Glacier National Park: Self-Guided Driving Tour – Glacier National Park, Montana

EXPERIENCE

Start by downloading the Action Tour Guide app, which will function as your personal tour guide, audio tour, and map all in one. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! Note: This 50+ mile-long tour covers the essentials of Glacier National Park in 2-3 hours.

Once downloaded, your tour begins at either Saint Mary on the park’s eastern end or West Glacier on the park’s western side. From Saint Mary, you’ll cruise alongside Saint Mary Lake and discover why it’s so clear. You’ll also get acquainted with the park’s distant past, from the Blackfoot Confederacy to early colonization.

A couple of overlooks offer spectacular views of the lake and the tiny Wild Goose Island within—one of the park’s most popular spots for photos.

Beyond that you’ll hear about a disastrous gold rush before arriving at Sun Point Nature Trail, a super short walk leading to an amazing vista. Then there’s another trail to Saint Mary Falls, a sparkling waterfall with a distinctive turquoise hue.

Jackson Glacier Overlook waits ahead, offering your first good look at one of the park’s five active glaciers. After that, you’ll hear all about how these glaciers have impacted the landscape, as well as the man who decided they were a resource worth protecting.

Hidden Lake Trail is next, perfect for those seeking a little seclusion. Then you’ll reach Paradise Meadow, one of the best vistas in the entire park (and one you’ll definitely want to remember with a few photos)!

Next, you’ll pass the strange, not-quite-waterfall of the Weeping Wall, before reaching Bird Woman Falls Overlook, which is named for the famous Native guide Sacagawea.

You’ll learn all about the local fauna as you head toward the West Tunnel, which boasts observation windows featuring incredible views of Heaven’s Peak. Then, cross the continental divide and hear how wildfires have impacted the park over the years.

The Trail of the Cedars is next, offering an easy, accessible hike that’s a favorite among visitors for good reason.

As you pass Lake McDonald Lodge, next, you’ll get to know the park’s marine wildlife and find out how some reptiles and amphibians survive in such a cold climate.

Finally, you’ll arrive at Apgar Village on the park’s western end, where your tour will conclude. The tour starting in West Glacier follows the same route in the opposite direction.

HIGHLIGHTS

Check out glaciers left over from the last Ice Age
See mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and elk in the wild
Explore lush forests and alpine tundras
Find out how such a striking landscape was created
Tour at your own pace, without relying on the inconvenience of a tour bus

Discover more exciting & fun things to do in Glacier National Park