A Weekend Trip to Glacier National ParkWhat an adventurous and busy weekend! This guide will help you see the iconic sights of Glacier NP, Montana, such as Grinnell Glacier and Lake McDonald, in just 72 hours, a tough feat. It will have you itching to come back and explore more the next time. Secure reservations ahead of time!AuthorsSteller
DestinationsGlacier National ParkItinerary

Friday

Apgar Visitor Center
Talk to rangers, get the lay of the land, and even a little NP passport stamp at this center. Make sure to grab a map too 🗺️
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Lake McDonald
Start out strong with a stroll along the sparkling shores of this alpine lake.
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Trail of the Cedars Nature Trailhead
Get out onto this easy trail, with beautiful forest views and a carved canyon. Go early to avoid crowds.
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Avalanche Lake
Hike 6 miles and up 600 ft. of gain, starting on the Trail of the Cedars, up to this famous Glacier NP Lake with beautiful views of towering mountains above its shores.
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The Loop
Stop at this hairpin turn along Going-to-the-Sun Road for incredible views of the valley below. Make sure to get a reservation to drive this road ahead of time.
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Wild Goose Island Lookout
Look out over St. Mary’s Lake from this iconic viewpoint. It is truly amazing at sunset and the perfect way to wind down your day two!
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Saturday

Saint Mary Lake
Get up early and start your day along the shores of Saint Mary Lake - which you saw from above last night 🐟
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Glacier Park Boat Company at Lake McDonald Lodge
Drive up and over the Glacier Park Boat Company base at Swiftcurrent Lake for a scenic ride across its shores. They will also take you across Josephine Lake - the perfect setup for your afternoon hike.
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Swiftcurrent Lake
Ride through this lake with Glacier Park Boat Company!
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Lake Josephine
This tour will have you traverse the waters of Lake Josephine. Your eyes will be darting from one beautiful scene to the next!
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Grinnell Glacier Trailhead
This 10-mile trail is not for the faint of heart. With 2,000+ ft. of elevation gain, it leads you to astonishing views of the glacier and its alpine lakes.
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Upper Grinnell Lake
This turquoise lake lies at the top of the Grinnell Glacier Trail and showcases the beauty and magic of Glacier NP.
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Grinnell Lake
Choose this hike if you don’t want to complete the whole hike to the upper lake. This trail is just shy of 7 miles with 500 ft. of elevation gain, making it a happy medium. You’ll see wildflowers and a cerulean alpine lake at the top!
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Redrock Falls
This is an easier alternative to hiking up to Grinnell, at 4 miles with 250 ft. of elevation gain. The trail passes through forests and opens up at this cascading waterfall amidst the mountains ⛰️
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Ptarmigan Dining Hall
After a long day out on the trails, grab a hearty and delicious dinner in the park at this historic dining hall.
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Swiss Lounge
After dinner, celebrate with a few drinks and souvenirs from this cozy lounge area.
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Sunday

Logan Pass
Get your final day started driving up Logan Pass, where the trailhead to your hike(s) begins. The views as the sun comes over the horizon, lighting up the valley, are magnificent.
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Hidden Lake Overlook
After a busy day of hiking yesterday, this 3-mile trail with 550 ft. of elevation gain will feel like a piece of cake! It leads to a stunning alpine lake and the chance to see mountain goats 🐐
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Highline Trail
This longer, 15-mile trail with 2,600 ft. of elevation gain is great for mountain biking or connecting to Hidden Lake Overlook to get a few more miles in and more 360 views, soaking up your last day here!
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East Glacier Stageline Pizza
Grab a fully topped pizza and a beer here to celebrate a successful weekend and another NP checked off the list!
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Stay

Lake McDonald Lodge
Stay at this cozy lodge placed along the shores of the iconic Lake McDonald. It is a great base for exploring West Glacier.
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Many Glacier Campground
Spend a night under the stars at this well-located and beautiful campground. Reservations are required, so make sure to grab those ahead of time.
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St. Mary Village
Just outside the NP, this is a great spot to call "home" when on the east side of Glacier.
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Book