Glacier National Park

We spent 2 or 3 days to drive up Montana to Glacier National Park. The drive was pretty monotonous: lots of cow fields, lots of cows, and a sparse few cowboys here and there to take care of them. The park borders Canada (so it was a long way up and across Montana), but it was worth it for the hands-down highlight of the trip so far.

The mountains are majestic and grand, accented by the water-falling streams that run down the sides. Glaciers are scattered throughout the peaks; so are prairie-like meadows bursting with wildflowers. The highlight is driving on Going-to-the-Sun Road through the park; this road is described (quite accurately) as one of the most magnificent highways on the planet.

The Rocky Mountains

A typical glacial lake

Heavens Peak, carved in layered, curvy shapes by glaciers

McDonald Falls

We went on a few hikes during our two days there to explore the area, including hiking to Avalanche Lake, bordered by spectacular peaks and waterfalls.

The waterfalls and streams, often bordered by rock or meadows, are another beautiful part of the park.

We also hiked up to see the Sperry Chalet. This cabin-like lodge has 17 rooms, a separate dining room, no heat or electricity, and is only accessible by hiking at least 6 miles. All supplies and food are brought up the hiking trails by horse.

The view from the Chalet

The Chalet dining room

The entire park is incredible; it was equally interesting to learn how and why it formed the way it did due to glacial action. I’m especially glad we trekked up to Glacier on this trip for another reason – the changing climate is predicted to melt away all of the park’s glaciers permanently by 2020. The effect on the landscape, wildlife, and ultimately the park is largely an unknown. So, it was a good time to visit, and quite an inspiration for gearing up to seeing the rest of the Rockies - including our next stop at Yellowstone National Park!