3-Day Scenic Adventure in Glacier National Park, Montana

Day 1: Explore West Glacier

West Glacier, Montana, USA on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Glacier Highland Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty American breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients in a cozy, rustic atmosphere near West Glacier. The restaurant opens at 7:00am.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Lake McDonald Trail Hike

Enjoy a serene hike along the 6.6-mile Lake McDonald Trail, offering stunning views of crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains. This trail is suitable for moderate hikers and opens year-round.
Free, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Eddie’s Café & Mercantile

Have a casual lunch with sandwiches and homemade soups at this charming spot inside the park, open from 11:00am to 4:00pm during spring.
USD20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Apgar Visitor Center

Learn about park wildlife, geology, and hiking trails at the Apgar Visitor Center, open from 8:00am to 6:00pm in May. It’s a great spot to get maps and guidance.
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relax at Lake McDonald Beach

Unwind by the lake with a peaceful walk along the beach or rent a kayak from nearby rentals to enjoy the water before dinner.
USD30 for kayak rental, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Jammer Restaurant

Enjoy classic American and regional dishes with picturesque views of Lake McDonald. Open until 9:00pm.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 2: Going-to-the-Sun Road

Glacier National Park, Montana, USA on May 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at West Glacier Diner

Fuel up with a quick and tasty breakfast of eggs and pancakes before setting off on Going-to-the-Sun Road. Open at 6:30am.
USD12, 0h45m

8:30am

Scenic Drive on Going-to-the-Sun Road

Drive the iconic 50-mile route that offers breathtaking mountain vistas, waterfalls, and alpine meadows. Note seasonal openings; the road is typically fully open by mid-June but partial access may be available in May—check park updates.
USD35 vehicle entry fee, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Logan Pass Visitor Center

Stop at the Logan Pass Visitor Center for a light lunch from the café. Take in panoramic views at the highest point of the road.
USD15, 1h0m

1:30pm

Hiking the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail

Embark on the 3-mile round trip hike to the Hidden Lake Overlook for spectacular views of alpine lakes and possibly spotting mountain goats. The trailhead is at Logan Pass and is usually accessible by mid-May.
Free, 2h30m

4:30pm

Return Drive to West Glacier

Leisurely drive back, stopping at overlooks like Weeping Wall and Bird Woman Falls to capture photos.
Included in entry fee, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Belton Chalet Restaurant

Dine in a historic chalet offering delicious local fare with a comfortable ambiance. Open until 9:00pm.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 3: Many Glacier Adventure

Many Glacier Area, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA on May 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Many Glacier Hotel Dining Room

Enjoy a classic breakfast with stunning views of Swiftcurrent Lake. The hotel restaurant opens at 7:00am.
USD18, 1h0m

8:30am

Boat Tour on Swiftcurrent Lake

Take a guided boat tour to appreciate the lake’s beauty and access nearby hiking trails. Tours typically start at 9:00am and run until 5:00pm.
USD25, 1h30m

10:30am

Hike to Grinnell Glacier Overlook

Tackle the famed 7.6-mile roundtrip hike offering majestic views of Grinnell Glacier and alpine scenery. The trail is open in late spring but check conditions due to snow.
Free, 4h0m

3:00pm

Lunch Picnic by Lake Josephine

Pack or pick up a picnic lunch to enjoy lakeside with mountain views at Lake Josephine’s shore, a perfect spot to rest and absorb nature.
Variable, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit St. Mary Visitor Center

On the return, stop at St. Mary Visitor Center to explore exhibits and gather information about the park’s wildlife and history.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Rising Sun Motor Inn Restaurant

Enjoy casual dining with views over St. Mary Lake featuring American cuisine. Open until 8:00pm.
USD30, 1h0m
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