If you like animals, peaks, lakes and not getting lost, Glacier National Park might be for you. Just make sure to pack your bear mace.

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At Glacier National Park, the Going to the Sun Road will take you through the heart of the park. You’ll barely notice the 50 miles from East to West—the views are incredible. You can turn out and enjoy as you go. But don’t take too long, parking fills up fast!

If you start early, you can catch the beautiful sunrise illuminating peaks while avoiding the traffic. An early start many times will get you to your destination in half the time.

If you happen to arrive when the park is covered in dense clouds, don’t worry! Take some time and explore some of the waterfalls. The St. Mary Falls trail will take you to a couple beautiful waterfalls. First, you will encounter St. Mary Falls, plunging into a beautiful blue pool beneath a wooden bridge.

A little under 2 miles later, you will reach Virginia Falls.

When you begin your sunny day explorations, don’t ignore the Many Glacier side of Glacier NP. Beautiful adventures and light crowds await. Here you can hike out to Grinnell Glacier, several lakes, and the Granite Park Chalet via the Swiftcurrent Pass—all of which are great choices!

Be attentive during your hike and soak in the beauty.

If you start early, always remember to make extra noise around corners – just in case bears are around. Although we didn't see one, the people ahead of us on the trail did. Extra noise = less risk of startling them. But bears aren’t the only animals you may encounter; we were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of moose.

Depending on your planned hiking adventures, make an effort to hike the Highline Trail at Logan’s Pass. If you don’t intend on a backpacking trek, this is a worthwhile day adventure.