West Glacier offers some of the best outdoor experiences in Montana, thanks to its stunning mountain scenery, pristine lakes, and accessible wilderness. If you’re looking to explore this area on foot or by snowshoe, you’ll find options that suit both casual walkers and seasoned hikers.
We’re particularly fond of the Combo Tour: Driving and Snowshoe Trek of Glacier National Park, which combines a relaxing drive with the quiet thrill of snowshoeing—ideal for those who want both comfort and adventure.
West Glacier is a haven for outdoor lovers. With its dramatic views of Lake McDonald and the chance to learn about the park’s history along a guided route, it’s a prime spot for memorable hikes and treks. The tours we selected stand out for their accessibility, local insights, and unique experiences, whether it’s snowshoeing through winter snows or hiking to alpine lakes.
1. Combo Tour: Driving and Snowshoe Trek of Glacier National Park
This family-friendly tour offers a delightful mix of scenic driving and snowshoeing, perfect for those who want to enjoy Glacier National Park without strenuous hikes. The tour lasts around 4 to 5 hours and is tailored to your comfort and experience level.
On this tour, you’ll leave the driving to local guides who are passionate about sharing the park’s highlights, including Apgar, West Glacier, Lake McDonald, and the historic Belton Bridge.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility. If you’ve never snowshoed before, don’t worry—guides customize the experience, making sure everyone feels comfortable. The itinerary includes stops at Lake McDonald Lodge, where you can absorb the peaceful ambiance and snap photos of the crystal-clear waters.
Guests rave about the personalized attention and the stories shared by Justin and his team, who keep the experience engaging and educational.
The tour even includes a picnic-style lunch with sandwiches and drinks, making it a relaxing way to spend a day in the park.
Bottom Line: This tour is best for families, beginners, or anyone wanting a laid-back Glacier experience with a snowy twist. The reviews highlight how personalized and accommodating it is, making it a top choice for a hassle-free day out.
2. Doris Lake Hike and Pack Raft Adventure
For those looking for a more physically engaging experience, the Doris Lake Hike and Pack Raft Adventure offers a full day of exploring. Starting with a drive across the tall Hungry Horse Dam, this tour immerses you in scenic mountain landscapes before hitting the trail.
The hike to Doris Lake is rewarding—this pristine alpine spot is surrounded by mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including Hungry Horse Reservoir.
What makes this outing distinctive is the option to combine a summit attempt on Doris Mountain or enjoy a peaceful float on Doris Lake using a pack-raft. This flexibility appeals to adventurous travelers who want variety.
The tour includes a semi-rugged trek that’s suitable for those with moderate fitness and a desire to see remote alpine scenery. The activity has a sense of discovery, with the chance to see wildlife and enjoy unspoiled nature.
While this tour currently has no reviews, its mix of hiking and paddling makes it ideal for active travelers wanting a full outdoor immersion. It’s well-suited for those comfortable with hiking and paddling, and who want a memorable, all-encompassing day in the mountains.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a physically engaging and flexible adventure, this tour offers a good mix of hiking, mountain views, and paddling—perfect for active outdoor enthusiasts.
How to Choose Between These Tours
Choosing the right adventure in West Glacier depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend outdoors. If you prefer a relaxed, family-friendly experience with manageable snowshoeing and scenic drives, the Combo Tour is a smart pick. It provides a gentle introduction to Glacier’s highlights without the need for strenuous activity.
On the other hand, if you’re seeking a more physically active experience with hiking and paddling, the Doris Lake Hike and Pack Raft Adventure offers a full day of exploration and adventure. It’s well suited for those comfortable with moderate hiking and paddling, and eager to see some of Glacier’s most stunning wilderness areas.
Timing is also key; the snowshoe tour is best in winter or early spring when snow covers the landscape, while the Doris Lake hike is ideal in late spring through early fall when trails are clear and lakes are accessible.
To sum it up, West Glacier’s landscape is rich with opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. For a relaxed but scenic day, the snowshoe and driving tour provides comfort with a touch of winter magic. If you’re after a more vigorous outdoor adventure, the Doris Lake hike and raft combo promises a full day of mountain views and outdoor fun.
Either way, booking early ensures you secure a spot for your preferred adventure—these tours tend to fill up fast during peak season.