Editor's note: The following is sponsor-supported copy from the Essential Park Guide, Winter 2015.

In northwest Montana stand some of the world’s most beautiful natural spires — snow-capped peaks that gleam like diamonds. It’s no doubt not surprising that this area is called the Crown of the Continent, though it’s more commonly known as Glacier National Park. In winter this place of natural magnitude is also a place of serenity and wonder for those who enter its borders. And the nearby creature comforts in Kalispell make a Glacier National Park vacation a true adventure and retreat.

While most roads in the park close for the winter, Glacier remains open for exploration by ski, skate, or snowshoe. Roads, including the breathtaking Going-to-the-Sun Road, turn into cross-country ski trails, and alpine lakes turn into serene ice skating ponds. And on snowshoe you can venture off the path in pretty much any direction you like.

For backcountry skiers and snowboarders, the park is a dream not to be forgotten. Towering over Lake McDonald, Mount Brown offers amazing, open slopes and stunning views. And Elk Mountain and the other peaks along the Middle Fork of the Flathead River are memorable places to make tracks.

In the park you may feel like you’re the only one there, but signs of other inhabitants are all around. Winter is one of the best seasons for wildlife viewing in Glacier — with the obvious exception of bears and other hibernating creatures. Be on the lookout for elk, fox, hares, birds, chipmunks, and tracks of others as well.

If you’re more comfortable exploring the park with seasoned guides rather than on your own, on weekends from January through March park rangers offer two-hour guided snowshoe hikes that are appropriate for children age six and up. You can rent snowshoes at Apgar Village inside the park or from sporting goods stores in Kalispell.

After a day in Glacier, downtown Kalispell, Montana, awaits with charming shops and great dining/Chuck Haney

Planning a journey to Glacier in winter doesn’t have to be a royal feat, but you do need to be prepared. Visit nps.gov/glac to check on the status of road and trail closures and avalanche conditions and keep watch on the weather forecast. Dress appropriately for temperatures and pack layers, plenty of water and food, and emergency supplies. And, don’t forget the camera or binoculars. 

Back in civilization, Kalispell — only 35 miles from the park’s west entrance — is an ideal base camp for a Glacier Park winter adventure and a modern sanctuary in its own Western style. Choose from an array of comfortable lodging options and fine or casual dining experiences, featuring homegrown ingredients from the fertile Flathead Valley. Peruse art galleries, boutiques and bookstores for that special memento and enjoy a nightcap at the local brewery.

And before you venture to Glacier for the day, it’s easy in town to stock up on or rent outdoor gear and equipment from Kalispell’s gear shops, including Rocky Mountain Outfitter and Sportsman & Ski Haus. Bonelli's Bistro and Wheat Montana offer satisfying lunches to go for a winter picnic in the park.

To start planning your winter retreat to the Crown of the Continent and Kalispell, visit discoverkalispell.com.