Glacier National Park, USA

Glacier National Park in Montana has 25 named glaciers (down from 150+ a century ago). Glaciers are melting rapidly. Current projections suggest the largest glaciers will be gone by 2030–2040.

The park has hiking trails specifically designed to visit glaciers (Grinnell Glacier, Jackson Glacier). Seeing a glacier at its terminal face, walking near it, understanding its scale — is a finite-window experience. In 15 years, these hikes will go to where glaciers used to be.

The park itself is stunning (mountains, lakes, wildlife). But the glacier element is time-sensitive. This is not a "come back later" destination.

Grinnell Glacier hike: 10 miles round-trip, 1,900 feet elevation gain. 6–8 hours. Hike through turquoise alpine lakes to glacier. Strenuous but accessible. Free (park entry included).

Jackson Glacier viewpoint: Drive to viewpoint, 1-minute walk. Free. Glacier visible from distance. Easy alternative to hiking.

Going-to-the-Sun Road drive: 50-mile scenic drive across park. Pullouts for views. $35 park entry. 3–4 hours driving time.

Lake McDonald drive and walk: Large alpine lake at lower elevation. Accessible, scenic. Free (park entry included).

Budget:: Campgrounds in park (reservations required). $20–30/night. Outside park: budget hotels. $40–60/night.

Mid-Range:: Park lodges or nearby town hotels. $70–120/night.

Splurge:: Upscale lodges or resorts. $150–250/night.

Huckleberry everything: Montana huckleberries used in jams, pies, desserts. Lodges and restaurants. $3–8.

Bison burger: Local meat, leanly prepared. $10–15.

Fresh trout: Mountain streams and lakes. Restaurants $12–20.

Trail food: Granola bars, nuts, jerky for hiking. Stores $2–6.

Coffee: Local roasters throughout. $2–4.