9 Best PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATIONS in GLACIER National Park (+Useful Photo Tips)

Nestled deep within the rugged wilderness of Glacier National Park, Avalanche Lake sits in a bowl-shaped canyon surrounded by towering cliffs of Bearhat Mountain standing at 8,694 feet, Little Matterhorn at 7,886 feet, and Mount Brown at 8,569 feet, making it an ideal photography location.

This stunning alpine lake beckons photographers to capture its serene beauty and tranquility. With its crystal-clear waters reflecting the majestic peaks and vibrant foliage, Avalanche Lake provides a breathtaking backdrop for landscape photography.

To top it off, if you happen to be at Avalanche Lake during late spring or early summer, then you will be rewarded with awesome views of many waterfalls formed by the melting of the snow and ice of Sperry Glacier cascading hundreds of feet down Bearhat and Little Matterhorn Mountains.

PRO TIPS:

• When photographing Avalanche Lake, consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon when the soft, warm light bathes the surroundings, casting a magical glow over the scene. The calmness of the lake often creates mirror-like reflections<span, amplifying the beauty of the landscape.
• Utilize a polarizing filter to enhance the colors and reduce glare, allowing the vibrant hues of the foliage and mountains to truly shine.

• To capture a unique perspective, explore the lakeshore and experiment with different compositions.
• Look for interesting foreground elements such as fallen logs, rocks, or wildflowers to add depth and visual interest to your photographs.
• Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the grandeur of the surrounding peaks and convey the scale of the landscape. Alternatively, a telephoto lens can help you isolate specific details or capture distant waterfalls cascading down the cliffs.
• Don’t forget to venture beyond the shoreline as well. Hike the Avalanche Lake Trail to gain elevated viewpoints and discover hidden angles that showcase the lake and its surroundings from a different perspective.
• Keep an eye out for wildlife, as sightings of bears, deer, and birds are common along the trail and can add an element of interest to your photographs.

GOOD TO KNOW: In order to get to you need to embark on Avalanche Lake Trail. The trailhead is located on the Going-to-the-Sun Road in the McDonald Valley Region of Glacier National Park.

Avalanche Lake Trail is about 4.5 miles roundtrip with an elevation change of 730 feet. It is an easy/moderate type of hike perfect for almost every fitness level.

You would start your hike with Trail of the Cedars, a delightful trail that meanders among ancient cedars, and then continue along Avalanche Creek until you reach the lake.

There are plenty of photo opportunities along Avalanche Creek, especially once you get to Avalanche Creek Gorge. Hands down, it is a great spot to photograph as well!

As with any outdoor adventure, it’s important to respect the delicate ecosystem of Glacier National Park. Leave no trace of your presence and be mindful of the wildlife and their habitats. Stay on designated trails and follow park regulations to ensure the preservation of this pristine location for generations to come.

Avalanche Lake will present you with an opportunity to capture the raw beauty and serenity of Glacier National Park. With careful planning, an artistic eye, and an appreciation for nature’s wonders, you can create stunning images that convey the timeless allure of this captivating destination!

Located within the heart of Glacier National Park, St. Mary Falls, and Virginia Falls present a mesmerizing display of cascading waterfalls that enthrall both the senses and the camera lens.

These magnificent falls, set amidst lush greenery and rugged landscapes, offer photographers a captivating subject to capture the raw power and graceful beauty of nature.

St. Mary Falls, the first stop along the trail, welcomes you with its graceful 35-foot 3-tier plunge into a crystal-clear pool. The rushing waters create a symphony of sound as they tumble over the rocks, creating an enchanting atmosphere.

Just a short hike away lies Virginia Falls, a grander spectacle that rewards visitors with its impressive 50-foot drop. The misty spray and thundering sound add an element of drama to the scene, making it a captivating location for photography.

PRO TIPS:

• When photographing St. Mary Falls and Virginia Falls, timing is crucial. Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to take advantage of soft, diffused light that enhances the colors and textures of the landscape.
• Experiment with different shutter speeds to capture the water’s movement. A slower shutter speed can create a silky, ethereal effect, while a faster shutter speed can freeze the motion, highlighting the power and energy of the falls.
• Consider using a tripod to ensure sharp images, especially when using longer exposure times. This allows you to capture the fine details of the flowing water while maintaining overall image stability. To add a sense of scale and context, incorporate surrounding elements such as rocks, trees, or hikers into your composition.
• The trail to St. Mary Falls and Virginia Falls offers various vantage points and perspectives. Take the time to explore different angles and viewpoints to find the most compelling compositions.
• Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the grandeur of the falls within the context of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, zoom lenses or telephoto lenses can help you isolate specific details and capture the intricate patterns of the rushing water.

While photographing these iconic falls, be mindful that some areas may be slippery or require navigating over rocks and uneven surfaces. Take care to protect your equipment from water droplets or spray by using lens hoods, protective filters, or waterproof camera gear.

GOOD TO KNOW: To get to St. Mary Falls and Virginia Falls start at St. Mary Falls Trailhead located on the Going-to-the-Sun Road in the St. Mary Valley Region of Glacier National Park.

The hike to St. Mary Falls is super fun and easy. You will reach the falls 0.8 miles from the trailhead. The section leading to Virginia Falls is just a bit more challenging, however, it is short and you will get to the falls in no time.

Perched atop the crystalline waters of St. Mary Lake, Wild Goose Island Lookout stands as a visual masterpiece within Glacier National Park.

Offering a panoramic view that seems plucked from a postcard, this iconic location beckons photographers to capture its awe-inspiring beauty and the timeless allure of the surrounding landscape.

Wild Goose Island Lookout presents a composition that balances the majestic mountains, the serene lake, and the solitary presence of the namesake island.

PRO TIPS:

• To make the most of your photography at Wild Goose Island Lookout, plan your visit during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. The soft, warm light casts a captivating glow over the landscape, emphasizing the contours and enhancing the overall mood of the scene. The calm waters of St. Mary Lake often provide mirror-like reflections, creating a sense of serenity and doubling the visual impact of the scenery.
• Experiment with different compositions to capture the essence of this unique location.
• Utilize a wide-angle lens to encompass the grandeur of the surrounding peaks, showcasing the vastness and scale of the landscape.

• Incorporate leading lines, such as the winding shoreline or the curves of the lake, to guide the viewer’s gaze toward the focal point of Wild Goose Island.
• Alternatively, use a telephoto lens to isolate the island and highlight its solitary presence against the backdrop of the mountains.
• While framing your shot, pay attention to the rule of thirds, placing key elements along the intersecting lines or at their intersections to create a balanced and visually pleasing composition.
• Consider incorporating foreground elements, such as wildflowers, rocks, or trees, to add depth and visual interest to your photographs, drawing the viewer into the frame.

Wild Goose Island Lookout provides an opportunity to capture a timeless moment of natural beauty within Glacier National Park.

As you capture this majestic vista, let your lens tell the story of a place where nature’s wonders unfold, leaving viewers in awe of the untamed wilderness that surrounds Wild Goose Island.

GOOD TO KNOW: Wild Goose Island Lookout is located on the Going-to-the-Sun Road (mile marker 43 – going from west to east) in the St. Mary Valley Region of Glacier National Park.

Perched high above the alpine valleys of Glacier National Park, the Grinnell Glacier Viewpoint unveils a breathtaking scene that transports you to a world of icy wonder.

This iconic location offers an unparalleled perspective of the majestic Grinnell Glacier, nestled amidst towering peaks and vibrant alpine meadows.

At the Grinnell Glacier Viewpoint, you will be treated to a spectacle of nature’s power and grace. The massive glacier, with its glistening ice and striking blue hues, commands attention as it clings to the slopes of the surrounding mountains.

The juxtaposition of the icy expanse against the rugged terrain creates a captivating contrast that is a feast for the eyes and the camera.

The glacier is named for George Bird Grinnell, an early American conservationist, and explorer, who was also a strong advocate of ensuring the creation of Glacier National Park. Between 1966 and 2005, Grinnell Glacier lost almost 40 percent of its acreage. Glaciologists have predicted that if carbon dioxide levels increase in a worst-case scenario, all the glaciers in the park, including Grinnell, will disappear by the year 2030.

PRO TIPS: 

• To capture the grandeur of Grinnell Glacier and its surroundings, plan your visit during the early morning or late afternoon to take advantage of the warm, soft light that bathes the landscape. This golden light accentuates the textures and shapes, lending a sense of depth and dimension to your photographs.
• Experiment with different angles and compositions to find the most compelling way to frame the glacier and its dramatic backdrop.
• Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the scene and showcase the sweeping beauty of the glacier and the surrounding mountains. This lens choice allows you to capture the scale and magnitude of the landscape, immersing the viewer in the majesty of the glacier.
• Alternatively, a telephoto lens can help you zoom in on specific details, highlighting the intricate patterns and textures of the ice or focusing on the jagged peaks that frame the glacier.
• As you compose your shots, pay attention to the elements that can add visual interest and depth to your photographs. Incorporate foreground elements, such as wildflowers, rocks, or nearby vegetation, to create a sense of scale and context. Look for leading lines in the landscape that guide the viewer’s gaze toward the glacier, such as the curves of the valley or the lines formed by the mountains.

GOOD TO KNOW: The trail leading to the viewpoint is 10.6 miles roundtrip, but there is a way to shorten this hike by about 3.4 miles if you take two shuttle boats. The first shuttle boat runs across Swiftcurrent Lake (10 min ride) and then the second one across Lake Josephine (15 min ride). If you decide to take the shuttles then my recommendation is to make reservations.

All in all, it is a strenuous hike and it will test your endurance. However, the views on Grinnell Glacier Trail leading to the viewpoint and then to Grinnell Lake are stunning. Well worth the effort!

Nestled beneath the towering peaks of Glacier National Park, Swiftcurrent Lake beckons photographers with its serene beauty and mirror-like reflections.

As you arrive at Swiftcurrent Lake, be prepared to witness a scene that feels like it has been plucked from a dream. The crystal-clear waters perfectly mirror the surrounding landscape, creating a captivating symmetry that is a delight to photograph.

The majestic peaks, such as Mount Grinnell and Mount Wilbur, will provide a breathtaking backdrop, adding a sense of grandeur and drama to your compositions.

PRO TIP: 

• To make the most of your photography at Swiftcurrent Lake, consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon when the soft, warm light bathes the landscape.
• This spot is great to photograph at sunrise. Since you will be facing west at sunrise, the entire view will be illuminated in the morning sun. If there are a few clouds, then it is for the better.
• However, it is not a bad spot to photograph at sunset either. And, if there are a few clouds in the forecast for the evening, then you will be able to catch an awesome sunset.

• Experiment with different perspectives and compositions to capture the essence of Swiftcurrent Lake.
• A wide-angle lens can help you encompass the grandeur of the surrounding peaks, showcasing the vastness and scale of the landscape.
• Include interesting foreground elements, such as rocks, driftwood, or wildflowers, to add depth and visual interest to your images.
• Consider utilizing leading lines in your compositions to guide the viewer’s gaze and create a sense of movement. The shoreline, fallen logs, or the curves of the lake itself can serve as excellent leading lines that draw attention to the focal point of your photograph.
• Do not hesitate to explore the lake from different angles and viewpoints. Take a walk along the shoreline, venture out on a boat, or hike to elevated vantage points for unique perspectives. These alternative viewpoints can provide fresh and creative opportunities to capture the beauty of Swiftcurrent Lake from unexpected angles.

Swiftcurrent Lake embodies the essence of natural tranquility and offers photographers a canvas to capture its serene beauty. With careful composition, attention to light, and a touch of creativity, you can create stunning images that convey the timeless allure of this captivating location within Glacier National Park.

GOOD TO KNOW: The best way to photograph Swiftcurrent Lake is to take an easy Swiftcurrent Lake Nature Trail that goes around the lake. It is only 2.7 miles with almost no elevation change.

The trailhead is located at the Many Glacier Hotel Boat Dock.

The trail is a loop and you can do this hike in either direction. My favorite way to hike Swiftcurrent Lake Nature Trail is counterclockwise.

Tucked away in the alpine splendor of Glacier National Park, Hidden Lake Overlook presents a hidden gem that will reward you with breathtaking vistas and untamed wilderness.

The tranquil waters of Hidden Lake mirror the surrounding peaks, creating a sense of serenity and awe. Towering mountains, including Bearhat Mountain, provide a dramatic backdrop, adding a touch of majesty to the composition. The untouched wilderness and abundance of wildlife further contribute to the mystique of this remarkable location.

PRO TIPS: 

• To capture the essence of Hidden Lake Overlook, consider planning your visit during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. The soft, warm light during these times casts a warm hue on the mountains and illuminates the surface of the lake.
• However, because the overlook faces southwest it is easy to photograph at any time of the day, but from my personal experience, morning time is the best.

• .My favorite time to photograph Hidden Lake is at sunset. Just a word of caution: give yourself plenty of time to get back so that you. are not hiking back in the darkness. It takes about 30-40 minutes to hike back to the trailhead. Make sure to bring a headlamp or a flashlight. Also, dress in layers. It gets cold super fast after the sunset.

• Experiment with different lenses and compositions to capture the uniqueness of Hidden Lake Overlook. A wide-angle lens will allow you to encompass the vastness of the scene, showcasing the expansive beauty of the lake and surrounding landscape. Alternatively, a telephoto lens can help you isolate specific details, such as the intricate patterns of the mountain peaks or the wildlife that may roam the area.
• Incorporate foreground elements to add depth and visual interest to your photographs. Rocks, wildflowers, or vegetation along the shoreline can serve as excellent foreground elements, leading the viewer’s eye into the frame and creating a sense of dimension.
• As you explore Hidden Lake Overlook, be prepared to see some wildlife. From mountain goats to marmots and various bird species, the presence of wildlife adds an element of intrigue and storytelling to your photographs.

GOOD TO KNOW: In order to get to Hidden Lake Overlook, you will have to do some hiking. However, it is an easy/moderate hike (2.8 miles roundtrip).

Hidden Lake Trailhead is located at Logan Pass on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. The trail will take you through some beautiful alpine meadows with plenty of photo opportunities. Plus, be on the lookout for wildlife. I am sure you will get to see mountain goats or bighorn sheep along the way.

Cracker Lake offers a stunning visual spectacle with its vibrant turquoise waters, framed by towering cliffs and majestic peaks. The lake is located at the head of a canyon and surrounded to the south by Mount Siyeh which rises more than 4,000 feet above, Cracker Peak to the southeast, and Allen Mountain to the north.

Cracker Lake stands as a testament to nature’s artistry. It will captivate you with its surreal azure hue. The lake owes its striking color to glacial flour—a fine sediment suspended in the water, refracting sunlight to create a mesmerizing turquoise glow. This natural phenomenon sets the stage for breathtaking photography opportunities, as the vivid waters contrast against the rugged surroundings.

PRO TIPS: 

• The best time to photograph Cracker Lake is during a bright sunny day. The sun will intensify the vibrant color of the lake, enhancing its ethereal beauty.
• Experiment with different compositions and angles to showcase the juxtaposition between the radiant waters and the dramatic landscape that encircles the lake.
• Utilize a wide-angle lens to encompass the expansive beauty of Cracker Lake. This lens choice allows you to capture the vastness of the scene, emphasizing the grandeur of the surrounding cliffs and peaks.

• Look for interesting foreground elements, such as rocks or wildflowers, to add depth and visual interest to your photographs, leading the viewer’s eye into the frame.
• Consider incorporating leading lines in your compositions to guide the viewer’s gaze and create a sense of depth. For example, the curving shoreline or the jagged cliffs can serve as natural leading lines, drawing attention to the focal point of the lake.

GOOD TO KNOW: Cracker Lake is located at the end of Craker Lake Trail. It is a long (12.8 miles roundtrip) and challenging (1,400 elevation change) hike. Ensure you have the appropriate gear, ample water, and proper hiking equipment. Take breaks along the way to admire the surroundings and scout for potential photography spots.

Craker Lake Trailhead is at the south end of the parking lot above the Many Glacier Hotel. Right from the start, you will get to enjoy awesome views of Lake Sherburne.

Iceberg Lake sits at an elevation of 6,094 feet. Mt. Wilbur surrounds it to the south and Continental Divide to the west. This hidden gem will offer you a chance to capture the ethereal beauty of a glacial lake, framed by towering peaks and floating ice sculptures.

The shimmering waters, fed by surrounding glaciers, reflect the pristine blue of the sky and the rugged beauty of the surrounding peaks. True to its name, the lake often hosts floating icebergs, adding a touch of drama and mystique to the scene.

The color of the water ranges from turquoise to aquamarine depending on the time of the day and the amount of sunlight.

PRO TIPS: 

• The best time to photograph Iceberg Lake is during a bright sunny day. The bright light will enhance the color of the lake and elevate the ethereal beauty of the lake.
• Experiment with different compositions and angles to showcase the interplay between the icy water, floating ice formations, and the majestic mountains that encircle the lake.
• Consider utilizing a wide-angle lens to encompass the expansive beauty of Iceberg Lake. This lens choice allows you to capture the vastness of the scene, emphasizing the grandeur of the surrounding peaks and the glacial landscape.
• Capture the beauty of the floating icebergs by focusing on their intricate details and textures. Zoom in with a telephoto lens to isolate individual ice formations, revealing their unique shapes and patterns.
• Look for captivating reflections on the calm surface of the lake, incorporating them into your compositions to create a sense of tranquility and harmony.

GOOD TO KNOW: Iceberg Lake is located at the end of Iceberg Lake Trail.

Iceberg Lake Trailhead is right behind the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn in the Many Glacier Region of Glacier National Park.

This trail is long and strenuous  (9.6 miles roundtrip, 1,275 feet elevation change).

Ensure you have the appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots, ample water, and snacks. Take breaks along the way to appreciate the breathtaking scenery and scout for potential photography spots.

I think that Ptarmigan Tunnel and Ptarmigan Trail leading to it are visually striking locations making it a photographer’s dream come true. The views along the way of Ptarmigan Lake and the valley below with Mt. Wilbur towering over it all are spectacular. However, the highlight of this hike is reaching and then going through a 240-foot tunnel that runs through the Ptarmigan Wall.

The tunnel was built in the early 1930s and allows hikers to traverse through the mountainside, emerging on the other side to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Ptarmigan Wall and surrounding alpine landscapes.

The tunnel itself provides a fascinating subject for photography, with its stone construction.

PRO TIPS: 

• To capture the essence of the Ptarmigan Tunnel, consider visiting when there is plenty of sunlight and when natural light illuminates the scene. The tunnel’s entrance and exit points create intriguing frames, drawing the viewer’s attention into the depths of the tunnel or towards the majestic views beyond.
• Experiment with different angles and compositions to capture the unique atmosphere and sense of adventure offered by this historic passageway.
• Once through the tunnel, you will be rewarded with spectacular vistas of the Ptarmigan Wall and the surrounding alpine landscapes. Be prepared to capture the grandeur of this majestic scenery. Utilize a wide-angle lens to encompass the expansive beauty of the landscape, emphasizing the towering peaks, glaciers, and rugged terrain that unfold before you.

Ptarmigan Tunnel Trailhead is located behind the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn in the Many Glacier Valley Region of Glacier Nationa Park.

The trail is 10.6 miles long roundtrip with an elevation change of 2,300 feet. Needless to say, it is a strenuous hike that will test your endurance. Ensure you have proper gear, including sturdy hiking boots, sufficient water, and snacks. Take breaks along the way to appreciate the natural surroundings and scout for potential photography spots.