04 Dec The BEST Glacier National Park 3 Day Itinerary for the Trip of a Lifetime (2024)

Do you finally have the time to plan a trip to one of the best national parks in the United States?! I could not be more excited for you. It will be the trip of a lifetime, trust me. However, you need to do a bit of planning before the trip actually begins. This Glacier National Park 3 day itinerary will not only provide you with an amazing itinerary for your three days in the park but also everything you need to know concerning logistics.

Crystal clear lakes, turquoise lakes, moose, bears, bighorn sheep, mountain reflections, stunning sunrises and sunsets, cascading waterfalls, glaciers, icebergs…all of these things are waiting for you at Glacier National Park.

CONTENTS:

A) Day One Itinerary – Many Glacier:

1) Iceberg Lake Trail

2) Swiftcurrent Nature Trail

3) Fishercap Lake Trail

B) Day Two Itinerary – Going to the Sun Road:

1) Logan Pass (at Sunrise)

2) Hidden Lake Overlook Trail (at Sunrise)

3) Highline Trail (Partial Hike)

4) Jackson Glacier Overlook

5) Wild Goose Island Lookout

C) Day Three Itinerary – Going to the Sun Road:

1) St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail

2) Trail of the Cedars Nature Trail + Avalanche Lake Trail

3) Kayaking on Lake McDonald

D) Glacier National Park – General Information:

1) Quick FAQs – Location Information

2) Quick FAQs – Entrance Information

3) Quick FAQs – Miscellaneous Information

4) Recommended Items to Bring

5) Other Itinerary Options

A) Day One Itinerary – Many Glacier

Many Glacier is one of the most popular sections of Glacier National Park, and for good reason. It holds some of the park’s most beautiful hiking trails. For example, you can find both the Grinnell Glacier Trail as well as Iceberg Lake Trail here. Most people will probably suggest you include the Grinnell Glacier Trail in your itinerary. However, I think the Iceberg Lake Trail is even more stunning. As a bonus, it is a bit easier.

Many Glacier is located within the eastern section of Glacier National Park. Moreover, it is a bit north of the Going to the Sun Road. For reference, you can drive from St. Mary to Many Glacier in 30 minutes. All of the following attractions for day one of this Glacier National Park 3 day itinerary are located within Many Glacier.

Hiking back along the trail from Iceberg Lake

1) Iceberg Lake Trail

The Iceberg Lake Trail turned out to be one of my favorite trails within Glacier National Park. What better way to start out this Glacier National Park 3 day itinerary?

As you hike towards the lake, the trail winds partially through a canyon where you are treated to panoramic views of your surroundings. If you are lucky, you might even spot a moose (we saw one down in the valley). However, the views get even better once you reach Iceberg Lake. The lake is a beautiful blue color and is bordered by sharp mountains on almost all sides. Depending on when you visit, you might even see an iceberg or two floating in the lake (hence the name).

The Iceberg Lake Trail is a 9.6 mile (~15.4 kilometer) out and back trail with approximately 1,460 feet (445 meters) in elevation gain. It is thus considered to be a moderate trail and not family-friendly. I recommend you set aside five hours in your itinerary for hiking the trail + searching for wildlife in the valley + enjoying the views at the lakeshore.

For more information: Iceberg Lake Trail in Glacier: A Complete Guide.

Photographing the view along the Iceberg Lake Trail

View of Iceberg Lake from the trail

2) Swiftcurrent Nature Trail

Do not worry, this trail is nowhere near as difficult as the Iceberg Lake Trail. I would not have you hiking two long and/or difficult trails in one day.

The Swiftcurrent Nature Trail winds through the forest before then reaching Swiftcurrent Lake and looping around its shore. Moreover, the trail passes by the Many Glacier Lodge. You can stop here for a quick coffee or snack as well as to peruse the gift shop. If you visit in the right conditions (aka are lucky), then you can see the Grinnell Point’s reflection in Swiftcurrent Lake. Additionally, you have the chance to spot some wildlife. While chatting with a few park rangers along the trail, they informed us that moose are commonly spotted on the southern and eastern sides of the lake.

The Swiftcurrent Nature Trail is a 2.6 mile (~4.2 kilometer) loop trail with around 130 feet (~40 meters) in elevation gain. It is thus considered to be an easy trail and family-friendly. I recommend you set aside one and a half hours in your itinerary for hiking the trail + enjoying the views at the lakeshore + visiting Many Glacier Lodge.

For more information: The Best Easy Hikes in Glacier National Park.

View of Swiftcurrent Lake from the Swiftcurrent Nature Trail

3) Fishercap Lake Trail – 3 Day Itinerary

Fishercap Lake Trail marks the end of the first day of our Glacier National Park 3 day itinerary. It is the perfect trail to end the day, for it is fairly easy and offers the chance to spot some wildlife.

The trail winds through the forest before then reaching the shore of Fishercap Lake. Once at the lakeshore, you can then enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Fishercap Lake as well as the nearby mountains looming behind the lake. While we did not see any moose here during our visit, we were told by multiple people that it is a great moose-spotting location. Moreover, it is recommended to visit in the late evening or early morning since moose tend to be more active around dusk and dawn.

The Fishercap LakeTrail is a 0.8 mile (~1.3 kilometer) loop trail with around 20 feet (~six meters) in elevation gain. It is thus considered to be an easy trail and family-friendly. I recommend you set aside one hour in your itinerary for hiking the trail + enjoying the views at the lakeshore + trying to spot moose.

For more information: Fishercap Lake Trail: An Easy Hike in Glacier National Park.

View from the shore of Fishercap Lake

B) Day Two Itinerary – Going to the Sun Road

Here we go – on to day two of this Glacier National Park 3 day itinerary! All of the following attractions under day two are located along the Going to the Sun Road. This is the most popular section of Glacier National Park. It holds some of the park’s most famous hiking trails in the Highline Trail as well as the Avalanche Lake Trail. Moreover, it has a bunch of stunning overlooks if you are looking for a great view with minimal effort. The road itself is even an attraction, for you can enjoy panoramic views as you drive along.

The Going to the Sun Road runs from the eastern edge of Glacier National Park all the way to the western edge.

Light rays from sunrise just starting to hit the valley behind Hidden Lake

1) Logan Pass (at Sunrise)

There are two main reasons I recommend you arrive at Logan Pass before / at sunrise. First, the views are stunning as the sun begins to rise over the mountains. Second, finding a parking spot after 8am can be a nightmare. We arrived at Logan Pass around 6am on a weekday in August, and the parking lot was already 40% full. The lot was then completely full before 8am, and cars were circling and circling and circling….

Logan Pass is located somewhat near the middle of the Going to the Sun Road. You can find a visitor center here as well as the trailheads to some of the park’s most popular trails. For example, both the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail and the Highline Trail start from here. That means you do not have to worry about finding parking somewhere else for the next two items on the itinerary. How convenient!

When you arrive, I recommend that you take in the views from the parking lot as you can see the mountains and valleys in the distance. Then make your way to the Hidden Lake Overlook Trailhead for the next item on this Glacier National Park 3 day itinerary. After you complete the trail, you can then check out the visitor center + gift shop since it should be open by then.

I recommend you set aside one hour in your itinerary for taking in the views at Logan Pass + exploring the visitor center and gift shop. However, this hour might be split up partially before the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail and partially after.

Sunrise behind the mountains near Logan Pass from the Hidden Lake Trail

2) Hidden Lake Overlook Trail (at Sunrise)

Trust me, waking up incredibly early to hike the trail at sunrise will be well worth it. (And I am not a morning person). Moreover, the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail was my favorite trail in all of Glacier National Park. You will understand why once you hike it (at sunrise) for yourself.

The trail winds through a valley before reaching the overlook for Hidden Lake. While hiking through the valley, make sure you look around for any signs of wildlife. You have an even greater chance of spotting something since you are hiking early in the morning. Once you reach the overlook, you can enjoy panoramic views of Hidden Lake as well as the mountains behind it. If you reach Hidden Lake Overlook before / during sunrise, then you can also watch as the sun turns the mountain behind Hidden Lake red. Moreover, you can see the sun rays shine into the valleys behind the lake. It looks almost as though the light is being reflected off the morning haze.

The Hidden Lake Overlook Trail is a 2.7 mile (~4.3 kilometers) out-and-back trail with around 550 feet (~168 meters) in elevation gain. It is thus considered to be a moderate trail and somewhat family-friendly. I recommend you set aside two and a half hours in your itinerary for hiking the trail + trying to spot wildlife + enjoying the views at the overlook.

OPTIONAL: From the end of the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail, you can continue hiking down to the shore of Hidden Lake. The additional hiking distance is 1.4 miles (~2.3 kilometers) round trip with an additional 780 feet (~238 meters) in elevation gain.

For more information: Hidden Lake Overlook Trail: My Favorite Trail in Glacier.

Panoramic view from Hidden Lake Overlook

View of the western side of Hidden Lake

3) Highline Trail (Partial Hike) – 3 Day Itinerary

Keep in mind that the Highline Trailhead is also located at Logan Pass. It is incredibly convenient to be able to find a parking spot in the morning and then just stay there until the early afternoon.

This is another one of the most popular trails in Glacier National Park, for it offers sweeping views of the valleys and mountains. Moreover, you have a pretty high chance of spotting wildlife at some point along the trail. For example, we saw a bighorn sheep not long after we started hiking. However, please keep in mind that the beginning of the trail might be a bit nerve-wracking for those with a fear of heights. The trail is fairly narrow and goes alongside the cliff edge, though there is a rope for support + safety.

The entire Highline Trail is a 14.9 mile (~24 kilometer) out-and-back trail with approximately 2,620 feet (~799 meters) in elevation gain. However, most people hike the trail one-way from Logan Pass to The Loop to cut the total distance in half. They then take the park shuttle from The Loop back to Logan Pass.

Nevertheless, I recommend that you hike only a mile or two (~1.6 to 3.2 kilometers) along the trail before turning around. We listened to a bunch of people’s reviews of the hike before heading to Glacier ourselves, and they generally stated that you can enjoy the views of the Highline Trail within the first couple of miles without having to hike the whole trail. Therefore, I recommend that you set aside three hours in your itinerary for hiking the trail + enjoying the panoramic views + trying to spot wildlife.

Hiking along the narrow path on the Highline Trail

View of the mountains from Highline Trail

4) Jackson Glacier Overlook

The rest of day two on this Glacier National Park 3 day itinerary includes a few overlooks. Take a deep breath, for you have completed all of the hikes for today!

The Jackson Glacier Overlook is one of the most popular overlooks along the Going to the Sun Road. You can see the surrounding mountains and trees from the overlook, but the main attraction is the Jackson Glacier. The glacier is visible on the top of a mountain in the distance, and you might be surprised at how large it appears. However, the glacier is shrinking as the years go on. There are some informational panels at the overlook to explain more.

I recommend you set aside 30 minutes in your itinerary for finding a parking spot (and possibly having to walk a bit to the overlook) + enjoying the views at the overlook.

View of Jackson Glacier in the distance from the overlook area

5) Wild Goose Island Lookout – 3 Day Itinerary

Another one of the best overlooks along the Going to the Sun Road is the Wild Goose Island Lookout. The lookout provides a view of St. Mary Lake, the surrounding mountains, and (of course) Wild Goose Island. Wild Goose Island is a pretty small island located in the middle of St. Mary Lake.

Moreover, Wild Goose Island Lookout is a great place to catch the sunset. The colors of sunset seem to dance across the sky as well as St. Mary Lake.

I recommend you set aside one hour in your itinerary for finding a parking spot (and possibly having to walk a bit to the overlook) + enjoying the views at the overlook + taking in the marvel that is the sun setting in Glacier.

Wild Goose Island in the distance from the lookout area

C) Day Three Itinerary – Going to the Sun Road

The final day of this Glacier National Park 3 day itinerary! All of the below attractions for the third day are located along the Going to the Sun Road. That is right, you will be exploring Going to the Sun Road on day two as well as day three. There are just so many attractions to see along the road that you have to spend more than one day there.

Hiking along the beginning of the St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail

1) St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail

This is the first (and only) waterfall trail included on this itinerary for Glacier, and it does not disappoint. Most people would agree that it is the best waterfall trail located within the park.

The trail first winds around St. Mary Lake before then reaching St. Mary Falls. It then continues, mainly through a forest, to Virginia Falls. The highlight of my experience on this trail came at the very beginning as we were hiking around St. Mary Lake. We looked down into the lake below and saw two moose wading through the waters. It was like a dream come true. However, I will say that St. Mary Falls and Virginia Falls are both impressive. The water flowing from St. Mary Falls is a beautiful blue color. We even saw a few people jumping from the bridge down into the water at the base of the falls. Virginia Falls is a fair amount taller than St. Mary Falls, and the rocks at the base of the falls seem to reflect every color of the rainbow.

The St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail is a 3.7 mile (~six kilometer) out-and-back trail with approximately 450 feet (~137 meters) in elevation gain. It is thus considered to be a moderate trail and somewhat family-friendly. I recommend you set aside two and a half hours in your itinerary for hiking the trail + trying to spot wildlife + enjoying the waterfalls + possibly going for a swim.

For more information: St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail: Best Waterfall Hike in Glacier.

View of St. Mary Falls from a bridge along the trail

View of Virginia Falls at the end of the trail

2) Trail of the Cedars Nature Trail + Avalanche Lake Trail

You might wonder why these two trails are listed together. Well, the Avalanche Lake Trailhead is technically located at the southeastern edge of the Trail of the Cedars Nature Trail loop. You thus have to hike along the Trail of the Cedars Nature Trail to hike the Avalanche Lake Trail.

First, the Trail of the Cedars Nature Trail is one of the shortest and easiest hikes in all of Glacier National Park. It leads through an evergreen forest where you can see western hemlock as well as western red cedar trees. Moreover, there are informational panels along the trail.

Second, the Avalanche Lake Trail is one of the most popular trails in Glacier National Park. It winds through a forest before then reaching the shore of Avalanche Lake. Once you reach the lake, your eyes will not believe what they are seeing. The lake has crystal-clear waters, but at the same time the water has turquoise and green tints. A mountain looms behind the lake, and you can often see its reflection in the water. Furthermore, you might be able to see a small waterfall or two on the mountain due to snow runoff if you look closely.

The Trail of the Cedars Nature Trail + Avalanche Lake Trail is a 5.9 mile (~9.5 kilometer) out-and-back trail with about 750 feet (~229 meters) in elevation gain. It is thus considered to be a moderate trail and somewhat family-friendly. I recommend you set aside three hours for hiking the trails + reading the informational panels + enjoying the views at the lake.

For more information: Avalanche Lake Trail in West Glacier.

Wooden boardwalk along the Trail of the Cedars Nature Trail

Reflections off the water at Avalanche Lake

3) Kayaking on Lake McDonald – 3 Day Itinerary

Now that you have completed all of the hikes in this Glacier National Park 3 day itinerary, it is time to relax and unwind while kayaking around Lake McDonald.

The ticket office for renting kayaks on Lake McDonald is located near the boat dock behind Lake McDonald Lodge. The rental company is called Glacier Park Boats, so look for any signs mentioning their name if you get lost. They are the only company that offers kayak rentals for Lake McDonald. You can reserve a kayak online in advance or take your chances at obtaining a kayak on a first-come, first-serve basis on the day you are visiting.

Moreover, you have the option of renting other water vessels in addition to single and double kayaks. For example, you can also rent paddleboards, canoes, rowboats, and motorboats.

I recommend you set aside three hours in your itinerary for locating the ticket office + kayaking on Lake McDonald. Even if you do not spend three hours kayaking, you might want to spend some time exploring the Lake McDonald Lodge and/or watching the sunset while along the shore of Lake McDonald.

Looking out over Lake McDonald from the shore

D) Glacier National Park – General Information

Planning a trip to any national park can be quite a feat. You have to think about how to get there, how to get around once you arrive, where to stay, etc. However, you can pack away that stress because I go over all of that information + more below. I want to make sure you have the best time possible while exploring Glacier National Park without having to worry about the logistical details.

Moreover, check out my tips on how to visit Glacier National Park on a budget if finances are tight right now.

1) Quick FAQs – Location Information

Where is Glacier National Park located? Glacier National Park is located in northwestern Montana. Furthermore, the northern section of the park is right alongside the Canadian border.

What are the closest airports to Glacier National Park? The closest airport to Glacier National Park is the Kalispell City Airport at two hours southwest. The next closest airports are the Great Falls International Airport, which is three hours southeast, and the Missoula Montana Airport, which is four hours southwest.

What are the different sections of Glacier National Park? People can split up Glacier National Park in different ways, but a common consensus is that there are five sections in the park. The sections include (1) Going to the Sun Road (2) Many Glacier (3) Two Medicine (4) North Fork (5) Goat Haunt.

What are the most-visited sections of Glacier National Park? The most-visited section of Glacier National Park is Going to the Sun Road. There are many popular trails within this section, for example Avalanche Lake, Highline, and Hidden Lake Overlook. Moreover, Many Glacier is another popular section.

What are the least-visited sections of Glacier National Park? The least-visited section of Glacier National Park is Goat Haunt. Additionally, North Fork and Two Medicine are other less-popular sections.

Walking along the logs at the first viewpoint of Avalanche Lake

2) Quick FAQs – Entrance Information

What are the opening hours of Glacier National Park? Technically, Glacier National Park is open 24/7. However, you cannot access the entire park in the wintertime. Most of the park roads are closed due to snowfall in October or November. You can always check the current road conditions for more information.

Is there an entrance pass for Glacier National Park? Yes, there is an entrance pass requirement for Glacier National Park. The entrance fee for a private vehicle is $35. However, the fee amount differs based on the vehicle type. Visit the nps.gov Glacier webpage for detailed information.

Can I use my national park annual pass at Glacier National Park? Yes, you can use your national park annual pass to enter Glacier National Park at no cost. The annual pass is a great option if you plan to visit other national parks within the year. For example, you can also use the pass to visit Acadia National Park or to hike Angels Landing in Zion.

Do I need a vehicle reservation for Glacier National Park? Yes, you need a vehicle reservation to access most sections of Glacier National Park from the end of May through the beginning of September from 6am to 3pm. The sections requiring vehicle reservations include: (1) North Fork (2) Two Medicine (3) Many Glacier (4) Going to the Sun Road. The only section that does not require a vehicle reservation is Goat Haunt (because you cannot even drive there). Visit the nps.gov Glacier webpage for updated information.

Can I avoid the vehicle reservation system for Glacier National Park? Yes! You just need to enter the park outside of the required vehicle reservation times and dates. For example, you can enter the park before 6am without a vehicle reservation.

Wildflowers along the Highline Trail

3) Quick FAQs – Miscellaneous Information

When is the best time to visit Glacier National Park? The best months to visit Glacier National Park are from July through September. Excessive snowfall makes most of the park inaccessible from mid October through May. Moreover, snow can remain on trails well into June and sometimes even July.

What is the best method to get around Glacier National Park? There are two main options to get around Glacier National Park: (1) driving (2) riding the shuttle. For greater flexibility, I recommend driving. However, I recommend riding the park shuttle if you do not want to have to worry about / wait for parking in the most popular areas. Keep in mind that parking at Logan Pass, for example, fills up around 8am.

Do I need to carry bear spray in Glacier National Park? Yes, you definitely need to carry bear spray in Glacier National Park. The park exists in black bear as well as grizzly bear territory.

What should I do if I encounter a bear in Glacier National Park? If you encounter a bear within Glacier National Park, you should back away slowly while talking in a quiet and calm voice. If the bear approaches you, then you should huddle together with your group and make noise. Always be prepared to deploy bear spray if necessary.

Where should I stay in Glacier National Park? You can choose to book a campsite within Glacier National Park, a hotel within Glacier National Park, or a hotel in a nearby town. First, I recommend the St. Mary and Fish Creek Campgrounds. Second, I recommend the Many Glacier Hotel and Lake McDonald Lodge within Glacier. Third, I recommend the Cozy Duck Lake Cabin and St. Mary Village just outside of Glacier.

A moose wading in the water at Saint Mary Lake

4) Recommended Items to Bring

1. Water bottle: Glacier National Park has a lot of intensive hiking trails, which means you are going to want to bring water, water, and more water. I recommend you pack a reusable water bottle as well as a few gallon jugs of water to make sure you do not run out.

2. Bathing suit + travel towel: There are a few places where you can go for a dip in this Glacier National Park 3 day itinerary. However, fair warning that the water might be a bit chilly. For example, we saw people jumping into the water below St. Mary Falls on the St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail.

Hygiene

3. Sunscreen: Summers in Glacier National Park can bring clear skies and beautiful weather. That being said, you need to make sure you wear sunscreen to protect your skin, especially if you plan to be outside hiking all day long.

4. Bug spray: Do not let bugs ruin your experience in Glacier. Pack a can of bug spray or a few mosquito repellent bracelets.

Sitting along the shore of Two Medicine Lake from the Paradise Point Trail

Hiking Items

5. Bear spray: As mentioned above, Glacier National Park exists in bear territory. It is incredibly important that you always have a can of bear spray on your person. Bear spray is hailed as the best deterrent for bear attacks. 

6. Hiking shoes: This Glacier National Park 3 day itinerary includes a fair amount of hiking. Keep your feet happy with a nice pair of hiking shoes.

7. Hiking poles: Hiking poles are a great option for those who want extra support while hiking or have chronic knee problems.

8. Optional – crampons: Crampons are spikes that attach to the bottom of your shoes. These are only necessary if the trail has snow and/or ice.

9. Binoculars: Trust me, you will appreciate the fact you packed binoculars when you see an animal (maybe a moose) in the distance and want a closer look.

Camping Items

10. Amflip Pop-Up Camping Tent: This tent is easy to set up as well as durable. We camped with this tent for an entire week, and we only have positive things to say.

11. AmazonBasics Waterproof Camping Tarp: You can set up the tarp above the tent for extra protection from the rain. On the other hand, you can set it up underneath your tent for an additional cushion from the ground.

12. Elegear Double Sleeping Pad: This sleeping pad fits two people and even has a foot pump so you do not have to worry about packing an air pump.

13. Sleepingo Double Sleeping Bag: While you can use the double sleeping bag, you also have the option to transform it into two separate sleeping bags.

Amflip Pop-Up Camping Tent set up in Glacier National Park

5) Other Glacier National Park Itinerary Options

1 Day Itinerary in Glacier National Park:

(1) Sunrise at Logan Pass (2) Sunrise while hiking the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail (3) Highline Trail – only hike a mile or two (~1.6 to 3.2 kilometers) and then turn around (4) Trail of the Cedars + Avalanche Lake Trail (5) sunset at Lake McDonald

2 Day Itinerary in Glacier National Park:

Day 1: (1) Iceberg Lake Trail (2) Swiftcurrent Nature Trail (3) Fishercap Lake Trail

Day 2: (1) Sunrise at Logan Pass (2) Sunrise while hiking the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail (3) Highline Trail – only hike a mile or two (~1.6 to 3.2 kilometers) and then turn around (4) Trail of the Cedars + Avalanche Lake Trail (5) sunset at Lake McDonald

4 Day Itinerary in Glacier National Park: 

Day 1: (1) Running Eagle Falls Trail (2) Paradise Point Trail (3) Twin Falls Trail (with boat ride on Two Medicine Lake)

Day 2: (1) Iceberg Lake Trail (2) Swiftcurrent Nature Trail (3) Fishercap Lake Trail

Day 3: (1) Sunrise at Logan Pass (2) Sunrise while hiking the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail (3) Highline Trail – only hike a mile or two (~1.6 to 3.2 kilometers) and then turn around (4) Jackson Glacier Overlook (5) Wild Goose Island Lookout

Day 4: (1) St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail (2) Trail of the Cedars + Avalanche Lake Trail (3) kayaking on + sunset at Lake McDonald

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