Glacier National Park British Columbia Canada
Rugged Canadian Rockies park with challenging hikes, stunning glaciers, and abundant wildlife, often overlooked but incredibly beautiful.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Glacier National Park British Columbia Canada
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Rugged Canadian Rockies park with challenging hikes, stunning glaciers, and abundant wildlife, often overlooked but incredibly beautiful.
"Out of this world beautiful, with spectacular mountain vistas and fewer crowds than other parks."
🚗 Fuel Up Before You Go
Gas stations are scarce. Fill up in Golden or Revelstoke before entering the park to avoid issues.
🐻 Bear Spray is Essential
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Wildlife encounters are common; maintain a safe distance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hermit Trail
Near Rogers Pass
Steep but rewarding hike with stunning mountain vistas and a chance to see mountain goats up close.
Perley Rock
Near Rogers Pass
Offers breathtaking views of glaciers and surrounding peaks, with opportunities for a refreshing dip in glacier water.
+1
Rogers Pass Discovery Centre
Rogers Pass Summit
Learn about the park's history, avalanche control, and natural wonders. A great picnic spot with interesting exhibits.
Asulkan Valley Trail
Near Rogers Pass
A scenic trail leading through a valley with glaciers and waterfalls, offering a true alpine experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild: Wildlife Safety
Plan for the Pass: Road Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Fuel Up Before You Go
Gas stations are scarce. Fill up in Golden or Revelstoke before entering the park to avoid issues.
🐻 Bear Spray is Essential
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Wildlife encounters are common; maintain a safe distance. +1
🥾 Pack for All Weather
Conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared for sun, rain, and even snow, especially at higher elevations. +1
💧 Stay Hydrated & Pack Snacks
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Fuel Up Before You Go
Gas stations are scarce. Fill up in Golden or Revelstoke before entering the park to avoid issues.
🐻 Bear Spray is Essential
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Wildlife encounters are common; maintain a safe distance. +1
🥾 Pack for All Weather
Conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared for sun, rain, and even snow, especially at higher elevations. +1
💧 Stay Hydrated & Pack Snacks
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is incredible! Don't forget your camera for stunning mountain and glacier shots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Glacier National Park BC's spectacular mountain vistas and less crowded atmosphere compared to other Canadian Rockies parks. While the scenery is consistently praised, some find the limited amenities and reliance on driving Highway 1 to be drawbacks. The park offers a raw, wild beauty that many find unforgettable. +1
"One of the best National Parks in Canada to visit. You get to see all the beauty without the hassle of the crowds at other parks. Definitely worth a visit!"
Michael Looney
"We thought Glacier National Park in the United States was beautiful. And it is, but Glacier National Park in British Columbia and Alberta is out of this world beautiful. We camped in different campgrounds for six days and had a campfire every night. It doesn’t get dark till late, like about 11 o’clock. They were very few mosquitoes and we even had a bear, a big black bear walk-through. Our campground Canada‘s national parks are clean and have most of the amenities one would expect. We’re definitely going back."
Trace Wedel
"Spectacular mountain vistas! Kids had a ball rock climbing. Two criticisms- there’s really only the main highway that goes through the park, so hard to enjoy it without a very long alpine hike. Also, the park store is absolutely inadequate. Bathrooms and some interesting exhibits (that required a payment to access), but little/no food and inadequate merch options in gift store. Trails were closed behind the park office too."
Kent 19
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Glacier National Park BC is accessible via Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway) between Golden and Revelstoke. Many visitors drive through as part of a larger Rockies road trip.
No, Glacier National Park BC is a separate park located west of Banff and Jasper National Parks in British Columbia. It's often visited in conjunction with them.
Driving Highway 1 offers scenic views, but for a deeper experience, hiking trails like Hermit Trail and Perley Rock are highly recommended.
Currently, there are no extensive shuttle services within Glacier National Park BC. Visitors typically rely on personal vehicles to access trailheads and viewpoints.
Highway 1 through Glacier National Park BC is generally open year-round, but winter conditions can lead to closures. Always check road status before traveling. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required for entry into Glacier National Park BC. These passes can be purchased online or at park gates.
Glacier National Park BC is open 24/7, but visitor services and facilities may have seasonal hours. The Rogers Pass Discovery Centre typically operates during daylight hours in summer.
Entry to Glacier National Park BC requires a Parks Canada Discovery Pass, which covers all national parks in Canada. Fees vary based on the type of pass purchased.
Yes, camping is available in Glacier National Park BC. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, and can be made through the Parks Canada reservation system.
Unlike some US national parks, Glacier National Park BC does not typically require timed entry reservations for general access. However, specific backcountry permits may be needed for overnight stays.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular hikes include the Hermit Trail (steep but rewarding), Perley Rock (stunning glacier views), Asulkan Valley Trail, and Abbot Ridge.
You might spot mountain goats, bears (black and grizzly), marmots, and various bird species. Always maintain a safe distance and carry bear spray.
Yes, families can enjoy scenic drives, shorter walks, and the exhibits at the Rogers Pass Discovery Centre. Longer hikes might be challenging for very young children.
Weather can be unpredictable. Summers are generally pleasant but can have cool evenings and sudden rain. Snow is possible even in summer at higher elevations. +1
Absolutely! Rogers Pass Summit offers spectacular panoramic views. Many pull-offs along Highway 1 also provide stunning vistas of the mountains and glaciers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options within the park are very limited. The Rogers Pass Discovery Centre may offer some snacks, but it's best to pack your own food or dine in nearby towns like Golden or Revelstoke. +1
The park store at Rogers Pass is described as inadequate for food options. It's recommended to bring your own picnic supplies.
The towns of Golden and Revelstoke, located on either side of the park, offer a variety of restaurants and cafes.
Yes, picnicking is a great way to enjoy the park. Rogers Pass Summit is a popular spot for picnics with beautiful surroundings.
No, there are no grocery stores within Glacier National Park BC. You'll need to stock up on supplies before entering the park.
📸 📸 Photography
Rogers Pass Summit, viewpoints along Highway 1, and the trailheads for hikes like Perley Rock and Asulkan Valley offer incredible photographic opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) provide the best light for capturing the dramatic mountain landscapes and glaciers.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions and long exposures.
With minimal light pollution away from the highway, Glacier National Park BC can offer excellent conditions for astrophotography, especially during clear, moonless nights.
Look for mountain goats on trails, reflections in alpine lakes (if any are accessible), and the dramatic scale of the glaciers and peaks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning hikes, consider shorter, less strenuous options or focus on the accessible areas around Rogers Pass. Wildlife spotting can be a highlight for kids, but always emphasize safety and maintaining distance. Packing plenty of snacks and water is crucial, as amenities are limited within the park.
🚗 Road Trippers
+1 Driving Highway 1 provides constant, awe-inspiring views, with numerous pull-offs to stop and soak in the scenery. Be prepared for potential delays due to traffic or accidents, and ensure your vehicle is fueled and ready for mountain driving.
⛰️ Avid Hikers
Perley Rock and Asulkan Valley are also highly recommended for their dramatic glacial landscapes and challenging terrain. +1Be prepared for strenuous climbs, variable weather, and the need for proper hiking gear, including sturdy boots and layers. Carrying bear spray is non-negotiable.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Trails for Every Level
For those seeking glacier views, Perley Rock is a must-do, offering stunning panoramas and the unique opportunity to interact with glacial meltwater. +1Other notable trails include the Asulkan Valley Trail, which winds through a picturesque valley dotted with glaciers and waterfalls, and Abbot Ridge, providing expansive views of the surrounding peaks.
While many trails are demanding, the park's commitment to preserving its natural beauty means that even shorter walks offer incredible scenery. Always check trail conditions before heading out, as some may be affected by weather or wildlife activity. Key Hiking Trails:
* Hermit Trail: Steep, rewarding views, wildlife sightings.
* Perley Rock: Glacier views, alpine scenery.
* Asulkan Valley Trail: Glaciers, waterfalls, valley exploration.
* Abbot Ridge: Panoramic mountain vistas.
Wildlife Encounters and Safety
Bears, both black and grizzly, also inhabit the park, and while sightings are not guaranteed, it's crucial to be prepared. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Maintain a minimum distance of 100 meters from bears and 25 meters from other wildlife. Never feed animals, as this can lead to dangerous habituation. Be aware of your surroundings, especially when hiking, and make noise to avoid surprising wildlife.
Wildlife Safety Tips:
* Carry bear spray and know its use.
* Maintain safe distances from all wildlife.
* Never feed animals.
* Be aware of your surroundings on trails.
The Iconic Rogers Pass
Beyond the visitor center, Rogers Pass is a gateway to some of the park's most spectacular hiking trails, including the Hermit Trail and Perley Rock.
+2 The summit itself is a popular spot for picnics, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Columbia Mountains. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the raw, untamed beauty of the Canadian Rockies and understand why this region was designated a national park. Key Features of Rogers Pass:
* Highest point on the Trans-Canada Highway.
* Home to the Rogers Pass Discovery Centre.
* Access point for major hiking trails.
* Spectacular mountain vistas.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit