It’s been featured in movies, magazines, and photographed thousands of times. It’s so breathtakingly beautiful that people who have never seen it think pictures of it have been photoshopped (true story). Glacier National Park is a national treasure and Montana’s pride and joy. Many visitors consider this to be THE national park to visit in Montana, and we couldn’t agree more. Here’s why Montanans and the tourists who visit can never, ever get enough Glacier National Park.

1. Grinnell Lake is so pristine that it doesn’t even look real.
peppered jane / Flickr
But somehow it is.
2. Going-to-the-Sun Road is like nothing you will ever experience anywhere else.
Jeremy Bronson / Flickr
It’s a truly unique scenic byway every Montanan should experience.
3. Virginia Falls will relax you.
Brendan Bombaci / Flickr
4. So will St. Mary Falls.
curt.call / Flickr
5. The sunsets.
Esther Lee / Flickr
They're incredible.
6. The sunrises.
John Getchel
If you can wake up early enough, you’ll see a sunrise that will rival the sunsets.

Related Stories

Take A Boardwalked Path To A Montana Overlook That Offers Gorgeous Views Of Glacier

Take A Boardwalked Path To A Montana Overlook That Offers Gorgeous Views Of Glacier

 The 5 National Park Lodges That Make The Ultimate Getaway In Montana

The 5 National Park Lodges That Make The Ultimate Getaway In Montana

 Grinnell Glacier At Glacier National Park In Montana Is A Geological Wonder

Grinnell Glacier At Glacier National Park In Montana Is A Geological Wonder
7. The beargrass.
Brendan Bombaci / Flickr
This tall flower grows all over the park and makes it look magical.
8. There are hundreds of species of animals that call the park home.
Flickr Diana Robinson
You never know what you’ll see here. From moose to goats, black bears, and more, make sure to bring your camera to catch all of this wonderful wildlife.
9. You can take a boat tour.
Karen SO322 / TripAdvisor
Boat cruises are available for Lake McDonald, St. Mary Lake, Swiftcurrent and Josephine Lakes, and Two Medicine Lakes. And they’re all awesome.
10. The park will turn you into a hiker.
Flickr Troy Smith
You might not think you like hiking, but try one of the trails at Glacier, check out the views, and you’ll realize you actually love hiking (even if it’s only in a beautiful setting).
11. You can get away from it all… and we do mean ALL.
Jonathan C. Wheeler / Flickr
If you get a permit beforehand, you can do some serious backcountry camping at Glacier. You can spend a few days hiking out to the perfect spot where you won’t see anyone else for days (obviously you should only do this if you’re experienced or with people who are).
12. Visiting the park is like going back in time.
Flickr Paladin27
There are some buildings in the park that are on the National Register of Historic Places. The Great Northern Railway Buildings, the Granite Park Chalet (pictured here), and the Lee Creek Snowshoe Cabins are pieces of our past.

Glacier is pretty grand, right? Do you think it’s the best national park to visit in Montana? Make sure to let us know in the comments section! Or if you’re looking for some more information about this park before you commit, here are 10 fascinating facts about the park that might surprise you.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

National Park To Visit In Montana

Marisa Roman | February 23, 2022

What are the best hikes with a view in Montana?

If you try to make a list of the best things to do outside in Montana, you might not ever stop. Montana is one of the most scenic states in the country and the parks, natural elements, and hikes are just the tip of the iceberg. We have quite a few hiking trails in Montana that offer up truly scenic views. In fact, these 8 stunning Montana trails have the best mountain views around, starting with the Cottonwood Lake Trail all the way to Grotto Falls in Bozeman. Considering Montana means a “mountainous country” it’s only right that we have some of the best hikes with a view in the United States.

Can I hike to historical sites in Montana?

Sometimes the best hiking trails in Montana also offer up unique historical opportunities, too. While enjoying a good Montana hike will offer you a slice of nature, sometimes when you can pepper in landmarks or historic spots, it really elevates the entire experience. For instance, these 5 Montana hiking trails lead to some really incredible pieces of history. For instance, the Granite Park Chalet in Glacier National Park was built back in 1914 and offers a truly breathtaking hike. Also, the Apgar Looking Trail leads to the historic Apgar Fire Lookout built back in 1929!

Which state parks should I visit in Montana?

Besides just the National Parks, some of the best parks in Montana are on the state level. Montana has 55 state parks that offer up hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and so much more. Guests to these state parks have a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in one of the greatest pockets of nature across the globe. If you don’t know where to start when it comes to Montana state parks, we have 12 that are exceptional. Start with Pictograph Cave State Park in Billings which was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1964. Or you can enjoy a handful of watersports when you visit Hell Creek Arm of Fort Peck Lake at Hell Creek State Park.

Related Articles

Explore Montana

Featured Addresses
Glacier National Park, Montana, USA