Glacier Country Montana, USA Travel Guide
Glacier National Park is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve, dedicated to preserving natural and cultural resources, including its glaciers.
Flathead National Forest surrounds Glacier NP, managed for various uses with a strong conservation focus. Glacier NP forms a central part of the Crown of the Continent Ecosystem.
Adhere to Leave No Trace principles: minimize your impact, pack out all trash, food scraps, and waste. Recycling facilities are in towns like Kalispell plus Whitefish.
Your actions significantly impact the environment. Travel mindfully to preserve Montana's wild character.
The Crown Of the continent is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve. It works towards preserving it's environmental and cultural resources, including its receding glaciers.
The core idea is to minimize your impact. Pack out everything you pack in, including all trash, food scraps, and waste.
Montana generally has abundant water, but drought conditions appear in late summer. Be mindful of your water usage, especially at accommodations. Take shorter showers, reuse towels.
Consider purchasing carbon offsets for your flights and car travel. Some airlines offer this option directly when booking, or you can find reputable third-party organizations.
Seek out accommodations that prioritize sustainable practices, like energy efficiency and waste reduction. Ecobnb for eco-friendly lodging.
Find eco-friendly staysSupport businesses using local sourcing. Package Free Shop for reusable travel products.
Explore reusable productsYour commitment to eco-friendly choices truly preserves the pristine beauty of Glacier Country for future generations.
Engage respectfully and support local initiatives for a positive impact on Glacier Country.
Support businesses and initiatives that maintain local Montana heritage and the cultural traditions of Native American tribes in the region, like the Blackfeet Nation.
Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially children. Do not disturb wildlife for photos. Maintain safe and legal distances from animals. Never entice or feed wildlife for a closer shot.
If visiting a Native American spiritual site, follow local customs and respect any posted rules. Dress modestly if entering religious structures, like St. Ignatius Mission, by covering shoulders and knees.
Your choices as a traveler directly influence the local economy. Support local businesses directly. Choose locally owned restaurants, shops, and tour operators.
When purchasing Native American crafts, ensure they are authentic and that your purchase directly supports the artists. This promotes fair trade and cultural authenticity. Avoid activities that exploit wildlife or natural resources.
Look for products from local artisans and farmers at markets. Support authentic Native American crafts.
Avoid purchasing counterfeit goods or items sourced illegally, like protected animal parts or illegally harvested plants.
Donate to reputable local preservation groups (e.g., Glacier National Park Conservancy) or tribal community initiatives rather than giving money to individuals.
By making conscious travel choices, you help preserve the environment and support the local communities of Glacier Country.
Navigate Glacier Country with an awareness of its resources and communities.
Look for products from local artisans and cultivators at markets. When purchasing Native American crafts, confirm genuineness and direct artist support. This promotes fair trade and cultural authenticity.
Avoid any activities that exploit wildlife or natural resources. Do not purchase counterfeit goods or items sourced illegally, like protected animal parts or illegally harvested plants.
Patronize small, small businesses in gateway towns and cities. These often present unique products and services that reflect the local culture. Your support strengthens the local economy more than spending at large chains.
When choosing tour operators, consider those with a focus on ethical practices and preserving nature. Operators like G Adventures prioritize responsible travel experiences.
If you wish to contribute, donate to reputable local environmental organizations, like the Glacier National Park Conservancy, or tribal community initiatives.
Research before purchasing from roadside vendors. Some goods may not be authentic or legally sourced.
Travel decisions shape the future of Glacier Country. Choose wisely to leave a positive legacy.
