2024’s Best Boat Tours in Glacier National Park: An Insider’s Guide
Hey, I’m Cait – owner of River Haus – the best place to stay at Glacier National Park. As a longtime Glacier National Park enthusiast and member of the Glacier Mountaineering Society, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing the park’s wonders from various perspectives. Among these, the boat tours stand out as an exceptional way to immerse oneself in Glacier’s breathtaking landscapes. This guide aims to provide comprehensive information about the best boat tours in Glacier National Park for the 2024 season, drawing from my personal experience and local knowledge.
Why You Should Take A Boat Tour in Glacier National Park
Boat tours in Glacier National Park offer a unique vantage point for appreciating the park’s grandeur. They provide:
- An alternative perspective of the park’s stunning landscapes
- Access to remote areas and trailheads
- Rich historical and ecological context
- Opportunities for wildlife observation
- Accessibility for visitors of all ages and abilities
Would you rather explore by your own power? Check out the best places to kayak or canoe in Glacier National Park.
A Personal Tradition
My love for Glacier’s boat tours began in 2022 when I first took my daughter, Amelia, on the Lake McDonald Boat tour. She was just three years old then, wide-eyed and full of questions about everything from the color of the water to the names of the mountains towering above us. As we glided across the crystal-clear lake, the tour guide’s stories about the area’s Native American history captivated her young mind, and I found myself seeing the park through her eyes – full of wonder and possibility.
That first trip sparked what has become our cherished mother-daughter tradition. Every summer since, we’ve made it a point to experience at least one boat tour together. It’s been remarkable to witness how Amelia’s understanding and appreciation of the park has grown with each visit. This year, at five years old, she was the one explaining to her younger brother about glacial flour and why the lakes are so turquoise!
But it’s not just for the young ones. Last summer, we brought my great-aunt Wendy along for the Lake McDonald tour. At 85, she was hesitant at first, worried about mobility issues. However, the staff were incredibly accommodating, and the gentle cruise turned out to be the perfect way for her to experience the park’s beauty without the physical demands of hiking. Seeing three generations of our family sharing in the awe of Glacier’s majesty is a memory I’ll always cherish.
Exploring the Tours
In my assessment, this tour offers the most rewarding experience. Its appeal lies in several factors:
- Location in a less frequented area of the park, providing a more intimate experience
- Spectacular scenery that captures the essence of Glacier’s beauty
- Rich cultural significance, adding depth to the visitor experience
- Access to excellent, moderate hiking trails
The tour to Twin Falls, accessible from the boat tour, is particularly noteworthy. This family-friendly 2-mile round trip hike showcases some of the area’s most picturesque waterfalls.
The Many Glacier boat tour is unique in that it encompasses two lakes, offering exceptional value:
- Travel on two boats across Swiftcurrent and Josephine Lakes
- Unparalleled views of the Many Glacier valley, arguably the most scenic in the park
- Prime opportunities for wildlife observation, including bears and moose
- Gateway to popular hikes such as Grinnell Lake and Grinnell Glacier
While the tour itself lasts approximately 1.5 hours, it’s advisable to allocate a full day if you plan to incorporate hiking into your itinerary.
Although not as dramatic as some other tours, the Lake McDonald tour has its own merits:
- Easily accessible from the west side of the park
- Offers expansive mountain views and insights into the area’s wildfire history
- At one hour in duration, it’s ideal for those with limited time or mobility concerns
While I haven’t personally experienced this tour yet, it comes highly recommended:
- Provides magnificent views of the park’s eastern terrain
- Can be combined with hikes to St. Mary and Virginia Falls
- Includes a stop at Baring Falls for a brief hike
Hiking Opportunities from Boat Tours
One of the unique advantages of Glacier’s boat tours is the access they provide to some of the park’s most scenic and less-crowded trails. Here’s a detailed look at the hikes accessible from each boat tour:
Two Medicine Lake Boat Tour Hikes
- Twin Falls:
- Distance: 2 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 100 feet
- Difficulty: Easy This family-friendly hike in Glacier offers stunning views of two waterfalls cascading down the mountainside. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for hikers of all ages and skill levels.
- Upper Two Medicine Lake:
- Distance: 4 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 350 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate This scenic trail follows the north shore of Two Medicine Lake before climbing to Upper Two Medicine Lake. The views of the surrounding peaks are breathtaking.
Many Glacier Boat Tour Hikes
- Grinnell Lake:
- Distance: 0.8 miles round trip from the boat dock
- Elevation Gain: 60 feet
- Difficulty: Easy This short hike leads to the shores of the stunning turquoise Grinnell Lake, fed by the meltwater of Grinnell Glacier.
- Grinnell Glacier:
- Distance: 7.6 miles round trip from the boat dock
- Elevation Gain: 1,840 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous One of Glacier’s iconic hikes, this trail offers close-up views of a retreating glacier and spectacular alpine scenery. The boat ride cuts off about 3.4 miles of hiking each way.
- Lake Josephine Loop:
- Distance: 5.8 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 225 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate This pleasant loop trail circumnavigates Lake Josephine, offering varied views and potential wildlife sightings.
St. Mary Lake Boat Tour Hikes
- St. Mary Falls:
- Distance: 1.2 miles round trip from the boat dock
- Elevation Gain: 260 feet
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate This popular hike leads to a beautiful three-tiered waterfall on St. Mary River.
- Virginia Falls:
- Distance: 3.6 miles round trip from the boat dock
- Elevation Gain: 525 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate Continuing past St. Mary Falls, this trail leads to the impressive 50-foot Virginia Falls.
- Baring Falls:
- Distance: 0.3 miles round trip from the boat dock
- Elevation Gain: 100 feet
- Difficulty: Easy A short, steep trail leads to this lovely waterfall cascading into St. Mary Lake.
Lake McDonald Boat Tour Hikes
While the Lake McDonald boat tour doesn’t directly access any trails, it’s worth noting that several excellent hikes are available near the Lake McDonald Lodge, where the tour departs:
- Trail of the Cedars:
- Distance: 0.7 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Difficulty: Easy This wheelchair-accessible boardwalk trail winds through a forest of ancient western red cedars and hemlocks.
- Avalanche Lake:
- Distance: 4.5 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 730 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate One of the park’s most popular hikes, this trail leads to a stunning alpine lake surrounded by steep cliffs and waterfalls.
When planning your hike from a boat tour, remember to:
- Check the return boat schedule and allow plenty of time to get back
- Bring appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy shoes and layers
- Carry plenty of water and snacks
- Bring bear spray and know how to use it
- Stay on designated trails and practice Leave No Trace principles
These boat-accessible hikes offer a fantastic way to experience Glacier’s diverse landscapes, from serene lakeshores to rugged mountain terrain. Whether you’re looking for a short, easy walk or a more challenging trek, combining a boat tour with a hike can create a truly memorable Glacier National Park experience.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities During Glacier’s Boat Tours
One of the most exciting aspects of these boat tours is the potential for wildlife sightings. The shorelines and surrounding forests are home to a diverse array of animals. On the Many Glacier tour, we’ve been fortunate enough to spot grizzly bears foraging on the hillsides and moose wading in the shallows. Mountain goats and bighorn sheep can often be seen on the craggy cliffs above the lakes.
Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of species that call Glacier home. Bald eagles soaring overhead, ospreys diving for fish, and the haunting call of loons across the water are common occurrences. The boat’s quiet approach often allows for closer observation of wildlife than you might experience on foot, making these tours an excellent option for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Booking Your Tour
To ensure you don’t miss out on these incredible experiences, it’s best to book your tours well in advance, especially during the peak summer season. You can find more information and make reservations through the Glacier Park Boat Company’s official website: https://glacierparkboats.com/
Remember to:
- Arrive at least 45 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time
- Dress in layers to accommodate variable mountain weather conditions
- Bring essentials like water, snacks, and a camera
- Pack bear spray if you’re planning to hike from any of the boat landings
It’s worth noting that a boat tour reservation can serve as a going to the sun road vehicle pass for certain checkpoint areas within the park, adding extra value to your booking.
Top 5 Questions About The Best Glacier National Park Boat Tours
Q: Are the boat tours suitable for children and seniors?
A: Yes, the boat tours are designed to accommodate visitors of all ages. The boats are stable and the tours are generally calm, making them suitable for children and seniors alike.
Q: Can I bring my pet on the boat tour?
A: Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the boat tours, with the exception of service animals.
Q: What happens if there’s inclement weather on the day of my tour?
A: The boat tours operate in most weather conditions. In cases of severe weather, tours may be cancelled and refunds or rescheduling options will be provided.
Q: Is there a guide on the boat tours?
A: Yes, all boat tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide commentary on the park’s history, geology, and wildlife.
Q: Are the boats wheelchair accessible?
A: Accessibility varies by location. It’s best to contact the boat tour company directly for specific accessibility information for each tour.
Bonus: Exploring Waterton Lakes National Park
While we’ve focused on Glacier National Park, it’s worth mentioning its northern neighbor and sister park, Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada. Together, these parks form the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A visit to Waterton offers a unique opportunity to expand your national park experience and enjoy another spectacular boat tour.
The Waterton Lakes Boat Tour
The Waterton Lakes boat tour is a must-do experience that connects Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada with the Goat Haunt region of Glacier National Park in the United States. Here’s what makes this tour special:
- International Journey: The tour crosses the U.S.-Canada border, offering a unique two-nation experience.
- Scenic Beauty: You’ll cruise through Upper Waterton Lake, surrounded by towering peaks and pristine wilderness.
- Duration: The round trip takes about 2 hours and covers 13 miles.
- Narration: Knowledgeable guides provide commentary on the area’s history, geology, and wildlife.
Key Features:
- Departures from the Waterton Lakes marina in the Waterton Lakes National Park village.
- Multiple daily departures during the summer season (typically mid-May to early October).
- Option to disembark at Goat Haunt (U.S. side) for hiking or a brief visit (passport required).
Goat Haunt Hiking Opportunities
If you choose to disembark at Goat Haunt, you have access to several hiking trails:
- Goat Haunt Overlook: • Distance: 1 mile round trip • Elevation Gain: 200 feet • Difficulty: Easy This short hike offers panoramic views of Upper Waterton Lake and the surrounding mountains.
- Kootenai Lakes Trail: • Distance: 3.4 miles round trip • Elevation Gain: 100 feet • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate This trail leads to peaceful Kootenai Lakes, known for moose sightings.
Planning Your Waterton Visit
- Remember to bring your passport if you plan to disembark at Goat Haunt.
- Check the latest border crossing requirements, as they can change.
- Consider staying in Waterton Village to fully experience this charming park.
- The Prince of Wales Hotel, perched on a bluff overlooking Waterton Lakes, offers a historic and scenic lodging option.
Adding Waterton to your Glacier National Park itinerary provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the full scope of this international peace park. The boat tour offers yet another perspective on the magnificent landscapes of the Crown of the Continent ecosystem, and the chance to literally cruise through history.
My Final Thoughts On Glacier Park Boat Tours
Glacier National Park’s boat tours offer an unparalleled opportunity to experience the park’s majesty from a unique perspective. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a family with young children, or traveling with older relatives, these tours provide a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the beauty of Glacier. They not only offer a respite from hiking and driving but also provide insights into the park’s geology, ecology, and human history that are difficult to gain from land-based experiences alone.
As you plan your visit to Glacier National Park, consider incorporating one or more of these boat tours into your itinerary. From personal experience, I can attest that they have the power to create lasting memories and deepen your connection to this remarkable wilderness. Remember, Glacier National Park is a place of profound natural beauty and ecological significance. Approach your visit with respect for the environment and an eagerness to learn, and you’ll find your experience here to be truly transformative.
