10 Fascinating Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Glacier National Park in Montana

Glacier National Park is Montana’s treasure. It’s a million acres of breathtaking, awe-inspiring beauty, adventure, and amazing views. We all know of it. Most of us have seen it in person. But how much do you really know about this national park in Montana? Here are 10 little-known facts about Glacier National Park in Montana, for when you plan a visit to the Crown Jewel of the Continent.

1. Triple Divide Peak supplies water to three different oceans.

It’s true. The Continental Divide and Northern Divide, which direct water flow into the oceans, converge at the peak’s summit. This means the water that falls on Triple Divide Peak flows into the Pacific, Atlantic, or Arctic Oceans (through Hudson Bay). This is the only place on the continent where water splits into three separate oceans.

2. The park is home to more than 70 species of mammals.

Glacier National Park is well known for its diverse wildlife, including moose, grizzly bears, and mountain goats. However, it is also home to rare animals like the wolverine and Canada lynx. Pay attention to the skies as well, as this park is home to 275 bird species.

3. Going-to-the-Sun Road appeared in the opening credits of "The Shining."

Go watch the movie again. Do you see it now?

4. Glacier National Park is a part of the world’s first International Peace Park.

Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada were established as the first International Peace Park in 1932. The parks were joined together as a symbol of goodwill, with the two sides working together to preserve the beautiful wilderness.

5. There are approximately 400 structures that appear on the National Register of Historic Places.

Some of the historic landmarks include Lake McDonald Lodge, the Granite Park Chalet, and the Two Medicine Store. This list also includes many cabins and ranger stations, as well as the Great Northern Railway Buildings.

6. Glacier National Park is, more or less, surrounded by sovereign nations.

Canada is located to the north, the Flathead Reservation is west and south of the park, and the Blackfeet Reservation is east of it.

7. There are approximately 762 lakes in the park.

Despite the large number of lakes in the park, only 131 of them are named. Lake McDonald is the largest and deepest lake in Glacier National Park, but other popular and well-known bodies of water include Two Medicine Lake, Grinnell Lake, and St. Mary Lake.

8. The park has more than 150 named mountain peaks taller than 8,000 feet in elevation.

These peaks are all part of the Rocky Mountains, and at least six major peaks are taller than 10,000 feet in elevation. Mount Cleveland is the highest peak in the park, rising to approximately 10,400 feet.

9. There is a book based on all the crazy things that have happened in the park.

"It Happened in Glacier National Park" is a collection of tales of things that have happened at Glacier, from the disappearance of the Whitehead brothers to mischievous park spirits.

10. Robin Williams loved Glacier so much he once said, “If it isn’t God’s backyard, He certainly lives nearby.”

We wholeheartedly agree.

What's the most interesting thing you've ever heard about Glacier? What do you love most about this national park in Montana? Plan to visit soon, because it really is one of the country's most wondrous treasures!

If you are feeling inspired to visit this national park, make sure to use Only In Your State's itinerary planner before you go.