Combo Tour: Driving and Snowshoe Trek of Glacier National Park

Planning a trip to Glacier National Park and wondering how to experience its winter wonderland? This combined driving and snowshoe tour offers a fantastic way to see the park’s highlights while enjoying some active outdoor fun. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the feedback from fellow travelers paints a clear picture of what to expect—an engaging mix of comfort, stunning scenery, and expert guidance.

Two aspects stand out immediately: First, the knowledgeable guides who share stories and facts that deepen your appreciation of the area. Second, the spectacular views of lakes, glaciers, and mountain landscapes that stay with you long after the snow has melted from your boots. One potential consideration is the weather dependency; since snowshoeing is outdoors, a day with less snow or poor weather might limit the experience.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a blend of sightseeing and outdoor activity. It’s family-friendly and adaptable to various comfort levels, making it ideal for those who want a taste of winter adventure without the hassle of planning every detail. If you love natural scenery and friendly guides, this could be a memorable part of your Montana trip.

Key Points

• Balanced experience: Combines scenic driving with outdoor snowshoeing.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and engaging, sharing local facts and stories.
• Flexible for all: Customized to suit different experience levels and comfort.
• Stunning scenery: Lakes, mountains, and wildlife sights, including evidence like moose tracks.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for outdoor enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
• Good value: For $240, the tour offers a full 4 to 5 hours of guided adventure with lunch included.

Exploring the Glacier National Park Combo Tour

This tour offers a thoughtful blend of transportation and outdoor activity, making it accessible to many types of travelers. Starting early at 9:00 am, the experience kicks off with a scenic drive through key park highlights like Apgar, West Glacier, the historic Belton Bridge, Lake McDonald, and the Lake McDonald Lodge. These stops alone provide a pretty rundown of Glacier’s natural beauty and history, all without the hassle of self-driving if you prefer to relax and take in the sights.

The driving component is not just about getting from point A to B. It’s a chance to soak in the breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, frozen lakes, and dense forests. The guides are praised for their stories and local facts, which enrich each stop. For example, one reviewer commented, “Justin and team are great; lots of stories and local facts,” making the drive both informative and entertaining.

The highlight for many is the outdoor snowshoe walk, which lasts around two hours and is tailored to your comfort and ability level. Even if you’re new to snowshoeing, the guides provide safety instructions and support, ensuring you won’t feel left behind. The experience of walking through snow-laden landscapes, with chances to see moose tracks and other wildlife signs, creates a feeling of connection with nature.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s main stops include:

• Apgar and West Glacier: These areas offer scenic views and photo opportunities. West Glacier is known as the gateway to the park, and the nearby Lake McDonald is a perfect backdrop for snow or photos.
• Belton Bridge: A historic structure that adds a touch of nostalgia and insight into early park development.
• Lake McDonald and Lake McDonald Lodge: These iconic locations are renowned for their breathtaking vistas. The lodge, with its rustic charm, is a nice spot for a lunch break, and you’ll have a choice of sandwiches (turkey, ham, roast beef, or veggie) and drinks like coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.

The lunch is included in the tour price, which is a thoughtful touch—no need to hunt for food on your own. The meal is simple but satisfying, with options to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Snacks like chips, cookies, and crackers are also provided, so you can refuel after snowshoeing.

Group Size and Practicalities

With a maximum of 12 travelers, the group remains intimate enough for personalized attention. This small group size enhances the experience, allowing guides to tailor the route and pace as needed. The tour includes pickup service, which adds to the convenience—no need to worry about finding your way to a meeting point.

The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, providing a full but manageable day of exploration. Expect the outdoor part to take about two hours, so dressing appropriately is key. Outdoor clothing, waterproof gloves, snow boots, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended, along with a small day pack for lunch and water.

Reviews and Real Experiences

The reviews reflect a generally high level of satisfaction. Most travelers noted the guides’ knowledge and the stunning scenery. One reviewer said, “Justin and team are great; lots of stories and local facts,” which shows the value of good storytelling and expertise. Others appreciated the personalized approach, with one saying, “The tour was amazing, very personalized and comforting.”

A slight disappointment was mentioned when weather conditions prevented the snowshoeing from occurring, which underscores the importance of flexible planning in winter trips. But overall, travelers felt the experience was worthwhile, with many praising the scenery and guides.

Analyzing the Value

At $240 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience—covering transportation, outdoor activity, lunch, and expert guidance. For a small group tour with personalized attention, this is quite reasonable. It provides not just pictures but a meaningful understanding of Glacier’s landscape and ecology, which many self-guided travelers might miss.

The inclusion of safety instruction and the option to customize the experience based on your ability level makes this tour attractive for families and casual outdoor adventurers alike. If you’re looking for a comfortable, engaging way to see Glacier in winter, this tour promises a memorable day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to those who want a comprehensive, guided introduction to Glacier National Park. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the snowshoe trek, while those who prefer a relaxed sightseeing day will enjoy the scenic drive. Families and small groups looking for a safe, social experience will find this perfect, especially with the small group size and flexible itinerary.

It’s also ideal for travelers who value local stories and expert guides, as well as those seeking a balanced mix of activity and comfort. The tour’s focus on scenery, wildlife signs, and historic sites makes it a well-rounded choice for almost anyone curious about Glacier’s winter landscape.

Final Thoughts

This combo tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience Glacier National Park in winter. The combination of scenic driving and outdoor snowshoeing means you get a taste of the wilderness without the need for advanced expertise or equipment. The guides’ local knowledge and personal touch make it more than just a sightseeing trip—they add layers of interest and authenticity.

While weather can always be unpredictable in Montana’s mountains, the flexibility built into the tour means you’re covered if conditions aren’t ideal. The included lunch, small group size, and scenic stops make this a great value for a day’s adventure in one of America’s most stunning national parks.

If you’re after a family-friendly, accessible, and scenic winter outing that balances comfort with outdoor fun, this Glacier tour is a strong contender. It’s especially suited to those who want expert insights and memorable views, all wrapped into a manageable, well-organized experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup available for this tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup, making it easier to start your day without worrying about transportation.

What should I wear for snowshoeing?
Outdoor clothing, including a hat, waterproof gloves, snow boots, and sunglasses, is recommended. Bringing a small day pack for lunch, water, and extra gear is also advised.

How long is the outdoor snowshoe experience?
The snowshoe trek lasts approximately two hours and is tailored to your comfort level—guides will provide safety instructions and support.

What locations will we visit during the driving part?
You’ll see highlights like Apgar, West Glacier, the old Belton Bridge, Lake McDonald, and the historic Lake McDonald Lodge.

Is lunch included, and what are the options?
Yes, lunch is included. You can choose from sandwiches (turkey, ham, roast beef, or veggie) and drinks such as coffee, tea, or hot cocoa. Snacks are also provided.

What happens if the weather cancels the snowshoe activity?
If weather conditions prevent snowshoeing, you will be informed, and the tour may be rescheduled or refunded as per policy.

This guided combo tour of Glacier National Park offers a well-rounded, scenic, and active way to experience some of the park’s best winter sights. With knowledgeable guides, intimate group sizes, and flexible options, it’s an experience that’s both fun and educational—perfect for making winter memories in Montana.