3 day itinerary
Glacier National Park
Personalized with:Make it family friendlyActive family with tween boys
Itinerary
Glacier National Park is a stunning destination, and it’s perfect for an active family with tween boys. With breathtaking scenery, plenty of outdoor activities, and some fun educational opportunities, you’re in for an adventure! Here’s a family-friendly, action-packed 3-day itinerary that will keep everyone engaged and excited.
Day 1: Welcome to Glacier!
Morning:
- Arrival and Visitor Center: Start your day at the . It’s a great place to get maps, learn about the park, and chat with rangers about the best spots to explore. The boys will love the interactive exhibits!
- Hike to : After gathering your info, head to the . This easy, 0.9-mile loop is perfect for warming up. The towering cedar trees and the boardwalk make it a fun and educational experience.
Afternoon:
- Hike: From the , you can easily access the trailhead. This 5-mile round trip hike is moderately challenging and offers stunning views of waterfalls and the lake itself. The boys will love the sense of adventure as they navigate the trail!
- Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy at . There’s nothing like a meal surrounded by nature!
Evening:
- Dinner in : Head back to for dinner. There are some great family-friendly options, like the , where you can refuel after a day of hiking.
- Stargazing: If the skies are clear, take some time to stargaze. The park is known for its dark skies, and it’s a great way to end your first day!
Day 2: Adventure
Morning:
- Drive the : Get an early start and drive along this iconic road. Stop at the various viewpoints, like and the . The views are jaw-dropping, and the boys will love spotting wildlife!
- : Stop at the visitor center to learn more about the park’s ecology and grab some snacks.
Afternoon:
- Hike the : From , embark on the . It’s about 3 miles round trip and offers incredible views. Keep an eye out for mountain goats! The boys will enjoy the challenge and the chance to see some wildlife.
- Lunch at the Top: Enjoy a packed lunch at the overlook with views of Hidden Lake. It’s a perfect spot to relax and take in the scenery.
Evening:
- Return Drive and Dinner: Head back down the , stopping at any viewpoints you missed. For dinner, consider the for a cozy family meal.
- Campfire Stories: If you’re staying at a campground or lodge that allows it, gather around a campfire for some storytelling or s’mores!
Day 3: Water Adventures and Wildlife
Morning:
- Kayaking on : Start your day with some kayaking! Rent kayaks at and paddle around the crystal-clear waters. It’s a fun way to see the park from a different perspective, and the boys will love the adventure on the water.
Afternoon:
- Wildlife Viewing at : After kayaking, head to the area. This is one of the best spots for wildlife viewing. Keep your eyes peeled for bears, moose, and bighorn sheep!
- Lunch at : Enjoy lunch at the historic . The views from the dining room are spectacular!
Evening:
- Hike (Optional): If the family is up for it, consider the hike. It’s about 7 miles round trip and offers stunning views of glaciers and lakes. If this feels too ambitious, you can opt for a shorter hike in the area instead.
- Farewell Dinner: For your last night, have a special dinner at a local restaurant or back at your lodge. Reflect on your adventures and plan your next trip!
Tips for Your Trip:
- Pack Snacks and Water: Always have snacks and plenty of water on hand, especially for hikes.
- Dress in Layers: The weather can change quickly, so layers are key!
- Wildlife Safety: Teach the boys about wildlife safety, especially when hiking in bear country.
I hope this itinerary helps you create unforgettable memories in Glacier National Park! Enjoy your adventure! 🌲🏞️🚶♂️