Known as the Crown of the Continent, Glacier National Park is where the Rocky Mountains reach their highest and most rugged—creating a landscape that’s both awe-inspiring and rich in biodiversity. With over a million acres of wilderness, its glaciers, alpine lakes, and wide-open meadows offer a breathtaking backdrop for wildlife spotting. From curious mountain goats to elusive lynx, Glacier’s residents are one of its greatest treasures. Read on to discover everything you need to know before your visit.
Best Time for Viewing Glacier Wildlife
Seasons
Wildlife activity in Glacier changes with the seasons. Spring welcomes the return of grizzly and black bears as they emerge from hibernation. Summer brings longer daylight hours and bustling activity in the meadows—think bighorn sheep, moose, and marmots. Fall is rutting season for elk and deer, while golden foliage adds to the magic. In winter, though most roads close, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing offer glimpses of wildlife tracks and hardy species like wolves and snowshoe hares.
Time of Day
Like most parks, the best time to see animals is early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler and wildlife is most active. You might catch a moose sipping from a stream at dawn or hear an owl calling through the trees at dusk. That said, midday still offers plenty of chances to spot wildlife, especially in shaded areas, along waterways, or at higher elevations when the weather is warm.
Meet Glacier’s Wildlife: Day vs. Night
Daytime Wildlife Encounters
Glacier’s daylight hours are rich with life. Keep an eye out for mountain goats perched on rocky cliffs, bighorn sheep grazing along Going-to-the-Sun Road, and bald eagles soaring overhead. Meadows and lakes attract elk, deer, and playful pikas.
Nighttime Wildlife Encounters
As darkness falls, Glacier takes on a quieter, more mysterious tone. Nocturnal animals like owls, foxes, and bats begin their hunt, and lucky visitors may even spot a mountain lion in the shadows. Listen for the haunting howls of wolves across the valleys.
Popular Animals to Watch for in Glacier
Glacier is home to more than 70 species of mammals and over 270 species of birds. Here are some of the park’s most iconic wildlife residents:
Mountain Goats
The iconic symbol of Glacier, mountain goats are expert climbers often seen navigating high-elevation cliffs and trails, especially around Logan Pass. Look up to spot these fluffy, sure-footed creatures perched on rocky ledges.
Grizzly Bears
Powerful and awe-inspiring, grizzlies are a highlight of any Glacier visit. They’re often spotted near avalanche paths or berry patches, especially in areas like Many Glacier, Lake McDonald, Logan Pass, the North Fork, Two Medicine, and Saint Mary Valley.
Bighorn Sheep
Look for these impressive animals near rocky slopes and alpine ridges with large curved horns. Rams are known for their dramatic head-butting displays during mating season.
Moose
Most often found near lakes, streams, and marshy areas in the park’s northeastern regions. These gentle giants are best seen early or late in the day.
Wolverines
These solitary creatures roam subalpine fir forests and remote areas of the park in isolation. Spotting one is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Lynx
Secretive and nocturnal, lynx thrive in Glacier’s deep forests. They’re rarely seen, but their presence is a sign of a healthy ecosystem.
Snowshoe Hares
Adapting to the seasons, these small mammals camouflage by turning white in winter and brown in summer to evade predators.
Bald Eagles
Majestic and powerful, bald eagles are often spotted nesting in tall trees near lakes and rivers or soaring across Glacier’s open skies—a striking symbol of the American wild.
Common Loons
Famous for their echoing calls, loons glide across Glacier’s lakes, creating a haunting soundtrack for early-morning paddles. Nearly a quarter of Montana’s loon population calls Glacier National Park home.
Great Gray Owls
These large, silent hunters can be spotted at dawn or dusk, especially in old-growth forests and open meadows.
For bird lovers, Glacier is a hotspot for both migratory and resident bird species. View and download the Glacier Bird Checklist or join a ranger-led walk to make the most of your visit.
Best Places for Wildlife Watching in Glacier
Logan Pass
Perched on the Continental Divide, this area is famous for mountain goat and bighorn sheep sightings. Wildflower-strewn meadows and high-alpine terrain make it one of Glacier’s most scenic and wildlife-rich areas.
Many Glacier Valley
Known as the “heart of Glacier,” this area attracts moose, bears, and mountain goats. Iceberg Lake and Grinnell Glacier offer some of the most picturesque views in the park.
Two Medicine
This quieter, less-trafficked part of the park offers excellent opportunities for spotting elk, black bears, and birds of prey.
Going-to-the-Sun Road
One of America’s most scenic drives, the 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road winds through Glacier’s dramatic landscapes. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep, marmots, and even bears along the edges. While not for the faint of heart, the journey is unforgettable. Be sure to check out our Going-to-the-Sun Road guide for reservation details and what to expect.
Lake McDonald
Near the park’s west entrance, this glacial lake is a hotspot for otters, bald eagles, and early morning moose sightings, and it’s one of the most photographed places in Glacier.
St. Mary Lake
The eastern side of the park is home to open terrain and expansive views, great for spotting deer, coyotes, and soaring birds.
North Fork
A remote and rugged section of the park, perfect for experienced hikers looking to spot elusive species like wolves or lynx in solitude.
Respecting Nature: Wildlife Protection and Safety
Exploring Glacier’s wildlife requires care and responsibility. Here’s what you should know:
- Practice Safe Wildlife Viewing: Respect wildlife by giving them plenty of space. Use the “thumb rule”: if your thumb doesn’t cover the animal at arm’s length, you’re too close. Travel in groups, stay alert, and make noise to avoid surprising wildlife, especially bears.
- Follow Park Rules and Obey Closures: Help protect habitats and reduce stress on wildlife.
- Stop the Spread: Clean your gear to prevent introducing invasive species.
- Store and Dispose of Food Properly: Avoid feeding wildlife and leave no trace.
- Stay on the Trails: Protect fragile ecosystems by sticking to designated paths.
Where to Stay Near Glacier
Just seven miles from Glacier National Park’s west entrance, Under Canvas Glacier offers a one-of-a-kind glamping experience in Montana’s breathtaking Big Sky Country. Enjoy easy access to over 700 miles of trails leading to alpine lakes, snow-capped peaks, and wildflower-filled meadows. After a day of adventures, unwind under the stars in a safari-inspired tent featuring West Elm furnishings, king-size beds, private bathrooms, wood-burning stoves, and private decks, blending comfort with nature.