Glacier National Park hosts an impressive array of wildlife from massive grizzly bears to mountain goats. Our location is just one mile from the West entrance and puts you at the center of some of Montana’s best wildlife viewing opportunities.
The park’s diverse ecosystems support over 270 bird species. Golden eagles fly overhead while peregrine falcons dive at incredible speeds. Along the rivers, you’ll spot osprey fishing and bald eagles perched in tall pines.
The varied landscaped- from dense forest to alpine meadows-support different wildlife communities in each ecosystem. This diversity means a single day can yield encounters with river otters along the Flathead, mountain goats on high ridges and forest dwellers like black bears and white-tailed deer in the valleys below.
Large mammals that you can see at Glacier National Park:
- Mountain goats: Visible on cliffs and rocky areas, especially early morning and late afternoon
- Black bears and grizzly bears: Active throughout the park foraging and fishing. Best spotted during berry season
- Moose: Found near wetlands and lakeshores. Most active at dawn and dusk
- White-tailed deer: Common throughout the park during morning and evening hours
- Mountain lions and lynx: Rare but present. Require patience and early morning expeditions
- Wolves: Travel in packs across park wilderness. Listen for howls in valleys!
Book your stay at Great Northern Resort and experience the wildlife of the national park.
Wildlife viewing locations
Going-to-the-Sun Road
This offers the most accessible wildlife viewing with multiple pullouts and scenic overlooks. Early morning drives along this iconic route regularly produce bear, deer and mountain goat sightings.
Many Glacier Valley
This area consistently delivers the highest concentration of animals, including regular grizzly bear, moose, and mountain goat encounters.
North Folk Flathead River
For visitors staying at our resort, the North Fork Flathead River provides excellent wildlife viewing just 5 minutes away. This location works perfectly for combination trips with our fishing expeditions.
Other notable locations:
- Apgar Lookout: moderate hike with mountain goat and eagle viewing
- Lake McDonald: waterfowl and early morning deer sightings
- Logan Pass: alpine species and mountain goats
Goat Lick Overlook
Mountain goats travel miles to reach this mineral-rich cliff face where they lick exposed clay for essential nutrients. The short paved trail provides safe viewing distances while you watch these agile climbers navigate steep terrain and interact in their natural habitat. Peak activity occurs in late June and July when dozens of goats may gather at once.
When to visit for the best wildlife viewing opportunities
Wildlife activity follows predictable patterns that our guides know well. Dawn and dusk provide the most reliable viewing times when animals are naturally most active.
Seasonal considerations:
- Spring (May-June): Bears emerge from hibernation and are highly active. Newborn animals are also visible during this time.
- Summer (July-August): Peak diversity with access to high-alpine areas and mountain species.
- Fall (September-October): Rutting season creates dramatic encounters as animals prepare for winter.
Your Gateway to West Glacier’s Wildlife
Prime location advantage
Your cabin puts you at the heart of wildlife country. While other visitors drive hours to reach prime viewing areas, you’re already there. Step outside your door at dawn and you’re often greeted by deer grazing nearby or the distant call of loons on the water. Learn more about accommodations at Great Northern by reviewing our lodging options.
Beat the crowds
Staying just one mile from the West entrance means you can reach the best wildlife viewing spots before tour buses and day visitors arrive. Early morning drives along Going-to-the-Sun Road from your cabin often yield the most productive wildlife encounters.
Extended viewing opportunities
Multi-day stays allow you to experience wildlife patterns throughout different times and weather conditions. What you miss on a cloudy morning, you might catch during a clear afternoon or the next day’s golden hour.
Make Great Northern Resort your wildlife basecamp.
Check availability and secure your front-row seat to Montana’s incredible wildlife.
Respecting the national park’s wildlife and environment
Leave No Trace principles
As guests at Great Northern Resort, you’re visitors in one of America’s most pristine wilderness areas. Following Leave No Trace principles ensures these wildlife viewing opportunities remain available for future generations.
Wildlife viewing guidelines
- Maintain safe distances: Stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from all other wildlife
- Never feed animals: Human food harms wildlife and creates dangerous situations
- Keep noise levels low: Quiet observation allows for better wildlife encounters and reduces stress on animals
- Stay on designated trails: Protect fragile ecosystems and avoid disturbing wildlife habitat
Photography ethics
Wildlife photography should never compromise animal welfare. Avoid using flash, getting too close for photos, or making loud noises to get an animal’s attention. The best wildlife photos come from patient, respectful observation.
Be cautious of littering and dropping trash
Carry all trash back with you, including food scraps and biodegradable items.
Protecting Glacier National Park for tomorrow
Your visit to Great Northern Resort supports conservation efforts in the Greater Glacier ecosystem. By choosing responsible wildlife viewing practices, you help ensure that future guests can experience the same incredible wildlife encounters that draw you to this special place.
Report wildlife incidents
If you observe injured wildlife, unusual animal behavior, or visitors breaking wildlife safety rules, report it to park rangers immediately.
We offer workshops to learn about Leave No Trace principles, learn more through the River School.
Frequently asked questions about wildlife watching in West Glacier
Glacier National Park has excellent wildlife viewing opportunities year-round. Our location just one mile from the West entrance puts you in prime position for early morning and evening wildlife encounters when animals are most active. Maybe try again a different day!
Yes, the resort and surrounding areas are family-friendly. We provide safety information about wildlife awareness and proper distances to maintain. The park has clear guidelines, and staying alert while enjoying nature ensures safe experiences for visitors of all ages.
Experience more of Glacier National Park
Adventure activities on the Flathead River
Rafting trips
Experience Montana’s best whitewater rafting on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River bordering Glacier National Park. Family-friendly adventures include all gear, safety briefings, and paddling instruction from our West Glacier base. Explore rafting options >
Fly fishing trips
Experience fly fishing on the pristine Middle Fork of the Flathead River bordering Glacier National Park. We offer half-day, full-day, and multi-day guided trips with all gear included. Just bring your enthusiasm – we’ll handle the rest.
River school
Our certified instructors offer expert training in rafting, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding from our West Glacier location. From beginner lessons to advanced techniques like kayak rolls and rescues, we provide safe, professional instruction for all skill levels. View river school classes >