Glacier National Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are two of America’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Both are recognized for their stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and challenging outdoor recreation opportunities. But what sets these two parks apart from each other?
In this article, we will be taking a deep dive into the similarities and differences between Glacier National Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. From the breathtaking glaciers in Glacier National Park to the towering cliffs at New River Gorge, we’ll explore what makes each park special. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature lover, or just looking for a unique adventure, this article is for you! So pack your bags and get ready for a journey through two of America’s most beautiful parks.
Hiking Trails in Glacier National Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Glacier National Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are both natural wonders that offer some of the best hiking trails in the United States. Glacier National Park is located in Montana and is known for its stunning glaciers, jagged peaks and alpine meadows. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is located in West Virginia and is home to the New River, which is known for its scenic beauty and challenging rapids.
Hiking trails in Glacier National Park range from easy hikes, such as the Hidden Lake Trail, which is a 2.5-mile trek with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers, to challenging hikes like the Highline Trail, which is a 11.6-mile trek through rugged terrain and steep inclines.
In contrast, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is mostly known for its hard hikes, such as the Endless Wall Trail, which is a 9.5-mile trek that offers panoramic views of the New River Gorge and the surrounding mountains. The park also offers easier hikes like the Long Point Trail, which is a 2-mile stroll along the rim of the New River Gorge and offers stunning views of the river below.
Overall, both Glacier National Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve offer a wide variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for an easy hike with breathtaking views or a challenging trek through rugged terrain, these parks have something for everyone.
Most Popular Hiking Trails in Glacier National Park
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grinnell Glacier Trail | 18185.542 | 658.9776 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
| Avalanche Lake via the Trail of the Cedars | 9173.238 | 227.9904 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Iceberg Lake Trail | 14966.862 | 441.96 | Moderate | out and back | 5 |
| Hidden Lake Trail | 8529.502 | 418.7952 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Highline Trail – Logan Pass to Granite Park Chalet | 23979.166 | 785.7744 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
| St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail | 4667.086 | 137.7696 | Easy | out and back | 4.5 |
| Hidden Lake Overlook | 4506.152 | 176.784 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Cracker Lake Trail | 19312.08 | 502.92 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Trail of the Cedars | 1287.472 | 10.9728 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| The Garden Wall | 23657.298 | 1068.9336 | Hard | out and back | 5 |
Most Popular Hiking Trails in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
| Name | Length | Elevation | Type | Difficulty | Visitor Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tolmie Peak Trail | 8851.37 | 463.9056 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Skyline Trail | 8529.502 | 535.8384 | Moderate | loop | 5 |
| Comet and Christine Falls | 6920.162 | 610.8192 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Camp Muir Route Via Skyline Trail | 13518.456 | 1403.9088 | Very Hard | out and back | 5 |
| Burroughs Mountain Loop Trail | 15127.796 | 780.8976 | Moderate | loop | 5 |
| Naches Peak Loop Trail | 5310.822 | 193.8528 | Easy | loop | 4.5 |
| Spray Park Trail to Mount Pleasant | 11104.446 | 635.8128 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Mount Fremont Lookout Trail | 9012.304 | 348.996 | Moderate | out and back | 5 |
| Pinnacle Peak Saddle Trail | 3862.416 | 321.8688 | Moderate | out and back | 4.5 |
| Summerland Trail | 13196.588 | 655.9296 | Moderate | out and back | 4.6 |
Wildlife in Glacier National Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Glacier and New River Gorge National Parks offer unique wildlife experiences. The scenic and rugged terrains of Glacier, located in Montana, are home to a diverse range of wild animals such as mountain goats, big horn sheep, and elk. In contrast, the New River Gorge, located in West Virginia, mainly showcases a rich avian population, including the American bald eagle, peregrine falcon, and several species of songbirds.
Plants in Glacier National Park include wildflowers, conifers, and deciduous trees that provide habitat and food sources for its wildlife. Meanwhile, the New River Gorge is situated in a temperate deciduous forest, where you can find a variety of hardwoods, such as oak and maple, as well as perennials and shrubs.
Visitors to Glacier National Park may also encounter black bears, wolves, and coyotes, while New River Gorge is home to animals like the white-tailed deer, raccoons and the occasional black bear. In addition, the New River Gorge boasts an extensive cave system, which is home to several species of bats and blind cave fish.
Both parks offer a wealth of opportunities for wildlife viewing, but the main difference is the type of wildlife you’ll encounter. Whether you’re interested in birds, mammals, or plants, both Glacier and New River Gorge National Parks provide unique and memorable wildlife experiences for visitors.
Below are lists of the most commonly spotted wildlife at Glacier National Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. However, you can see a full list of wildlife at each national park here.
Birds
| Glacier National Park | New River Gorge National Park and Preserve |
|---|---|
| Peregrine Falcon | Peregrine Falcon |
| Northern Harrier | Northern Harrier |
| Sharp-Shinned Hawk | Sharp-Shinned Hawk |
| Osprey | Osprey |
| Tree Swallow | Tree Swallow |
| Mallard | Mallard |
| Canada Goose | Canada Goose |
| Lincoln’s Sparrow | Lincoln’s Sparrow |
| Ruby-Crowned Kinglet | Great Horned Owl |
| American Robin | Red-Tailed Hawk |
| Great Horned Owl | Barn Swallow |
| Red-Tailed Hawk | Savannah Sparrow |
| Northern Flicker | Great Blue Heron |
| Merlin | Hermit Thrush |
| Barn Swallow | European Starling |
| Savannah Sparrow | Northern Pintail |
| Great Blue Heron | American Wigeon |
| Hermit Thrush | Green-Winged Teal |
| American Kestrel | American Pipit |
| Bald Eagle | Killdeer |
| Song Sparrow | Brown-Headed Cowbird |
| European Starling | Hairy Woodpecker |
| Northern Pintail | Red-Breasted Nuthatch |
| American Wigeon | White-Crowned Sparrow |
| Green-Winged Teal | Northern Shoveler |
Mammals
| Glacier National Park | New River Gorge National Park and Preserve |
|---|---|
| Coyote | Coyote |
| American Beaver | American Beaver |
| Muskrat | Muskrat |
| Big Brown Bat | Big Brown Bat |
| Bobcat | Bobcat |
| Striped Skunk | Striped Skunk |
| Little Brown Bat | Little Brown Bat |
| Deer Mouse | Deer Mouse |
| Raccoon | Raccoon |
| Black Bear | Black Bear |
| Porcupine | Porcupine |
| Silver-Haired Bat | Silver-Haired Bat |
| Hoary Bat | Hoary Bat |
| Red Fox | Long-Tailed Weasel |
| Long-Tailed Weasel | House Mouse |
| Mountain Lion | Mountain Lion |
| Mink | Black-Tailed Deer |
| Mule Deer | Wolf |
| Gray Wolf | Long-Legged Myotis |
| Long-Legged Bat | Long-Eared Myotis |
| Long-Eared Bat | Ermine |
| Badger | California Myotis |
| Short-Tailed Weasel | Snowshoe Hare |
| California Myotis | North American River Otter |
| Snowshoe Hare | Masked Shrew |
Fish
| Glacier National Park | New River Gorge National Park and Preserve |
|---|---|
| Rainbow Trout | Rainbow Trout |
| Brook Trout | Eastern Brook Trout |
| Longnose Sucker | Brown Trout |
| Fathead Minnow | Coho Salmon |
| Lake Trout | Chinook Salmon |
| Northern Pike | Mottled Sculpin |
| Burbot | Slimy Sculpin |
| Mottled Sculpin | Threespine Stickleback |
| Slimy Sculpin | Kokanee |
| Longnose Dace | Pink Salmon |
| Sockeye Salmon | Dolly Varden |
| Arctic Grayling | Cutthroat Trout |
Reptiles
| Glacier National Park | New River Gorge National Park and Preserve |
|---|---|
| Western Terrestrial Garter Snake | Western Terrestrial Garter Snake |
| Common Garter Snake | Common Garter Snake |
| Rubber Boa | Rubber Boa |
Amphibians
| Glacier National Park | New River Gorge National Park and Preserve |
|---|---|
| Tiger Salamander |
Insects
| Glacier National Park | New River Gorge National Park and Preserve |
|---|---|
| Mourning Cloak | |
| Cabbage White | |
| Silvery Blue | |
| Purplish Copper | |
| Anise Swallowtail |
Beautiful Landscapes in Glacier National Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Glacier National Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are two popular national parks in the United States. Glacier National Park, located in Montana, is known for its stunning mountain landscapes and glaciers. The park is home to over 700 miles of trails, including the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, which offers breathtaking views of the mountains and glaciers. Some of the most popular landscapes in the park include Grinnell Glacier, Mount Siyeh, and Hidden Lake.
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, located in West Virginia, is famous for its scenic overlooks and breathtaking views of the New River Gorge Bridge. The park is also home to over 80 miles of hiking trails, including the iconic Endless Wall Trail, which offers stunning views of the New River Gorge and the surrounding landscape. The New River Gorge Bridge, one of the longest steel arch bridges in the world, is a popular destination for visitors who want to experience the breathtaking views from the top of the gorge. Other popular landscapes in the park include the Kaymoor Mine, the Grandview Sandstone Overlook, and the Endless Wall Trail.
Things To-Do and Activities in Glacier National Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Glacier National Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are two popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts in the United States. Both parks offer a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. However, each park has its own unique offerings that set it apart from the other.
In Glacier National Park, visitors can take a scenic drive on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which offers stunning views of the park’s glaciers, lakes, and peaks. Another popular activity is boating on one of the park’s many lakes, where visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, or simply taking in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Wildlife viewing is also a popular activity in Glacier National Park, with visitors often spotting deer, elk, and bears.
At New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, visitors can explore the park’s rugged wilderness areas on foot or by bike, or go rock climbing, fishing, or rafting on the New River. The park is also home to several historic sites, including the town of Thurmond, which was once a thriving coal town. Visitors can learn about the history of the area at the park’s visitors center, or take a guided tour of one of the many historic sites. The park’s scenic overlooks offer breathtaking views of the New River Gorge Bridge, the longest steel arch bridge in the world.
Whether you’re looking for a scenic drive, an outdoor adventure, or a chance to learn about the history of the area, both Glacier National Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve have something to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a first-time visitor, these parks are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Best Time to Visit Glacier National Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Glacier National Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are two of the most beautiful National Parks in the United States. Both offer stunning scenery and a wealth of outdoor activities, but the seasonal weather at each park is quite different.
Glacier National Park is located in the Rocky Mountains of Montana and is known for its cold, snowy winter weather. The park receives an average of over 100 inches of snow per year, making it an ideal destination for skiers and snowshoers. Summer temperatures are mild, with average highs in the 60s and 70s, making it a great destination for hiking and camping.
On the other hand, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is located in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia and has a more temperate climate. Winter temperatures are mild, with occasional snow and ice, making it a great destination for winter sports such as rock climbing and hiking. Summer temperatures are warm, with average highs in the 80s and 90s, making it a great destination for rafting, kayaking, and swimming.
When it comes to visiting these parks, the best time of year will depend on what activities you are interested in. If you are looking for winter sports, Glacier National Park is the best choice. If you are looking for warm weather activities such as rafting and kayaking, then New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is the best choice.
Family Friendliness of Glacier National Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Glacier National Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are both stunning natural wonders that offer a wealth of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. However, when it comes to family-friendliness, there are some differences between the two parks that families should consider when choosing a destination.
Glacier National Park is considered to be a bit more family-friendly, with a variety of trails and activities that are suitable for children of all ages. The park offers kid-friendly nature walks, ranger-led programs, and scenic drives that are perfect for families. Additionally, Glacier National Park has a number of campgrounds and lodges that are conveniently located near popular attractions, making it easy for families to enjoy the park’s beauty without having to travel far.
On the other hand, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is a bit more challenging for families, with more strenuous hikes and rugged terrain that may not be as suitable for younger children. However, the park is still a great destination for families who are looking for an adventure and are willing to tackle the more challenging trails. The park also offers a variety of recreational activities, including rafting, fishing, and rock climbing, that are perfect for families who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Ultimately, both Glacier National Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve offer unique and memorable experiences for families, but Glacier National Park is the better choice for families who are looking for an easy, accessible, and family-friendly park experience.