Discover Glacier National Park, British Columbia
Welcome to Glacier National Park, British Columbia, a hiker’s paradise nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Encompassing over 1,300 square kilometers of rugged mountain terrain, ancient glaciers, and pristine alpine meadows, Glacier National Park offers outdoor enthusiasts an unparalleled wilderness experience. Established in 1886 as Canada’s second national park, Glacier National Park is renowned for its towering peaks, breathtaking vistas, and extensive network of hiking trails.
At the core of the park’s allure are its impressive glaciers, which cling to the rugged slopes of the Selkirk Mountains. These majestic ice fields feed pristine rivers and lakes, creating a diverse ecosystem of alpine habitats and supporting a rich array of plant and animal life. Visitors to Glacier National Park can explore the park’s stunning landscapes on a network of well-maintained hiking trails, ranging from leisurely strolls through subalpine forests to challenging treks to high alpine passes.
In addition to hiking, Glacier National Park offers a wealth of outdoor activities, including mountaineering, backpacking, wildlife viewing, and photography. Whether you’re summiting a towering peak, marveling at a cascading waterfall, or simply soaking in the tranquility of a pristine mountain lake, Glacier National Park promises an unforgettable adventure in one of Canada’s most spectacular natural landscapes.
Top 3 Facts About Glacier National Park
01
Glaciers
Glacier National Park is home to over 400 glaciers, which are remnants of the last ice age and contribute to the park’s stunning landscapes and abundant freshwater sources.
02
Hiking Trails
The park boasts an extensive network of hiking trails, totaling over 400 kilometers (250 miles) in length. These trails range from leisurely walks through subalpine forests to challenging treks to high alpine passes, offering opportunities for hikers of all skill levels to explore the park’s diverse terrain.
03
Second Oldest Park
Glacier National Park was established in 1886, making it one of the oldest national parks in Canada and the second national park established in the country after Banff National Park.
Camping and transportation in Glacier National Park
Backcountry camping permits required for wilderness camping opportunities.
How to Get to Glacier National Park
Getting to Glacier National Park, British Columbia, typically involves traveling by car or by train, as there are no airports within the park itself. Here are the main transportation options:
- By Car: The most common way to reach Glacier National Park is by car. The park is located along the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1), approximately 450 kilometers (280 miles) east of Vancouver and 700 kilometers (435 miles) west of Calgary. Visitors can access the park via several entrances along the highway, including the Rogers Pass Visitor Centre.
- By Train: Another scenic way to reach Glacier National Park is by train. The Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) runs through the park, offering passengers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The CPR’s historic Glacier National Park station is located near Rogers Pass and serves as a stop for the Rocky Mountaineer luxury tourist train.
- By Bus: Some tour companies and shuttle services offer bus transportation to Glacier National Park from nearby towns and cities. These services may provide guided tours of the park or simply drop off passengers at popular trailheads and viewpoints.
Places to Stay Near Glacier National Park
While there are no accommodations or campgrounds within Glacier National Park itself, there are several options for lodging and camping near the park. Here are some suggestions:
- Revelstoke: The town of Revelstoke, located approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) east of Glacier National Park, offers a variety of accommodations, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Some options also provide camping facilities for visitors who prefer to stay closer to amenities.
- Revelstoke Campgrounds: There are several campgrounds in and around Revelstoke where visitors can stay while exploring Glacier National Park. These campgrounds offer tent and RV sites with basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and restroom facilities.
- Glacier House Resort: Located near Glacier National Park’s east entrance, Glacier House Resort offers comfortable lodge-style accommodations in a picturesque mountain setting. The resort features cozy rooms, a restaurant, and outdoor recreational amenities such as hiking trails and guided tours.
- Camping in National Forests: There are also several national forests and provincial parks in the vicinity of Glacier National Park that offer camping opportunities. These include Mount Revelstoke National Park, Blanket Creek Provincial Park, and Mount Robson Provincial Park, all of which offer scenic campsites and outdoor recreational activities.
Driving
The park is accessible by the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1), which traverses through the park, offering visitors stunning views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and glaciers.
Public
Within Glacier National Park, there is limited public transportation available. The primary mode of transportation for visitors is by private vehicle, as there are no public buses or shuttles operating within the park itself.
Parking
The park provides designated parking areas at various trailheads, viewpoints, and visitor facilities, allowing visitors to park their vehicles while they explore the park’s attractions and hiking trails.
Best Time to Go to Glacier National Park
Summer
Summer is the peak season for visiting Glacier National Park, when the park’s breathtaking landscapes are at their most accessible and vibrant. With long daylight hours and mild temperatures, summer offers ideal conditions for hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.
Visitors can explore the park’s network of hiking trails, marvel at its majestic glaciers and cascading waterfalls, and immerse themselves in its pristine alpine lakes and forests. Summer also brings a profusion of wildflowers, adding bursts of color to the park’s already stunning scenery. However, it’s essential to book accommodations and activities well in advance, as summer is the busiest time of year in Glacier National Park.
Winter
Winter transforms Glacier National Park into a snowy wonderland, offering a unique and enchanting experience for visitors willing to brave the cold. While some areas of the park may be inaccessible due to heavy snowfall, winter opens up a whole new world of recreational opportunities, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and backcountry camping. The park’s rugged landscapes take on a serene beauty under a blanket of snow, and visitors can enjoy peaceful solitude as they explore its trails and viewpoints.
Winter also provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, as animals adapt to the challenges of the season and move through the park’s snow-covered terrain. With fewer crowds and a tranquil atmosphere, winter offers a magical escape for those seeking to experience Glacier National Park in its most pristine and untouched state.
Spring
Spring in Glacier National Park offers a stunning display of nature awakening from winter’s slumber. As temperatures begin to rise and snow begins to melt, the park comes alive with vibrant wildflowers, rushing waterfalls, and budding vegetation.
Spring is an excellent time for wildlife viewing, as animals emerge from hibernation and migratory birds return to nest and breed in the park’s forests and meadows. While some hiking trails may still be snow-covered or inaccessible due to lingering winter conditions, spring provides a quieter and more tranquil experience for visitors seeking to explore Glacier National Park before the summer crowds arrive.
Fall
Fall in Glacier National Park is a time of transition, as the park’s landscapes are transformed by the changing colors of autumn foliage. As temperatures cool and crowds diminish, fall offers a quieter and more serene experience for visitors. Hiking trails are still accessible, offering opportunities to witness the spectacular display of fall colors against the backdrop of rugged mountains and glaciers.
Fall is also an excellent time for wildlife viewing, as animals prepare for winter and gather food in anticipation of the colder months ahead. Visitors can enjoy the crisp mountain air, peaceful surroundings, and stunning vistas that make fall a magical time to visit Glacier National Park.
Must-See Attractions
Helpful Tips: Making the Most of Your Adventure to Glacier National Park
Plan Ahead
Before you visit Glacier National Park, research the park’s attractions, hiking trails, and facilities, and plan your itinerary accordingly. Consider factors such as weather conditions, trail difficulty, and available amenities to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Pack Appropriately
Be prepared for changing weather conditions by packing appropriate clothing and gear. Dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water. If you’re hiking or camping, be sure to bring essential supplies such as a map, compass, first aid kit, and bear spray.
Be Bear Aware
Glacier National Park is bear country, and encounters with bears are possible, especially in backcountry areas. Familiarize yourself with bear safety protocols, such as making noise while hiking, carrying bear spray, and properly storing food and scented items to avoid attracting bears to your campsite.
Check Road Conditions
Glacier National Park experiences variable weather conditions, especially in winter. Before you travel, check road conditions and weather forecasts, particularly if you’re visiting during the colder months. Road closures and hazardous driving conditions may impact your travel plans.
Frequently Asked Questions about Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is a haven for adventure seekers. You can enjoy breathtaking hikes, witness diverse wildlife, partake in guided tours, or soak in some of the most scenic viewpoints Canada has to offer. Don’t forget to check for park-organized programs and events!
You can obtain maps online through the Parks Canada website or at visitor centers throughout the park. These maps are essential for planning your hiking routes and familiarizing yourself with the park’s layout, services, and attractions.
Visitors can access Glacier National Park by car via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1), which runs through the park. The park is located approximately 77 kilometers (48 miles) east of Revelstoke, British Columbia, and approximately 277 kilometers (172 miles) west of Golden, British Columbia.
The best time to visit Glacier National Park is typically from late spring to early fall (June to September), when the weather is warmer, and most park facilities and attractions are open. However, visitors should be aware that weather conditions can vary greatly, and winter driving conditions may persist into the early spring and late fall months.
Yes, Glacier National Park is home to several glaciers, including the Illecillewaet Glacier and the Lyell Glacier. Visitors can view these glaciers from viewpoints along the Trans-Canada Highway or explore them up close on guided hikes or backcountry camping trips.
Glacier National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, grizzly bears, mountain goats, elk, moose, deer, and numerous bird species. Visitors may also encounter smaller mammals such as marmots, pikas, and squirrels. It’s essential to practice proper wildlife safety and etiquette, such as keeping a safe distance and storing food securely to avoid attracting bears.