| Glacier National Park | |
|---|---|
| Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park | |
| Location | Montana, United States |
| Coordinates | 48.6966°N, 113.7186°W |
| Area | 1,583 sq mi (4,100 km²) |
| Established | May 11, 1910 |
| Visitors (latest) | 2.9 million (2023) |
| Governing body | National Park Service |
| Website | Official website |
Glacier National Park is located in northwestern Montana and is known for its glacially carved valleys, alpine meadows, turquoise lakes, and snow-capped peaks. Established on May 11, 1910, it borders Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park, and together they form the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, the world’s first international peace park.
Landscape and Geography
- Features over 130 named lakes, 762 miles of trails, and 175 mountains
- Home to the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, a 50-mile scenic drive that crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass
- Originally had 150 glaciers — less than 25 remain active today
Ecosystems and Wildlife
Glacier contains diverse habitats, including alpine tundra, subalpine forests, and prairie valleys.
Wildlife includes:
- Grizzly bears, black bears
- Mountain goats, bighorn sheep, elk, and moose
- Over 270 species of birds
Hiking and Recreation
Popular hikes:
- Highline Trail
- Grinnell Glacier
- Avalanche Lake
- Hidden Lake Overlook
Other activities:
- Backcountry camping (permit required)
- Boating on Lake McDonald and St. Mary Lake
- Photography and stargazing
Climate and Seasons
- Short summer season (June–September)
- Winter brings heavy snow and limited access
- Logan Pass typically opens late June or early July
Cultural and Historical Importance
- Ancestral land of the Blackfeet, Salish, and Kootenai peoples
- Contains historic lodges and chalets built in the early 20th century
- Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve
Fun Facts
- One of the most intact ecosystems in the continental U.S.
- Featured in numerous films and nature documentaries
- The park spans the **Continental Divide**, affecting water flow to the Pacific and Atlantic