Glacier Institute — Attraction in Columbia Falls

As a family of lifelong learners and outdoor enthusiasts, we were searching for a way to experience Glacier National Park that went beyond the typical tourist trail—something educational, immersive, and truly memorable. That's when we discovered the Glacier Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening connections to the natural world through outdoor education. As the Official Education Partner of Glacier National Park and Flathead National Forest, they've been doing this since 1983, inspiring over 40,000 people to appreciate and protect these stunning landscapes. Booking their Private Educational Tour (PET) was the best decision we made for our trip, and I can't recommend it highly enough. Not only did it deliver an unforgettable adventure, but it also aligned perfectly with their mission, leaving us eager to support them through future bookings and donations.

Our day started bright and early at the Glacier Institute's meeting point in Columbia Falls, MT, where our exceptional guide greeted us with warmth and enthusiasm. We quickly handled the waivers, grabbed our packed lunches (simple but satisfying meat and cheese options—pro tip: bring your own drinks!), and headed into the park without the hassle of a timed vehicle pass, thanks to the Institute's special access for educational programs. This alone was a game-changer in a park where entry can be tricky during peak season.

The highlight was our journey along the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road (GTTSR), where we spent 4-6 hours soaking in dramatic vistas, scenic overlooks, and cascading waterfalls. Our guide expertly prioritized stops at famous spots, including those immortalized by Ansel Adams, sharing fascinating insights into the park's history, geography, and geology along the way. We learned about the ancient rock formations, the forces that shaped this "Crown of the Continent”. The tour was not not a simple regurgitation of facts (which would have been fine), this was a masterclass with the Institute's focus on fostering critical thinking and environmental awareness at the core of the experience. It was sensational.

The hikes were perfectly tailored to our group's energy: a shorter trek, where we spotted bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and playful marmots through the guide's binoculars and spotting scope (complete with iPhone attachment for easy photo sharing).

Mark (our guide) included hands-on learning about the flora and fauna that make this ecosystem so unique. He brought "show-n-tell" items—like animal pelts, plant samples, and geological specimens—that brought the lessons to life, making education feel fun and interactive rather than lecture-like.

What set this tour apart was how it embodied the Glacier Institute's mission. By blending adventure with meaningful learning, it deepened our family's bond with nature and inspired us to think about conservation in new ways. We left not just with stunning photos and stories, but with a renewed commitment to protecting places like Glacier for future generations—exactly what the Institute has been achieving for over four decades through their guided hikes, camps, and programs for all ages.

If you're planning a visit to Glacier National Park, do yourself a favor and book with the Glacier Institute. Their personalized, educational approach will elevate your experience far beyond a standard drive or hike. And as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, they rely on donations to keep offering these innovative programs, from kids' camps to adult field courses, ensuring everyone can connect with and help preserve Montana's wild wonders. We've already donated and plan to return—join us in supporting their vital work! Five stars isn't enough; this was exceptional. In...

I recently had the pleasure of joining a tour of Glacier National Park, specifically the "Sun Road" tour, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. Our guide, Wyatt, played an instrumental role in making this experience unforgettable.

Wyatt’s deep knowledge and passion for Glacier National Park were evident from the moment we began the tour. His insightful commentary on the park’s wildlife, glaciers, and geology enriched the entire experience. Whether we were spotting majestic animals or marveling at the stunning glaciers, Wyatt’s expertise helped us appreciate every aspect of this incredible place.

What truly set Wyatt apart was his energy and friendliness. He had a way of making everyone feel at ease and engaged throughout the tour. His enthusiasm was infectious, and his genuine interest in ensuring we had a memorable experience shone through in every interaction.

Glacier National Park itself is a marvel – from the breathtaking views of the glaciers to the diverse wildlife, it’s a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Thanks to Wyatt, our tour was not just informative but also incredibly enjoyable. If you’re planning a visit to Glacier National Park, I highly recommend booking a tour with Wyatt. You’ll gain valuable insights, enjoy a friendly and energetic guide, and leave with memories of one of the most spectacular...

We had an exceptional experience yesterday taking the "Hey Bear" course! We were so fortunate to have had Garrett Tovey, Dir. of Ed., as our instructor and Alayna Richter as our Outdoor Ed. Specialist for a full day of bear biology, behaviour and safety. They made our day so thoroughly enjoyable. EVERYONE who hikes in Montana should take this informative and fascinating course. We learned so much, while gaining respect and reverence for the power and beauty of bears. We now feel much safer, more aware and properly equipped for meeting bears on future hikes. We had a few hours of informative class time before they took us on a gorgeous hike in the Park to find some bears...we even got a chance to watch a grizzly through our binoculars playfully splashing and cooling off in Hidden Lake...what a spectacular display!!!!

Garret is passionate about bears, incredibly knowledgeable and he generously shared his many years of experience coming in direct contact with bears. Alayna is a delight and very well informed as she shared her knowldege about our surroundings throughout the day. She is also a great driver, navigating our van safely around all of the twists and turns throughout the park with ease and...