You don’t need to hike 10 miles to experience the magic of Glacier National Park. My 84-year-old father enjoyed the park’s stunning landscapes without ever setting foot on a challenging trail, and he said it was better than any National Geographic special he’d watched.
From scenic drives that’ll make your jaw drop to boat tours where moose sightings are common, Glacier National Park offers plenty of ways to soak in its beauty without breaking a sweat.
I love this park, and I’m excited to share my favorite non-hiking activities that’ll give you those million-dollar views minus the mountain climbing.
You can make your Glacier National Park trip planning easy and stress-free with a detailed itinerary for Glacier National Park. I have 1-, 2-, 3- and 4/5-day itineraries for Glacier that include all the park highlights, give you choices based on your preferred activity level, and take all the stress out of planning your trip.
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Table of Contents
1. Scenic Drives on Going-to-the-Sun Road
Going-to-the-Sun Road is a 50-mile road that’s perfect if you want to see Glacier’s best views without hiking. No matter how many times you drive it, it never gets old. The road winds through the heart of the park, showing off mountain peaks and valleys that’ll make you want to stop frequently for photos.
The road is only open from late June through mid-September, so timing matters. I recommend getting an early start – like 7:00 AM (at the latest) early. You’ll beat the crowds and catch the morning light on the mountains. Plus, you’ll actually find parking at popular spots like Logan Pass.
Keep in mind, though, that you need a timed entry permit for most of the season.
➡️ Read my Guide to the Glacier National Park Timed Entry System for more details.
Speaking of parking, the lots fill up fast by mid-morning (or earlier), even with the timed entry system. When my father drove it last summer, he found the best strategy was to hit the most popular pull-offs first thing. That’s when you’ll have the best chance of spotting mountain goats and bighorn sheep too. They’re often hanging out near the road in the early hours.
Pro tip: Get an Action Guide tour before your drive. It’s like having a local guide right in your car. You download it on to your phone then it automatically plays information as you reach places of interest (no cell phone service necessary).
2. Boat Tours
The boat tours are available on Lake McDonald, St Mary Lake, Many Glacier Lake and Two Medicine Lake are some of my favorite ways to see the park’s beauty without walking far. You’ll get amazing views of the mountains right from your seat, and the calm water makes for a really comfortable ride.
On Lake McDonald, the tours run several times a day. My dad took it and loved it loved it. The boat captain pointed out glaciers and told stories about the park’s history that we wouldn’t have learned otherwise. An added bonus is that if you have a boat tour booking, you don’t need a timed entry permit for that day!
St. Mary Lake’s tours are just as good. The boats are stable and have plenty of seating, making them perfect for families with kids or older folks. My dad saw moose and bears from the boat – way better than trying to spot them while driving!
And the boat tours on Many Glacier Lake and Two Medicine Lake are also absolutely worthwhile!
Make sure you book your tickets well ahead of time, especially in July and August. The tours often sell out many days in advance. Most tours last about an hour, giving you plenty of time to grab lunch or check out the historic lodges afterward.
3. Wildlife Viewing and Photography Opportunities
Early morning and late afternoon are prime times to spot wildlife in Glacier. Dad had good luck around Many Glacier Hotel and along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. And he saw super cute white mountain goats hanging out near Logan Pass at 6:00 AM – they were so close to the parking lot, he didn’t even need a zoom lens!
The pullouts along Going-to-the-Sun Road aren’t just for scenery. You might grizzly bears in the meadows below, especially in the areas near Siyeh Bend. Just keep your distance and bring binoculars. The St. Mary Valley is another hotspot – dad saw moose wading in the lakes there right from his car.
For photos, the light’s best at sunrise at Wild Goose Island Overlook. I recommend getting there 30 minutes before sunrise to set up your shot. Another great spot is the Many Glacier Hotel’s deck – you can sit with a coffee and watch bighorn sheep on the mountainsides.
Remember to pack bear spray, even if you’re just stepping out of your car for quick photos.
4. Ranger-led Programs and Educational Activities
The Logan Pass Visitor Center is my go-to spot for learning about Glacier’s wildlife and geology. The rangers give talks right on the back deck, where you can sit and take in the mountain views while learning about the park’s glaciers and mountain goats.
The Apgar Visitor Center also has morning programs for kids. The rangers bring out animal pelts and tracks for everyone to touch – way better than any classroom lesson! These programs run throughout the day and don’t need reservations. Just check the daily schedule when you arrive.
St. Mary Visitor Center offers indoor programs that are perfect for rainy days. My dad really enjoyed a fascinating presentation about the park’s Native American history there. The rangers use photos and artifacts to tell stories about the land.
‼️ Pro tip: Stop by any visitor center first thing in the morning to get the day’s program schedule. The evening programs at Lake McDonald Lodge are really popular – the ones about grizzly bears usually fill up fast.
5. Scenic Picnic Spots with Mountain Views
Apgar is my favorite spot for a relaxing lunch in Glacier. The picnic spots and swimming area has plenty of tables with amazing views of Lake McDonald, and it’s super easy to get to from the parking lot. Kids can splash in the water while you set up your picnic – but the water is cold!
Avalanche Creek is another great option, especially on hot days. The creek provides a cool breeze, and there’s lots of shade from the cedar trees. The picnic tables are just a short walk from the parking area, making it perfect for families with small kids or older folks who don’t want to walk far.
I love Two Medicine Lake for quieter picnics. The tables near the lake give you front-row seats to mountain reflections on the water. There’s a small store nearby where you can grab drinks or snacks if you forgot anything. ‼️ Pro tip: bring a tablecloth and something to hold it down – the afternoon wind can send your napkins flying!
Remember to keep your food stored properly – the ground squirrels at Apgar are pretty bold, and bears can show up anywhere in the park.
6. Visiting Historic Lodges and Chalets
The Many Glacier Hotel is a Swiss-style beauty that’s worth checking out even if you’re not staying overnight. I spent an afternoon in the lobby last summer, sitting in the comfy chairs and watching bighorn sheep on the mountains through the huge windows. The hotel’s been here since 1914, and you can really feel the history in the wooden beams and Native American artwork.
➡️ Book the Many Glacier Hotel here
Lake McDonald Lodge is another must-visit spot. The dining at the lodges has some of the best food in the park, and the views can’t be beat. I love grabbing dinner here after a day of scenic drives – get a window table if you can! The stone fireplace in the lobby is perfect for cool evenings, and the staff knows tons of stories about the lodge’s past.
➡️ Book the Lake McDonald Lodge here
The lodges often have evening programs in their lobbies. If you’re planning to eat at any lodge restaurant, make reservations ahead – especially during July and August. Even if you’re just stopping by, the gift shops are worth checking out for unique Montana-made items.
➡️ See more National Parks Lodges and Inns
7. Stargazing and Night Sky Programs
The dark skies over Glacier are incredible for stargazing since there’s barely any city light around. Some of the best spots are the big parking lots at Logan Pass and St. Mary. They’re high up and have wide-open views of the sky. Just bundle up – it gets chilly at night, even in August. Bring camp chairs and hot chocolate to make it comfy.
The rangers run night sky programs at Apgar and St. Mary during summer. My father took one last July, and the ranger pointed out constellations with a laser pointer and let him look through their big telescope. He said he’d never seen the Milky Way look so clear.
Another option is to set up near the shore of Lake McDonald – the mountains block some light from the west, making the stars even brighter. Get there before sunset to find a good spot and watch the colors fade into starlight.
If you’re bringing your own gear, a pair of 10×50 binoculars works great.
➡️ These Vortex Diamondback HD 10 x 50 are a great choice.
8. Scenic Helicopter or Small Plane Tours
A scenic flight over Glacier National Park is an amazing way to see everything without walking a step. My father took a 1-hour helicopter tour from West Glacier last summer, and he said it was worth every penny. You’ll soar over glaciers and peaks that most visitors never see from the ground.
➡️ Book a helicopter scenic flight here
The flights usually take off early morning when the air is calmest. The pilot points out landmarks and shares stories about the park’s geology throughout the flight.
If you’re nervous about helicopters, the small plane tours are a bit smoother and less expensive.
➡️ Book a scenic flight in a small plane here
Book your flight at least a few weeks ahead in summer – they fill up fast. Most tours last 30-60 minutes and leave from either West Glacier or East Glacier. I recommend taking some Dramamine before my flight (just in case).
The best views are from the middle of the park, where you’ll see Hidden Lake and the Garden Wall from above. The pilots usually circle around a few times so everyone can get good photos.
9. Horseback Riding Excursions
My father took a guided horseback ride at Swan Mountain Outfitters last summer, and it was one of the best ways to see Glacier without hiking. They offer rides from Lake McDonald, Many Glacier, and Apgar – each one giving you a different view of the mountains.
The two-hour trail ride from Lake McDonald was perfect for my dad. He really loved being able to see the backcountry from horseback. The horses are super gentle and used to carrying beginners, so you don’t need any riding experience.
The guides match you with a horse based on your size and comfort level. Kids as young as 7 can ride their own horse, while younger ones can do a lead-line ride. I watched a family with their less active grandparents have the time of their lives on the one-hour Apgar ride.
‼️ Pro Tip: Morning rides are best – the weather’s cooler and the horses are fresh. Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, and book at least a few days ahead in summer. They’ll provide everything else you need for a comfortable ride through the park.
10. Visiting the Park’s Visitor Centers and Museums
The Logan Pass Visitor Center sits right at the highest point of Going-to-the-Sun Road, making it an easy stop with amazing views. The big windows let you watch for wildlife while staying dry – you may well spot mountain goats from the comfort of the building!
St. Mary Visitor Center on the east side is a favorite for learning about Native American history. The exhibits tell stories about the Blackfeet people’s connection to the land. They’ve got touchable artifacts and a great 15-minute film about the park. Kids love the interactive wildlife exhibits – especially the grizzly bear track comparisons.
The Apgar Visitor Center near Lake McDonald is perfect for your first stop. The rangers there can give you recommendations and share updates. They’ve got a relief map of the park that really shows you where everything is, plus a nice gift shop with Montana-made items. There’s even a covered patio where you can sit and watch boats on the lake while looking through the park guide.
11. Scenic Train Rides on the Perimeter of the Park
Taking Amtrak’s Empire Builder along Glacier’s southern border is another great way to see the area without walking. The train runs right along the park’s edge, giving you amazing views of the mountains through huge windows.
The best views come between West Glacier and East Glacier Park stations. I recommend going eastbound in the morning – that’s when the lighting’s perfect for photos. The observation car has floor-to-ceiling windows and swivel seats, so you won’t miss anything.
Book a ticket in advance during summer months – the scenic route fills up fast. The full ride between stations takes about 1.5 hours. You can hop off at East Glacier Park station to grab lunch at the historic Glacier Park Lodge, then catch a later train back.
‼️ Pro tip: sit on the north side of the train (left side heading east) for the best mountain views.
12. Attending Cultural Events and Demonstrations
The Blackfeet Native American Crafts demonstrations at park’s history and ecology were a highlight for my dad. He watched a local artist make traditional beadwork while sharing stories about her tribe’s history in the park. These demonstrations happen most afternoons in summer, and you can even try some basic beading techniques yourself.
Over at Lake McDonald Lodge, he caught a fantastic presentation about the park’s railroad days. The speaker showed old photos of the Great Northern Railway while telling stories about how the lodges were built.
Many Glacier Hotel hosts evening programs about Blackfeet culture in their lobby. Dad said he listened to a tribal elder sing traditional songs and explain what different areas of the park mean to his people. The hotel’s grand lobby was the perfect setting – he could see the sacred mountains through the windows while hearing their stories.
Remember to check the visitor centers’ bulletin boards for weekly event schedules. The programs change throughout the season, but they’re always free with your park entrance fee.
13. Exploring the Park’s Accessible Trails and Boardwalks
The Trail of the Cedars is hands down the easiest and one of the most beautiful walks in Glacier. It’s a suitable for all ages wooden boardwalk that winds through giant cedar trees – perfect for strollers, wheelchairs, or anyone who wants a gentle stroll.
Running Creek crosses under the boardwalk about halfway through, creating some amazing photo spots. Go early in the morning (before 8:00 AM) to beat the crowds and catch the morning light filtering through the trees. The parking lot fills up fast by mid-morning, but if you get there early, you’ll have the boardwalk almost to yourself.
The short bridge walk near Swiftcurrent in Many Glacier is another great option. It’s just 100 yards from the campground and gives you stunning views of the mountains reflected in the water. If you’re lucky, you may see moose here, usually in the early evening.
For an easy walk with big views, check out the paved path around the Many Glacier Hotel. You can walk right along the lakeshore and stop at benches whenever you need a break. The hotel’s deck makes a perfect rest stop for a snack or cold drink.
14. Scenic Gondola Rides at Nearby Ski Resorts
My father really enjoyed the summer gondola ride he took at Whitefish Mountain Resort last July.
While technically not inside the national park, it’s a perfect add-on to your Glacier trip. It’s just 30 minutes from West Glacier, making it an easy side trip. The gondola lifts you 2,000 feet up Big Mountain, giving you awesome views of Glacier’s peaks without any walking.
The ride takes about 15 minutes each way, and the gondola cars are really stable and even if you don’t like heights, you should be comfortable.
At the top, there’s a nice restaurant with outdoor seating where you can grab lunch while looking at the mountains. Dad said he spotted a black bear munching berries on the slopes below him!
The gondola runs from late June through September, 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily. I recommend going before noon to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. If you’re staying in Whitefish, some hotels offer discount packages that include gondola rides.
Pro tip: Bring a light jacket – it’s usually 10-15 degrees cooler at the top than at the base. The summit has some short, paved paths if you want to walk around, but you can see everything right from the observation deck.
15. Relaxing at Lake McDonald or St. Mary Lake Beaches
Lake McDonald’s beach is a great spot to chill without hiking a step. The swimming area at Apgar has clean restrooms, plenty of picnic tables, and an easy walk from the parking lot to the water. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon if you want to relax. The water’s chilly but refreshing on hot days!
St. Mary Lake’s beaches are less crowded. Look for a quiet spot near Rising Sun last summer where you can sit on smooth rocks and watch eagles soar overhead. The afternoon sun warms the rocks perfectly for napping or picnicking. There’s a small store nearby where you can grab cold drinks and snacks.
Both beaches are best from July through early September when temperatures hit the 70s. Bring beach chairs, sunscreen, and lots of water.
‼️ Pro tip: Pack a windbreaker – the afternoon breezes can get pretty strong on St. Mary Lake. The morning light on the water makes for amazing photos, so get there early if you can!
Final Thoughts on Enjoying Glacier Without Hiking
There’s no wrong way to experience Glacier’s beauty. Whether you’re riding a scenic gondola or watching the sunset from a beach chair, you’re creating memories that’ll last a lifetime.
Just make sure to book popular activities in advance during peak season, and always keep your camera handy – you never know when a grizzly might wander into view!
Additional Planning Resources for Glacier National Park
⭐ Planning A Trip to Glacier National Park: 7 Mistakes to Avoid
⭐ Guide to Glacier National Park Ticketed Entry
⭐ Best Hikes in Glacier National Park
⭐ 15 Tips For Visiting Glacier National Park
⭐ How to Get to Glacier National Park
⭐ When is The Best Time To Visit Glacier National Park?
⭐ Visiting Glacier National Park: What To Expect Throughout the Year
⭐ The Airports Near Glacier National Park
⭐ The Closest Airport To Glacier National Park
⭐ 10 Fun Facts About Glacier National Park
You can make your Glacier National Park trip planning easy and stress-free with a detailed itinerary for Glacier National Park. I have 1-, 2-, 3- and 4/5-day itineraries for Glacier that include all the park highlights, give you choices based on your preferred activity level, and take all the stress out of planning your trip.
Do you have any other favorite non-hiking activities in Glacier National Park? I’d love to hear about them. Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know.
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About the Author
James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.
He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.
Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for many of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, and other resources will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.
As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.
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