Glacier National Park is more than just a location on a map. It’s a true adventure and a beautiful piece of nature shaped by ice and time. Still, many people miss its real beauty because they don’t plan well or make small errors that take away special moments. If you plan to visit Glacier National Park, avoid these common mistakes. This guide will help you enjoy your trip the right way.
1. Ignoring the Short Season
Glacier is not open all year in the way you might expect. The Going-to-the-Sun Road, the most famous drive in the park, usually opens in late June or early July and closes by mid-October due to snow. Many people visit early in June or late in October and feel let down when they can’t access this scenic drive. Always check the official NPS website before planning dates.
2. Not Booking Lodging or Campsites Early
Accommodations inside the park get booked months in advance. Lodges like Many Glacier Hotel or Lake McDonald Lodge fill up fast. Campgrounds also operate on a reservation basis during peak season. Arriving without a booking often leaves people driving for hours looking for a place to sleep.
Secure your stay at least 6 months early, especially if traveling in July or August. Nearby towns like West Glacier and Whitefish also fill quickly, so don’t wait too long. Even some campgrounds outside the park now need advance booking.
3. Skipping Bear Safety Prep
Grizzlies and black bears live here. Still, many travelers hike without bear spray or store food poorly. Always carry bear spray, learn how to use it, and store food in bear-safe containers or lockers. Staying alert can mean the difference between a memory and a mess.
Never leave scented items in your tent, even if they seem harmless. Practice making noise on the trails, especially in thick brush or when hiking alone.
4. Underestimating the Weather
Even during summer, snow can still fall on high trails like Grinnell Glacier or Highline. The temperature can change quickly. It may feel warm near Lake McDonald but turn cold at Logan Pass. Carry warm clothes, a rain jacket, gloves, and a hat. Glacier’s beauty comes with sudden changes in nature.
Storms can appear without much notice, and wind can make it feel much colder above the trees. Dress wisely and check the trail updates each morning before starting your hike.
5. Planning Only One Day
Some try to “do” Glacier in a single day. That’s like trying to read a novel by skimming just one page. The park has over 700 miles of trails, dozens of scenic drives, and many corners worth exploring. A good trip needs at least 3 to 5 days to see the best parts without feeling rushed.
You’ll want time to hike, relax by the lakes, take photos, and just breathe in the quiet. Rushing through this park means missing what makes it truly special.
6. Relying on Cell Signal and GPS
Getting around can be tough. Many parts of the park have no mobile network. Google Maps won’t work once you go deep into areas like Two Medicine or North Fork. Always carry a paper map or save offline maps before your trip.
Mobile signal fades quickly after entering the park gates. Visitor centers usually give free paper maps, so pick one up early. You can also use GPS apps like Gaia or AllTrails+ that run without internet for hiking and remote trails.
7. Not Understanding the Vehicle Reservation System
Since 2023, Glacier National Park requires a separate vehicle reservation during peak season for areas like Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier, and North Fork. This is in addition to the park entrance fee. Many travelers arrive unaware of this and get turned away.
Reservations open in spring and fill quickly, so secure yours early through recreation.gov. Each reservation is date-specific and good only for certain zones. Without it, you’ll be restricted to limited areas or have to enter before 6 a.m. or after 3 p.m.
8. Missing the Lesser-Known Areas
Most people visit Logan Pass or Lake McDonald. But places like Bowman Lake, Kintla Lake, and Two Medicine give you quiet views, rich wildlife, and peaceful surroundings without crowds. Ignoring these places means losing the true feel of the park.
Spend time in these calm spots, as they leave a lasting memory beyond the usual photo stops. You also get better chances to see moose, eagles, or even wolves. Many of the hikes here are so quiet that you might walk for hours without seeing anyone.
Other Important Tips That Shouldn’t Be Missed
- Start early: Parking fills up by 8 a.m. at Logan Pass. Early starts give you cooler temps, fewer people, and more wildlife sightings.
- Bring snacks and water: Food options are limited inside the park. You don’t want to rely on a single gift shop for lunch during an all-day hike.
- Don’t feed wildlife: It’s dangerous and illegal. Even feeding a chipmunk can lead to bigger problems for the ecosystem.
- Use bear boxes: If camping, store everything that smells in bear lockers—including toothpaste and deodorant.
Last Thing You Should Know
Glacier National Park offers more than just mountain views. It gives you peace, untouched nature, and a deep breath you didn’t realize you needed. Don’t let small mistakes take away the beauty of an unforgettable trip. This place welcomes those who come ready, curious, and open to every moment.
If this guide helped you avoid even one mistake, save it for later and share in the comments what you’re most excited to see in Glacier. Your journey is waiting.
