Best Hikes in Glacier National Park: 2024 Guide
Glacier National Park, located in Montana, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and a plethora of hiking trails that cater to all levels of hikers. Whether you are an experienced trekker or a casual nature enthusiast, Glacier National Park offers some of the most spectacular hikes in the United States. Here, we will explore some of the best hikes in Glacier National Park, providing detailed insights into each trail.
1. Hidden Lake Overlook
Distance: 2.8 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 460 feet
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Time to Complete: 1.5 to 2 hours
Trailhead: Logan Pass Visitor Center
This relatively short but rewarding hike offers some of the best views in the park. Starting from Logan Pass, the trail traverses through the Hanging Gardens, a meadow often frequented by mountain goats and adorned with vibrant wildflowers. The highlight of the hike is the overlook of Hidden Lake, a pristine alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks.
Key Features:
- Wildlife: Frequent sightings of mountain goats and bighorn sheep.
- Flora: Abundant wildflowers in summer.
- Viewpoint: Stunning vistas of Hidden Lake, ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
Tips: For a more challenging experience, continue down to the lake’s shore, adding approximately 2.5 miles to your hike.
We hiked to Hidden Lake in Glacier National Park right in the beginning of July 2024, I think it was July 1st. It rained and hailed on us multiple times, we had to hike through the snow which was also very slippery. So dress accordingly, it snows in this location even in summer.
2. Trail of the Cedars
- Distance: 1.4 miles (loop)
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Time to Complete: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Trailhead: Trail of the Cedars
This accessible trail features a boardwalk through ancient cedar trees and ends at Avalanche Gorge. It’s perfect for all ages and abilities
3. Avalanche Lake via Trail of the Cedars
Distance: 4.5 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 730 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailhead: Trail of the Cedars
This trail combines two of the park’s most popular attractions: the accessible Trail of the Cedars and the moderately challenging hike to Avalanche Lake. The trail starts with a walk through a serene forest of ancient cedars before reaching Avalanche Lake, nestled amidst towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
Key Features:
- Accessibility: Trail of the Cedars is wheelchair accessible.
- Scenic Lake: Avalanche Lake’s emerald waters are fed by multiple waterfalls.
- Flora: Lush cedar and hemlock forest.
Tips: This trail is popular and can get crowded; visiting early in the morning is recommended.
4. St. Mary and Virginia Falls
Distance: 3.6 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 285 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Trailhead: St. Mary Falls Trailhead
This is one of the easy Glacier National Park hikes that offers a double treat of waterfalls: St. Mary Falls and Virginia Falls. The trail meanders through a forest recovering from wildfire, offering unique views of new growth. St. Mary Falls is a popular swimming spot, while Virginia Falls provides a picturesque setting for a picnic.
Key Features:
- Waterfalls: Two beautiful waterfalls along the trail.
- Swimming: Opportunity to swim at St. Mary Falls.
- Picnic Spots: Great spots for lunch at Virginia Falls.
Tips: This trail is popular, so expect crowds during peak times.
5. Redrock Falls
- Distance: 3.6 miles (round trip)
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Time to Complete: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Trailhead: Swiftcurrent Trailhead (near Many Glacier)
- Difficulty: Easy
A relatively easy hike that leads to a series of beautiful cascades and pools at Redrock Falls, offering great opportunities for photography and wildlife viewing. One of the easiest Glacier National Park hiking trails for sure.
6. Swiftcurrent Nature Trail
- Distance: 2.5 miles (loop)
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Time to Complete: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Trailhead: Swiftcurrent Motor Inn
- Difficulty: Easy
This gentle loop trail around Swiftcurrent Lake provides fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and is ideal for a leisurely walk. Hiking in Glacier National Park doesn’t get more relaxed and pleasant than this!
7. McDonald Creek
- Distance: 5 miles (round trip)
- Elevation Gain: 213 feet
- Time to Complete: 2 to 3 hours
- Trailhead: The end of McDonald Road
- Difficulty: Easy
- Description: A gentle hike along McDonald Creek, which is especially beautiful in winter with ice formations on the creek and rocky canyon walls.
8. Apikuni Falls
- Distance: 2 miles (round trip)
- Elevation Gain: 700 feet
- Time to Complete: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Trailhead: Apikuni Parking Area
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
A short but steep hike to a stunning waterfall. The trail provides excellent views and is perfect for a quick outing.
9. Johns Lake Loop
- Distance: 1.9 miles (loop)
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Time to Complete: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Trailhead: Johns Lake Trailhead (Going-to-the-Sun Road)
- Difficulty: Easy
This loop trail passes by Johns Lake and offers views of McDonald Falls and the surrounding forest.
10. Iceberg Lake
Distance: 9.7 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailhead: Many Glacier
Iceberg Lake is another highlight of the Many Glacier area, renowned for its stunning views and unique floating icebergs in the lake during summer. The trail begins with a steep ascent but soon levels out, offering a more gradual climb through wildflower meadows and past Ptarmigan Falls.
Key Features:
- Unique Scenery: Icebergs floating in the lake.
- Wildlife: Bears are commonly spotted; carry bear spray.
- Floral Displays: Wildflowers in bloom during summer.
Tips: Be cautious of bears, especially during huckleberry season when they frequent the area.
11. Grinnell Lake
Distance: 7.1 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 220 feet
Time to Complete: 3 to 4 hours
Trailhead: Many Glacier
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: This is one of the best hikes in Glacier National Park for sure! This scenic hike leads to the serene Grinnell Lake, passing through forested areas and along the shores of Swiftcurrent and Josephine Lakes. The trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding peaks and is less strenuous compared to the Grinnell Glacier Trail.
12. Cracker Lake
Distance: 12.6 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailhead: Many Glacier
Cracker Lake is renowned for its striking turquoise waters, which are surrounded by towering peaks. The hike to Cracker Lake takes you through lush forests and open meadows, offering plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.
Key Features:
- Turquoise Lake: The vivid color of Cracker Lake is a highlight.
- Wildlife: Frequent sightings of bears and other wildlife.
- Scenic Views: Beautiful mountain scenery and wildflower meadows.
Tips: Carry bear spray and make noise to avoid surprising wildlife. The trail can be muddy, so wear appropriate footwear.
13. Highline Trail
Distance: 11.6 miles (point-to-point)
Elevation Gain: 800 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailhead: Logan Pass Visitor Center
The Highline Trail is a quintessential hike that captures the essence of Glacier National Park. Starting at Logan Pass, this trail takes you along the Continental Divide, offering breathtaking views of meadows, rocky ridgelines, and diverse wildlife, including mountain goats and marmots. A notable highlight is the Garden Wall, where a steep spur trail leads to Grinnell Glacier Overlook, providing panoramic vistas of the park’s rugged terrain.
Key Features:
- Wildlife Sightings: Marmots, mountain goats, and occasional bighorn sheep.
- Scenic Overlooks: Grinnell Glacier Overlook offers spectacular views of the glacier and surrounding valleys.
- Historic Sites: Granite Park Chalet, a backcountry lodge, is a perfect rest stop before descending to The Loop.
Tips: Arrive early to secure parking at Logan Pass. If the full trail seems daunting, consider hiking a shorter segment to Haystack Pass and back.
14. Gunsight Lake
Distance: 12.9 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 1,724 feet
Time to Complete: 5 to 6 hours
Trailhead: Jackson Glacier Overlook
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: This trail leads to Gunsight Lake, offering stunning views of the lake surrounded by rugged peaks. The hike includes forested sections and open meadows, making it a scenic and enjoyable trek
15. Swiftcurrent Pass
Distance: 14.2 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 2,200 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Trailhead: Many Glacier
Swiftcurrent Pass is a challenging hike that rewards with some of the best panoramic views in the park. The trail ascends through forested areas, past several waterfalls, and eventually reaches the pass with views of Swiftcurrent Glacier and the surrounding peaks.
Key Features:
- Waterfalls: Beautiful waterfalls along the way, including Redrock Falls.
- Scenic Pass: Panoramic views from Swiftcurrent Pass.
- Wildlife: Common sightings of bears and other wildlife.
Tips: Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and carry plenty of water and snacks.
16. Grinnell Glacier Trail
Distance: 10.6 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 1,600 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Trailhead: Many Glacier
One of the park’s most iconic hikes, the Grinnell Glacier Trail, offers an immersive experience through alpine meadows, past turquoise lakes, and up to the glacier itself. The trail is known for its dramatic scenery and the chance to see a glacier up close. The first part of the trail is relatively easy, but the latter half becomes more challenging with steeper inclines.
Key Features:
- Scenic Lakes: Views of Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine.
- Wildlife: Common sightings include bears, moose, and deer.
- Glacial Views: Up-close views of Grinnell Glacier.
Tips: Due to frequent bear activity, carry bear spray and make noise while hiking.
17. Ptarmigan Tunnel
Distance: 10.6 miles (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 2,300 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Trailhead: Many Glacier
The Ptarmigan Tunnel trail is a unique hike that leads to a historic tunnel carved through the mountain. The tunnel offers breathtaking views of the Belly River Valley and the remote backcountry of Glacier National Park. The hike also passes Ptarmigan Lake, a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by wildflowers.
Key Features:
- Historic Tunnel: A man-made tunnel with spectacular views.
- Alpine Lake: Ptarmigan Lake is a serene spot for a break.
- Wildlife: Possibility of seeing bears, moose, and mountain goats.
Tips: The tunnel is usually open from mid-July to early October, depending on snow conditions.
18. Pitamakan Pass and Dawson Pass
Distance: 18.8 miles (loop)
Elevation Gain: 2,900 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Trailhead: Two Medicine
For those seeking a challenging and less crowded hike, the loop around Pitamakan Pass and Dawson Pass in the Two Medicine area is perfect. The trail offers jaw-dropping views from the passes and a variety of terrains, from alpine meadows to rugged ridgelines.
Key Features:
- Panoramic Views: Spectacular vistas from both passes.
- Less Crowded: Fewer hikers compared to other areas of the park.
- Varied Terrain: Diverse landscapes along the loop.
Tips: Start early and be prepared for a long day. Check for trail closures due to bear activity.
19. Dawson Pass and Pitamakan Pass Loop
Distance: 18.8 miles (loop)
Elevation Gain: 2,900 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Trailhead: Two Medicine
Tips: This is a strenuous hike that requires good preparation. Ensure you have adequate supplies and check trail conditions before starting.
This loop hike offers some of the most spectacular views in Glacier National Park, traversing two high mountain passes. The trail provides a mix of dramatic mountain scenery, alpine meadows, and serene lakes. It’s a long and challenging hike, but the vistas from both passes are well worth the effort.
Key Features:
- Panoramic Views: Stunning views from both Dawson Pass and Pitamakan Pass.
- Alpine Lakes: Beautiful lakes and meadows along the trail.
- Wildlife: Potential sightings of bears, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife.
20. Siyeh Pass
Distance: 10.3 miles (point-to-point)
Elevation Gain: 2,240 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Trailhead: Siyeh Bend
Siyeh Pass offers hikers a challenging ascent with rewarding views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail passes through forested areas, alpine meadows, and rocky terrain, culminating in a breathtaking view from the pass. It’s one of the less crowded hikes, providing a more solitary experience.
21. Gunsight Pass
Distance: 20.6 miles (point-to-point)
Elevation Gain: 3,420 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Trailhead: Jackson Glacier Overlook or Lake McDonald Lodge
Gunsight Pass is a challenging hike that offers some of the most spectacular views in Glacier National Park. This trail traverses a variety of landscapes, including alpine meadows, rugged mountain passes, and serene lakes. Highlights include views of Gunsight Lake, Sperry Glacier, and Lake Ellen Wilson
Key Features:
- Diverse Landscapes: Forests, meadows, and rocky terrain.
- Scenic Pass: Panoramic views from Siyeh Pass.
- Wildlife: Chance to see bears and other wildlife.
Tips: This trail can be exposed and windy at the pass, so bring layers to stay warm.
Best Hikes in Glacier National Park: Summary of Key Points for Easy Hikes
- Highline Trail: Scenic with wildlife and historic sites.
- Hidden Lake Overlook: Short, rewarding hike with wildlife and wildflowers.
- Grinnell Glacier: Iconic trail with dramatic landscapes.
- Avalanche Lake: Accessible starting point, leads to a beautiful lake.
- Iceberg Lake: Unique floating icebergs and wildlife.
- St. Mary and Virginia Falls: Easy hike with waterfalls and swimming spots.
- Pitamakan Pass and Dawson Pass: Challenging, less crowded loop with panoramic views.
Conclusions on the Best Hikes in Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park offers an array of hikes that showcase its breathtaking beauty and diverse ecosystems. From challenging trails that reward with stunning vistas to easy walks through ancient forests, there is something for every hiker. Remember to plan ahead, carry bear spray, and practice Leave No Trace principles to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Happy hiking!