Greetings from Glacier National Park

Growing up in the bustling city of London, I’ve never been one to long for the long, peaceful hikes along trails of greenery and wildlife; watching David Attenborough narrate them on the TV had sufficed for me. Naturally, this meant that when an opportunity arose for me to join my friend and her family on a five day long camping trip in Glacier National Park, Montana, I was quite hesitant to accept. It seemed like too much too soon for a city girl like me. However, through tiresome encouragement and nagging from said friend, I agreed and decided, why not? It was something else I could cross off my bucket list.

We set off late in the day on the 16th August, permits booked, bags packed and reached the West Entrance of the park, where we would begin our journey on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Within an hour, all worried of boredom and disappointment had vanished, as we reached the truly magnificent view of Lake McDonald. The sun reflecting on the crystal-clear water was quite different from the Thames back home.

After an eventful night of bonding and conversations at the campsite, we continued onwards, reaching the highest point on the road, Logan’s Pass, the next morning, and it was here that I truly felt insignificant compared to the wonderous world of nature. The views were beyond comprehensible. Pictures were taken, granola bars eaten, and we powered on. A kind stranger has suggested the Hidden Lake trail to us, just behind the Visitors Centre, so of course we hopped out of the car for a mini adventure. We reached the overlook and decided to continue further down to the lake; another decision we would not regret. As we drove on east, another hike was found at St Mary’s Lake and Virginia Falls, along with a perfect picnic spot. Stopping at the end of St Mary’s Lake at the Wild Goose Island Overlook, more pictures were taken with beautiful tall trees looming over us. It was a sight no monument in London could ever match.

Of course, many more stops were taken, lake and trails visited, but alas, it would take a while to write it all down. Words cannot begin to describe the views and experiences during this trip and as they say, ‘you have to be there to truly be present’. This trip has transformed me, and I only wish that it was longer. I cannot wait to visit again, and perhaps start ticking off other parks to see!

Sincerely,
Janelle