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Glacier National Park Travel Checklist

Glacier National Park Travel Checklist

Glacier National Park Rocky Mountains, USA Travel Guide

Recommended Activities

Glacier National Park offers diverse experiences, from rugged trails to tranquil waters.

Top Outdoor Pursuits

Engage with the park's majestic landscapes through these activities.

1

Hiking & Backpacking

Iconic Trails

Explore paths like Highline Trail or Grinnell Glacier Trail.

Backcountry Permits

Secure permits in advance for overnight wilderness trips.

Bear Safety

Carry bear spray and know proper wilderness conduct.

2

Scenic Drives & Cycling

Going-to-the-Sun Road

Experience breathtaking views along this famous route.

Biking Opportunities

Sections of roads are open to cyclists before cars in spring.

Park Shuttle

Utilize the free shuttle to reduce parking stress.

3

Wildlife & Nature

Photography

Capture the park's scenic beauty and abundant wildlife.

Wildlife Viewing

Spot deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and perhaps bears.

Ranger Programs

Attend ranger-led walks and talks for educational insights.

Water-Based Activities

Explore Glacier's stunning lakes and rivers by boat or paddle.

Boating & Kayaking

  • Glacier Park Boat Company offers scenic tours on major lakes.
  • Rent kayaks or canoes for independent exploration.
  • Enjoy fishing in designated areas with a valid license.
  • Lake McDonald is popular for gentle water activities.

Unique Experiences

Discover distinctive ways to experience the park's grandeur.

Historic Tours & Learning

  • Red Bus Tours provide guided historical tours in vintage vehicles.
  • Learn about the park's architecture and early tourism.
  • Participate in educational programs at park lodges.
  • Consider online courses for photography to capture the park, like those on Skillshare.

Gear & Equipment

Proper gear enhances safety and comfort in diverse mountain conditions.

Hiking Essentials

  • Sturdy hiking boots
  • Water bottles/hydration system
  • Map and compass/GPS
  • First-aid kit

Clothing & Layers

  • Moisture-wicking base layers
  • Insulating mid-layers (fleece/down)
  • Waterproof and windproof outer shell
  • Hat, gloves (even in summer)

Miscellaneous Essentials

  • Bear spray (buy or rent locally)
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Headlamp or flashlight
  • Packing organizers (Eagle Creek)

Weather Awareness

Mountain weather is highly unpredictable. Always pack layers and rain gear, regardless of the forecast.

Travel Insurance

Protect your investment and peace of mind with travel insurance.

Coverage Benefits

  • 1
    Trip Cancellation/Interruption:

    Reimbursement for non-refundable expenses due to unforeseen events.

  • 2
    Medical Emergencies:

    Medical expenses coverage during your trip.

  • 3
    Baggage Loss/Delay:

    Coverage for lost, stolen, or delayed luggage.

Why Travel Insurance?

  • Protection:

    A safety net for unexpected situations like medical issues or flight changes.

  • Peace of Mind:

    Travel with confidence, knowing you have support if needed.

  • Adventure Readiness:

    Especially relevant for outdoor activities in a wild setting.

Recommended Providers

World Nomads

Popular for adventurous travelers, with options for various activities.

Visit World Nomads

Allianz Travel Insurance

Offers various plans for different travel styles and budgets.

Explore their comprehensive coverage.

Travel Guard

Provides flexible plans, including medical and trip delay coverage.

Consider options for unforeseen events.

Consider Your Needs

Select a policy that aligns with your planned activities and potential risks.

Connectivity & Communication

Navigating limited cell service in the park.

Cell Service Limitations

  • Cell service is very limited or non-existent in much of Glacier's interior.
  • Gateway towns offer better connectivity, but park interiors often lack it.
  • Do not rely on your phone for navigation or emergencies within the park.
  • Some lodges may offer Wi-Fi, often at a charge and limited bandwidth.

Staying Connected

  • Download offline maps (Google Maps, AllTrails) before entering the park.
  • Consider carrying a satellite messenger for emergencies in remote areas.
  • Use a VPN service like NordVPN on public Wi-Fi for security.
  • A language app like Babbel is not required, as English is spoken.

Emergency Planning

Develop a plan for unexpected situations.

Considerations

  • Designate an emergency contact outside your group.
  • Share your itinerary with them.
  • Know the nearest medical facilities.
  • Carry physical copies of important documents.

Power & Charging

  • Bring power banks for charging devices.
  • Consider car chargers for long drives.
  • Portable solar chargers are options for extended backcountry trips.
  • Conserve battery life by turning off unnecessary apps.

Charging Your Devices

Before leaving your accommodation each day, charge all your electronic devices.

This helps you remain connected and utilize downloaded resources effectively.