Distance
~2 Miles
Elevation Gain
100 Feet
Difficulty
Moderate
Cost Per Person
$125
Hike Overview
Thursdays & Sundays, Jan 7 through March 7, 10:00am – 2:00 pm:
When the high country is quiet and snow softens the landscape, an outdoor educator leads relaxed winter hikes that reveal Glacier’s hidden season. Trips adapt to daily weather and snow conditions while focusing on park history, the science of snow, and how animals survive winter. Even though Lake McDonald Lodge is closed, guides bring its stories to life, making this an easy, unhurried way to experience the park’s peaceful side and a great alternative to a day on the slopes.
Glacier in Winter: Expert-led Driving Tour
Hike Overview Continued
Thursdays & Sundays, Jan 7 through March 7, 10:00am – 2:00 pm:
Every winter, snow settles over Glacier National Park and the landscape goes still. Strap on snowshoes and join a Glacier Institute outdoor educator for a guided hike through the park at its quietest. Along the trail, we’ll read animal tracks, explore the science of snow, and learn how wildlife survives the deep cold, all while seeing familiar views transformed by the season. Afterward, warm up with hot chocolate back at the trailhead.
Snowshoe hikes range from 1-2 miles of walking with little to no elevation gain. Hikers should wear good warm waterproof boots, and be prepared to be out in all weather.
What’s included
- Guided interpretation by a Glacier Institute outdoor educator.
- Hot chocolate at the trailhead.
- Snowshoes available if needed.
What’s not included
- Park entry pass (participants must purchase prior to the hike).
- Gratuity for guides is not included.
Highlights
- Explore Glacier National Park’s quiet, snow-covered landscape in winter.
- Learn to read animal tracks and understand snow and wildlife survival.
- Small-group, educator-led experience with seasonal interpretation.
What to Expect On Your Glacier in Winter: Expert-led Driving Tour
- Guiding and interpretation by an outdoor educator
- Stories and history of Lake McDonald Lodge and the park
- Education on the science of snow and wildlife winter strategies
* Trails listed are subject to change due to trail closure, weather, trail conditions, or wildlife.
Hike Details
- Explore Glacier National Park in winter when it is peaceful and quiet
- Learn park history and stories about Lake McDonald Lodge despite the lodge being closed
- Discover the science of snow and how wildlife endures winter
- Small-group, educator-led experience shaped by that day’s weather and snow
Check-in details
Meet at Glacier Institute Nature Center, 7450 Hwy 2 East, Columbia Falls, MT.
What to Bring
Check-in details
Meet at Glacier Institute Nature Center, 7450 Hwy 2 East, Columbia Falls, MT.
What to bring
- Warm waterproof boots
- Layered clothing suitable for winter weather
- Sunscreen
- Water
- Snacks
- Lunch
- Camera (optional)
- Binoculars (optional)
Special requirements
Participants should be prepared to be out in all weather.
Disclaimers
Each trip is shaped by the day’s snow and weather; itinerary and route may change based on conditions.