The Best of Glacier National Park

Get the Inside Scoop on the Best of All that Glacier Has to Offer



Alan Leftridge, a former park ranger, loves sharing his passion for the outdoors with other people. 


“Seeing the excitement and enthusiasm on a visitor’s face is its own reward,” Leftridge says. “They come to a park asking ‘what is there to see and do?’ and you can see the anticipation build as you describe the natural wonders awaiting them. It’s the best part of the job.”


Leftridge’s own passion for the parks is infectious—his daughter has worked as a seasonal ranger in Glacier National Park. Alan channeled that passion into Farcountry Press’ newest release The Best of Glacier National Park ($19.95, Farcountry Press, 2013). 


“Glacier is a landscape of superlatives,” he says. “There’s amazing scenery, stunning wildflower displays, grizzly bears and wolves, and some of America’s best hiking trails. It’s easy to share my excitement for such a spectacular place.”


From his home in Montana’s Swan Valley, Leftridge regularly ventures onto Glacier’s trails, photographing wildflowers, watching wildlife, and easing into the serenity of the mountains. 


Leftridge says, “Over the years, I’ve spent many hours exploring Glacier. I wanted this book to read like an insider’s guide, as though a trusted friend was divulging all the best things to see and do in the park.” 


The book describes the best day hikes, nature trails, backpack trips, boat tours, flora and fauna, historic sites, and more. There are sections on the best activities for kids and the best ways to spend a rainy (or snowy) day. Also included are “the best” activities in Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier’s sister park just across the border in Alberta, Canada.