Katherine Green
Feature
Glacier National Park, Why Visit the Peace Park
“The most convenient airport to Whitefish and Glacier National Park is the Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) located in Kalispell, MT. The airport is 30 miles from the West Entrance of Glacier National Park and 12 miles from the town of Whitefish.” I read this online and decided, right then, I had to achieve my lifelong dream, which is a visit to Glacier National Park. I had to go. Why go to Glacier National Park? I’m going to Glacier to get back to nature, to escape the hustle and bustle of life, and to see the majestic Rocky Mountains.
Glacier National Park: Why Visit the Peace Park
UNESCO-designated Glacier and Waterton Lakes national parks are also known as the Waterton–Glacier International Peace Park (WGIPP). The US and Canadian National was created in 1932, commemorates the peace and goodwill our two nations share. Both flags fly at The Peace Parks.
On the US side of the Peace Park, you will see both flags flying.
However, if you are American and want to visit Waterton National Park, bring a passport to enter the Canadian part of the Peace Park. Crossing a border always requires a passport from the US or Canada. Be prepared. Bring your passport to visit both parks. Also, be ready to meet some of the best people while hiking here.
During my hikes, I met the nicest people. One of them was two moms hiking with their two babies at the continental divide, at Logan Pass.
Another peaceful event was to meet a bride and groom on their wedding day. It is always my lucky day when I’m traveling and spot a bride and groom. Fortunately for me, I even got to hike with them a bit on the way to Logan Pass Outlook.
The Views In Glacier National Park
Many people told me that Glacier makes a lifelong impression on the soul. I went to reset my perspective on life. Glacier National Park did precisely that. It is the right place to reset your barometer. I think the outstanding views of the Rocky Mountains, magnificent hidden lakes, and waterfalls make the Park genuinely unique. The Park is correctly named the Peace Park. Glacier made me feel peaceful. It is the Crown of the Continent.
Visit The Peace Park
Visit the Peace Parks for pristine lakes, mountains, and animals. Glacier Peace Park has over 700 miles to hike, and the conservatory has 10 million acres.
Wild and untamed animals are abundant in this park. Bring your bear spray, especially in late August and fall when the bears are foraging in preparation for winter hibernation.
On the Many Glaciers Lodge’s roads, I spotted Bighorn sheep.
Bears aren’t the only animals in the park. Bighorn sheep, Mountain goats, foxes, deer, and moose are just some of the animals I saw while visiting.
On a hike, I saw a moose walk by our group. The moose was munching the grass, ignored the hikers, while we gasped with excitement, the moose just kept walking and eatting.
Remember, at higher elevations, hikers are more likely to see more animals. Therefore, if you plan to hike at higher elevations, such as a hike to Iceberg Lake, Logan Pass trails, or near Ptarmigan Tunnel and Ptarmigan Lake, be prepared to see animals.
Where to Stay at Glacier for Best Views
I liked the East side of the park. If you can get a place at Many Glacier, that is my favorite place to stay. Select a motel room or cabin with a bathroom, such as Swift Current Cabins.
Swiftcurrent Motel and Cabins stay at Glacier for the best views
Glacier’s Best Views Are From the Rooms
These are my favorite accommodations. Third place is The McDonald Lake Lodge. Choose a room at McDonald Lake Lodge or in a cabin.
Remember, lodges are old, so if you have a nosy guest, it might keep you awake at night. I will say most people go to bed early.
I loved my cabin. Remember, these are old hotels and lodges; they are old. Although they are beautiful, because they are old, you may hear a noisy neighbor. If you can stay at any of the Glacier lodges, you will love the experience. I recommend staying away from dorm rooms and facilities without private bathrooms (toilets).
This is the peaceful view from the McDonald Lake Lodge veranda.
Why Visit the Peace Park
I love to hike. My reason for visiting the Peace Park was to hike. As you can see, the views are spectacular. The quietness was serene. The experience is therapeutic and has healed my worries.
Relaxing at Iceberg Lake is worth the 9.7 miles at 1275 Feet elevation and a gain of 263 feet.
Don’t take too many photos. Taking too many photos will destroy your memories of the park. If you don’t believe me, read this for more information about what happens when you overdo the selfies and snapshots.
Travel tip: remember to follow the same rules of the road. At National Parks, follow all the laws of the road. Don’t speed. Drive with your lights on and follow parking rules.
Follow the rules of the road, including parking rules, or you will get a parking ticket.
Copyright © 2026 Capetown-Rio, Inc. USA. All rights reserved. Republishing is allowed only with written permission. All photography rights on this page belong to Capetown-Rio, Inc. and the author. Do you have a question, business proposal, or speaking opportunity? Please contact me here.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login