turquoise alpine lake surrounded by forest and waterfalls, while the Upper Grinnell Lake Trail climbs high into the alpine, offering dramatic views of Grinnell Glacier, Salamander Glacier, and rugged mountain peaks.
Which trail is better for families?
The Grinnell Lake Trail is more family-friendly thanks to its flat terrain, shorter distance, and easier accessibility. Upper Grinnell Lake is better suited for experienced hikers.
When is the best time to hike these trails?
Both trails are typically accessible from late June through September, depending on snow conditions. July and August usually offer the best weather and fully open trails.
Can you see Grinnell Glacier from Grinnell Lake Trail?
No, the Grinnell Lake Trail does not provide glacier views. To see Grinnell Glacier up close, you’ll need to hike the Upper Grinnell Lake Trail.
We capped off the day back in West Glacier with another hearty meal, exhausted but content in the best way possible.
Where to Stay on your 3 Days in Glacier National Park Itinerary
Choosing where to stay in Glacier National Park really depends on how you want to experience it. We stayed in Hungry Horse, which worked perfectly for us. But here are other solid options:
- West Glacier: Close to Lake McDonald and the west entrance, with plenty of cabins and lodges.
- St. Mary: A good base for exploring the east side, especially if you’re focusing on hikes near St. Mary Falls, with St. Mary Village as a great option.
- Many Glacier Hotel: Historic, iconic, and right in the heart of some of the park’s best trails.
- Two Medicine Campground: More remote, but perfect if you want a quieter base.
No matter where you pick, book early. Lodging fills up months in advance, especially in July and August.
Wrapping Up This 3 Days in Glacier National Park Adventure
Looking back, our trip was the perfect balance of sightseeing, challenging hikes, and quiet moments in nature. From Hidden Lake to Grinnell Lake, from pizza in West Glacier to local breweries, every piece of this journey added something special.
This summer Glacier National Park itinerary gave us a taste of it all—the bustling trails, the quiet corners, the epic Going-to-the-Sun Road Glacier National Park views. If you’re dreaming of a road trip to Glacier National Park, know this: the park will surprise you. You’ll go for the famous hikes, but it’s the little moments—the mountain goats on the trail, the still water of Lake McDonald at sunset, the unexpected calm of Two Medicine—that stay with you the longest.
So pack your boots, plan early, and pick a spot on the map for where to stay in Glacier National Park. Trust me—this is a road trip you’ll be talking about for years.
Prior to our road trip itinerary to Glacier National Park, we spent some time at Theodore Roosevelt National Park this last summer. To learn more about this park and its magical wild horses, check it out here.
