Taking in the nature at Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a recreational nature area located in the Rocky Mountains of Montana. The park is known for its abundance of hiking trails ranging in all difficulties, and the mountain peaks and valleys even go into the Canadian border.

The first stop I made was at Heavens Peak. There is a lookout area where you can stop and park and admire the view of the mountain in the distance. The air was very smoky, so the view was not as bright and clear as it could have been. Regardless, it is still surreal to see a mountain like that.

The tiny piece of land in the water is called Wild Goose Island, a tiny island that emerges 14 feet out of Saint Mary Lake. It is one of the most popular photograph spots in the park, and it was featured in the opening shot of the movie The Shining.

This is the view on the way to an area in the park called Many Glacier. There are no parking spots to park in, but people were still pulling over to take in the view and take photographs. This was taken in the morning, and it was nice to see that the sky had cleared up. The turquoise water and the mountain range makes for a peaceful view. It can get windy though, so be careful.

The scenery around Many Glacier is so serene. As you stand near the calm waters, you see that you are surrounded by giant mountains and lush greenery. It’s a sight worth stopping and admiring.

The Swiftcurrent Lake Nature Trail loop hike offers a great round trip hike around the lake. As you walk through the forest, you can check out the mountain peaks of Mount Grinnel (pictured here), Allen Mountain, and Mount Gould.

On the hiking trail, you can take a small detour to check out Lake Josephine. This lake is just northeast of Swiftcurrent Lake, as they are separated by a small stream. The Morning Eagle was parked at the dock, which is the tour boat for Lake Josephine.

Shortly after, the boat took off with passengers! Constructed in 1945, the Morning Eagle was originally named Big Chef and began its journey cruising on Swiftcurrent Lake. In 1960, the name of the vessel was changed and it was moved to Lake Josephine.

In the distance, you can see Mount Gould. Before continuing the hikes, it’s a nice place to sit down and read a book while taking in the view.

On the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake sits Many Glacier Hotel, a five-story lodge with two suites, seven family rooms, and 205 guest rooms. The setting is remote, surrounded by mountains. Being here really does feel like a getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Glacier National Park is about a half hour drive from Canada. Waterton Lakes National Park of Canada is in Alberta, Canada and borders Glacier National Park. Together, they are a union park known as Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. Due to COVID-19, at the time of being there (July 2021), the borders were still closed between the two countries.

Another popular destination for hikers of all ages is the Hidden Lake Trail. Located right behind Logan Pass Visitor Center, this is a hiking trail that leads to to an obscured lake, hence its name of Hidden Lake. On the way up the boardwalk, you’re complimented with a stupendous view of Clements Mountain, as seen in the photograph.

During the hike, be on the lookout for mountain goats. There are a lot of them in the area at the base of Mount Clements and up at the Hidden Lake overlook. They’re photogenic and don’t get startled by human encounters, so stop to observe them and even take some photos if you want. At the same time, be mindful of keeping your distance!

Hidden Lake Overlook is the observation point of the lake that is reached after approximately 2.7 miles of hiking. Here, people take a break to eat and recharge, all while taking in the wonderful, rewarding view.

Another popular hike at Logan’s Pass Visitor Center is the Highline Trail. The entire hike takes about 6 to 7 hours to complete, but you can just hike the well-known, more intimidating part. Near the trailhead, there is a narrow section on a cliff side. In fact, it is so narrow that there is a hose-like handrail attached to the rocks to hold on to as you walk. For those who have a fear of heights, this is a trail you might want to stay away from.

While walking along the narrow path, I worked up the courage to stop and look out at the view of the mountain valley. Being that close to a huge drop off while looking out into the distance made for a big adrenaline rush.

This photograph does a justice at showcasing how steep this part of the trail is. As you can see, beneath the trail lies the road, and that is it. There is also a great view of Clements Mountain, which is a nice distraction from the intimidation factor of the trail. If you’re not hiking the whole way, you have to hike this part across and back. Although it was scary at first, it was worth doing. It is an unforgettable thrill!

Another remote lake to check out is Two Medicine Lake, surrounded by mountains and forests. To the left is Sinopah Mountain, the most standout peak in the Two Medicine area. There is also a charming boat called Sinopah that offers a relaxing, 20 minute boat trip across the lake. You can take a round trip on the vessel, or you can take a one way trip and be dropped off to hike to waterfalls.

During the boat ride, you have the opportunity to take turns walking out to the front deck to see the sights and get some photographs of Sinopah Mountain and the other surrounding peaks. The ride is relaxing, and the boat driver provided informative commentary on how each mountain got its name and the history of the area.

Originally constructed in 1926, Sinopah is the oldest boat at Glacier National Park. In 2019, the vessel underwent renovations that continued into 2020. Now, it is back on the lake, looking exquisite in the process.

Avalanche Lake Trail hike is a popular route through the forest that leads to a beautiful lake where you can rest and take in the atmosphere. While hiking along the trail, there was a grizzly bear sighting on the other side of the lake. Specifically, there was a grizzly bear followed by two cubs. Thankfully, everyone could enjoy them from the distance. The clear, calm waters and the waterfalls alongside the mountain make this a photogenic, peaceful area.

If you keep walking further down the trail, you can see the perspective of the lake looking the other way too.

Lake McDonald is the biggest lake in Glacier National Park. It spans ten miles and is 472 feet deep. You can take a boat ride on the lake, kayak, or even paddle board. On the morning this photo was taken, it was cold and the air was smokey.

The way the mountains were silhouetted in the haze made it feel like the landscape was actually a painting. Although the view would be clearer, it makes for a serene, meditative environment as you cruise around the lake, especially in the morning when it’s quieter.

Glacier National Park continues to be a popular spot for hikers, campers, photographers, and overall lovers of nature. Spending time here feels relaxing for the mind and spirit, and truly offers a unique and memorable experience.