Glacier Park Boat Company
Step onto historic, classic boats and glide across beautiful alpine lakes nestled among Glacier's peaks. See a spectacular side of Glacier National Park not visible from the road, while Glacier Park Boat Company staff share their knowledge and love of this incredibly special place.
Lake McDonald
Relax Aboard the Historic DeSmet
If you’re seeking a peaceful way to take in the breathtaking beauty of Glacier National Park, look no further than the scenic boat tour on Lake McDonald. Departing from the historic Lake McDonald Lodge, this 1-hour tour is the perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking or to kick off your Glacier adventure.
As you glide across the pristine emerald-hued waters of Lake McDonald, you’ll be surrounded by tranquil forest, stunning mountain vistas, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the park’s west side. This narrated tour provides fascinating insights into the history and geology of the area, including how glaciers shaped this remarkable landscape. It’s a great opportunity to learn while you relax and soak in the scenery!
Your journey will be aboard the DeSmet, the flagship vessel of the fleet. Built in 1930, the DeSmet is not only a charming part of the tour but also a vessel with a rich history—one of four vessels in the fleet that holds a spot on the National Register for Historic Vessels. As you cruise along, you can appreciate the craftsmanship of this historic boat while enjoying the majestic views of the Continental Divide.
St. Mary Lake at Rising Sun
Discover Baring Falls: Scenic Tours Aboard Little Chief or Joy II
Looking for a unique way to soak in the breathtaking landscapes of Glacier National Park? The scenic boat tours from Rising Sun boat dock on St. Mary Lake are the perfect adventure! Centrally located just 5 miles from the park's East Entrance, these tours offer incredible views that can only be appreciated from the water.
Scenic 1.5 Hour Tour
Hop aboard the Little Chief or Joy II for a 1.5-hour scenic cruise that’s sure to impress. During the tour, you’ll make a brief stop at the stunning Baring Falls waterfall, where you can take in the natural beauty and snap some photos. As you continue your journey, prepare to be amazed by the views of Wild Goose Island—a highlight of the tour. With 360-degree panoramas of towering peaks and glimpses of the breathtaking Sexton Glacier, this cruise is a feast for the eyes.
3.5 Hour Scenic Tour and Triple Waterfall Hike NEW for 2025
If you’re looking to add a bit of adventure to your day, consider the 3.5-hour Scenic Tour and Triple Waterfall Hike. This option follows the same beautiful route but allows you to disembark at Baring Falls for an unguided 1.6 mile hike to St. Mary falls, if you're up for a little extra adventure an additional 0.8 Miles will take you to the stunning Virginia Falls. You’ll have 2 hours to explore the trails at your own pace, surrounded by the tranquility of nature. After your hike, the boat will return to the Baring Falls dock to pick you up at your designated return time, and take you back to the Rising Sun parking area. This trail is moderate with 525 feet of elevation gain on undulating terrain, total mileage round trip to St Mary Falls is 3.2 miles, and to Virginia falls is 4.8 miles.
Two Medicine Lake
Scenic Boat Tour Aboard the Historic Sinopah
Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Glacier National Park with the Two Medicine Lake tour. Climb aboard the charming historic vessel Sinopah, built in 1926 and recognized as the oldest wooden boat in our fleet. This enchanting tour allows you to relax and soak in the beauty of this “secret” valley while learning about the rich Blackfeet tribal history that surrounds the Two Medicine area.
As you cruise across the tranquil waters of Two Medicine Lake, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Sinopah and Rising Wolf mountains. Your guide will share captivating stories about the cultural significance of the area, deepening your connection to this stunning landscape.
Flexible Exploration Options
Upon docking at the head of the lake, you have the freedom to choose your adventure. You can stay on the boat for a 45-minute round trip tour, soaking in the scenery from the water. Alternatively, disembark and embark on a self-guided hike to popular spots like Twin Falls or Upper Two Medicine Lake.
For those who prefer a guided experience, join one of our knowledgeable guides for a scenic 1.8-mile hike to Twin Falls for a 3 hour round trip tour. After your hike, we’ll bring you back to the starting point, ensuring a seamless experience.
For hikers eager to explore further, we offer one-way return trips. This allows you to hike out and return by boat, making it perfect for trails like the Pitamakan Dawson loop. Experience an exhilarating adventure and stunning views, then relax as you cruise back across the lake.
##### Many Glacier
Explore the Beauty of Many Glacier: A Journey Across Two Stunning Lakes
NOTE: This tour is very popular and books out months ahead, please plan ahead and make your reservations early.
If you’re looking for a breathtaking adventure in Glacier National Park, the Many Glacier narrated tour is a must-do! Starting from the iconic Many Glacier Hotel, this experience is packed with stunning views, wildlife spotting, and the chance to explore some of nature’s finest offerings.
Setting Sail on Swiftcurrent Lake
Your journey begins at the historic Many Glacier Hotel, nestled on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake. Here, you’ll hop aboard the Chief Two Guns, a charming vessel ready to take you across the shimmering waters. As you cruise, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife—this area is known for bear and moose sightings, as well as the occasional mountain goat on the cliffs. And don’t forget to soak in the views of Grinnell Point—a natural wonder that will leave you in awe.
A Short Hike to Lake Josephine
After enjoying the tranquility of Swiftcurrent Lake, you’ll dock and disembark. Get ready for a bit of a workout! You'll need to tackle a 0.2-mile hike over a steep hill to reach the shores of Lake Josephine. It’s a short trek, but the scenery is well worth it. Plus, it’s a great way to stretch your legs before the next leg of your journey.
Cruising Lake Josephine on the Morning Eagle
Once you arrive at Lake Josephine, you’ll board the historical Morning Eagle, built in 1945. This vessel offers a unique glimpse into the past as it glides you to the head of the lake. As you cruise, take in the stunning views of Salamander and Gem Glaciers—it’s a photographer’s dream!
Hiking Options: Choose Your Adventure
When you reach the head of Lake Josephine, you have a couple of options. For those eager to explore, you can embark on a self-guided hike. Choose between a 1.8-mile walk to Grinnell Lake or challenge yourself with the 7.6-mile hike to Grinnell Glacier. Both paths promise incredible views and the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of the park. One-way return tickets are available for early hikers who want to get a head start on the crowd. If hiking isn’t your thing, no problem! You can relax on the boat for a leisurely round trip back across both lakes, taking in the sights for a total of 1.5 hours.
Important Tips
A few important notes for those planning to join this tour: all guests must complete the 0.2-mile steep hike between the lakes, so come prepared with sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure. Also, if you’re on the 8:30 AM outbound tour, remember that everyone must disembark at the head of Lake Josephine.