Combo Tour: Driving and Snowshoe Trek of Glacier National Park

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Glacier National Park in winter, this combination tour of driving and snowshoeing offers a fantastic introduction. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what to expect: stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and a personalized experience designed for all comfort levels.

What we love about this tour is how it balances scenic highlights with hands-on adventure — allowing even beginners to enjoy snowshoeing in a safe, guided environment. Plus, the fact that all logistics are taken care of, from transportation to safety instructions, takes a huge weight off your shoulders.

One possible consideration is the weather dependency — Montana’s winter weather can be unpredictable, and tours may be canceled if conditions are poor. That’s a small risk, but worth keeping in mind if you’re planning well in advance.

This tour suits travelers who want a flexible, family-friendly experience with expert guidance, especially those interested in seeing Glacier’s highlights without the stress of self-driving or complex planning. It’s perfect for adventurers of all ages and physical fitness levels, provided you’re comfortable outdoors.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience combining scenic driving and snowshoeing
• Expert guides with local stories and knowledge
• Family-friendly and customized for different comfort levels
• Includes transportation, lunch, and safety instruction for a hassle-free day
• Weather-dependent, with options for rescheduling or refunds
• Small group size (maximum of 12) ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds

A Detailed Look at the Tour

This combo tour of Glacier National Park is designed to give travelers a well-rounded introduction to this rugged wilderness without the need for extensive planning. It lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure that can fit into most itineraries.

Pickup and Meeting Logistics

Start your day at 9:00 am with convenient pickup options (included in the tour), which eliminates the hassle of finding your own way to the park. Small groups—no more than 12 travelers—mean you’ll get more personalized attention, and the guide can tailor the experience to your comfort and skill level.

What’s Included

The tour includes transportation, safety instruction, and a two-hour outdoor snowshoe session. The rest of the time is spent exploring Glacier’s scenic highlights by vehicle. All participants receive a mobile ticket, making check-in straightforward.

The Itinerary: Highlights and Stops

The main highlight is an approximately two-hour drive through some of Glacier’s most iconic spots. These include:

• Apgar: The heart of the park’s visitor area, with stunning views and easy access.
• West Glacier: The gateway to the park, with rugged mountain vistas.
• Old Belton Bridge: An historic relic that offers a picturesque snapshot of the region’s past.
• Lake McDonald: Known for its reflective, crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountain scenery.
• Lake McDonald Lodge: A charming historic lodge perfect for photos and soaking in the views.

While the drive is primarily about soaking in the scenery, the highlight for many is the two-hour snowshoe trek. Guides will provide safety instruction, so even if you’ve never snowshoed before, you’ll feel confident.

Snowshoe Experience and Expectations

The snowshoe walk takes place in a winter wonderland, and you’ll be equipped with the right gear — waterproof gloves, snow boots, and warm clothing. Reviewers mention seeing moose tracks and enjoying the quiet beauty of snow-covered wilderness, making it an authentic outdoor experience. One guest described it as an “amazing experience” with a guide who was “knowledgeable and accommodating.”

Lunch and Refreshments

After the snowshoeing, you’ll enjoy a lunch break with your choice of sandwich (turkey, ham, roast beef, or veggie) and a hot drink (coffee, tea, or hot cocoa). Snacks like chips, cookies, and crackers are also provided, making this a comfortable, filling break.

What to Bring

Preparing for this tour means dressing appropriately for Montana winter weather. Pack outdoor clothing, waterproof gloves, sunglasses, snow boots, and a small day pack for your lunch, water, and camera. A cheerful attitude and an appetite for adventure will make the day even better.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Montana’s weather can be unpredictable. Tours are weather-dependent — if conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled, but you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which provides peace of mind.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

Reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides as a standout feature. One guest remarked, “Justin and team are great; lots of stories and local facts,” emphasizing the personal touch. Another shared that they saw moose tracks, underlining the natural discoveries possible on this tour.

While most reviews are glowing, there was one report of a tour cancellation due to weather, illustrating that nature can be unpredictable. That said, the company’s communication and flexibility seem to handle such issues well.

Travelers consistently praise the stunning views and personalized experience, with comments like “Great trip, highly recommend,” and “Loved snowshoeing and learning about the area.” This suggests that the tour offers genuine value for those interested in nature, photography, or just experiencing the winter landscape.

The Value: Is It Worth $240?

At $240 per person, this tour provides an all-in-one package: transportation, guided experience, snowshoeing, and a solid lunch. When compared to the cost of renting gear, paying for park admission, or arranging for a private guide, it’s quite reasonable. Plus, the small group size makes it feel intimate, and the expertise of the guides enhances the experience.

This tour is especially good for families, first-timers, or anyone who prefers a guided experience rather than navigating independently. The included safety instruction and gear rental make it accessible for most, provided you have moderate physical fitness.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you want a balanced mix of scenic driving and outdoor activity. It’s ideal for families with kids, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate guided expertise and want to keep logistics simple. If you’re eager to see Glacier’s highlights without the stress of planning, and enjoy a bit of winter adventure, this tour fits the bill.

It also suits those who are curious about snowshoeing but hesitant to try alone — the guides are there to make it safe and fun. It’s a great way to experience the winter landscape in a manageable, well-organized package.

The Sum Up

This Combo Tour of Glacier National Park offers a well-rounded, family-friendly way to explore one of Montana’s most spectacular natural areas. The combination of scenic drive and guided snowshoe adventure provides a perfect balance of comfort and outdoor excitement. The knowledgeable guides and small group size ensure a personalized experience, making it a solid choice for those who want to enjoy Glacier’s winter beauty without the hassle of planning every detail.

While weather can sometimes disrupt plans, the overall value and quality of this tour seem well worth the price for a memorable day out. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this experience is likely to leave you with cherished memories and stunning photos.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour? Yes, transportation is included, and the pickup is offered, making it easy to start your day without additional arrangements.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, with about two hours dedicated to the snowshoe trek and the rest for driving and lunch.

What should I wear on the tour? Dress in outdoor clothing appropriate for winter weather, including waterproof gloves, a hat, sunglasses, snow boots, and a small backpack for essentials.

Can beginners participate in snowshoeing? Absolutely. The tour includes safety instructions and gear, so beginners can enjoy snowshoeing in a safe, guided setting.

What happens if the weather is bad? If weather conditions make snowshoeing unsafe or the drive impossible, the tour may be canceled, but you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, it’s family-friendly and customized for all comfort levels, though travelers should have moderate physical fitness to enjoy the outdoor activities.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, on average, this tour is booked about 11 days ahead, and it’s recommended to reserve early to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

This Glacier National Park combo tour delivers a solid, thoughtful introduction to the park’s winter scenery. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to combine the comfort of guided travel with the thrill of snowshoeing in a pristine landscape.