21 Best Hikes In Glacier National Park For Every Skill Level
Glacier National Park, known as the “Crown of the Continent,” offers some of the most stunning and diverse hiking trails in North America.
This National Park had been on my bucket list for a long time, and once I finally visited Glacier National Park it was even better than I imagined. My favorite hike in the United States is on this list.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just lacing up your boots for the first time, there’s a trail for you in this guide to the 21 best hikes in Glacier National Park.
About My Experience Hiking Glacier National Park
Because I travel in my camper van I was able to visit Glacier National Park right after peak-season ended (Labor day) and stay for a few weeks to explore the park in-depth and experience the best hikes.
Glacier National Park holds the top spot on my favorite US National Parks list.
Know Before You Go: Glacier National Park
Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit Glacier National Park is between July-September when the weather is favorable and the trails are open.
Going-To-The-Sun Road, the only road that cuts through the park and connects the East and West sides, does not open until July each year. Many of the hiking trails on this list are only accessible via GTS road.
If you’re interested in Glacier National Park waterfalls then July is the best time to visit, when snowmelt is best.
If you’re hoping to avoid crowds I recommend going to Glacier National Park in September, after Labor Day (this is what I did).
Where To Stay: There are 13 campgrounds with over 1,000 sites to choose from within the park. Some popular ones include Apgar, Many Glacier, and St. Mary. Reservations can be made for some sites, while others are first-come, first-served.
If you prefer to stay outside of the park there are many options on the East and West sides. The West side of the park is more popular and has more options for where to stay at Glacier National Park.
How To Get There: The closest airport is Glacier Park International Airport (FCA), located in Kalispell, Montana, approximately 30 miles west of the West Entrance. However, most people fly into Missoula International Airport (MSO) to save money. MSO is approximately 150 miles south of the park.
How To Get Around: The best way to get around the park is with the free NPS shuttle service. The shuttle only runs during peak season, so if you plan to arrive before July or after Labor Day then you’ll need to bring your own vehicle. No reservations are required for the shuttle. It operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.
It’s possible to drive your own car, but you’ll need a timed-entry pass during peak season (more on this below). Driving Going To The Sun road has a vehicle limit of 21 feet long and 8 feet wide. Also keep in mind that parking in Glacier National Park can be extremely challenging year-round. Even during off-peak season I still had trouble finding parking spaces at most trailheads.
Reservation System: Between May 24 – September 8 vehicles entering Glacier National Park are required to have an advanced vehicle reservation. Reservations can be obtained through Reservation.gov up to 6 months in advance on a rolling window.
Safety: Glacier National Park is a safe park, but it has abundant wildlife, including Grizzly bears. Always hike with bear spray readily accessible, and know how to use it.
Entrance Fees: Glacier National Park entrance fees are $35 per vehicle (good for 7 days). During the winter season this pass is only $25 (Nov-Apr).
Best Time For Hiking Glacier National Park
The best time to hike in Glacier National Park is from July to early September when the trails are generally clear of snow and the weather is most stable. However, this is also the peak season, so plan for early morning starts to beat the crowds.
I visited Glacier National Park right after their peak season ended. I found this was a great way to see the park during good weather, still have enough other hikers on the trails so I felt comfortable solo hiking, and avoid massive crowds.
Best Lake McDonald Area Hikes In Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is comprised of 8 different areas (Belly River, Goat Haunt, Lake McDonald, Many Glacier, North Fork, St. Mary, Two Medicine and Walton). A majority of Glacier National Park hikes can be found along Going-To-The-Sun road, which cuts across the park through McDonald and St Mary areas.
1 Avalanche Lake
- Distance: 5.9 miles
- Elevation Gain: 757 feet
- Rating: Moderate
- Time To Hike: 2-3 hours
- Trailhead: Trail of the Cedars
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
Avalanche Lake is a very popular hike in Glacier National Park, known for its stunning beauty and accessibility to hikers of various skill levels. The trail to Avalanche Lake begins from the Trail of the Cedars and then branches off to follow the Avalanche Creek gorge.
I recommend combining this hike with Trail of the Cedars so you don’t have to re-park your car. It’s a moderate hike, with a distance of approximately 5.9 miles round trip and an elevation gain of about 757 feet.
As you hike, you’ll be treated to the sights and sounds of rushing water, particularly during the spring melt. The path takes you through a lush forest, opening up to spectacular views of the subalpine lake, which is framed by steep cliffs on three sides.
The view of the lake with the waterfalls in the background is an iconic shot of Glacier National Park. Waterfalls cascade down these cliffs, feeding into the lake, making for a dramatic backdrop.
Wildlife sightings, including deer, bears, and a variety of birds, are possible, so hikers should be prepared and aware of their surroundings. I only saw chipmunks on this hike. Unless you’re going first thing in the morning, it’s unlikely you’ll see much wildlife because the crowds will scare them off during the day.
Given the popularity of the trail, it’s advisable to start early in the day to secure parking and enjoy the trail with fewer people. The trail is also known for its wildflowers in the spring and early summer.
My Experience:
I hiked Avalanche Lake first thing in the morning. By 8am the trailhead parking lot was already starting to fill, even in the off season.
This trail holds a spot on my top 3 favorite hikes in Glacier National Park, and it was a great hike to start the day with.
I kept hiking when I reached the lake, even though many people turned around when they reached the first shoreline. The opposite end of the lake was far less crowded and I ate my lunch along the water, only seeing 2 other groups the entire time I was there.
2 Trail of the Cedars
- Distance: 0.9 mile
- Elevation Gain: 49 feet
- Rating: Easy
- Time To Hike: 30 minutes
- Trailhead: Trail of the Cedars
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
The Trail of the Cedars is one of the most accessible hikes in Glacier National Park. It is an easy, flat loop that spans approximately 0.9 miles and is well-known for its accessibility, including being wheelchair-friendly.
This trail takes visitors through a lush, old-growth cedar forest and alongside the beautiful Avalanche Creek. The path is a combination of boardwalk and pavement, making it a leisurely walk suitable for all skill levels.
The highlight of the trail is a raised boardwalk that allows you to enjoy the mossy environment without impacting the delicate forest floor. The area is also known for its serene atmosphere and the lovely aroma of cedar and hemlock trees.
My Experience:
I completed Trail of the Cedars after hiking Avalanche Lake Trail. I thought it was a good way to cool down, and the smells from the Cedar trees were incredible. The trail was a bit crowded, but I was hiking it during the middle of the afternoon when the crowds are the largest.
3 Johns Lake Loop
- Distance: 2.0 miles
- Elevation Gain: 190 feet
- Rating: Easy
- Time To Hike: <1 hour
- Trailhead: Johns Lake Loop Trailhead, Near Lake McDonald Lodge
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
Johns Lake Loop in Glacier National Park is a relatively easy and family-friendly hike that offers a diverse array of scenery including forests, lakes, and waterfalls. The trail is known for its accessibility and the tranquil beauty of Johns Lake, which is a highlight of the hike.
The loop often includes a visit to McDonald Falls and offers views of the surrounding mountain peaks. Wildlife sightings include birds and occasionally deer but rarely bears.
4 Upper McDonald Creek Trail
- Distance: 5.6 miles
- Elevation Gain: 278 feet
- Rating: Easy
- Time To Hike: 1.5-2 hours
- Trailhead: Upper McDonald Creek Trailhead, Near Upper Lake McDonald Ranger Station
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
This trail typically offers a relatively easy hike that follows along McDonald Creek, which is the largest stream in Glacier National Park. The creek itself is fed by glacial runoff, creating stunning, clear water that flows through a lush valley.
The trail is well-maintained and offers several viewpoints and access points to the creek, making it a refreshing stop on a hot day if you wish to dip your toes in the cool water.
The trail’s gentle gradient and clear path often make it suitable for families and hikers of all skill levels.
Glacier National Park Hikes In St Mary Area
5 Highline Trail
- Distance: 14.9 miles
- Elevation Gain: 2,621 feet
- Rating: Hard
- Time To Hike: 6-8 hours
- Trailhead: Logan Pass Visitor Center
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
The Highline Trail in Glacier National Park is one of the most famous and scenic hikes in the park. It’s known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail typically starts at the Logan Pass Visitor Center and follows the Continental Divide, offering hikers panoramic views almost immediately.
The Highline Trail is not for the faint of heart due to the steep drop-offs, but it is equipped with a hand cable in the most daunting section for safety. I recommended this trail for experienced hikers, especially those who have no issues with heights. The trail also offers a side trip to the Grinnell Glacier Overlook, which is a steep but rewarding detour.
My Experience:
I hiked Highline Trail after completing Hidden Lake. Both hikes start from Logan Visitor Center so it’s easy to combine both. However, given the length of Highline Trail and my late start I didn’t complete it. I only hiked a few miles in and back out, which was still worth it because the views I saw are incredible.
Even starting late in the morning most of the start of the trail was still covered in ice. This, combined with hiking along the edge of a very steep overhang is a little disorienting. If I were scared of heights I’d probably feel differently about this hike.
While I did not spot any bears on this trail, I did see some mountain goats!
6 Hidden Lake
- Distance: 5.1 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,338 feet
- Rating: Moderate
- Time To Hike: 3-4 hours
- Trailhead: Logan Pass Visitor Center
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
Hidden Lake is one of the most popular hikes in Glacier National Park, known for its breathtaking views and the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife. The trail starts at the Logan Pass Visitor Center, which is easily accessible via the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
The first portion of the trail is also the trail for Hidden Lake Overlook. This is a good alternative option to see Hidden Lake and have an easier hike, about 2.7 miles total. The path to the overlook is relatively flat, with some of it consisting of raised wooden walkways. Past the overlook the trail is considered more strenuous.
In the summer months you’ll find incredible wildflower meadows. During my visit in September the fields were dusted with snow but many of the wildflowers were still visible. The biggest chipmunks I’ve ever seen were on this hike.
My Experience:
Easily one of my favorite hikes in Glacier National Park! I started hiking to Hidden Lake around 8am in the morning during mid-September and the snow coming down at Logan Pass was so thick you couldn’t see more than 10 feet in front of you.
This isn’t uncommon for September, especially due to the high altitude, but not all travelers packed gloves and the visitor center sold out! Snow also made the boardwalk portion of the trail very slippery for me.
My hike down to Hidden Lake was busy until I reached the overlook. This is where most people turned around, and only a few of us continued on down to the lake.
The trail was well marked until the very end, but it was still easy to navigate to the lake. This is one of those “upside down” hikes, where you descend on the way to the end and then climb your way back out.
Hiking back, the first half mile is brutal. It’s basically endless stairs and I was feeling it by the time I made it back to the meadows. Even so, this is still my second favorite hike in Glacier- it’s incredibly scenic, I enjoyed the changing weather patterns, and I even found some fresh grizzly prints in the mud by the lake.
One of the rangers I met on this trail mentioned that a park visitor had witnessed a wolverine hunt a moose. I cannot even imagine seeing something so rare, but this would be the trail to find some incredible wildlife because of the meadows, lakes and remoteness.
7 Haystack Butte
- Distance: 8.4 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,758 feet
- Rating: Hard
- Time To Hike: 4-5 hours
- Trailhead: Logan Pass Visitor Center
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
Haystack Butte is a popular hike in Glacier National Park known for its stunning wildflower displays and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It follows Highline Trail for 3.5 miles before splitting off, up to Haystack Butte.
The trail is moderately challenging and offers a good mix of terrain, making it a rewarding hike for those looking for a bit more adventure.
8 Baring Falls
- Distance: 0.7 miles
- Elevation Gain: 111 feet
- Rating: Easy
- Time To Hike: 30 minutes
- Trailhead: Siyeh Pass Trailhead (alt option: Sun Point)
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
Baring Falls is a relatively easy and family-friendly hike in Glacier National Park. The trail is known for its accessibility and the beautiful waterfall that serves as the highlight of the short trek. The path to Baring Falls begins near the Siyeh Pass Trailhead, just off the Going-to-the-Sun Road, making it a convenient stop for many visitors.
During peak times the small trailhead parking can become full, so I recommend an alternative route from Sun Point via Piegan Pass as there is more parking at the Sun Point lot.
The waterfall is a picturesque spot, perfect for photography, with the water cascading down the rocks into a serene pool below.
I also recommend you extend your hike to St. Mary Falls and Virginia Falls, which can be accessed from the same area, offering a longer route and the opportunity to see multiple waterfalls in one hike.
9 St Mary & Virginia Falls
- Distance: 3.1 miles
- Elevation Gain: 452 feet
- Rating: Moderate
- Time To Hike: 1-2 hours
- Trailhead: St. Mary Falls Shuttle Stop
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
This hike is a two-for-one deal, offering views of two magnificent waterfalls with just a short trek. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for all skill levels.
As you progress on the trail, you can expect to encounter the impressive St. Mary Falls, which cascades in a series of drops.
Continuing on, the trail leads to Virginia Falls, which is often considered the highlight of the hike. Virginia Falls plummets with a powerful force, and there’s usually a spot where you can feel the mist on your face, offering a refreshing break on a warm day.
Related:
The Best Glacier National Park Waterfalls
10 Siyeh Pass Trail
- Distance: 9.8 miles
- Elevation Gain: 2,244 feet
- Rating: Hard
- Time To Hike: 5-7 hours
- Trailhead: Siyeh Pass Trailhead (or Piegan Pass Trailhead)
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
A strenuous hike that rewards with one of the most dramatic views in Glacier National Park. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to views of the Sexton Glacier and the expansive Piegan Glacier. The pass itself sits at an elevation of over 8,000 feet, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Siyeh Pass Trail is a point-to-point trail that is 9.8 miles in one direction. You can start from either the Siyeh Pass Trailhead or the Piegan Pass Trailhead, concluding at the opposite.
Due to the elevation and open terrain, weather can change rapidly, and it’s essential to be prepared for all conditions. Wildlife sightings may include mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and the occasional bear, so carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it is crucial.
Best Hikes In Glacier National Park Many Glacier Area
11 Piegan Pass Trail
- Distance: 16 miles
- Elevation Gain: 3,077 feet
- Rating: Hard
- Time To Hike: 8-10 hours
- Trailhead: Many Glacier Hotel (or hike backwards from St Mary Falls Parking Lot)
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
Piegan Pass is a point-to-point hike in Glacier National Park that also follows the Continental Divide Trail. It’s rated as extremely hard and should only be attempted by very experienced hikers. This is also a good option for backpacking in Glacier National Park.
You can choose to begin in Many Glacier, near the Many Glacier Hotel, or to hike the trail in reverse and start at the St Mary Falls Parking Lot, along Going-To-The-Sun road.
12 Swiftcurrent Nature Trail
- Distance: 2.6 miles
- Elevation Gain: 127 feet
- Rating: Easy
- Time To Hike: 1-2 hours
- Trailhead: Many Glacier Hotel (alternative option to start loop from Grinnell Glacier Trailhead)
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
The Swiftcurrent Nature Trail is known for being an accessible and family-friendly hike that offers stunning views of the Swiftcurrent Lake and the surrounding mountain scenery. It’s a relatively flat trail, which makes it an excellent choice for a leisurely hike.
13 Redrock Falls
- Distance: 3.7 miles
- Elevation Gain: 242 feet
- Rating: Easy
- Time To Hike: 1-2 hours
- Trailhead: Swiftcurrent Pass Trailhead
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
An easy hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall. The trail typically starts near Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and winds through pine forests, alongside Swiftcurrent Creek, offering views of the surrounding mountains. This hike in Glacier National Park is relatively easy, with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for families and casual hikers. The trail is well-marked with plenty of opportunities to spot moose or even bears.
14 Ptarmigan Tunnel
- Distance: 10.6 miles
- Elevation Gain: 2,362 feet
- Rating: Hard
- Time To Hike: 5-7 hours
- Trailhead: Many Glacier Hotel
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
The Ptarmigan Tunnel hike in Glacier National Park is known for its unique feature, the Ptarmigan Tunnel itself, which is a man-made tunnel that was bored through the mountain to facilitate easier passage for hikers. The trail to the tunnel is as remarkable as the tunnel, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
The hike is considered strenuous due to its length and the elevation gain involved. It starts near the Many Glacier Hotel and follows the Ptarmigan Trail.
15 Apikuni Falls
- Distance: 1.8 miles
- Elevation Gain: 580 feet
- Rating: Moderate
- Time To Hike: 1-1.5 hours
- Trailhead: Apikuni Parking Area
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
Apikuni Falls is a short but steep hike to a picturesque waterfall. The well-maintained trail to Apikuni Falls is relatively short, albeit steep, making it an excellent option for a quick adventure or for those who are looking for a less strenuous hike in the park.
The hike usually starts at the Apikuni parking area, which is a small pullout on the Many Glacier Road. From there, the trail ascends through open terrain, offering expansive views of the surrounding mountains. As you hike, the sound of the waterfall grows louder, guiding you to the final stretch where Apikuni Falls is revealed.
The waterfall is impressive, especially during the spring and early summer when the snowmelt is at its peak. The trail allows hikers to get quite close to the falls, providing a refreshing mist on warmer days. Wildlife sightings, including bighorn sheep and bears, are possible, so you should be prepared with bear spray and knowledge of wildlife safety.
16 Cracker Lake
- Distance: 12.8 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,712 feet
- Rating: Hard
- Time To Hike: 6-8 hours
- Trailhead: Many Glacier Hotel
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
Cracker Lake Trail in Glacier National Park is renowned for its strikingly vibrant blue lake, which is the result of glacial silt suspended in the water. The trail to Cracker Lake starts near the Many Glacier Hotel and winds through dense forests, open meadows, and alpine terrain.
Expect a moderate to strenuous hike, and the chance to see a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, which are quite active in the Many Glacier area.
I have major regrets for not hiking this trail. A friend of mine had been shortly before I planned to hike it solo and mentioned a good amount of Grizzly activity so I let fear keep me away. Next time I visit Glacier National Park I will absolutely hike this insanely gorgeous trail.
17 Swiftcurrent Pass
- Distance: 16.6 miles
- Elevation Gain: 3,713 feet
- Rating: Hard
- Time To Hike: 8-10 hours
- Trailhead: Swiftcurrent Motor Inn
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
The Swiftcurrent Pass Trail in Glacier National Park starts near Swiftcurrent Motor Inn in Many Glacier. It is a favorite among experienced hikers who are looking for a full-day adventure.
As you ascend, you may encounter wildlife such as mountain goats and bighorn sheep. The trail’s highlight is reaching Swiftcurrent Pass, where you are rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
18 Grinnell Glacier Trail
- Distance: 10 miles
- Elevation Gain: 2,047 feet
- Rating: Hard
- Time To Hike: 5-8 hours
- Trailhead: Many Glacier Hotel
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
This trail is my personal favorite and arguably the best in the United States. Grinnell Glacier Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Glacier National Park, offering breathtaking views (one after another) of alpine meadows, dramatic cliffs, and pristine lakes. It’s known for its stunning vistas of Grinnell Glacier and the surrounding peaks. The trail is rated as strenuous due to its length and the elevation gain involved, however, I believe that anybody can complete this trail if you move at your own pace and come prepared.
Expect a round trip of about 10 miles. There is an optional boat across Swiftcurrent and Josephine Lakes, which can shorten the hike but only saves you mileage and not elevation. The trail typically takes between 6 to 8 hours to complete.
My Experience:
I have been to a lot of National Parks, and not only is Glacier National Park my favorite one visited so far, but Grinnell Glacier Trail is my favorite trail I’ve hiked to date. I recommend getting an early start to avoid crowds, get one of the limited parking spaces and have enough time to enjoy lunch at the glacier. Or, if you’re like me, the glacier is too cold – instead I backtracked to the treeline to eat my lunch with some shelter from the wind.
I was stunned by the beautiful lakes and constant beautiful views – they just kept getting better! I also saw mountain goats on this hike.
While there weren’t many people on the trail on my way to the glacier, by the time I was headed back to the trailhead (early afternoon) the trail was getting congested. It’s not very wide in some areas, so there were frequent traffic jams when uphill hikers were trying to pass downhill hikers.
I always pack a few extra layers when I hike but I rarely use them. The wind at the top of this hike was so cold I ended up layering on everything I could find in my backpack. Gloves and something to cover your ears are essential on this trail, even in summer months.
19 Iceberg Lake
- Distance: 9.6 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,459 feet
- Rating: Moderate
- Time To Hike: 4-6 hours
- Trailhead: Many Glacier Hotel
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
A moderately strenuous hike that leads to a stunning alpine lake where icebergs float well into the summer. The trail offers spectacular wildflower displays and the chance to see wildlife.
However, the highlight of the hike is reaching Iceberg Lake itself, which is nestled against a backdrop of steep cliffs. The lake is often dotted with icebergs that have calved from the surrounding glaciers, even in the summer months. I highly recommend an early start to secure parking and to avoid the afternoon crowds.
Best Trails In Glacier National Park Two Medicine Area
20 Running Eagle Falls (aka Trick Falls)
- Distance: 0.7 miles
- Elevation Gain: 29 feet
- Rating: Easy
- Time To Hike: 15-30 minutes
- Trailhead: Running Eagle Falls Trailhead in Two Medicine
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
Running Eagle Falls, also known as Trick Falls, is known for its unique two-tiered waterfall, which can appear as one or two falls depending on the water flow and season. The falls are named after a female Blackfeet warrior, Running Eagle.
This trail to one of the best waterfalls in Glacier National Park is well-maintained and extremely short and easy.
21 Pitamakan Pass
- Distance: 14.8 miles
- Elevation Gain: 2,739 feet
- Rating: Hard
- Time To Hike: 8-10 hours
- Trailhead: Two Medicine Campground
Glacier National Park Hike Overview:
This is definitely one of the harder hikes in Glacier National Park, but the scenery is worth it. Also consider backpacking this route and making it a multi-day hike.
The pass itself is a high mountain pass that offers breathtaking vistas, and on a clear day, you might see a vast expanse of the park’s interior. Due to the elevation and exposure, weather conditions can change rapidly, and it’s advisable to be prepared with layers and check the weather forecast before setting out.
Important Information For Glacier National Park Day Hikes
When planning your day hikes in Glacier National Park, it’s essential to be prepared. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Carry bear spray: The park is home to both black and grizzly bears. Carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it can help deter an encounter.
- Check for trail closings: Due to wildlife activity or maintenance, trails may be closed. Always check the current trail status before heading out.
- Safety In Glacier National Park: Always keep a safe distance from wildlife. Feeding or approaching wildlife is dangerous and illegal. Glacier National Park rangers are very vocal about not feeding bears, as this endangers the bear and other park visitors.
- Timed Entry Vehicle Reservations: During peak seasons, the park may implement a timed entry system to manage crowds. Be sure to check if this applies to your visit. In the past, Glacier National Park has implemented timed entry for visitors arriving between the end of May and early September. Specifics change year-to-year and have not yet been released for the 2024 season.
- Wear layers: The weather changes rapidly in the mountains. Dressing in layers, even during summer months, will allow you to adjust to varying conditions.
- Park entrance: An entrance fee is required to enter Glacier National Park.
Best Hikes In Glacier National Park Map
You can save this map of the best Glacier National Park hikes to your Google Maps for easy reference on your trip!
Easy Hikes In Glacier National Park
If you want an easy hike in Glacier National Park these are the hikes I recommend that still offer incredible views and experiences:
- Upper McDonald Creek
- Redrock Falls
- Trail of the Cedars
- Baring Falls
- Grinnell Lake
- Swiftcurrent Nature Trail
- Running Eagle Falls
- Johns Lake Loop
FAQs About Hiking In Glacier National Park
Do I need a permit to hike in Glacier National Park?
For day hikes, no permit is required. However, if you plan to camp overnight in the backcountry, you will need a backcountry permit. All park visitors must pay an entry fee.
If you visit Glacier National Park during the summer you may also need a timed-entry pass to enter in your vehicle.
What is the best time of year to hike in Glacier National Park?
The best time to hike in Glacier National Park is from late June to September when most trails are snow-free and accessible.
Going-To-The-Sun road may not open until early July, so always check ahead. Many trailheads are located along GTS road and if it’s not open, you cannot get to the trail.
If you’re visiting Glacier National Park to see waterfalls, I recommend visiting in July when a majority of the park is accessible and the snowmelt is heavily feeding the waterfalls.
If you’re more keen to skip the crowds then visiting in the first half of September, but after Labor Day, will be the best time to visit. This is my favorite time to visit. Crowds will be minimal, most of the park is still open and the weather is reasonable. The only downside to visiting outside of peak season is limited shuttle bus and boat operation.
Are there any guided hikes in Glacier National Park?
Yes, there are ranger-led hikes and guided tours available, which can provide additional insights into the park’s history, geology, and wildlife.
To join a guided hike in Glacier National Park stop by the visitors center. Rangers post varying guided hike schedules each week and this is the best place to learn about what’s available during your visit.
How can I stay safe while hiking in bear country?
Hike in groups (3 or more is ideal), make noise on the trail, carry bear spray and know how to use it, and follow all park guidelines for food storage and disposal.
Overall, Glacier National Park is very safe, but it’s always important to know what’s going on around you. The visitor center has rangers on site who can provide updates on recent wildlife activity. They also have a list of trails which have been posted with a warning about bear activity or closed entirely due to frequent bears visiting the trail.
All trails will have papers posted at the trailhead to provide safety information and recent wildlife activity notices.
Can I bring my dog on the trails in Glacier National Park?
Dogs are not allowed on trails, along lake shores, in the backcountry, or in any building in Glacier National Park for safety and environmental reasons.
I was allowed to walk my dog on paved roadways, in established campgrounds and on the paved bike path that runs between Apgar Visitor Center, Apgar Campgrounds and Apgar Village. When I visit a National Park I always stop at the ranger station to ask about dog-friendly options – they have the most up to date information and sometimes they can provide helpful tips not published on their website.
What Is The Best Hike At Glacier National Park?
It’s hard to pick just one, but the best hike at Glacier National Park is Avalanche Lake Trail. It’s a moderate hike that most people can tackle with a gorgeous destination.
These are my top 3 best hikes in Glacier National Park:
- Avalanche Lake
- Grinnell Glacier
- Hidden Lake
Where Should I Hike In Glacier National Park?
Your choice should depend on your skill level, interests, and the time you have available. The Many Glacier area offers some of the most iconic hikes.
Additionally, consideration the weather. Some trails, especially at higher elevation, will be cold and snowy outside of July and August. If the trail is accessed from Going-To-The-Sun road you won’t be able to reach it during winter months when the road is closed seasonally.
Is It Better To Hike In Yellowstone Or Glacier National Park?
Both parks offer unique experiences. Glacier is known for its dramatic mountain scenery and glacier views, while Yellowstone offers geothermal wonders and diverse wildlife.
If you prefer mountains, Glacier National Park is better.
If you prefer geothermal features, Yellowstone National Park is better.
Which side of Glacier National Park is most scenic?
Both the east and west sides have their own unique beauty, but the east side is the most scenic and offers some of the most dramatic mountainscapes.
Is it better to stay in East or West Glacier National Park?
The west side is more accessible and has more amenities, while the east side is less crowded and closer to some of the park’s most scenic hikes.
If you’re looking for convenience and easy access to restaurants and shopping, the West side of the park is the better side to stay on.
If you’re looking for the best scenery and easy access to the best hikes in Glacier National Park then the East side is the better side to stay on.
Do I need a permit to visit Glacier National Park?
You do not need a permit to visit, but you will need to pay an entrance fee. Some specific hikes or overnight backcountry trips do require permits. During the peak months Glacier National Park also has a timed-entry reservation system.
What is the least crowded hike in Glacier National Park?
Trails in the Two Medicine area, like Pitamakan Pass, tend to be less crowded than those near Logan Pass or Many Glacier.
What is the busiest month in Glacier National Park?
July and August are typically the busiest months due to the favorable weather and full access to trails.
What is the number 1 hike in Glacier National Park?
The crown jewel of hikes in Glacier National Park is often considered to be the Grinnell Glacier Trail. This trail offers it all: breathtaking vistas, the chance to see wildlife, and the awe-inspiring Grinnell Glacier itself. It’s a hike that encapsulates the essence of the park, with every step offering a new, stunning view that’s both photo-worthy and soul-stirring.
What is the hardest hike at Glacier National Park?
For those seeking a challenge, the Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail is often cited as one of the hardest hikes in the park. It’s a strenuous trek that rewards hikers with dramatic views of the Many Glacier area, a unique man-made tunnel through the mountain, and a sense of accomplishment that comes with conquering one of the park’s most demanding trails.
What side of Glacier National Park is best for hiking?
The east side of Glacier National Park is renowned for its hiking trails. With access to areas like Many Glacier and the St. Mary Valley, hikers can find a variety of trails that offer everything from serene lakeside walks to challenging mountain ascents. The east side also tends to be less crowded, providing a more solitary experience with nature.
What is the easiest glacier to hike to in Glacier National Park?
The easiest glacier to access on foot is Grinnell Glacier. Starting from the Many Glacier area, the hike to Grinnell Glacier is straightforward and well-marked, with an approach that is doable for those who are in good physical condition. The trail offers incredible rewards without the technical challenges present on some of the park’s more difficult glacier hikes.
Are there easy hiking trails in Glacier National Park?
Absolutely! Glacier National Park has plenty of easy trails that are perfect for families, casual hikers, or those just looking to enjoy the park’s natural beauty without a strenuous trek. Trails like the Trail of the Cedars, Running Eagle Falls, and the Swiftcurrent Nature Trail offer low-impact hikes with high-impact views.
Best Hikes In Glacier National Park, Ranked Easy To Hard:
- Trail of the Cedars – Easy: An accessible boardwalk through ancient cedars.
- Running Eagle Falls – Easy: A short walk to a beautiful waterfall.
- Swiftcurrent Nature Trail – Easy: A flat loop around a picturesque lake.
- Redrock Falls – Easy: An enjoyable hike to a charming waterfall.
- Johns Lake Loop – Easy: A peaceful loop with lake and forest views.
- Baring Falls – Easy: A quick hike to a lovely waterfall.
- Avalanche Lake – Moderate: A popular hike to a stunning alpine lake.
- Hidden Lake – Moderate: A scenic hike with a chance to see mountain goats.
- St. Mary & Virginia Falls – Moderate: A hike with two impressive waterfalls.
- Upper McDonald Creek Trail – Moderate: Follows along rushing waters and falls.
- Siyeh Pass Trail – Strenuous: Offers some of the most dramatic park views.
- Piegan Pass Trail – Strenuous: A high-elevation pass with stunning vistas.
- Highline Trail – Strenuous: A high-altitude trail with breathtaking views.
- Grinnell Glacier Trail – Strenuous: A steady climb to the iconic glacier.
- Iceberg Lake Trail – Strenuous: Leads to a lake with floating icebergs.
- Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail – Strenuous: A challenging hike with a unique tunnel.
- Swiftcurrent Pass – Strenuous: A high-elevation trail with extensive views.
- Haystack Butte – Strenuous: A less-traveled trail with rewarding vistas.
- Cracker Lake – Strenuous: A remote lake with strikingly blue waters.
- Apikuni Falls – Strenuous: A steep hike to a picturesque waterfall.
- Pitamakan Pass – Strenuous: A long, rewarding loop with panoramic views.
Written by Claire Fleming
I’m a travel enthusiast who spends half the year in my self-built camper van with my dog, Oscar, and the other half at my home in Raleigh, North Carolina or on international adventures.
