Glacier National Park August 2024

Glacier National Park, often called the “Crown of the Continent,” spans more than 1,500 square miles.  While it offers a blend of rugged mountains, pristine lakes and varied wildlife, the park is crowded: it is visited by more than three million people each year—and they all seem to driving somewhere at the same time.

One of the most iconic parts of the park is the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which provides panoramic views of towering peaks and deep valleys, as well as interminable traffic jams from before sunrise until after sunset. With a vantage point from lookouts along the road (if you can find a parking place), you can capture early morning or late afternoon light casting dramatic shadows that reveal the park’s vibrant colors, from the deep blues of the glacial lakes to the rich greens of the alpine meadows.

Another must-see is Hidden Lake Overlook, especially during the golden hour, when the sun’s low angle creates a magical glow on the water and surrounding peaks.

Wildlife photography can also be a highlight, but while the park is home to grizzly bears, mountain goats, and moose, they don’t always present themselves.

Despite its beauty, once you spend a few days battling the crowds to check Glacier National Park off your bucket list, there is little reason to return.