Natural Attraction

Rising Sun Picnic Area

Natural AttractionOPERATIONAL★ 5
Rising Sun Picnic Area at Glacier National Park sits beside a calm lake with rugged mountains in the distance.

Casual, table-service dining in Glacier NP with lake views. Signature dishes include smoked pork belly burnt ends, BBQ hummus, and a huckleberry pulled pork sandwich; veggie options available.

Access & viewing

Parking Details
Parking lot available
Accessibility
Restrooms on-site; Rising Sun Amphitheater nearby is wheelchair accessible; outdoor paths are uneven in places

Planning advice

Nearby Facilities
Rising Sun Motor Inn vicinity; ample parking
Best Time To Visit
Midweek in the shoulder seasons to dodge crowds.
Tips Advice
  • Boxed lunches are available for takeout.
  • No reservations are accepted—arrive early during peak season.
  • The pizza with crispy crust and handmade sauce is the move after a hike.

More details

Family Friendly Notes
Casual, kid-friendly stop; great after hikes—kids welcome.
Best Visit Times
Weekdays in the shoulder seasons
Review Summary
Pizza crust delivers a crisp snap; the sauce carries bright acidity and a clean finish. The views over St. Mary Lake elevate the casual meal; it’s a popular stop for hikers and visitors alike.

Location

Rising Sun Picnic Area overlooks a turquoise lake framed by towering peaks in Glacier National Park.Rising Sun picnic area trail in Glacier National Park winds through pine trees toward a distant lake under a clear blue sky.Elk herd at Rising Sun Picnic Area in Glacier National Park, grazing among tall grasses with evergreen trees in the background.Rising Sun Picnic Area at Glacier National Park with a rocky lakeshore and towering mountain reflected in calm water.

Frequently asked questions

Is there gluten-free option?

Gluten-free availability is not specified in the available information.

Do they take reservations?

No reservations are accepted.

Is there a designated takeout option?

Yes—boxed lunches are available for takeout.

Are there kid-friendly options?

Yes, the casual setting and pizza/burger lineup suit families after a hike.

Is there a parking area?

Yes, ample parking is available at the Rising Sun Picnic Area.

What beverages are offered?

Wine and beer options are available.

Vulture Peak

Glaciated peak with Precambrian Belt rocks; backcountry scramble to the summit.

Elk Mountain

360° summit views over Belt rocks; a rugged, glacier-carved ascent.

Glacier Peak

Remote stratovolcano in the Washington Cascades. Last major eruption around 1700 AD.

Numa Peak

Numa Peak rises above Bowman Lake; Numa Ridge Lookout reveals vast alpine views.

Pyramid Peak

Granite peak sharpened by glacial ice; scrambling to Pyramid Peak from Pyramid Pass.

Grace Lake

Grace Lake: glacial cirque lake at 3,966 ft, reached via the Logging Lake Trail.

Sources

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated April 2026. Report an issue.