Ultimate Family Adventure: Five-Day Glacier National Park Itinerary with Wildlife, Hiking & Horses

Fly into Kalispell (FCA) for the quickest route or Bozeman (BZN) for a scenic drive through Montana’s stunning landscapes. While the journey from Bozeman is longer, the breathtaking views make it well worth the trip. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel, grab a cold drink and take a deep breath of the crisp mountain air. After a day of travel, you’ll likely arrive in the late afternoon or evening, so take this time to unwind, soak in your surroundings and rest up for the adventures ahead!

Enjoy a relaxed meal at one of West Glacier’s best spots:

• Belton Chalet – A historic lodge with delicious Montana-inspired dishes and craft cocktails.

• Glacier Highland – A cozy diner serving hearty comfort food, perfect for refueling after a long journey.

• Josephine’s Bar & Kitchen – Elevated bar fare with locally sourced ingredients and great cocktails.

Start your day with a true Montana experience, departing your hotel in the morning for a scenic drive to Swan Mountain Outfitters. As the only outfitter offering horseback rides inside Glacier National Park, this is a unique opportunity to explore the park’s stunning backcountry on horseback. Enjoy a private two-hour ride, winding through alpine meadows and forests with breathtaking views of Glacier’s towering peaks.

After your ride, enjoy a well-earned lunch at a nearby café or picnic spot before setting off on an afternoon family-friendly hike. You have a couple of great options to choose from:

• John’s Lake Loop, an easy two-mile trail that takes you through lush forest, past a serene lake and alongside McDonald Creek’s rushing waters.

• Or, the Trail of the Cedars, a one-mile loop that’s perfect for families, offering a beautiful stroll through towering ancient cedars and a boardwalk through a lush wetland area.

Both options offer stunning views and are short enough to ensure you’re ready for the evening’s excitement.

At 7 pm, get ready for an authentic Western experience at the Glacier Country Rodeo! Gates open at 5:30 pm for general admission seating, so arrive early to grab a good spot and soak in the atmosphere. Enjoy classic rodeo action — bronco riding, barrel racing and roping — as you cap off the day with a true taste of Montana’s cowboy culture.

Today’s all about immersing yourself in the beauty of Glacier National Park, starting with a breakfast at your hotel or a local café. From there, set off for an unforgettable adventure!

Polebridge excursion

Head out to Polebridge, Montana (about a one-hour drive), a charming, rustic town at the park's edge. Be sure to drive outside the park and enter through the North Entrance, as this is the only way to reach Polebridge. Remember to reserve your North Entrance pass for the day to ensure smooth access. Once in Polebridge, stock up on snacks and treats at the Polebridge Mercantile, famous for its mouthwatering pastries and local goods — a huckleberry bear claw is a must. Afterward, rent SUPs or kayaks directly from the mercantile and head to Bowman Lake and/or Kintla Lake. Paddle across the crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering mountains, soaking in the stunning scenery. For those who prefer a hike, the Kintla Lake Trail offers a peaceful, scenic walk through the wilderness.

Enjoy dinner at The Northern Lights Saloon

Wrap up your action-packed day with a meal at The Northern Lights Saloon in Polebridge. With many dining options to choose from, everyone will be satisfied. After dinner, enjoy live music, a laid-back atmosphere and local fare. The beer garden is the perfect spot to unwind, sip on a cold drink and toast to an amazing day spent exploring Glacier’s incredible wilderness.

Start your day with breakfast, then depart from your hotel at 9 am for an exciting day ahead. Head to Glacier Raft Co. and check in by 9:30 am, ready for a thrilling half-day rafting trip. At 10 am, you’ll embark on a two- to three-hour adventure down the river, surrounded by Glacier’s breathtaking landscapes and rugged beauty. Expect a mix of calm stretches and thrilling rapids — perfect for families and adventure-seekers alike.

After your rafting experience, enjoy a local lunch spot near the raft company to recharge before hitting the road. After lunch, set off on one of the most scenic drives in the country: the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. This winding route offers panoramic views of towering peaks, lush valleys and sparkling lakes. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop for hikes, including:

• The Hidden Lake Overlook Trail (1.5 miles, moderate): A short but rewarding hike with spectacular views of Hidden Lake and the surrounding mountains.

• The Avalanche Lake Trail (4.5 miles, moderate): A beautiful trail that takes you through lush forests and offers stunning views of a pristine mountain lake surrounded by towering peaks.

• The St. Mary Falls Trail (0.6 miles, easy): A quick, easy walk to one of Glacier's most beautiful waterfalls.

These hikes provide a chance to stretch your legs and take in the awe-inspiring scenery of the park. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop for photos and enjoy the majestic landscape along the drive as well.

After your scenic drive, cruise back into West Glacier to unwind and reflect on the day. For dinner, head to a local favorite spot like the Sunflower Café, known for its farm-to-table dishes and cozy atmosphere. Enjoy a delicious meal and soak in the local charm, wrapping up your perfect day in Glacier National Park.

Start your final day in Glacier with a Glacier National Park classic adventure: a Red Bus Tour! This must-do Glacier experience provides a guided exploration of some of the park's most iconic spots, including Lake McDonald, Logan Pass and Going-to-the-Sun Road. Relax as you take in the breathtaking views of the mountains, lakes and alpine meadows.

Next, stop at Lake McDonald Lodge, where you can enjoy the picturesque views of Lake McDonald, the largest lake in the park. You can also rent a canoe or kayak to explore the lake’s calm waters, or simply take a peaceful stroll along the shoreline.

For lunch, either dine at Lake McDonald Lodge or enjoy a packed picnic by the lake, surrounded by nature. Afterward, consider one of these family-friendly hikes:

• Hidden Lake Overlook Trail (1.5 miles, moderate) – A stunning hike from Logan Pass offering panoramic views of alpine lakes, meadows and towering peaks. It’s a moderate hike that leads you to a beautiful overlook of Hidden Lake.

• Fish Creek Nature Trail (1 mile, easy) – A leisurely, forested trail along Lake McDonald that offers lovely views of the lake and surrounding wilderness.

• Rocky Point Trail (1.5 miles, easy) – A short hike along the shore of Lake McDonald, perfect for a relaxing stroll with beautiful lake views and wildlife sightings.

Wrap up your day by returning to West Glacier for your final dinner. The West Glacier Restaurant offers food with local flavors. Take this last night to reflect on your incredible journey through Glacier National Park before departing the next day for your return home.