glacier national park

John F. Kennedy said America’s national parks are meant to ensure that future generations “may know the majesty of the earth as we know it today.” Nowhere is such preservation as apparent as at Glacier National Park, which puts some of Earth’s grandest majesties on breathtaking display. The park, as Life Magazine writer Bill Gilbert puts it, has no single defining feature or attraction, but rather stands as a monument to the underlying forces of nature. Glacier National Park’s vast wilderness and striking scenery are sure to offer rest from your cares, and there are many ways to enjoy them. Camping Glacier National Park's location in the secluded northwestern corner of Montana doesn’t easily lend itself to day trips. As such, it’s best to find a place to stay for a few days in the park, and camping is easily the best way to experience everything the park has to offer.

Settling in for a peaceful day of fishing on the edge of a pristine glacier lake is a dream come true for many vacationers, if only thousands of other vacationers weren’t looking for the exact same thing. Many people retreat to the mountains for peace and quiet, but they often don’t find it at Glacier National Park—at least not during the peak summer months. However, vacationing at Glacier National Park for a week during the winter is an ideal mountain getaway. A great way to kick off your week away is with the Amtrak Empire Builder train to see the beautiful mountains starting in Whitefish, Montana. The Empire Builder runs right into Essex, which is in the heart of the park’s rugged peaks. Essex is home to the Izaak Walton Inn, which is dedicated to providing an authentic Montanan experience. The inn has a no electronics policy, so visitors can enjoy a distraction-free experience.