Garden Wall Glacier National Park
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Garden Wall Glacier National Park

4.8
·16 reviews·, United States

A majestic mountain wilderness with dramatic peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife, offering unparalleled hiking and scenic drives.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

July & August mornings

Best weather, open roads

CrowdHigh
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Garden Wall Glacier National Park

Garden Wall Glacier National Park

Best Time

July & August mornings

Best weather, open roads

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A majestic mountain wilderness with dramatic peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife, offering unparalleled hiking and scenic drives.

4.8
(16 reviews)

"It feels like you are home where you can relax and enjoy the scenery with peaceful surrounding."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Arrive at Logan Pass Early

Parking fills by 7 AM! Eat breakfast and watch the sunrise before your hike.

🐻 Bear Safety is Crucial

Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise on trails.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Highline Trail to the Garden Wall

Highline Trail to the Garden Wall

Logan Pass

Hike along the Continental Divide with breathtaking panoramic views and potential wildlife sightings.

Grinnell Glacier Trail

Grinnell Glacier Trail

Many Glacier Entrance

A challenging but rewarding hike offering stunning views of glaciers, icebergs, and alpine scenery.

Going-to-the-Sun Road

Going-to-the-Sun Road

Park-wide

An engineering marvel offering unparalleled vistas, connecting lush forests to alpine tundra.

Hidden Lake Overlook

Hidden Lake Overlook

Logan Pass

A relatively short hike to a stunning alpine lake with dramatic mountain backdrops.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Going-to-the-Sun Road

The iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road is a major draw, but access is seasonal and often requires reservations. Check the park's website for opening dates and vehicle reservation requirements well in advance, especially for summer travel. Many travelers report needing to arrive extremely early to secure parking at popular trailheads like Logan Pass. TikTokInstagram

Book Accommodations and Tours Early

Glacier National Park is incredibly popular, and lodging inside and near the park books up months, sometimes a year, in advance. Consider booking tours, like boat trips in Many Glacier, concurrently with your accommodation to avoid disappointment. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
July & August mornings
Why
Best weather, open roads
Crowd
High
When
September afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, fall colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Late June
Why
Wildflowers bloom
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🤍🤍 #travel #glaciernationalpark
@elizabethbaldwin99
3.3M likes • 17.3M views

🚗 Arrive at Logan Pass Early

Parking fills by 7 AM! Eat breakfast and watch the sunrise before your hike. InstagramReddit

🐻 Bear Safety is Crucial

Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise on trails. TikTok+1

rainbow rocks and colorful clouds #glaciernationalpark #sunset #granolaboy
@codymayer22
1M likes • 4.7M views
Rising Sun Boat Dock St. Mary Lake Going to the Sun Road Glacier National Park This was the day following my hike up the Garden Wall via the Highline Trail and I was resting my body. The Garden Wall was a beast so I earned a day a low key day. Anyway, did a little driving around Going to the Sun Road. I almost didn't stop here because you can't see it from the road and I'm like, "it's just a b...
life.as.a.flight.attendant
49 likes • 974 views

🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed

Trails can be rocky and steep; good footwear is essential for comfort and safety. TikTok

💧 Pack Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated, especially on longer hikes. Refill stations are limited. TikTok

One of the BEST hikes in Glacier National Park: the Highline Trail to the Garden Wall is an unforgettable national park adventure! 📌 Planning a Glacier National Park trip? Save this hike. It’s one of the most epic day hikes in Montana and a must for summer 2025! With jaw-dropping views from the start, wildlife sightings (hello, grizzlies!), and the option to climb to Grinnell Glacier Overlook, ...
mindyonthemove
0 likes • 21.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Arrive at Logan Pass Early

Parking fills by 7 AM! Eat breakfast and watch the sunrise before your hike. InstagramReddit

🐻 Bear Safety is Crucial

Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise on trails. TikTok+1

🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed

Trails can be rocky and steep; good footwear is essential for comfort and safety. TikTok

💧 Pack Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated, especially on longer hikes. Refill stations are limited. TikTok

📱 Download Offline Maps

Cell service is spotty. Download park maps and trail info beforehand. TikTok

🧥 Layer Up for Weather

Mountain weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for sun, wind, and even snow. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(16 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Glacier National Park for its breathtaking mountain scenery, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. The Highline Trail and Going-to-the-Sun Road are frequently highlighted as unforgettable experiences. Some travelers note that crowds can be significant, especially during peak season, and parking at popular trailheads is a challenge.

"A majestic vista point with both view of the trail side and the Many Glaciers basin. Perhaps one of the best view in the park. The short hike from the junction can be challenging especially when it’s windy. I saw bear one year and mountain goat the other year. Best before sunset."

赵震

"It may only be .9 miles, but it's about 1500+/- feet up. It was worth the struggle getting up to see the sights.
If you're doing Highline or any other trail near this, go for it."

Josh Pruitt

"What a stunning place. You are right on the continental divide overlooking the Grinnell Glacier and the Many Glaciers area. You are surrounded by wildflowers and wild life. Look for mountain goats and big horn sheep! I love the wildflowers! It is easily accessible from the Logan pass area."

travis higley

What People Like

Majestic mountain vistas
Abundant wildlife sightings
Stunning alpine lakes

What People Dislike

Large crowds
Parking difficulties

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The closest major airport is Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to the park entrances. Driving is also a popular option, with the park accessible via US Highway 2 on the south and US Highway 89 on the east. TikTok

Yes, Glacier National Park offers a free shuttle system along the Going-to-the-Sun Road during the peak season (typically late June to early September). This is a great way to avoid parking hassles. TikTok

Yes, a vehicle reservation is typically required for the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor during peak season. Check the official NPS website for the most current information and reservation windows. TikTok+1

The main entrances are West Glacier (off Highway 2), St. Mary (off Highway 89), and Many Glacier (off Highway 89). Each offers access to different areas and trailheads. TikTok+1

Parts of the park, including the Going-to-the-Sun Road, are closed in winter due to snow. However, some areas like Lake McDonald Lodge and Apgar Village remain accessible for winter activities. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is an entrance fee per vehicle, valid for 7 days. You can purchase passes online or at park entrance stations. Consider an America the Beautiful Pass if you plan to visit multiple national parks. TikTok

While the Going-to-the-Sun Road requires a vehicle reservation, most day hikes do not require separate reservations. However, some areas like Many Glacier may have their own entry reservation requirements during peak times. Always check the NPS website. TikTok

Glacier National Park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year-round. However, access to certain roads and facilities is seasonal due to weather conditions. TikTok

Yes, it is highly recommended to purchase your park entrance pass and any necessary vehicle reservations in advance online through recreation.gov to guarantee entry. TikTok

Yes, discounts are available for seniors, military personnel, and those with disabilities. An America the Beautiful Pass covers entrance fees for a year for all national parks. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Popular hikes include the Highline Trail to the Garden Wall, Grinnell Glacier, Avalanche Lake, Hidden Lake Overlook, and St. Mary & Virginia Falls. The best hike for you depends on your fitness level and desired scenery. TikTokInstagram+1

You might see mountain goats, bighorn sheep, bears (grizzly and black), deer, elk, and marmots. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife. TikTokInstagram+2

The Highline Trail is considered moderate to hard, especially if you extend it to the Garden Wall or Granite Park Chalet. It's a long hike with significant elevation gain. Instagram+3

The Garden Wall is a prominent ridge in Glacier National Park that the Highline Trail traverses. It offers spectacular views and is a key feature of the park's dramatic landscape. Instagram+2

Yes, Glacier National Park offers ranger-led programs and boat tours in areas like Many Glacier. These can enhance your understanding and experience of the park. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Iconic photo spots include Logan Pass, Lake McDonald, St. Mary Lake (especially at sunrise/sunset), and viewpoints along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. The Garden Wall and Grinnell Glacier offer dramatic landscapes. TikTokInstagram+1

Sunrise and sunset offer the best light for landscape photography, creating beautiful colors and soft shadows. Midday can be harsh, but good for wildlife spotting. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes, while a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions and long exposures. TikTok

No, drone use is prohibited in all National Parks, including Glacier, to protect wildlife and preserve the visitor experience. TikTok

Include a person or a recognizable object in your frame to give a sense of scale. Shooting from a lower vantage point can also emphasize the height of the mountains. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Glacier National Park offers family-friendly options, though some hikes can be challenging. The Avalanche Lake Trail is a popular choice for families, offering a moderate hike through a cedar forest to a beautiful lake. TikTokInstagram The Hidden Lake Overlook Trail from Logan Pass is also relatively short and offers stunning views, though it can be crowded. Instagram

Consider utilizing the park's shuttle system to avoid parking stress. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for changing weather. Wildlife spotting can be a huge hit with kids, but always emphasize safe viewing distances. The Going-to-the-Sun Road itself provides incredible scenery accessible by car, with numerous pull-offs for short breaks and photo opportunities. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Glacier National Park is a fantastic destination for solo travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty. The Highline Trail offers a sense of accomplishment and incredible views, and you'll likely encounter other hikers to share the experience with. Instagram+1 Many solo travelers find the park's well-maintained trails and ranger programs to be very welcoming. TikTok

Safety is paramount for solo hikers. Always inform someone of your hiking plans, carry bear spray, and stay aware of your surroundings. Downloading offline maps is crucial as cell service is unreliable. Consider joining a ranger-led walk or a guided tour to enhance your experience and meet fellow travelers. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Glacier National Park is a photographer's paradise, offering dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife. The Going-to-the-Sun Road provides endless opportunities for capturing sweeping vistas, especially during sunrise and sunset at locations like Lake McDonald and St. Mary Lake. TikTokInstagram

For wildlife photography, patience is key. Keep your telephoto lens ready for potential sightings of bears, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep. The Highline Trail and Grinnell Glacier areas are prime spots for both landscape and wildlife photography. Remember to respect the park's regulations, including the prohibition of drone usage. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Highline Trail and Garden Wall

The Highline Trail is arguably the most famous hike in Glacier National Park, offering an unparalleled experience along the Continental Divide. Starting from Logan Pass, this trail hugs the Garden Wall, a dramatic, sheer cliff face that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Instagram+2

Many visitors opt for a portion of the Highline Trail, turning back at various points. However, for the truly adventurous, extending the hike to Granite Park Chalet or even taking a spur trail to the Grinnell Glacier Overlook offers an even more immersive experience. Be prepared for exposure, narrow sections with cables for support, and the possibility of encountering wildlife like mountain goats and bighorn sheep. Instagram+2

Tips for the Highline Trail: Arrive at Logan Pass extremely early, as parking fills up by 7 AM. Pack plenty of water, snacks, and layers of clothing, as weather can change rapidly. Bear spray is essential, and making noise on the trail is recommended. Instagram+1

Navigating the Going-to-the-Sun Road

The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a National Historic Landmark and an engineering marvel that traverses Glacier National Park from east to west. This 50-mile road offers a spectacular journey through diverse ecosystems, from dense forests to alpine meadows, with numerous pull-offs for jaw-dropping vistas. TikTok+1

Due to its popularity and narrow, winding nature, the road is only fully open seasonally, typically from late June or early July through mid-October, weather permitting. Vehicle reservations are often required during peak season, so it's crucial to check the official Glacier National Park website for the latest information and to secure your reservation well in advance. TikTok+1

Key viewpoints along the road include Lake McDonald, Logan Pass (the highest point on the road), Jackson Glacier Overlook, and Rising Sun. The road is also the gateway to many popular trailheads, including the Highline Trail and Hidden Lake Overlook. Instagram+1

Wildlife Encounters in Glacier

Glacier National Park is a haven for wildlife, offering visitors the chance to see a variety of animals in their natural habitat. Bighorn sheep and mountain goats are frequently spotted along the Highline Trail and near Logan Pass, often unfazed by human presence. InstagramReddit+1

Bears, both grizzly and black, also inhabit the park. While sightings are exciting, it's crucial to maintain a safe distance and carry bear spray. Hikers are advised to make noise on trails to avoid surprising bears. Other common sightings include deer, elk, marmots, and various bird species. TikTok+1

Remember that these are wild animals, and their behavior can be unpredictable. Always observe from a safe distance, never feed them, and be aware of your surroundings. Responsible wildlife viewing ensures both your safety and the well-being of the animals. TikTok

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