How to Get Senior Pictures in Glacier National Park | Glacier Park Senior Photographer
How to Get Senior Pictures in Glacier National Park | Glacier Park Senior Photographer
INTRODUCTION
Thinking about getting your senior pictures in Glacier National Park? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re local to Montana or making the trip for the views (and trust me, it’s worth it), this post will walk you through everything you need to know. Glacier is seriously unreal — mountains, lakes, wildflowers, golden sunsets — but I know it can be a little overwhelming to figure out how to actually do a senior session there. Permits? Timing? Crowds? What even is Going-to-the-Sun Road? Don’t stress. I’m breaking it all down so it’s simple, fun, and feels like something you’re actually excited about, not another thing to check off a list. If you want photos that feel like you in one of the prettiest places ever, you’re gonna want to keep scrolling.
Where is Glacier National Park?
Glacier National Park is up in the northwest corner of Montana, right along the Canadian border. It’s part of the Rocky Mountains and packed with lakes, peaks, and some of the most unreal views you’ll ever see. If you’re flying in, the closest airport is Glacier Park International (FCA) in Kalispell — about 30 minutes from the West Glacier entrance. Most of my seniors come from places like Whitefish, Kalispell, Bigfork, or even Missoula, and it’s totally doable as a day trip or weekend adventure if you’re coming from a little farther out.
How to Travel Around Glacier National Park
Basically… you’re gonna want a car. There’s no Uber or public transportation that’ll get you everywhere you need to go for photos, so driving is the move. I’m always down to drive us around during your session, or you can totally follow me in your own car — whatever feels easiest for you. We’ll be hitting a few different spots, so having wheels is a must.
Why Should You Get Senior Pictures in Glacier?
If you want senior pictures that actually feel like something you’ll look back on and remember, Glacier’s where it’s at. It’s one of the most beautiful spots in Montana, and honestly, it gives you so many options in one place — mountains, lakes, tall grass, wildflowers, all of it. You don’t have to pick between forest and lake and open views — you can get a little bit of everything.
It’s also just a good excuse to get out somewhere cool and take photos that feel a little more like an experience, not just posing in front of a random brick wall (but if you’re into that hmu lol). Whether you’re into a more dressed-up look or just wanna be in your favorite jeans and sneakers, it all works out here.
If you’re into the idea of something a little more fun, laidback, and personal — this is a great option. You don’t need to be super outdoorsy, and we don’t have to hike miles. We’ll just drive around, explore a few spots, and make something that actually feels like you.
Best Time of Year for Senior Pictures in Glacier National Park
Glacier’s weather is kind of all over the place depending on the time of year, so when you go seriously matters. If you’re thinking of getting your senior pictures done here, summer through early fall is definitely your best bet.
From mid-July through early October, Going-to-the-Sun Road is open (which is huge because that’s how you get to a lot of the prettiest spots). The weather’s warm but not too hot, the wildflowers are out, the skies are clear, and everything looks extra golden around sunset. You can wear a dress, jeans, or whatever feels like you without freezing — and we won’t have to worry about snow messing up the plans (hopefully).
By October, the temps start to drop and the road usually closes with the first big snowfall. Earlier in the year — like May or June — the park is still super pretty, but a lot of the main roads and higher elevation spots might still be snowed in. It’s less crowded then, but we’ll have fewer locations to choose from.
So if you want those dreamy views, soft light, and a session that feels like an adventure without stressing about weather or road closures, aim for a summer or early fall date. It’s the easiest time to make the most out of your shoot.
Best Locations in Glacier for Senior Pictures
Glacier has so many good spots for senior pictures, but here are a few of my favorites that always deliver. These give you a mix of backdrops without needing to hike forever — perfect for a chill session with tons of variety.
Lake McDonald
This is one of the most iconic spot in the park — and for good reason. The water is insanely clear, the mountain reflections are unreal, and the rocky shoreline is such a good spot to switch up poses or outfits. It looks good in every season, but especially in the evening when the sun starts to dip behind the peaks.
Big Bend
If you want those classic mountain layers and a huge open view behind you, Big Bend is where it’s at. You don’t have to walk far at all — we can literally pull over and start shooting — and the golden light here is so good. Definitely a jaw-dropping location that shows off the iconic Glacier views.
Belton Bridge
This one’s super easy to get to and has a kind of hidden-gem feel. You’ve got river access, mountain views, and the bridge adds something cool without being over the top. It’s great for starting or ending a session.
Cedar Forest near Avalanche
We don’t need to hike the full trail, but even just the beginning gives you that dreamy forest look. Think ferns, filtered light, and tall trees. It’s a solid stop if you want something moodier and more woodsy to mix in.
St. Mary’s (if you’re up for the drive)
Way over on the east side of the park, but if you’re down for more of a full-day shoot or want something dramatic and a little less crowded, the waterfalls and cliffs out here are worth the drive.
We’ll pick a few that fit your style, outfits, and how much time you wanna spend exploring — and don’t worry, I’ll guide the whole thing so you’re not left guessing what to do next.
Fun Activities to Incorporate into your Glacier Senior Session
Senior pictures don’t have to feel posed or awkward — seriously. If you’re coming all the way out to Glacier, let’s make it something fun and personal. There are so many ways to make your session feel like you — and adding in some of your hobbies or favorite things is one of the best ways to do that. Here are a few ideas that always photograph so well:
Bring your guitar (or whatever you play)
Whether you actually want to play or just have it with you while we shoot, it instantly makes the photos more personal and cool.
Pack a bouquet
If you’re a flower lover (same), bring a little bouquet or wildflower bundle. You can hold it, set it down in a picnic setup, or just use it as a prop to make everything feel a little more styled and dreamy — without trying too hard.
Sketchbook or painting supplies
If you're into art, bring something small to work on. Painting or drawing next to the lake or in a meadow makes for really natural, creative shots — and it gives you something to do with your hands if you're nervous in front of the camera.
Picnic setup
Throw a blanket down by the lake, bring some snacks or books, and make a little hangout spot. It’s a great way to take a break mid-shoot and adds chill, candid moments to your gallery.
Walk barefoot in the water
Totally optional, but so fun. Glacier’s water is freezing most of the year, but if it’s one of those rare warm days or you’re tougher than me, getting in a little bit makes for fun, carefree shots.
Wear or bring something that reflects your hobbies
Sport jersey, camera, college sweatshirt, dance shoes — even just a hat or hoodie from something you love. It doesn’t have to be a full-on theme, but even one small detail can tell your story in a cool way.
Whatever you’re into, I’ll help you find a way to work it into your session. These photos should feel like something you actually want to look back on — not just something you did because you had to.
Final Tips for Getting Senior Pictures Done in Glacier National Park
The biggest thing to remember? Don’t stress. These sessions are supposed to be fun — not something you overthink or feel weird about. We’ll have everything mapped out ahead of time, so there’s no showing up confused or not knowing what’s next. If you’re ever unsure about something or have an idea mid-shoot, just tell me! I want this to feel like your session, not just a checklist of poses. We’ll keep it relaxed, explore some beautiful spots, and make something you’ll actually be excited to look back on.
Glacier National Park SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER
Heyyy, I’m Morgan, a Northwest Montana based senior photographer that's all about turning your unique moments into visuals that feel like YOU! Let’s capture your true personality, vibe, and bring your ideas to life! Learn more about working with me for your Glacier National Park senior shoot by clicking HERE.
