Glacier Packing List

Pack for grizzly country, alpine ridges, and glacial lakes

National Park · Montana Best time: July–September Moderate to Expert
Build My Glacier Pack List →

Glacier National Park in Montana features 700 miles of trails, turquoise lakes, and the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. Home to grizzly bears, mountain goats, and wolverines. Use this packing guide as a starting point, then let PackList's AI personalize it based on your exact dates, activities, and gear preferences.

About Glacier National Park Service

A showcase of melting glaciers, alpine meadows, carved valleys, and spectacular lakes. With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier is a paradise for adventurous visitors seeking a landscape steeped in human culture. Relive the days of old through historic chalets, lodges, and the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Current Weather & Patterns

45°F — Rain (current forecast).

Current Park Alerts National Park Service

Going-to-the-Sun Road Spring Status Park Closure

Going-to-the-Sun Road is open to Avalanche Creek on the west side of the park. On the east side, the road is open to Jackson Glacier Overlook. Travel on open sections of the road may change due to spring weather conditions. Visitors should check road conditions before their arrival.

Essential Gear & Permits

Must-Have Essentials

  • Bear spray (mandatory — highest grizzly density in lower 48)
  • Bear canister for backcountry camping
  • Timed entry permit for Going-to-the-Sun Road
  • Backcountry permit (books up months ahead)
  • Water filter (glacial streams are abundant)
  • Trekking poles for steep terrain

What to Wear

Clothing & Footwear

  • Layering system for temperature swings of 40°F in a day
  • Waterproof rain jacket
  • Wool or synthetic base layers
  • Warm hat and gloves
  • Gaiters for snowfields (present on many trails into July)
  • Sturdy waterproof boots

Gear & Equipment

Backpacking & Camping Gear

  • Bear spray in accessible holster
  • GPS (trails above treeline can be hard to follow)
  • Sleeping bag rated 20°F
  • Three-season tent rated for wind
  • Crampons or microspikes for early-season snowfields

Food & Nutrition

Food Planning

  • Bear-canister-compatible foods
  • High-calorie dehydrated meals
  • Extra day emergency food
  • Hot drink supplies for cold mornings

Safety Tips for Glacier

Make noise constantly on the trail — surprise grizzly encounters can be fatal

Travel in groups of 4+ in grizzly country when possible

Carry bear spray clipped to your hip — not buried in your pack

Going-to-the-Sun Road closes in winter — check seasonal access dates

Popular Activities

hikingbackpackingwildlife watchingphotographyfishingcycling

Get Your Personalized Glacier Pack List

Enter your trip dates, activities, and experience level. PackList's AI generates a custom list updated with current weather and conditions.

Plan My Glacier Trip →

More Packing Guides