Glacier National Park Family Vacation

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Introduction

Spectacular as Montana's Glacier National Park is, we all know that scenery alone isn't the ideal way to satisfy young travelers on a family vacation in our national parks. That’s fine with us because, in fact, this region has a rich variety of activities to keep everyone happy. We’ll take kid-friendly hikes of course—to see glaciers, waterfalls and abandoned mines. In the company of a naturalist, the odds improve that you’ll see moose, deer, mountain goats and other wildlife. And you’ll get a horseback riding lesson before heading into the plains for a cowboy adventure on a working ranch. The grownups will enjoy the well-sited lodges where we stay…dinners on local specialties (while the younger set gets a kids’ night out at a pizzeria)…and exceptional hikes in what many regard as America’s most beautiful park.

The kids will love...

Horseback riding
Rafting down the Flathead River
Exploring with a member of the Blackfeet Indian tribe

Itinerary at a glance

DAY 1 - WHITEFISH
Our vacation with the family in Glacier National Park meets in Whitefish (1 night), an historic railroad and cowboy town, and take a thrilling gondola ride up Big Mountain for an easy walk with views of the Rockies and Flathead Valley.

DAYS 2-3 - WEST GLACIER
Next day, options include whitewater rafting or a guided walk through a beautifully carved gorge and cedar forest to turquoise Avalanche Lake. Later, settle into our historic lodge in West Glacier (2 nights). A morning lake cruise leads to a gentle trail that winds past a double waterfall and through wildflower meadows with a great chance to spot moose. Kids also love the junior ranger activities. One day, a local friend and member of the Blackfeet Indians joins us and shares the history, mythology and culture of the tribe with us through songs and stories.

DAYS 4-6 - ST. MARY / WHITEFISH
Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, St. Mary (2 nights) is the ideal starting point for some amazing walks and stunning views. We'll see who spots the first elk or bald eagle…and have a picnic at a waterfall…then do some unbelievable stargazing together. Following a cruise on Swiftcurrent and Josephine Lakes, the kids will see glaciers like they've only read about in school. On a scenic walk, the adults will enjoy learning about the historic mines in the area. Later, enjoy horseback riding with cowboy friends on a Big Sky horse ranch. On our final day, we return to Whitefish.

Montana

Family Journey

6 Days / 5 Nights

JUL

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Let us create a special departure or itinerary just for you.

Guest Reviews

“This was a perfect family vacation! We couldn’t have asked for a better guide. One of the most exciting moments was when the kids got their Junior Ranger badges and their names were announced at the visitor center.”

Anthony and Helen M., Wilton, CT

“The soaring mountain peaks, emerald mountain lakes, brilliant wildflowers and the camaraderie of the group, all made the day’s walks highly rewarding accomplishments. Once again, Classic Journeys has put together one of the most memorable trips ever! This one is a must!”

Betty A., Memphis, TN

“Classic Journeys has turned out to be a fantastic company to travel with - one I highly recommend. I truly feel as if I have been on vacation this past week.”

Marcia B.

“We loved that we didn't have to plan anything and our days were filled with fun activities, opportunities for learning and quality time spent together everyday.”

Leslie N.

“I have never been disappointed with the Classic Journeys guides. I continue to be impressed.”

Susan L., Mystic, CT

Family Journey

6 Days, 5 Nights

JUL

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How you travel is as important as where you travel

Across turquoise lakes and mountains, through mazes of carved gorges and wildflower meadows, the logistics of seeing Glacier National Park on tour could be daunting. But Classic Journeys takes care of all the details so you can focus on the amazing natural history — without worrying about arrangements for your next lake steamer, river raft or gondola ride.

Tour Dates & Prices

Tour prices are per person based on double occupancy. Single supplement is only applicable if you are traveling solo and/or have a room to yourself.

TOUR DATES	TOUR PRICES	SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
July 4-9, 2016	$3595.00	$695.00
Jul 31-Aug 5, 2016	$3595.00	$695.00
July 2-7, 2017	$3695.00	$695.00
July 23-28, 2017	$3695.00	$695.00

Full time experienced guide(s) who are with you throughout the trip, handle behind-the-scenes logistics and are there to help with anything from haggling for a rug to buying a tube of toothpaste
Support vehicle(s)
Admissions to tastings, historic sites and other scheduled events as noted in the detailed daily itinerary.
Gratuities for hotels, meals and baggage
Trip literature
All land transportation during the trip

• All breakfasts, 5 lunches and 4 dinners (5 dinners for the children)

Montana

Family Journey

6 Days / 5 Nights

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JUL

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when sharing a room with two full-paying guests

Kids ages 11-16 receive a $500 discount; ages 7-10 receive a $750 discount; ages 3-6 receive a $1250 discount; ages 2 and younger receive a $1750 discount. When sharing a room with one full-paying guest, kids receive a $250 discount.

Hotels

Lodge At Whitefish Lake

Inspired by the grand lodges of the past, the four diamond resort is surrounded by mountains with Whitefish Lake at its back door. Studio suites feature a gas stone fireplace and signature bathrooms with soaking tub and slate tile shower.

Belton Chalet

Built in 1911 as Glacier’s first railway hotel, this lodge is rich in history. It’s beautifully restored Arts & Crafts style blends rusticity with convenience. Gardens surround the lodge, and the covered porch is the perfect spot to watch a sunset.

St. Mary - Great Bear Lodge

This mountain resort sits on the edge of Glacier National Park. Guest rooms are rustically furnished and feature mountain views. This lodge is accessible to all park activities and offers complimentary Wi-Fi in public areas.