Glacier National Park, British Columbia, Canada: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Glacier National Park, British Columbia, Canada? If you're planning to go to Glacier National Park, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Glacier National Park
  2. Important essentials for Glacier National Park
  3. Activities for Glacier National Park
  4. Glacier National Park in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Glacier National Park in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Glacier National Park in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Glacier National Park in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Glacier National Park in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Glacier National Park in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Glacier National Park in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Glacier National Park in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Glacier National Park in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Glacier National Park in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Glacier National Park in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Glacier National Park in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Glacier National Park, British Columbia, Canada

Based on the climate and weather in Glacier National Park, British Columbia, Canada, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Glacier National Park, British Columbia, Canada

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Glacier National Park, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Glacier National Park, British Columbia, Canada by month

January

January for Glacier National Park is unbearably cold and very snowy. Temperatures average in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It snows about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glacier National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

February in Glacier National Park is biting cold and very snowy. Temperatures average in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It snows about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glacier National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the correct type. Most adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

March

If you are traveling to Glacier National Park in March, you will notice that it is frosty and somewhat snowy. Expect it to rain once in a while and snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glacier National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the right kind. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

April

If you go to Glacier National Park in April, you will notice that it is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month and snow about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glacier National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

May

If you go to Glacier National Park in May, you will notice that it can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glacier National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right type. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

In June, Glacier National Park is chilly and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) and regularly jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Glacier National Park, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glacier National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

July

In July, Glacier National Park is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Glacier National Park, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glacier National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the right type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

August

August in Glacier National Park is balmy and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 60s F (high 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glacier National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

September

If you go to Glacier National Park in September, you will notice that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glacier National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the correct type. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

October

October in Glacier National Park is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain about half of the time. It also snows about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glacier National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

November in Glacier National Park is biting cold and very snowy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) to high 20s F (single digits below 0 C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glacier National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the correct type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

December

In December, Glacier National Park can be bitter cold and very snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C) range. At night, lows are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C). This is also a rainy time for Glacier National Park, with of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Glacier National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Glacier National Park, British Columbia, Canada

British Columbia has always been considered as one of the best travel destinations in Canada. And if you happen to visit this province, the Glacier National Park is one place that should be on your travel itinerary. Situated in the southeastern part of British Columbia, the park is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It is home to remarkable mountain peaks and glaciers, emitting cascading waterfalls, wildlife, and numerous trekking trails.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions that you must explore when visiting the Glacier National Park.

1. Rogers Pass Discovery Centre:

The Glacier National Park Visitor Centre is situated at Rogers Pass Discovery Centre, which features exhibitions and interactive displays about the park's history, wildlife, and climate. The centre provides a panoramic view of Mount Sir Donald, the Illecillewaet Glacier, and the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

2. Athabasca Glacier:

Another popular tourist attraction in this park is the Athabasca Glacier, which is one of Canada's most accessible glaciers. It stretches about 6 km in length and is about 1 km wide, located at an elevation of 1850 m. Visitors can hop on a tour bus to the Columbia Icefield and step out on the glacier to experience its beauty and feel its chilly weather.

3. Exploring the Alpine Garden Trail:

A fabulous way of exploring the park's flora and fauna is through the Alpine Garden Trail. This trail consists of a 1.6 km hike that takes you through the alpine meadow and offers panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding mountain peaks. The trail is marked by a series of signs, each highlighting different types of plants and flowers.

4. Glacier Circle Drive:

Venturing on a Glacier Circle Drive in your vehicle takes you through the mountain terrain, showcasing beauty beyond imagination. It is a scenic route that bends and curves through valleys, crossing waterfalls and aquamarine streams. The drive offers several stops like Serpentine Creek, Hermit Meadows, and Ross Lake.

5. Backcountry Hiking:

If you're looking to challenge yourself, exploring the backcountry hiking trails is a must-try. The park offers a range of trails of varying length and difficulty level that take you through dense forests, glacially carved valleys, and rugged mountain terrain. Some of the popular trails are the Abbott Ridge trail, Balu Pass Trail, and Avalanche Crest Trail.

In conclusion, the Glacier National Park is a place offering adventure and beauty combined. Its stunning alpine scenery, recreational activities, and deep-rooted history will treat your senses to a feast of experiences. Whether you are hiking, driving, or simply admiring the beauty of nature, this park is a must-visit destination in British Columbia.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, Shuzenji, Japan, Balatonfüred, Hungary, Menominee, Michigan, United States of America, Benton, Kentucky, United States of America, Plymouth, Indiana, United States of America, Craco, Italy, Eretria, Greece, Scotia, California, United States of America, Nové Město pod Smrkem, Czech Republic, and Besalú, Spain.