Montana/Alberta
Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks
Program No. 19946RJ
See More Photos
Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks
Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks
1 of 6
Participant Reviews
Based on 65 Reviews
SHOWING
We thoroughly enjoyed this trip, our second with Road Scholar. Our leaders Al, Lisa, and Marilyn were such kind, knowledgeable, lovely people who made an effort to connect with each person on the trip. The scenery was mind-blowing, especially on the red bus ride up to Logan Pass, at Many Glacier, and at Waterton Lakes. There was a choice of three hikes each afternoon to accommodate different abilities and interests. We loved our short hike on the Highline Trail at Logan Pass. Other highlights included our stay at the beautiful Prince of Wales Hotel (and the big horn sheep who posed for photos just outside the lounge during cocktail hour), the boat trip on Upper Waterton Lake, and learning about the Blackfeet culture from singer-songwriter Jack Gladstone and at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump. The only disappointment was not being able to stay at Many Glacier due to a scheduling mix-up. Everything else was close to perfect.
— Review left September 18, 2025
The trip was beautiful, the planned activities were un and educational. It was disappointing that we didn't get our two nights at Many Glacier. Not only did we miss out on spending the nights at the hotel and with the Dark Night Skies, but, also, the time we did spend there was rushed and our hike had to be cut short.
I hope one day, you will be able to reschedule the Lewis and Clark Land and River trip that was cancelled due to the River Company going our of business. I know there are other companies that do Columbia River trips.
— Review left September 11, 2025
Overall the program as outlined including the activity levels was spot on.Well worth the time, expense and certainly fulfilled our expectations.
— Review left September 11, 2025
This is a grand overview of Glacier and Waterton NPs. My husband and I do want to come back to explore more of the area in the Spring sometime, since the Fall skies were a bit smokey (beautiful sunsets, though) and there really wasn't any snow left on the mountain peaks. Going up to Logan Pass on the red 'Jammer' busses was thrilling (read how the road was built before you go!). Learning more about the Blackfoot culture, both past and present, was really interesting. Group leaders did a great job of pointing out lots of different plants on our hikes (always three different lengths of hike offered, none too long).
— Review left September 11, 2025
Great tour leader and presenters. You will see the major areas of Glacier National and Waterton Lakes National Parks including the historic Red Buses. If you want to just do just a tiny bit of hiking this trip is for you. Hopefully you will get to stay in the Many Glacier Lodge. We did not due to a big mistake on the part of Road Scholar. If for any reason the trip doesn't offer stays at the National Park Lodges, pick another tour company.
— Review left September 4, 2025
This is a wonderful program. Fabulous scenery. Our group leader, Leila, and Marilyn and Lori as instructors were fantastic. Their blend of humor and knowledge made the trip so enjoyable. Leila and bus driver, Dave, were really unflappable when we had a bus breakdown about 15 miles from Prince of Wales. Fortunately we were able to slowly drive to get there so that we could arrive and continue with our evening. When it was obvious another bus needed to be sent, they handled the whole thing quite well. I applaud Randy who got up at 3 am to drive a bus from Kalispell for us to have ready in the morning.
Hikes were arranged for different levels of stamina. The food was quite good (and probably more than we need). Presentations very informative. Red Jammers were fun to ride in. Really enjoyed the visit to the Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump and the international boat cruise. Thoroughly enjoyable.
— Review left August 28, 2025
The Glacier /Waterton Tour was exceptional in all aspects! Guides were highly informative and educational in hikes and material as well as experiences in Parks. I would highly recommend Road Scholar if participants want an educational and immersive experience.
— Review left August 19, 2025
This was our first group tour, and Road Scholar was the perfect introduction. We will certainly look at other tour locations in the future.
— Review left August 16, 2025
This trip is a wonderful stress free way to see Glacier National Park!
— Review left August 5, 2025
My husband and I enjoyed the Glacier Road Scholar trip in July 2025. The scenery was majestic and always changing every day. The speakers and leadership team shared their knowledge on topics like geology, native plants and animals and the effects of a changing climate on habitat, and the local Blackfeet Nation culture and history. In addition to a fascinating program, the food and National Park lodges were wonderful. Great program.
— Review left August 4, 2025
Great scenic trip and historic places, with some insight into the modern native peoples of the region!
— Review left August 1, 2025
An educational experience from leaders who were knowledgeable and loved the area they were experiencing with you.
— Review left July 31, 2025
Glacier and Waterton were beautiful. Our leaders were terrific. Their knowledge of the plants, animals and geology enhanced my educational experience. I also appreciated their being flexible since the schedule and activities had to be adjusted given the cancellation of our rooms at the Many Glacier Lodge. With the added driving and lack of time in Many Glacier and at Logan Pass, I did not feel that I received the full value of the trip.
One final note, the other scholars were wonderful companions. I hope to go on other trips in the future.
— Review left July 24, 2025
We participated in the tour of Glacier and Waterton National Parks in July 2025. It was our first trip, and won't be our last. It was superbly led by Leila Robinson and Denny Olson. The tour and the guides are highly recommended!
— Review left July 15, 2025
If you are planning to visit glacier, Road scholar is the way to go. We had easy access to all the best areas, carefully planned walks during which we alway felt safe regarding wildlife. The Going to the Sun ride in the historic open top red bus was a highlight. And the Prince of Whales hotel in Waterton is not to be missed. Besides the hiking and seeing, we got so much depth and background to the geology, flora and fauna and history of what we were experiencing.
— Review left September 19, 2024
This was a wonderful program! The leader and staff were very helpful, organized, and very personable. The sites visited were just beautiful, and the accommodations were excellent.
— Review left September 12, 2024
This was an absolutely amazing trip!
— Review left September 4, 2024
One of the best Road Scholar trips we've been on. The level of exercise was adjustable to our level of comfort. The guides were excellent. The information provided both in the lectures and on the bus and trail was exactly what we were looking for. And the weather was just right.
— Review left August 30, 2024
I don't think I could have picked a better itinerary for my first Road Scholar trip than the one I just participated in to Glacier & Waterton National Parks. We had wonderful hikes and great weather, not to mention getting to stay in 2 iconic national park lodges. Our trip leader Leila, hiking guides Deb & Lynette and bus driver Eric made sure our trip was unforgettable. We also had a very congenial group of adventurers, which added so much to the experience. Many new friends were made. Just a wonderful tour and experience. I can't wait to go on my next Road Scholar adventure!
— Review left August 29, 2024
This is a great program and I would suggest it to anyone who was thinking about it.
— Review left August 28, 2024
We enjoyed our trip to Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks. The beauty and majesty of the Parks is unforgettable.
— Review left August 27, 2024
Wonderful trip, beautiful scenery and interesting geology and history about the area and people.
— Review left August 24, 2024
Fun time in Glacier National Park & Waterton Lakes Canada
— Review left August 23, 2024
This is a wonderful way to visit Glacier/Waterton NP without the hassle of driving, finding parking, etc. The accommodations are superb, the scenery sublime.
— Review left August 14, 2024
A bucket list experience combining nature, history, and science in a breath-taking landscape.
— Review left August 7, 2024
It was wonderful to be thrown in with such a pleasant trio of leadership: Susan, Marilyn and Pat. Always pleasant. Always helpful. And, if at all possible, always fun.
— Review left August 1, 2024
This program was the best of the 5 I have taken. Best participants, best leaders, experts and accommodations .
You won’t regret taking this tour. Having Waterton added on to Glacier made the trip.
— Review left September 21, 2023
Immerse yourself in nature. Watch the morning fog drift across the mountains. See the sun set in brilliant orange. See a sky full of stars. Watch a moose pull dinner from the lake bottom. I was worried about the hikes. There are 3 levels. I chose the middle level and found the 4 miles enjoyable. FYI. It has been a looong time since I blew out 70 candles. Learn about the history of Glacier, the plants, the animals and the fires. It was a privilege to stay in two historic lodges with comfortable beds and million dollar views. It makes you forget all the steps. Food? Great. Leila, our leader, kept us on schedule with patience and kindness. She is a great teacher and story teller. Lisa and Pam also get credit for sharing their knowledge. When you see the crowded parking lots and narrow roads, you'll be thankful for Randy, the bus driver. Advice: bring a hat, sunscreen, hiking shoes, water bottle, clothes you can layer. Pack lightly. Bell service is at 7:00 so you don't want to bring the kitchen sink. I feel like I just went to heaven.
— Review left September 14, 2023
This is an amazing part of the country, and must see National Parks.
— Review left September 13, 2023
This trip to Glacier National Park and Waterton exceeded my expectations for the gorgeous, awe-inspiring scenery; the wonderful group leaders; the locations we stayed in the trip all along the way in the bus! All so well planned!
— Review left September 12, 2023
After a really excellent experience on our first Road Scholar trip, we were a little skeptical that the second could live up to the high standard. We were not disappointed. The itinerary was well balanced between educational opportunities and free time. Leaders Pat, Marilyn, and Lori communicated their expertise in science and history quite well. They handled a sensitive situation appropriately. Beyond that they were caring and considerate, going the extra mile to celebrate a birthday. And VERY importantly, they were a lot of fun! We were thankful to bus driver Mark for his expertise and willingness to make the bus available when we needed to deposit or retrieve our belongings. He added to the camaraderie of the group.
The accommodations and food were given a thumbs up by our travel group of four. We sampled all things huckleberry and will definitely remember the huckleberry pie, cheesecake, and margaritas even if we forget the science. Climbing to the fourth floor was a challenge but our friends met the challenge!
We are very glad we chose this trip as it gave us the once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience the historic lodges. The size of the group really affords the chance to get acquainted and share travel tips and tales. Two of our number discovered they knew each other as children and could catch up after 60 or so years.
Overall we rate this trip as superior and will be looking for another Road Scholar experience soon!
— Review left September 11, 2023
The Glacier and Waterton trip was really good. We were given a myriad of educational presentations and entertainment. We were busy all the time. The leaders were very knowledgeable and approachable. The food was good and well balanced. It was a very worthwhile adventure.
— Review left September 8, 2023
The scenery was spectacular. We saw the many parts of Glacier National park and did the iconic tours; red bus, lake cruise and Blackfeet museum. And we stayed in the Historic Lodges! Wow!
— Review left August 29, 2023
This program is for everyone! Group leader accommodates ALL levels of walking/hiking so that all participants can enjoy the natural beauty of this part of the country.
— Review left August 23, 2023
Beauty around every corner! Excellent guides... Leila, Lori, and Pam were a joy to be around and I can't wait for my next adventure!
— Review left August 22, 2023
This program is far more than a close-up, awe-inspiring view of the Rocky Mountains. It provides a fun and comprehensive experience of all facets of Glacier and Waterton National Parks. Our group leader Leila Robinson, her two dynamic assistants, and expert speakers brought geology, biology, history, folklore, and First People’s culture and stewardship to life. We travelled through forests, along mountain lakes, and into the alpine as we crossed Logan Pass. We felt that we both saw and understood the area. All the food and lodging were wonderful. Staying in the original Many Glaciers and Prince of Wales lodges was a treat that is otherwise very hard to accomplish on your own. Each day we had three choices of fairly easy hikes (mellow, moderate, motivated). My wife and I enjoy travelling as a couple, so were concerned being part of a group of 38 would be challenging, but within the first days we all bonded into a really enjoyable, fun-loving and supportive family. I highly recommend this Road Scholar program.
— Review left August 10, 2023
The trip was a real treat! I enjoyed meeting and learning from our leaders, speakers and interesting people from different parts of the country, while exploring a beautiful national park.
— Review left August 8, 2023
Mountains, lakes, historic lodges, wildlife, nature walks, wonderful leaders, and great traveling partners. Wow! Trip of a lifetime.
— Review left July 31, 2023
This tour was wonderful for seeing the highlights of the two parks, Glacier and Waterton. Staying at the historic lodges was amazing, the best part of the trip by far given how hard it can be to get reservations at the hotels. This trip is a large group, filling a large tour bus, and so we now know to look for the "small groups" designation on the web site. The trip was a bit more sedate than we had hoped for, with slow nature hikes being the norm each day, but again, we now know to look for hikes designated as hiking trips. Our favorite spot on the trip was Waterton, what an amazing location! The lake boat tour there was excellent.
— Review left September 13, 2022
This was a great program with lots of beautiful scenery. Al Koss was a great group leader. The program was well paced and everyone was accommodated on the walks. I'd recommend it!
— Review left September 5, 2022
Our Glacier National Park experience was fantastic! Great leadership knowledgeable of the area: flora and fauna, wildlife, and history. A good learning experience with knowledgeable lecturers. Great hiking selection. Breathtaking sights, fun places to stay and good food topped off a wonderful Road Scholar experience.
— Review left September 5, 2022
A chance to experience the two crown jewels of the continent while basking in the charm of historical park lodges and learning from terrific leaders about the past and present of our national treasures.
— Review left September 4, 2022
Glacier and Waterton parks are just beautiful. The hiking guides were very knowledgeable. There were always choices of hikes, and you could decide which level and how far you wanted to walk. The historic hotels were grandeur. I especially loved the Prince of Wales hotel in Canada. Do not hesitate to go.
— Review left September 1, 2022
Road Scholar provided a comprehensive and affordable tour of Glacier and Watertown Lake Parks that covered all the major highlights of both parks in only 7 days. This included staying at historic hotels and riding the Going to the Sun Road on the Red Bus. Arranging these things would have taken major planning otherwise. The education value on such tours is also excellent.
— Review left August 31, 2022
I really enjoyed the fact that the planning and transportation was provided. I’ve always wanted to visit Glacier and this was the perfect opportunity. Everyone in our group was great, very friendly. Our three leaders worked extremely well together.
— Review left August 21, 2022
If you like to commune with nature, view beautiful, untouched scenery and a variety of wildlife, share experiences and laughs with new friends, and get your daily 10,000 steps in--then this is the trip for you!
— Review left August 18, 2022
This is a wonderful program for anyone who likes to hike, view beautiful scenery,and commune with nature in two amazing national parks.
— Review left August 18, 2022
Our program in Glacier National Park and Waterton International Peace Park was outstanding; the educational components, the beauty of the area, the knowledgeable leadership, and the new friendships made in this journey all fostered our delight in this week's program.
— Review left August 16, 2022
Phenomenal group leaders and guides
— Review left August 11, 2022
This is a comprehensive look at the history, geology and flora/fauna of the International Peace Park. Comfortable accommodations and travel, excellent for solo travelers.
— Review left August 7, 2022
We were here for two weeks, starting with the Road Scholar program, Best of Glacier Park, then staying for this Glacier/Waterton National Parks. There was some overlap but that’s OK, as this scenery could be easily viewed every day and you never get tired of it. Our guide was the masterful Susan with sidekicks Marilyn and Candy who make the hikes fun, varied, and educational. The days were filled morning and afternoon, whether hikes, speakers, outings. Entering Canada required its protocol and bureaucracy, but Susan made sure we were prepared for those challenges. You’re on the bus a lot on this trip to be sure you got from Whitefish to Many Glacier to Prince of Wales in Waterton. All these are superb accommodations, with all the luggage transfers handled by staff. We made two wonderful stops in Canada, a fascinating Carriage Museum and the powerful, moving Head-Smashed-in Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site. You do not want to miss this. Traveling in July was perfect as the roads were opened and the waterfalls were flowing.
—Ben and Joyce Wiley/Florida
— Review left August 4, 2022
This program was fantastic! Susan, Marilyn and Candi made the program come alive with their enthusiasm. The group broke into 3 different skill levels for hiking so everyone felt included. The scenery was amazing! Going to the Sun Road was a wonderful experience and seeing the wildlife on Logan’s Pass was a highlight. Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump was a great learning experience with Donovan helping us understand the ancient form of hunting. I would not hesitate to recommend this program.
— Review left August 4, 2022
I have been wanting to see Glacier National Part for quite a while and this tour did not disappoint at all! Highly recommend!
Susan, Lisa, and Pat were great guides. They worked so well together and were so knowledgeable. They were organized, but were able to be spontaneous when conditions such as the outside temperature dictated.
— Review left August 4, 2022
Visit Glacier and Waterton National parks with Road Scholar. Enjoy the incredible views, great moments, and making of friends.
— Review left July 26, 2022
We just completed our very first “Road Scholar”trip. We went to Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Parks (program number 19946). We had such a wonderful time we have already booked another trip for the end of August (The Best of the Canadian Maritimes, Aug 29 - Sep 9, 2022 Program Number 3788RJ)!
If you are considering group travel give Road Scholar a look, you won’t be disappointed.
— Review left July 26, 2022
Easy to use. Enjoy searching for our next trip.
— Review left July 22, 2022
As described,this program was a great introduction to the beauty, history,geology,flora and fauna of Glacier and Waterton National Parks. Loved that we visited all the historic lodges and had adequate time for hiking and viewing wildlife.
— Review left July 22, 2022
My first Road Scholar trip and it was outstanding! A great way to experience national parks! A lot is packed into these few days but the varied sights & experiences are certainly worth it. Awesome program!
— Review left July 19, 2022
An extraordinary adventure in Glacier Park all made possible by Roads Scholar!
— Review left September 5, 2021
Lots of information was presented in a clear and humorous way.....a great program about a "crown jewel" of the United States!
— Review left September 1, 2021
This was a wonderful program, and the instructors were the very best. Glacier National Park is amazing, and the instructors felt that way and were able to depart that same feeling to me during the week.
— Review left August 29, 2021
Glacier National Park is a US treasure that should be explored. Roads Scholar does an excellent job in providing the experiences, physically and educationally to accomplish this.
— Review left August 18, 2021
Excellent is the word to describe this program. The leaders and lecturers and bus driver were all very knowledgeable. The activities were well planned. Staying in the historic hotels and riding the red bus were highlights. The scenery and wildlife were outstanding.
— Review left October 5, 2019
This was our 17th Elderhostel/Road Scholar program. I'm always impressed with the value for the money charged.
— Review left September 19, 2019
This is a great trip with spectacular views and good hiking. The wildlife was a little sparce, but got to stay at great lodges in the park.
— Review left August 16, 2019