Glacier National Park & Whitefish, Montana — Everything We Did + Family Photo Album

Top Travel Essentials

Before we get into the trip itself, I wanted to highlight a few of the travel essentials I would recommend again and again. You can find a full post on my top travel faves HERE.

• I ADORE mine and Dave’s luggage. Like, seriously love. All the features are top tier and the quality is phenomenal. We took the large and medium luggage on this trip as our checked suitcases. (I also love our maple color!) In addition to the luggage itself though, I cannot recommend getting the covers enough. We have taken them across the world and many planes and they are still pristine. Eliza’s suitcase on the other hand, didn’t have a cover and after one plane trip, it is beat and scuffed to death. GET THE COVERS! We have the clear cover but they’ve since come out with washable colored stretch covers that people love and they seem super easy.
• My Luka Duffel continues to be my carry-on MVP — it actually counts as a personal item since it fits under the seat! It’s lightweight, versatile with carrying, has a ton of room, great organization, I love the padding, and it’s just the best bag. Probably the best bag I own. We now have a ton in our family and we use them for every trip, whether we are flying or taking a weekend road trip.
• My clear (medium sized) clamshell style toiletry organizer made its first trip and it worked perfectly. Dave was envious when he saw it in action. It holds a TON, is easy to see and access everything, and if you’re running tight on room in your luggage, you can actually unzip the clamshell and travel with it more flat. This makeup and toiletry case is phenomenal and held everything I needed for the bathroom and shower. The small version is perfect for carrying on.
• The most versatile sling bag, I’ve gotten to where I pretty much travel with this as my only purse. The tucked in water bottle pocket is the best! Along with the built in card slots — no wallet necessary. That said, I did prefer my new Patagonia sling bag for the trails and outdoors. I missed the water pocket and organization, but the bag itself is so light, comfy, and holds a ton!
• I was so happy to have THESE wipes stashed in our bags for our outings!
• AirTags in every bag…especially since our checked bags had layovers. You can get a four-pack for almost 25% off on Amazon right now HERE. We have a bunch and I think I still need another pack.
• I love THIS tiny lipstick-sized portable charging bank. It takes up no space, you can use your phone while it’s charging, and its especially great while you’re snapping all those photos and using your GPS and maps.
• My three in one charging dock for the hotel room continues to be a MUST. And if you don’t already have a case, grab the one I have HERE.
• THIS $5 clear pouch/wristlet is perfect for small liquids in your personal items bag.

More Items We Don’t Travel Without…

• My Kindle
• AirPods Pro (currently 20% off)
• Eliza’s Headphones (currently on major sale and under $15!)
• Headphones Adapter (headphone jack to USB-C for iPad)

Would We Travel to Glacier National Park in May Again?

ABSOLUTELY. I love traveling in non-peak seasons, even if it means making small concessions/sacrifices here and there. I love not having to battle crowds, compete for reservations, and the lower lodging rates. The biggest drawback of traveling in late May to Glacier was that Going to the Sun Road — the main road that connects the west side to the east side of the park — doesn’t open until late June/July, depending on that year’s weather and snow conditions. During our trip, the west side was open as far as the Avalanche campground area and the east side was open as far as beyond the Jackson Glacier overlook area. You can still bike beyond the closure but we didn’t have any biking planned for the trip.

McDonald Lodge was open by the time we made our trip, but the other lodges on the eastern side weren’t yet open.

While we couldn’t drive the entire road, I didn’t feel like our experience was shorted. Weather isn’t guaranteed and while the temps dropped in the evenings, most of our days were 60s in the early mornings and 70’s – 80 max during the day. No rain. No humidity.

The park also doesn’t start its mandatory reservation system for entry until the beginning of June, so we could come and go as we please. I absolutely love that we went just before peak season.

Logistics — How We Got to Glacier National Park

We fly out of Atlanta via Delta whenever we go anywhere. There weren’t any direct flights to Glacier International Airport in Kalispell (a rare occurance for us) but choosing to change planes in Minneapolis actually worked really well. I was pleasantly surprised by that airport — nice, lots of restaurants, good layout — and it was perfect to break up the flights and timezones.

I raved about the Bozeman airport a few years ago and lemme just say — the Kalispell airport may have beaten the Bozeman airport. The people, no lines, friendliness, proximity, ease, condition and style of the airport… absolutely incredible. INCREDIBLE. We rented through Enterprise, as usual, which was the easiest car rental I’ve ever experienced at the airport. But, the rental was literally almost the price of our modest lodging for the week. And, by far the most I’ve ever paid for a rental.

Where We Stayed When We Visited Glacier National Park

We chose to stay nearby in Whitefish since we aren’t campers and I liked the idea of having a small, cute downtown to tool around in and the proximity to the airport in Kalispell was fabulous. Since the trip was all about being outdoors and just crashing in a comfortable room at the end of the day, I chose the Towneplace Suites in Whitefish (we’re a Marriott family) — a newer hotel — and it was perfect. It’s closer to the West entrance and is a 30-40 minute drive to the entrance.

When Dave and I visited Jackson Hole, we stayed at the Four Seasons — which was incredible — but, 1. it was our anniversary, and 2. we spent so little time at the hotel, it was almost wasted. Staying at a modest business-class suite was perfect for our family and perfect for our trip.

They do have onsite laundry for guests and the room comes with a laundry basket (which I didn’t know) but if you’re contemplating condensing your luggage, keep that in mind!

Day 1 — Travel & Whitefish, MT

We had an early 2 a.m. wakeup call and long travel day, but it all went smoothly. BTW — if you fly out of Atlanta, we used Peachy Parking for the first time and that will be our parking and shuttle service from now on. So smooth, so easy, and I loved not having to deal with the onsite navigation, difficulty, and expense of Hartsfield-Jackson airport parking.

Crossbody Sport Sling | Luka Duffel Bag | Joggers | OnCloud Sneakers | Pullover Top | Hat Clip (similar) | Eliza’s Skort | Eliza’s Quarter-Zip | Eliza’s New Balance Sneakers | Water Bottle | Backpack

Eliza’s Skort | Eliza’s Quarter-Zip | Eliza’s New Balance Sneakers

You just have to be there to experience the airport in Kalispell…

Outside our hotel in Whitefish.

After we checked in, we headed to downtown Whitefish to check out some shops, walk around, and grab a bite to eat. Such a cool area, super dog friendly, and we loved wandering around.

Crossbody Sport Sling | Sunglasses | Joggers | OnCloud Sneakers | Pullover Top | Eliza’s Skort | Eliza’s Quarter-Zip | Eliza’s New Balance Sneakers

The area is known for Huckleberry since the PNW is the only place they grow in the U.S. The Huckleberry ice cream at Sweet Peaks was to die for. We picked up some huckleberry jams, dressing, and syrup to bring home, too.

We headed back to the hotel after an early dinner, pulled the shades, and passed out for another early morning.

Day 2 — West Glacier

Despite Eliza waking up at 2 (yes, the time change was rough for these east coast early risers), we headed into Glacier National Park via West Glacier for our first day in the park. Definitely stop at the outfitter shop on the right where they have gear, souvenirs, supplies, etc. I was shocked that despite the convenience, they didn’t mark up their gear — like the Patagonia sling bag I grabbed for more cushion — and they sold it all at suggested retail prices that you find on any online retailer. By the way, as much as I love and rave about my Beis sling, I loved wearing my new padded sling throughout the entire trip — it was so lightweight and comfortable to wear for literally 12+ hours/day.

Shorts | Eliza’s New Balance Sneakers

We couldn’t stop all the photo footage once we entered the park — it was like nothing we’d ever seen before. The water is crystal clear and the smooth painted rocks that make up the “beaches” are exquisite.

Eliza’s Shorts | Eliza’s New Balance Sneakers | KN Leggings | KN Sunglasses | KN Sneakers | KN Tee | KN Patagonia Sling Bag

As a side note, I’ll go ahead and mention — some photos can be deceptive in terms of close-ness/height/proximity to water/rocks/etc. I can guarantee that Eliza was safe and closely monitored 100% of the time.

McDonald Lake takes up the bulk of the side on Going to the Sun Road in West Glacier and the peaks against the water are stunning.

Eliza’s Shorts | Eliza’s New Balance Sneakers | Eliza’s Binoculars

Eliza’s Shorts | KN Sunglasses | KN Sneakers | KN Tee | KN Patagonia Sling Bag

There’s all kinds of lookout spots and ways to get down to the water’s edge, so take your time and go at your own pace.

KN Sunglasses | KN Patagonia Sling Bag | Dave’s Costa Sunglasses

I can’t emphasize enough how much Eliza loved exploring the park. It truly was Heaven to her. I’m glad we brought extra sneakers for her and crocs for the end of the day — she got her feet wet more than once 😉

We drove with layers each day and the mild temperatures were easy to dress for and stay comfortable in.

Eliza’s Shorts | Eliza’s New Balance Sneakers | KN Leggings | KN Sunglasses | KN Sneakers | KN Tee | KN Patagonia Sling Bag

We’ve never seen such clear water — especially on a lake.

We stopped by the McDonald Lodge — Russell’s Fireside Dining Room — for lunch and it was great. I had the kale quinoa salad with grilled chicken, which was perfect for the day — filling and satisfying without being too heavy.

Eliza’s Shorts | Eliza’s New Balance Sneakers | KN Leggings | KN Sunglasses | KN Sneakers | KN Tee | KN Patagonia Sling Bag | Dave’s Costa Sunglasses | Dave’s Binoculars

Something we learned from our last trip out west was instead of buying bear spray (which you do need!) is to ask the hotel if they have any. I called ahead and the front desk told us they had plenty to loan out to us, so they kept us equipped each day.

The Avalanche Lake hike is a popular hike, but at five to six miles round trip, I didn’t know how my knee would handle it. So, we parked at the Avalanche campground area and did the Trail of the Cedars — an easy (and beautiful) 1-mile loop through the forest, with a boardwalk that’s handicap friendly. We loved this walk and saw lots of deer on our trek, too. The campground area and parking fills up quickly, so plan to go EARLY. There were lots of active grizzly bear sightings around our trip in this area — specifically the Avalanche Lake area — so while I was glad we didn’t see any while we were hiking, I was disappointed we didn’t catch one on our trip.

Shorts | Eliza’s New Balance Sneakers

The deer in this area are pretty bold and not shy — I wonder if they’re used to being fed (a big no no in the national parks and in the wilderness, in general).

We took a long, picturesque drive home via a different route and headed to bed to get ready for our next day.

Eliza’s Shorts | Eliza’s New Balance Sneakers | Eliza’s Binoculars | KN Leggings | KN Sunglasses | KN Sneakers | KN Tee | KN Patagonia Sling Bag | Dave’s Costa Sunglasses | Dave’s Binoculars

Day 3 — Whitefish Trail & West Glacier Rafting

We had a scenic rafting trip scheduled for the early afternoon, so in the morning, we got up early and went to explore a nearby family friendly trail on the Whitefish Trail to a lake overlook. We started at the Lion Mountain trailhead and it was another easy, enjoyable walk. Eliza couldn’t get enough of all the friendly dogs we encountered on the trip.

Dave’s Jacket | Dave’s Binoculars | Eliza’s Leggings | Water Bottle | Eliza’s Binoculars

KN Sunglasses | KN Sneakers | KN Tee | KN Joggers | KN Patagonia Sling Bag | Dave’s Costa Sunglasses | Dave’s Binoculars | Patagonia Jackets | Dave’s Binoculars | Eliza’s Leggings | Eliza’s Knotted Tank Top | Eliza’s New Balance Sneakers | Water Bottle | Eliza’s Binoculars

How cute is this dog tag post at the top of the trail?

My mom gifted Eliza with THESE binoculars for her trip and Eliza didn’t go anywhere without them.

During our last trip out west, I actually gifted THESE binoculars to Dave after we borrowed some from a wilderness guide, and they have been invaluable for multiple trips now. Pricey, but fantastic. If you’re a frequent park go-er, I definitely recommend investing in a nice pair like THESE.

After our morning hike, we headed back to West Glacier Village to grab a bite to eat before our rafting trip. The tomato bisque and grilled cheese was a winner!

The scenic rafting trip I booked down the Flathead River can be found HERE. We loved the company we booked with, they were fantastic with Eliza, and it was such a cool and different way to explore. They fitted us into life jackets and gave us wet shoes to wear and it’s totally suitable for kids. Only the guide paddles — unless you’re Eliza 😉 She invited Eliza up to the seat to paddle with her for a little bit. They also offer whitewater trips, but the scenic float was so enjoyable.

Tank Top | Leggings | Binoculars

Sunglasses

Great Northern Scenic Rafting Trip Details & Booking

We encountered a bald eagle flying overhead, which felt like the most Americana experience ever, while we were rafting through the trees.

We grabbed dinner back in downtown Whitefish at the end of the day, and grabbed a second round of ice cream back at the local shop 😉

Tank Top | Shorts

Day 4 — East Glacier & Two Medicine

Because we couldn’t take the entire To the Sun Road route from the west to the east side of the park, we decided to dedicate a day to driving around the long way to access the east part of the park. I AM SO GLAD WE DID! It ended up being our longest, but most scenic and exploratory day.

Quarter Zip Top | Shorts

On the way to East Glacier, we stopped at Goat Lick Overlook — an area with natural salt licks that attracts the mountain goats. We didn’t catch any goats initially, but after a quick bathroom break, we were able to spot several before getting back on the road. This stop has a few short walks to catch different vantage points, so we ended up spending probably an hour here.

Dave’s Jacket | Quarter Zip Top | Shorts

The drive is stunning. A little dicey if you aren’t used to heights and cliffs, but the roads are great.

Some things I love about Montana in contrast to the Georgia outdoors — the mild temps, no humidity, and no venomous snakes! I love being able to walk through the woods without worrying about what may be hiding in the brush.

By the time we made our way through the East Glacier entrance, it was close to lunchtime, so we pulled into a picnic area. You hit the Rising Sun picnic area almost immediately once you enter the park. I knew our resources would be more limited on this side of the park, so the evening before, we stopped by Safeway and prepped for a snack-style picnic of shaved Boar’s Head turkey, cheese sticks, chips, veggies in a bag with cups on ranch, movie theater candy, etc.

Crossbody Sling Bag | Running Shoes | Joggers | Patagonia Jacket | Eliza’s Quarter Zip Top | Eliza’s Shorts

Marmot, Bull Deer, Red Fox

We LOVED picnicking but reminder — you still need to stay equipped with bear spray While we were eating, all kinds of wildlife starting walking up. Red fox, bull deer, marmot, chipmunks… There was another couple a distance away but we were isolated for the most part, so we wrapped up our meal and headed on.

You’ll catch a throwback to The Shining in this spot. Thanks to our GPS guide app we used again (formerly ‘Gypsy Guide’, now ‘GuideAlong’ app). I said it before and I’ll say it again — using this GPS app and playing it along our drive made it infinitely better. Not just more educational, but we were able to better determine where we wanted to stop and decide between options more clearly.

Our first hike of the day was the Baring Falls. You can actually do the “Four Falls Hike”, which include Braing Falls, but it would be a LONG hike. Instead, we went to Baring Falls and back to the trailhead for 1.3 miles.

Next, we drove just a little further on Going to the Sun Road to access the trailhead for Saint Mary’s Falls and Virginia Falls.

Pictures don’t do justice for either of the falls. Saint Mary’s is first and Virginia Falls adds a bit of distance. Both falls together are 3.2 miles round trip.

Virginia Falls from the top was incredible. You’ll keep seeing parts of it, wondering if you’re there yet, but once you’re actually there, you’ll know.

Eliza at the end of the rainbow 😉

Eliza was the youngest on the trail that we encountered and she did fantastic. She’s incredibly active and lives to be physical so I would just say — know your kids before you attempt. It’s pretty moderate and you can always go at your own pace.

Going to the Sun Road was closed shortly after the Jackson Glacier lookout spot, so once we reached the closure, we headed back out to explore around the Two Medicine area. We didn’t make it to Many Glacier as our trip and timing just wouldn’t allow for it, but I hope we can make it back some day.

It’s another beautiful, but sometimes nerve wracking drive, to Two Medicine with gorgeous, high views.

The general store at Two Medicine lake was still open, so we grabbed some treats before taking in the scenery.

The water was cold, but Eliza didn’t care 😉

There’s a short nature walk to Running Eagle Falls — less than a mile to the falls and back. It was close to evening so it was more secluded. We only passed one small group leaving as we entered the trailhead.

It was a long drive back, but so worth it.

Day 5 — West Glacier Boat Rental & Columbia Falls Brash Rodeo

For our last full day, we headed back into West Glacier to the Apgar Village to rent a motorboat for the morning. You can also rent other boats (like kayaks, canoes, rowboats, or paddle boards) from the rental place — Glacier Park Boat Company. You can reserve your boat ahead of time (we did not) but if you don’t, it’s first come, first served. They rent by the hour for $55/hour. We took a bag of snacks and spent two hours on the lake but if we go back, I would want to take a full picnic and plan for longer. We LOVED renting our little boat!

Eliza Top | Eliza Shorts | Eliza’s New Balance Sneakers

We had a not great late lunch in Apgar Village after our boat ride and then headed back to Whitefish to get ready for the local rodeo that evening.

Eliza Top | Eliza Shorts | Eliza’s New Balance Sneakers

I was so glad Eliza’s hat that we brought her from our trip a few years ago, and her sparkly boots from her February father/daughter dance still fit 😉

Shorts | Boots | Hat — Charlie 1 Horse

KN: Linen Pants | Denim Shirt | Sandals | Sunglasses

The rodeo was amazing — 10/10 recommend. It felt like we were living out a scene from Yellowstone. They had all the events, the music was awesome, the food trucks were fun, and we (I) was moved to tears with their dedication to America and prayer to start at the beginning of the event.

Shorts | Boots

Shorts | Boots | Jean Jacket

I’ve asked Eliza and Dave what their favorite part of the trip was and we’re all in agreement — it’s impossible to choose. We loved every bit of it. We’re going to have to start researching where to head next (taking suggestions!!) but I think we’ll definitely have to return to Yellowstone and the Tetons with Eliza at some point. Let me know if you have favorite parts of Glacier that we missed or your favorite park experiences we should add to our list!

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