Although we weren’t as prepared for this stop as usual, today was a very relaxing day in the Rockies and a case was made for a quick return (with a camper). Stunning mountain peaks, gorgeous glacial lakes, and waterfalls – what more could we ask for? Well, maybe a moose – maybe next time!

Click on the first photo in each group and scroll to see the square photos at full size.
To start at the beginning of this series, visit The Trip of Our Lives 2023.

Another Slow Start

We enjoyed an in-room breakfast of pastries from the Glacier Perk Café across the road, and finally got going around noon. If I’m being honest I didn’t do much research into things to do today, so we didn’t have much on our agenda. After finding a website with 14 Fantastic Things to Do at Many Glacier, sadly we missed about ten of them. It was a wonderful day nonetheless with only an hour in the car.

We headed north out of St. Mary Village and it wasn’t long till we reached the beautiful St. Mary Lake (first two photos). I don’t remember when the gravel road started, but it ended as we reached the Park entrance.

Rugged Rocks and Stunning Views

We took advantage of a pullout for some incredible views and we got up-close to Swiftcurrent Falls. The rugged rocks and scraggy vegetation gave this area a more intimidating feel compared to the babbling rivers we’ve been seeing on this trip. But there were plenty of flat surfaces for good footing to feel safe and sound. We were able to follow the falls up quite a ways to see its many levels.

Top of the Falls

I followed a small trail near the river and ended up at the main road into Many Glacier, MT. Here I got photos of the headwaters of Swiftcurrent Creek above the falls. On the right was the lovely Swiftcurrent Lake which feeds Swiftcurrent Creek, and to go one step (actually twenty-miles round-trip) further, we could have hiked to the base of Mt. Grinnell which feeds Swiftcurrent Lake. Could we have asked for a better day?

Many Glacier Hotel

Many Glacier Hotel was built by the Great Northern Railway in 1914-15 when it began promoting the region as a tourist destination. It is the largest hotel in Glacier National Park with plenty of hiking trails in the area, and tour boats provide a whole different perspective as you glide along the waters of Swiftcurrent Lake. A boat ride would have been a nice addition to this fabulous day, but we have to save something for next time, right?

We walked in from behind the hotel and kind of forgot about it as our eyes immediately focused on the mountains that lined the lake. Signs about the history of this place were placed near the views that they mentioned.

“Many Glacier Hotel is located in the “Switzerland of North America,” in the northeastern area of Glacier National Park. Outside, awe-inspiring majesty. Inside, a magnificent towering lobby.” ~ READ MORE

“This once-remote region of Northwest Montana became a premiere tourist destination during the 20th century. How you get here and where you can stay has changed over time but the reasons to visit have never changed.” ~ from the sign below

Just Wow!

The triangle peak of Mt. Grinnell and its glacier are focal points of this view. Oh, to be in that canoe on this beautiful day. I am definitely making a case for a return trip – and soon!

Relax on the Front Porch

After a delicious lunch at the Swiss Lounge, we snooped around the inside for a while and then took advantage of the placement of this fantastic front porch. I don’t think there’s anything more majestic than the Pacific Northwest of the U.S. and Canada. I guess that’s why I named this series The Trip of our Lives.

Many Glacier Campground

Although it has been years since we camped, I would take it up again just to stay in this fabulous place. I do like the fact that since the campground is located at a higher elevation, the ascent is shorter to reach scenic vistas. These old legs ain’t what they used to be!

“Many Glacier Campground is situated in a mature Douglas fir, lodgepole pine and quaking aspen forest. Vegetation is dense and provides partial shade for almost all campsites. Occasional strong wind gusts occur, however, with tree cover, most sites have some protection from the weather. Nearby natural features include Swiftcurrent Creek and Lake, and mountain views of Altyn, Henkel, Wilber, Grinnell Point, Allen and Wynn.

Many Glacier Campground is located on the east side of the Continental Divide, and has excellent trails available for day hiking and overnight backpacking. Trailheads start at a higher elevation than those on the west side of the park, resulting in a shorter ascent to reach scenic vistas. Trails traverse areas frequented by grizzly and black bears, so take these safety precautions – hike in groups, make lots of noise to avoid surprise encounters and carry bear pepper spray (know how to use it).” ~ READ MORE

Too Bad we have to Leave!

Although this has been a pretty long trip and we miss our kids and our own bed, the amazing beauty is difficult to leave. Wisconsin is a beautiful state, but the Pacific Northwest is magnificent! Like it or not, we have to leave, but we’re headed back into Canada for one more section of Glacier National Park.

Waterton Lakes National Park and Glacier are known collectively as “Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park” – the first international peace park in the world and designated in 1932. You won’t want to miss this one!

Next up: Glacier Grand Finale

Happy trails,
Barb