Glacier in northwest Montana is said to be one of the US’s most breath-taking national parks for hiking and biking.
Montana’s name is Spanish for mountainous. The state is home to 7 state forests, 53 state parks, Yellowstone national park, historical sites and more species of mammal than any other US state. The Glacier national park covers over one million acres and has 250 lakes. The park is known as the crown of the continent and the backbone of the world.
Open all year round, visitors to Glacier are invited to discover its glacial carved terrain, trails, blue waters and iconic roads including the Going-to-the-sun. Spring is said to be the most magical season to visit as ploughs remove the winter snow and the sounds and scents of spring emerge.
With two main openings, one in Saint Mary to the east and the other to the west in West Glacier, there are routes connecting them for bikers and hikers to enjoy.
Visitors are also able to partake in sports such as white-water rafting, canoeing and climbing.
Glacier offers breath-taking views across the mountains, with the vibrant blue and teal coloured creeks and stunning waterfalls glistening in between.
Springtime offers a good time to see the local wildlife including both grizzly and black bears, bighorn sheep, yellow-bellied marmots and mountain goats. The fast-moving water of McDonald creek also attracts Harlequin ducks.
Travellers are advised to carry bear spray.
For hikers there are more than 734 miles of trails within the park. Recommended hikes include the Highline Trail, Iceberg Lake, Siyeh Pass, St. Mary and Virginia Falls and Avalanche Lake.
Visitors to the area should expect to find unspoiled nature, charming towns, an abundance of outdoor experiences and plenty of places to relax.
