Glacier National Park

Michael Klein's recent invitation to join him on a trip to Glacier National Park in Montana jogged my memory that I just went there last June.  I suppose I tried to block the experience from my mind since it was connected to my last family vacation, and we all know that me + family vacation = the most vile concoction ever.  Seriously, I don't understand why I keep getting dragged into these situations when the experience always yields blood boiling frustration, tears, tension, and overall unpleasentness.  I mean, I went on an impromptu 10-mile run in the mountains just to avoid yet another family hike (plus Mike).  Slightly pathetic I realize, but I promise you, togetherness with my family really is that horrendous. 

 

Familial posse aside, Glacier National Park was a rather exquisite experience.  We stayed at Lake McDonald Lodge inside the park. It's a beautiful rustic lodge with plenty of cozy nooks, comfy chairs, and a fire constantly burning in the lobby.  There are many deer-type animal heads mounted on the walls and a totally awesome

 chandelier.  Situated on the shore of Lake McDonald, the lodge maintains a high quality of service and provides sparse, tidy rooms--it lacks extravagance in the most refreshing way.  And they have really yummy food in their restaurant. 

Lake McDonald Lodge is on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a road that goes straight through the park, providing countless picturesque views along the way.  The Lodge is also a short drive away from many hiking trails that lead you to epic views of the singular landscape.  There was still snow on the ground in June, so hiking proved to be an interesting thing to attempt, and after passing a third group of people wearing snow hiking boots, I began to doubt the durability and dependability of my trusty sneakers. We hiked to interesting vistas that revealed massive snow covered mountains colliding with lush green grass. 

 

We visited gushing rivers alive with determined rapids.  We tried to see a moose...the closest we got was one bear track.

When people think about American National Parks, Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon often come to mind, pushing Glacier to the side.  But the park is definitely worth visiting, as the great plains have a singular aesthetic unlike other American landscapes.