The National Park Service is celebrating its 98th birthday this week. It’s also Labor Day Weekend, which means it’s an ample opportunity to escape the city for a sojourn in the high country.
There’s a long list of treasured options in Glacier National Park, including the memorable boat rides offered by Glacier Park Boat Co. Since 1938, the family owned company has offered relaxing yet riveting trips with their historic wooden boats on a few different lakes.
The flagship of the fleet, the classic “DeSmet” travels Lake McDonald at various times. The tours depart from Lake McDonald Lodge daily at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m., 5:30 p.m., and 7 p.m. This weekend is the last chance for the 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. rides. The other Lake McDonald trips run until Sept. 21.
A pair of other breathtaking tours are Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine, which showcase sylvan valleys and visible glaciers. For more information, visit www.glacierparkboats.com.
The last day to drive the entire 50 miles of the Sun Road is Sept. 21. The following day, a section of road will be closed on the east side between St. Mary Campground and Logan Pass due to rehabilitation efforts. The last day to drive the Sun Road from the West Entrance to Logan Pass is Oct. 19.