Glacier's Glaciers

A national park ranger stands with their arms out in front of a glacier.

Traditionally, the Kootenai referred to Glacier National Park as Ya·qawiswit̓xuki, meaning "the place where there is a lot of ice."

Glacier National Park's glaciers support the American way of life by contributing meltwater to irrigation for agriculture, to cold streams for wildlife, and to lakes for recreation. The melting of the park's glaciers does have consequences, but for many people glacier retreat itself has become enough reason for concern. The national park was named for its many active glaciers. Losing these glaciers may be a lesson about the significance of the crisis. Though other effects of climate change are felt closer to home–more frequent heat waves, rising seas, larger wildfires–the loss of the park’s namesake asks us to imagine what the future of Glacier should be.

 

 
a person stands in front of a glacier
How to see a Glacier

With a little effort you can see a glacier with your own eyes here. Some are visible from the road and others require a day hike.

Historic image of a person photographing a glacier
Glacier Repeat Photography

All the glaciers in the park have receded. Click here to see what that looks like.

A bright lake surrounded by gravel, snow, and ice in the mountains.
Glacial Geology

Once you know what to look for, viewing Glacier's landscape can seem like reading a textbook on the geologic effects of glaciation.

A person points at a glacier.
Learn about the USGS Benchmark Glaciers

The U.S. Geological Survey Benchmark Glacier Project is one of the longest running studies of glaciers on Earth.

People install a solar panel on the roof of a building.
Sustainability

Learn about what Glacier National Park is doing to reduce carbon emissions.

Last updated: August 12, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 128
West Glacier, MT 59936

Phone:

406-888-7800

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