Explore Things to Do in Glacier National Park for the Whole Family!

Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park reflecting snow‑covered mountains beneath a bright blue sky.
Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park reflecting snow‑covered mountains beneath a bright blue sky.

Glacier National Park, where families trade screens for real‑life wonder.

One of the best things you can do for your kids is get them out in nature. In a world where it feels like everything is fighting for their attention, planned adventures let them drop the distractions and make some incredible memories. Plus, it gives you the perfect chance to bond! If you’re looking for a way to have an unforgettable time, I’d love to tell you about some of my favorite family-friendly things to do in Glacier National Park. This way, you all can ditch the screens for a bit and reconnect with the world around you. 

5 Things to Do in Glacier National Park to Connect With Your Family

Be A Junior Ranger

The Junior Rangers at Glacier National Park are a great way to teach your child all about conservation. At the beginning of your visit, you can pick up a self-guided activity book at the visitor center and let your child complete it as you explore the park. Once all the steps and activities have been completed, your child can turn it over to a park ranger or an employee at a visitor center and receive their Junior Ranger Badge. 

Rafting

Going rafting gives your family the chance to get up close with nature. While Glacier National Park has whitewater rafting for experienced explorers, they offer several easy options for younger guests. 

Their scenic floats and family-friendly rafting give you a safe way to raft with children ages three and up. The park lets you tack on additional adventures, such as horseback riding, and you can choose overnight trips that let you camp out between rides. 

Glacier Park Boat Company

Since 1938, Glacier Park Boat Company has been providing visitors scenic tours of the park from the water. The company offers kayak rentals, but their historic wooden boats are the preferred choice for families. The company does not require reservations, but because rides tend to fill up, they suggest booking your trip ahead of time to work around your schedule.

Horseback Rides in Glacier National Park by Swan Mountain

Swan Market Outfitters offers your family the chance to explore the park the way explorers did centuries ago. The family-owned business offers guided horseback rides for visitors ages seven and up. You can choose anything from hour-long trips to full-day excursions. The company allows you to buy food and beverages to hit the trail and stop when needed.

Avalanche Lake

What better way to explore the park than on foot? While Glacier National Park has many hiking options, the Avalanche Lake trail is a popular choice for families. Over the 5.9-mile trail, you’ll face 757 feet of elevation. 

The park does give camping options, so you don’t have to do it all in one go. Because the trail is an out-and-back, you can turn around at any point if your child gets a little too tired. The hike is considered moderately challenging, but most visitors find that it’s pretty kid-friendly. 

Things to Do in Glacier National Park

There are unlimited things to do in Glacier National Park to make memories while connecting with the people you love the most. Schedule an adventure today and explore! 

Let’s chat if you’re looking for another way to make memories with your family. I’m a photographer based in Northeast Washington, and I adore working with my clients to deliver gorgeous, nature-filled portraits. If you’ve been considering booking some pictures for your family, I would love to talk to you more so you can decide if I’m the photographer for you. Contact me today to get the conversation started!

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