Play in the Park
Fishing
Five kinds of trout, whitefish, Kokanee salmon and Arctic grayling can be found in park waters. Please note that all bull trout caught in Glacier and Waterton must be immediately released to help protect this endangered species from extinction. Also, the use of lead-free fishing sinkers or jigs is required in both parks.
A fishing license is not necessary to fish at Glacier, but anglers should be familiar with park regulations and limits. Pick up a copy of Glacier's fishing regulations at any entrance station or visitor center. The North and Middle Forks of the Flathead River, which border the park, are subject to Montana State fishing regulations and do require a license.
In Waterton, anglers need to obtain a Canadian National Parks fishing permit. It costs $13 CAN for a one-year permit or $6 CAN for a seven-day pass (fees subject to change). These permits are valid in all Canadian national parks.
Trout fishing is also popular on Blackfeet tribal lands, but a tribal fishing permit is required.
Park Programs
Glacier: Free evening talks, slide shows and guided nature walks are among the many park programs that will satisfy your curiosity about Glacier's cultural, natural and historic wonders. Park ranger-naturalists visit the main hotels and campgrounds for evening talks. Programs change daily, so check with the hotel's front desk or park visitor centers for the day's offerings. Park naturalists lead free walks and day-hikes on popular trails, interpreting each area's plants and animals, and recalling native tales. For Glacier's schedules, consult the park biweekly schedules, newspapers or call (406) 888-7800.
Waterton: Various interpretive and educational programs are offered at Waterton such as theater programs, children's programs and guided tours. Some programs require a fee. Ask for more information at the Waterton Visitor Center or Heritage Center, or call (403) 859-5133.
The free, full-day, round-trip International Peace Park Hike is offered every Saturday in July and August and spans both parks. Led by a U.S. park ranger-naturalist and a Canadian park interpreter, the hike begins in Waterton, stops near the International Boundary for lunch, and goes on to Goat Haunt Ranger Station. A boat cruise brings the group back to Waterton on the half-day trip. Cruise tickets are $6-$12 CAN (one way), depending on age, and can be purchased at the dock. There is also a shuttle that can take you from Upper Waterton Lake to the Crypt trailhead ($5-$11 CAN). For more information, please call (403) 859-2362.
Field Seminars
Glacier Institute and Waterton Natural History Association offer half-day to multi-day classes on topics such as art, history, geology and natural science. College credit can be arranged for many courses. Please contact Glacier Institute at (406) 755-1211 or Waterton Natural History Association at (403) 859-2624 for more information.
Backpacking and Guided Day Hikes
Guided backpacking and day-hiking tours of the parks can be arranged from mid-May through September. Gear rentals are available. Please contact Glacier Wilderness Guides at (800) 521-7238 for more information.
Rafting
The Middle and North Forks of the Flathead River provide a range of rafting adventures. The Middle Fork, along Glacier's southern border, contains some excellent white water. The North Fork borders Glacier to the west, has both fast and calm water and is popular for all-day sightseeing tours because it meanders past Glacier's Livingston Mountain Range. Numerous rafting companies provide trips of varying lengths, including Glacier Raft Co., (800) 235-6781; Great Northern Whitewater, (800) 735-7897; Montana Raft Co., (800) 521-RAFT; and Wild River Adventures, (800) 700-7056. Please call for more information.
You can also bring your own raft or boat to run the rivers. Stop in at Hungry Horse Ranger Station on the Flathead National Forest near West Glacier to obtain a permit and advice; please call (406) 387-5243 for more information.
Find more info about rafting guides.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding will let you experience Glacier National Park in an entirely new way. The "Crown of the Continent" stretches across the Rocky Mountains filled with majestic wilderness. The majority of Glacier's most magical secrets are found off the beaten path, and a horseback ride is often the perfect way to explore. Inside the park, Apgar trail rides, Lake McDonald trail rides and Many Glacier trail rides are all offered by Swan Mountain Outfitters. Please call 1-877-888-5557 for more information or to make a reservation. To contact Swan Mountain Outfitters you can call their specific corrals Apgar Corral at 406-888-5010; Lake McDonald Corral at 406-888-5121; Many Glacier Corral at 406-732-4203.
