Winter Snowshoe Day Tour in Glacier National Park — West Glacier Guided Trip
Step into Glacier National Park in winter on a guided snowshoe day tour from West Glacier. This full-day outing delivers quiet lakeshores, ridge views, and all gear, with routes tailored to ability and conditions.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Start with wicking base layers, add insulating mid-layers and a waterproof shell; temperatures and exertion will vary during the day.
Protect your eyes
Bright snow reflects ultraviolet light — bring sunglasses or goggles to avoid snow glare and wind in the eyes.
Bring insulated water
Use an insulated bottle or thermos to prevent liquids from freezing and to encourage regular hydration.
Watch for avalanche advisories
Guides monitor conditions, but if you’re venturing independently, check the local avalanche forecast and avoid steep, wind-loaded slopes.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the frozen edge of Lake McDonald near Apgar at low-angled light for colorful stones visible through clear ice.
- •Short detours at Avalanche Gorge viewpoints offer dramatic river-ice formations and fewer visitors in winter.
Wildlife
- •Elk
- •Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Winter travel reduces summer trail impacts but can disturb wildlife during scarce winter months — stick to guided routes, avoid closed areas, and pack out all waste.
Glacier National Park was established in 1910 on lands historically used by Salish, Kootenai and Blackfeet peoples; many place names and traditional routes overlap with park infrastructure.
Photographer's Notes
- • Lake McDonald shoreline near Apgar
- • Clearing above the primary snowshoe loop with mountain backdrop
- • Roadside overlooks on the approach into West Glacier
What to Bring
Insulated waterproof winter bootsEssential
Keeps feet warm and dry when standing in snow and using rental snowshoes.
Layered clothing (base, insulating mid, shell)Essential
Allows quick temperature control during stops and climbs.
Insulated water bottle or thermosEssential
Prevents hydration from freezing during long exposures in cold air.
Sunglasses or snow gogglesEssential
Protects eyes from glare and wind, improving comfort and visibility.
Common Questions
Do you provide snowshoes and poles?
Yes — all necessary snowshoe equipment and basic instruction are included in the tour price.
Where do you pick up guests?
Pickups are offered in Whitefish and Columbia Falls; the operator will confirm a pickup point at booking if your hotel is listed or arrange a meeting location.
Is this suitable for children?
Tours are family-friendly and can be customized for children, but parents should confirm route difficulty with the operator when booking.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled for unsafe conditions; you’ll be eligible for a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before departure per the provider’s policy.
Are meals provided?
Yes — the tour includes a hot lunch, snacks, bottled water and hot drinks on the trail.
Do I need a park pass?
Guides include park access as part of the tour logistics; independent travelers should carry a valid Glacier National Park pass.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5–6 hours
Location
West Glacier, Montana
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for moderately fit participants who can hike on uneven terrain for 2–4 hours; families and varied fitness levels are accommodated by route selection.
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