Montana/Alberta
Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks
Program No. 19946RJ
Discover historic National Park lodges and magnificent displays of nature as you enjoy an immersive educational experience in two of North America’s most magnificent national parks.
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800-454-5768
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8 days
7 nights
18 meals
7B 5L 6D
1
Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Whitefish, MT
2
Introducing Glacier Waterton, Lake McDonald Valley
Whitefish, MT
5
Buffalo Jump, Prince of Wales Hotel
Waterton International Peace Park, Alberta
6
International Study Cruise, Waterton Walk
Waterton International Peace Park, Alberta
7
Glacier Park Lodge, Marias Pass, Return to Kalispell
Whitefish, MT
8
Program Concludes, In Transit From Program
Whitefish, MT
At a Glance
Explore two jewels of the "Crown of the Continent" — Glacier National Park in Montana and Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta. These magnificent parks combined in 1932 to create the world's first international peace park, bridging the United States and Canada with the beauty and serenity of the Rocky Mountains.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles on maintained natural surface dirt trails in mountainous terrain. The ability to climb stairs and get on and off a motor coach and boat is required. Elevations of 3,000-7,200 feet.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Immerse yourself in the history, beauty and untamed wilderness of this soaring wonderland through its historic lodges, amazing geological features and diverse flora and fauna.
- Enjoy daily field trips that showcase some of the most intact wildland on the entire continent.
- Discover breathtaking views, rugged peaks, vast glacier-carved valleys and thundering cascades as you journey over the historic Going-to-the-Sun Road aboard an iconic Red Bus.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Ellen Horowitz
Ellen Horowitz is a naturalist, writer, hiking leader, and Certified Nature & Forest Therapy Guide whose outdoor education career spans 40 years. Ellen teaches botany classes at Flathead Valley Community College, and she is a long-time field instructor for the Glacier Institute and Road Scholar. Her work has been recognized with numerous honors including Montana Audubon’s Educator of the Year Award, and magazine writing awards from the National Wildlife Federation. She is the author of the award-winning children’s book, “What I Saw in Glacier.”
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Ellen Horowitz
View biography
Ellen Horowitz is a naturalist, writer, hiking leader, and Certified Nature & Forest Therapy Guide whose outdoor education career spans 40 years. Ellen teaches botany classes at Flathead Valley Community College, and she is a long-time field instructor for the Glacier Institute and Road Scholar. Her work has been recognized with numerous honors including Montana Audubon’s Educator of the Year Award, and magazine writing awards from the National Wildlife Federation. She is the author of the award-winning children’s book, “What I Saw in Glacier.”
Ashley Mason
View biography
Ashley started her career at the North Carolina School of the Art but transferred to Guilford College in Greensboro, North Carolina to receive her B.S. in Geology with a minor in field biology. Ashley then came to Montana to teach for the Glacier Institute and then completed graduate work at The University of Montana – Missoula in Environmental Studies. A veteran naturalist and conservation educator Ashley is a former Ranger Naturalist for Glacier National Park. In 2012 she was voted Audubon Educator of the year.
Leila Robinson
View biography
Leila Robinson has developed a great love of the outdoors and especially exploring it in hiking mode. Her love of travel and nature has taken her to every continent, and she is thrilled to see and experience each journey. She has been a high school and college educator in art and interdisciplinary studies and a museum program developer for over a decade. Being able to live in Glacier for over ten summers has given her an appreciation of this incredible and favorite national park.
Denny Olson
View biography
Denny Olson is an acclaimed author with training as a biologist and geologist. He has taught nature for over 30 years. He received an M.S. from the University of Minnesota and has researched beavers, hares, and loons. Using Native American storytelling as a teaching tool; he blends science, humor, and drama, establishing his national reputation as an innovative performer and educator. Denny has applied these skills to his love for Glacier National Park, leading interpretive hikes, Road Scholar birding trips, and doing many park presentations.
Susan Atkinson
View biography
Susan Atkinson is an award-winning architect and professor of environmental design at the University of Colorado Boulder. She has traveled the world researching how people design and build in response to culture and climate. Susan grew up in the Flathead Valley, learning about wildflowers, and spotting grizzlies in Glacier National Park every summer since 1980. She is an avid trail runner who loves fly fishing, spending time with her rescue dog, Clover, and reading about wolverines. She has backpacked around the world.
Pat Van Eimeren
View biography
Pat Van Eimeren, originally a “cheesehead” from Wisconsin, has been in Montana for more than 30 years. He recently retired as a Fisheries Biologist for the Flathead National Forest. Pat has a passion for wild places and wild creatures. In the winter, he works atop Whitefish Mountain Resort as a Mountain Ambassador, and in the summer he will be deep in the solitude of the Bob Marshall Wilderness with a fly rod in hand. He enjoys all the recreational venues that Montana has to offer.
Suggested Reading List
(8 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks
Program Number: 19946
Blackfeet Tales of Glacier National Park
The author writes a series of diary entries as his Blackfoot friends tell stories in the lodge or around the fire at the end of the day. He has managed to keep the compelling style of his original material, told by talented story tellers. The stories run the gamut from tribal history to legend and myth and convey something of Blackfoot culture, daily life, and beliefs.
The Great Divide: The Rocky Mountains in the American Mind
For most of our nation's history, Americans have identified with the "purple mountain majesties" of the Rockies. Trappers and debutantes, miners and missionaries, artists and drinkers, escaped slaves, independent women abandoning hoopskirts, and assorted black sheep of respectable families have all sought refuge and inspiration there. This spectacular landscape has always offered a sense of freedom from crowds and conformity--a world, as Frederic Remington described it, "beyond derby hats and mortgages bearing eight percent." Gary Ferguson spins magnificent tales about the vivid characters who have peopled this majestic region, from the original Indian inhabitants and their interactions with European explorers, to the delirious victims of gold rush fever, to hippies in the Sixties, to today's adventure travelers in high-tech outerwear toting satellite phones into the wild. Throughout, he explores the ebbs and flows of America's attitude toward the vast expanses that embody our sense of freedom.
Moon Glacier National Park: Including Waterton Lakes National Park
Writer, editor, and avid outdoorswoman Becky Lomax offers an insider’s perspective on Glacier National Park. From walking through multi-color meadows filled with wildflowers to observing the Sperry Glacier, a victim of global warming that will vanish in less than two decades, Lomax knows the best ways to enjoy the park’s one million acres of wilderness. She also includes unique trip strategies for travelers with specific interests and restrictions, including a Wildlife-Watching tour and a whirlwind One Day in Glacier tour. Whether it’s biking up Going-to-the-Sun Road or watching a grizzly forage in huckleberries, Moon Glacier National Park gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.
Geology Along Going-to-the-Sun Road
With this colorful and lively guide, Glacier National Park visitors can tour the fascinating geologic events that created the park's majestic scenery. Complete with an easy-to-read map that offers a three-dimensional perspective on the area's geology, Geology Along Going-to-the-Sun Road gives lay readers and geologists alike a glimpse into Glacier's unique geologic summary.
Glacier - A Natural History Guide
Author and naturalist David Rockwell presents in-depth descriptions of the geology, history, flora, and fauna of the park. He explains the park's evolution from the erosion of Siberian mountains more than a billion years ago to the glaciers that gave Glacier National Park its distinctive landscape. He examines the park's great predators-grizzly bears, mountain lions, and wolves-and their complex relationship with their prey. The result is a fascinating and intimate portrait of one of the world's last wild places.
Going-to-the-Sun Road: Glacier National Park's Highway to the Sky
Traveling Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road is an experience like no other. Laborers toiled for nearly 20 years to complete the 50-mile road that winds an impossible route through the heart of Glacier. One of the most scenic highways in the world, this marvel of engineering set the standard for all national parks. C. W. Guthrie tells the intriguing tale of the history and the construction of the epic Going-to-the-Sun Road. Includes more than 60 black-and-white historic and color photographs, maps.
Wildflowers of Glacier National Park
Wildflowers of Glacier National Park and Surrounding Areas is a user-friendly field guide featuring over 300 of Glacier National Park's most common plant species. From wildflowers to trees to grasses and sedges, this book features beautiful photographs, detailed descriptions, notes on habitat and fun facts for each plant. It's a perfect plant reference for anyone with an interest in the natural history and splendor of Glacier National Park.
Grizzly Country
The grizzly bear has always inspired awe in man, but the animal's true nature and character has long been shrouded in myth. Few people know grizzlies as Andy Russell does, and in Grizzly Country he shares stories from a lifetime of experience observing them, first as hunter, then as cameraman. In wonderfully engaging prose, he reveals the life cycle of this remarkable creature.
Program No.
19946
Duration
8 days
Program Begins
Whitefish, MT
Program Concludes
Whitefish, MT
Activity Level
At a Glance
Explore two jewels of the "Crown of the Continent" — Glacier National Park in Montana and Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta. These magnificent parks combined in 1932 to create the world's first international peace park, bridging the United States and Canada with the beauty and serenity of the Rocky Mountains.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Immerse yourself in the history, beauty and untamed wilderness of this soaring wonderland through its historic lodges, amazing geological features and diverse flora and fauna.
- Enjoy daily field trips that showcase some of the most intact wildland on the entire continent.
- Discover breathtaking views, rugged peaks, vast glacier-carved valleys and thundering cascades as you journey over the historic Going-to-the-Sun Road aboard an iconic Red Bus.
Featured Expert
Ellen Horowitz
Ellen Horowitz is a naturalist, writer, hiking leader, and Certified Nature & Forest Therapy Guide whose outdoor education career spans 40 years. Ellen teaches botany classes at Flathead Valley Community College, and she is a long-time field instructor for the Glacier Institute and Road Scholar. Her work has been recognized with numerous honors including Montana Audubon’s Educator of the Year Award, and magazine writing awards from the National Wildlife Federation. She is the author of the award-winning children’s book, “What I Saw in Glacier.”
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Leila Robinson
Leila Robinson has developed a great love of the outdoors and especially exploring it in hiking mode. Her love of travel and nature has taken her to every continent, and she is thrilled to see and experience each journey. She has been a high school and college educator in art and interdisciplinary studies and a museum program developer for over a decade. Being able to live in Glacier for over ten summers has given her an appreciation of this incredible and favorite national park.
Susan Atkinson
Susan Atkinson is an award-winning architect and professor of environmental design at the University of Colorado Boulder. She has traveled the world researching how people design and build in response to culture and climate. Susan grew up in the Flathead Valley, learning about wildflowers, and spotting grizzlies in Glacier National Park every summer since 1980. She is an avid trail runner who loves fly fishing, spending time with her rescue dog, Clover, and reading about wolverines. She has backpacked around the world.
Pat Van Eimeren
Pat Van Eimeren, originally a “cheesehead” from Wisconsin, has been in Montana for more than 30 years. He recently retired as a Fisheries Biologist for the Flathead National Forest. Pat has a passion for wild places and wild creatures. In the winter, he works atop Whitefish Mountain Resort as a Mountain Ambassador, and in the summer he will be deep in the solitude of the Bob Marshall Wilderness with a fly rod in hand. He enjoys all the recreational venues that Montana has to offer.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles on maintained natural surface dirt trails in mountainous terrain. The ability to climb stairs and get on and off a motor coach and boat is required. Elevations of 3,000-7,200 feet.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List: 8 Books
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
Year
- 2025
Date
- Jul 07 - Jul 14
- Jul 14 - Jul 21
- Jul 21 - Jul 28
- Jul 28 - Aug 04
- Aug 04 - Aug 11
- Aug 11 - Aug 18
- Aug 18 - Aug 25
- Aug 25 - Sep 01
- Sep 01 - Sep 08
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Sep 1 - Sep 8, 2025 Itinerary Differences: At Prince of Wales Hotel (2 nights), there are a limited number of rooms with two beds available. If you register as double occupancy with a travel partner, you are not guaranteed two beds in the room at this hotel.
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Select trip year and date
- 2025
- Jul 07 - Jul 14
- Jul 14 - Jul 21
- Jul 21 - Jul 28
- Jul 28 - Aug 04
- Aug 04 - Aug 11
- Aug 11 - Aug 18
- Aug 18 - Aug 25
- Aug 25 - Sep 01
- Sep 01 - Sep 08
Sep 1 - Sep 8, 2025 Itinerary Differences: At Prince of Wales Hotel (2 nights), there are a limited number of rooms with two beds available. If you register as double occupancy with a travel partner, you are not guaranteed two beds in the room at this hotel.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
8 days
7 nights
What's Included
18 meals | 7B | 5L | 6D |
4 expert-led lectures
11 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
7 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Whitefish, MT
Meals:
D
Stay:
Grouse Mountain Lodge
Activity Note
Hotel check-in available from 4:00 p.m. Remember to bring your Road Scholar nametag (sent previously).
Afternoon:
Program Orientation: 4:30 p.m. After you check in and have your room assignment, join us at the Road Scholar table in the designated meeting room to get any updated information. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. . Expert field instructors will be with us throughout the program. Trail selections will be made by Group Leaders on the day of the walk based on weather, trail conditions, and group ability. We will break into smaller groups for walks so that everyone can select the distance that best suits each of us. Walks will be led by local experts who will share their knowledge along the trail. Restrooms are available at most trail heads. Travel and transfer for program-related activities will be by motorcoach and historic Red Bus unless noted otherwise. “America the Beautiful” passes cover entrance fees at national parks for up to four adults. If you have one of these national park passes, please bring it with you to the program and on our field trips Meals are provided at the hotel unless otherwise noted. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow participants, settle in, and get a good night’s sleep for the day ahead.
Day
2
Introducing Glacier Waterton, Lake McDonald Valley
Location:
Whitefish, MT
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Grouse Mountain Lodge
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 48 miles to/from Glacier National Park trailhead, approximately 2.5 hours total riding time. Walking 1 to 2 miles; maintained dirt trails that may be rocky and uneven; maximum elevation 3,300 feet.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
In our meeting room at the hotel, we’ll have an expert-led lecture introducing the Glacier Waterton area. We’ll then board a motorcoach and ride to Glacier National Park and see spectacular scenery on the shores of ten-mile long Lake McDonald. The lake and the surrounding valley were carved by glaciers long ago. We’ll ride on to the historic Lake McDonald Lodge that was built in 1914. We’ll explore this National Historic Landmark and learn more about early visitors in Glacier.
Lunch:
Bag lunch from the Red Lion Hotel
Afternoon:
Next, we’ll explore the beautiful surrounding area by going on some short walks. During our walks, we will explore the distinctive ecosystems found west of the Continental divide. Along the way, we’ll gain an appreciation for the plants and animals that inhabit this region. We’ll return to the hotel after our field trip.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
We will gather in the hotel meeting room for a presentation by a local expert on the natural history of Glacier National Park. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
3
Going-to-the-Sun Road, Red Bus, Walks, Many Glacier Hotel
Location:
Many Glacier
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Many Glacier Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach and Red Bus; driving about 105 miles, approximately 1 hour riding time on motorcoach, 3 hours riding time on Red Bus. Walking 1 to 2 miles throughout the day; maintained dirt trails, rocky and uneven, paved trails, boardwalk, steep and deep steps. Maximum elevation 6,800 feet.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will be joined by a local expert who will give us a presentation on the ecosystems and wildlife of Glacier National Park. After checking out of the hotel, we’ll hop aboard the motorcoach and drive to the shore of Lake McDonald inside Glacier National Park. While observing the scenery — with towering peaks and a deep lake carved by glaciers more than 10,000 years ago — our expert field instructors will share information on topics ranging from botany to geology, wildlife, history, aquatics, and more.
Lunch:
Bag lunches.
Afternoon:
Next, we’ll begin our transfer to the historic Many Glacier Hotel via Red Bus along Going-to-the-Sun Road (subject to weather and road conditions). As we ride aboard these iconic vehicles, we’ll be immersed in the natural grandeur of the region through insightful commentary from the drivers. First used in the mid-1930s to transport visitors in Glacier and fully restored in 2001, the historic Red Busses continue to delight passengers today. Their canvass roll-back tops allow for unsurpassed views of the towering mountains in every direction. Going-to-the-Sun Road is a National Historic Landmark and the only road that crosses Glacier National Park. The narrow road hugs the cliffside as it winds through the mountains, inspiring awe at every turn. The road was designed to complement the landscape and give visitors the opportunity to enjoy some of the most spectacular scenery Glacier National Park has to offer. We’ll stop to stretch our legs and take in the view at Logan Pass, located along the Continental Divide, where waters flow either towards the Pacific or the Atlantic Oceans. Our instructors will lead us on short walks where we’ll learn about the fascinating alpine ecosystem and the hearty plants and animals that thrive in this unforgiving environment. Logan Pass is the highest point on Going-to-the-Sun Road with an elevation of 6,646 feet. We’ll continue our journey on Going-to-the-Sun Road and view sky-scraping peaks, cascading waterfalls, and broad alpine meadows teeming with wildflowers and wildlife. We will check in when we arrive at Many Glacier Hotel. The hotel, built in 1914 by the Great Northern Railway, is situated amid soaring peaks and glassy lakes in what is called the “Switzerland of North America” in the northeastern area of Glacier National Park.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. You might like to bring your binoculars and join our instructors behind the lodge for wildlife viewing where we’ll look for grizzlies, moose, and bighorn sheep. Or, just relax and enjoy the scenery.
Day
4
Many Glacier Valley Interpretive Walk, Park Presentation
Location:
Many Glacier
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Many Glacier Hotel
Activity Note
Walking about 2 miles; maintained dirt trails that may be rocky and uneven. Elective walk up to 4 miles depending on group ability and interest. Elevations from 4,900 to 5,200 feet. Restroom facilities available at most trail heads.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll break into smaller walking groups with different distance choices to suit everyone’s personal preference in the scenic Many Glacier Valley. As we walk around a series of glacially carved lakes, be on the lookout for bears, moose, and other wildlife that thrive in this valley. We will learn about the geological forces that created this impressive landscape as well as the flora and fauna we encounter. After the field trip, we’ll return to the hotel.
Lunch:
Lunch on your own
Afternoon:
We’ll learn more about Glacier National Park during a presentation by a local expert in the meeting room at the hotel.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Our instructors will lead wildlife viewing. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
5
Buffalo Jump, Prince of Wales Hotel
Location:
Waterton International Peace Park, Alberta
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Prince of Wales Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 160 miles, approximately 3.5 hours total riding time. Walking up to 1 mile. Have passports accessible for the U.S.-Canadian border crossing.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll jump on the motorcoach this morning and visit Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site that bears witness to an aboriginal hunting practices used by native people of the North American plains for almost 6,000 years. We’ll stop at this unique site and learn from museum staff about this essential piece of history. We'll then continue on to Waterton Lakes National Park. The park is a stunning natural area where the prairies of Alberta meet the peaks of the Rocky Mountains. Clear lakes, beautiful waterfalls, rainbow-colored streams, and mountain vistas await us.
Lunch:
Sack Lunches from Many Glacier Hotel.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon we will explore the charming town of Waterton. Browse the unique boutique shops, walk the historic downtown area, or relax with a local beverage admiring the gorgeous glacier carved landscapes. Later in the day we'll check into the stunning Prince of Wales Hotel, built by the Great Northern Railway in 1927, that boasts Swiss-style architecture with British ambiance. It’s named after Prince Edward of Wales, who later became King Edward VIII, and the hotel is a National Historic Site of Canada.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Our instructors will lead wildlife viewing from the hotel deck.
Day
6
International Study Cruise, Waterton Walk
Location:
Waterton International Peace Park, Alberta
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Prince of Wales Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 25 miles throughout the day, approximately 1/2 hour riding time. Walking about 2 miles, up to 3 hours; natural dirt trails that may be uneven or rocky. Getting on/off a boat; approximately 2 hours.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We'll board the motorcoach and ride a short distance to downtown Waterton for an international study cruise on pristine Waterton Lake. The boat captain will provide expert commentary as we observe towering cliffs, unique geological formations, waterfalls, snow covered peaks, and the international border between Canada and the United States. After the study cruise, we will board the motorcoach and return to the hotel.
Lunch:
Lunch will be at the Lakeside Chophouse at Bayshore Inn.
Afternoon:
We’ll ride to the trailhead and set off on foot to explore one of the scenic trails in Waterton. Our expert instructors will provide trailside lessons on topics that range from wildfire to wildflowers to wildlife. After our walk, we will return to the hotel.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy local fare in Waterton. Motorcoach transportation between the hotel and town will be provided.
Evening:
Returning to the hotel, the remainder of the evening is at leisure. Our instructors will once again lead wildlife viewing. Prepare for check out and transfer in the morning.
Day
7
Glacier Park Lodge, Marias Pass, Return to Kalispell
Location:
Whitefish, MT
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Grouse Mountain Lodge
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 175 miles, approximately 5 hours riding time plus stops. Have passports accessible for the Canadian-U.S. border crossing.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After checking out of the Prince of Wales Hotel, we’ll begin our transfer back to Kalispell. Have passports ready for re-entry into the U.S. Once through customs, we’ll visit the historic Glacier Park Lodge in East Glacier that was completed in 1913. The 60 immense timbers supporting the Lodge were between 500 and 800 years old when they were cut. They are 36 to 42 inches in diameter and 40 feet long. We’ll learn about the history of this hotel as it relates to the railroad and what the early non-indigenous visitors to Glacier National Park experienced. We will take a beautiful short walk in the Two Medicine nature area if time allows.
Lunch:
Bag lunches.
Afternoon:
We’ll then be on our way back to Kalispell, riding along the southern border of Glacier National Park. We will cross the Continental Divide at Marias Pass and learn about the area’s historical and geological significance. We’ll also make educational and scenic stops along the way as time allows. Upon our arrival at the hotel, we’ll check-in and have some time to freshen up before dinner.
Dinner:
At the hotel. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
8
Program Concludes, In Transit From Program
Location:
Whitefish, MT
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 11:00am.
Breakfast:
At the hotel. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
18 Meals
7 Breakfasts
5 Lunches
6 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 08, 2025
- Jul 07, 2025 - Jul 14, 2025
- Jul 14, 2025 - Jul 21, 2025
- Jul 21, 2025 - Jul 28, 2025
- Jul 28, 2025 - Aug 04, 2025
- Aug 04, 2025 - Aug 11, 2025
- Aug 11, 2025 - Aug 18, 2025
- Aug 18, 2025 - Aug 25, 2025
- Aug 25, 2025 - Sep 01, 2025
- Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 08, 2025
Participant Reviews
Based on 48 Reviews
Sort By:
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
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
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
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
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
Easy to use. Enjoy searching for our next trip.
— 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