Glacier National Park
Family Long-Weekend Adventure in Glacier National Park
Lakes, wildlife, and epic mountain views for the whole family
Planning a trip to Glacier National Park?
A family-friendly 2–3 day itinerary that hits Glacier’s must-see lakes, scenic drives, and short hikes while keeping driving time manageable with kids. Base mostly on the West Side near Apgar and Lake McDonald, then add a Going-to-the-Sun Road day if you have a third day.
Highlights
Skip stones, paddle calm waters, and enjoy classic Glacier sunsets at the park’s largest lake.
Experience one of America’s most scenic mountain roads with jaw-dropping overlooks and waterfalls.
Walk shaded forest trails to rivers, boardwalks, and lakes suitable for younger children.
Rent kayaks or take a scenic boat tour for a relaxed way to enjoy the scenery.
Look for mountain goats, deer, and marmots from safe distances along popular viewpoints.
Where to Stay
Lake McDonald Lodge
Historic national park lodge right on the shore of Lake McDonald offering rustic rooms and cabins with unbeatable access to the lake and Going-to-the-Sun Road.
$300-450/night
Glacier Guides Lodge
Small, modern lodge in West Glacier set in a quiet wooded area but only a short drive from the park entrance.
$220-320/nightGood to Know
Reserve Early for Summer Weekends
Glacier’s lodging, vehicle reservations, and popular activities (like guided floats and boat tours) book up quickly for peak summer weekends, so secure key reservations months in advance when possible.
Plan West-Side Base for Short Trips
For a 2–3 day visit, staying near West Glacier or Apgar minimizes driving and gives easy access to Lake McDonald, Avalanche, and the western half of Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Beat Crowds with Early Starts
Arrive at busy spots like Avalanche or Logan Pass before 8am in summer, or aim for late-afternoon visits when morning rush has passed.
Pack Layers, Snacks, and Water
Mountain weather swings from chilly to hot, and services are sparse inside the park, so bring extra layers, sun gear, plenty of water, and more snacks than you think you need.
Practice Wildlife Safety
Stay at least 100 yards from bears and 25 yards from other wildlife, hike in groups, make noise on trails, and carry bear spray if recommended by rangers.
Your Weekend Itinerary
Glacier Highland Restaurant
Casual diner-style spot right by the West Glacier entrance with hearty breakfasts like pancakes, omelets, and huckleberry specialties.
45m · $12-20 per person
Apgar Visitor Center
Main west-side visitor center with rangers, maps, current trail/road info, and a kids’ Junior Ranger program.
45m · Free
Apgar Village and Lake McDonald Beach
Pebble beach, lakeshore paths, and easy lake access at the south end of Lake McDonald; great for skipping stones and easy wandering.
1h · Free (rentals extra)
Eddie’s Cafe & Mercantile
Casual family restaurant in Apgar Village serving burgers, salads, sandwiches, and huckleberry treats; attached mercantile for snacks.
1h · $15-25 per personLake McDonald Boat Rentals (Apgar)
Rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards from vendors near the Apgar shoreline for a relaxed paddle on Lake McDonald.
1h 30m · $25-40 per boat/hour
Lake McDonald Lodge and Lakeshore
Historic Swiss-chalet-style lodge with a cozy lobby, long lake dock, and short walks along the shore.
1h · Free (optional food/boat tours extra)
Russell’s Fireside Dining Room
Restaurant inside Lake McDonald Lodge serving Montana-inspired dishes, kids’ options, and big windows looking out to the lake.
1h 15m · $25-40 per personGlacier Perks Coffee House
Small coffee shop on the highway toward the park serving espresso drinks, pastries, and simple breakfast items.
30m · $8-15 per person
Trail of the Cedars Nature Trail
A short, mostly boardwalk loop through old-growth cedar and hemlock forest near Avalanche Creek, with river views and interpretive signs.
1h · Free
Avalanche Lake Trail
Popular 4–5 mile round-trip hike (moderate) following a rushing creek to a turquoise lake backed by waterfalls and steep cliffs.
3h · Free
Avalanche Creek Picnic Area
Picnic area near the Avalanche trailhead with tables and access to the forest, ideal for packed sandwiches and snacks.
45m · $8-12 per person (packed)
McDonald Falls and Sacred Dancing Cascade Pullouts
Roadside viewpoints along Going-to-the-Sun Road featuring dramatic cascades of the McDonald Creek.
45m · FreeSunset at Apgar Lakefront
Return to Apgar’s beach area in the evening to watch alpenglow on the peaks and let kids play by the water.
1h · Free
Belton Chalet Dining Room
Historic lodge across from the West Glacier Amtrak station serving Montana-inspired fare in a rustic, cozy setting.
1h 15m · $25-40 per person21 activities across 3 days
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