It’s one of the best National Parks in the country. Sitting in northern Montana, Glacier National Park, or the Crown Jewel of the Continent as it’s dubbed, is home to towering peaks, endless wildlife, alpine lakes, and fantastic hiking. I’m so excited to share my Glacier National Park photos with you, and hopefully, you can add some to your home or office!

Alec Sills-Trausch is an adventure photographer highlighting Earth’s greatest treasures. His travels have taken him across the western US, Canada, Alaska, and Europe. He’s also a two-time cancer survivor and bone marrow transplant recipient. He uses his platform to educate and inspire.

Why you can trust me: You can trust that these photos are authentic and real because I actually spent time here, and I highly recommend it.

Glacier National Park Photos

Below are some of my favorite photos in Glacier National Park. To help organize, I’ve broken them up by general location. The Two Medicine area is the only place I don’t have professional Glacier National Park photos.

Glacier National Park photos – Many Glacier

This is my favorite area of Glacier National Park. It’s also one of the first places I ever went in Glacier in 2017. It captivated me, and I was so excited to go back in 2023 to photograph it.

Glacier National Park photos – West Glacier

This is the much more popular side of the park due to the major cities. While not as dramatic as Many Glacier, it still offers stunning views.

Glacier National Park photos – Logan Pass

The highest point you can drive in the park, Logan Pass, is the gateway to many of the best hikes in Glacier National Park. The most recognizable hikes are Hidden Lake and the Highline Trail.

Glacier National Park photos – Wildlife

Like Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park, Glacier’s teaming with wildlife creates some genuinely memorable moments. These are some of my favorite shots ever.

Photos from nearby Jewel Basin in Montana

Just outside of Glacier, Jewel Basin near Kalispell has some great hiking and views waiting for you. These shots are from the summit of Mt. Aeneas.

Camera Gear I used to Capture these Glacier National Park Photos

• Canon r5
• Canon 16-34
• Canon 24-105
• Canon 70-200
• Tamron 150-600
• Siriu Tripod

Remember, no drones are allowed in National Parks, so leave it at home.

Planning to Visit Glacier National Park? Things you should know

Where should you stay while visiting Glacier?

Lodging is way more manageable in the West Glacier region, as the east side borders on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, and sadly, it’s not developed. (Or maybe that’s a good thing… for another time.)

Kalispell – View hotels here

Whitefish – View hotels here

Columbia Falls – View hotels here

East Glacier – View hotels here

Many Glacier Lodging (inside the park) – View Lodging

How far should you stay away from wildlife in Glacier National Park?

You’re supposed to stay at least 100 yards (300 feet) from grizzly bears and 25 yards (75 feet) from all other wildlife. Now, you won’t get in trouble if you stumble upon one. The main point is to keep a distance from wildlife so they do not feel threatened AND to protect yourself.

Remember always to carry bear spray while hiking in Montana, as it is 100% grizzly bear country, and this is the best defense – even better than a weapon.

Why is glacier national park so famous?

Glacier’s famous for many reasons, but the most prominent is thanks to its name. It’s home to some of the most accessible glaciers in America, though many are melting. Furthermore, it’s just a beautiful place to explore and is unlike many other destinations in the United States.

When can you see the northern lights in Glacier National Park?

Yes, you can! The best time to see the northern lights is from October through April when the night sky is dark the longest. However, you can still see them during the summer. But do know it stays light in Montana until 11:30 pm in the summer months.

How do I get Glacier National Park Photos like you?

You have to be okay with not sleeping a lot. Most of these photos were shot around sunrise and sunset, which creates magic unseen the rest of the day. Additionally, hiking longer distances to harder-to-reach locations create more unique pictures.

Additionally, while I love photography, creating photographs like these Glacier National Park photos takes effort, and it’s not a relaxing vacation. On the most recent trip, I probably hiked 37 miles there.

How many days does it take to see Glacier National Park?

I strongly recommend spending no fewer than five days throughout Glacier National Park. More would be better, but I know not everyone can do that. Additionally, Glacier requires permits to access between 6 am and 3 pm during the busy summer months. If you do not have a permit, enjoying the park will be more challenging. (Though there are plenty of things to do outside of the park.)

Brief History of Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park boasts a rich history intertwined with natural wonder and human influence. Established in 1910 as the country’s 10th national park, its history traces back much further. Native American tribes like the Blackfeet inhabited the region for centuries, relying on its resources for sustenance.

In the late 19th century, the allure of the rugged landscape attracted explorers, scientists, and adventurers. The Great Northern Railway’s completion in 1891 facilitated tourism, as visitors were drawn to the stunning vistas and pristine wilderness. George Bird Grinnell, a conservation advocate, played a pivotal role in advocating for the park’s protection.

However, the park’s glaciers, which lent the park its name, have suffered a dramatic retreat due to climate change, underscoring the planet’s broader environmental challenges. Today, Glacier National Park remains a testament to the delicate balance between human interaction and the preservation of natural wonders.

Its history serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for conservation efforts to ensure that its beauty endures for generations to come.

Wrapping up – Glacier National Park Photos

Thanks for taking the time to browse my Glacier National Park photos. I hope you found some that will inspire you to visit the park, and if the stars align, purchase a few of my prints to hang on your wall!

Until next time adventurers, take care and be safe.

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