Glacier National Park, located in the northwestern corner of Montana, stands as a testament to nature’s unparalleled beauty. Spanning over a million acres of pristine wilderness, the park features towering peaks, pristine lakes, dense forests, and expansive meadows. Although their numbers have diminished over the years, the park is renowned for its glaciers. The Going-to-the-Sun Road, a marvel of engineering, traverses the park and offers awe-inspiring vistas of majestic mountains, deep valleys, and glacier-carved landscapes. You also have a chance at encountering a rich array of wildlife, from mountain goats and bighorn sheep to grizzly bears and lynx. The park’s alpine lakes, including the stunning Lake McDonald, add to its beauty as they reflect the surrounding peaks. Glacier National Park is a sanctuary for anyone up to challenging adventures and those seeking solace in the untouched beauty of one of America’s most spectacular natural wonders.
Fun Facts about Glacier National Park
- Leaders like George Bird Grinnell pushed for the creation of a national park in the late 1800s. It wasn’t until May 11, 1910, that President William Howard Taft signed a bill establishing the area as the country’s 10th national park.
- Glacier National Park spans 1,583 rugged acres and is nicknamed “The Crown of the Continent.”
- The park shares a border with Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park, and together they form the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park.
- In the late 1800s, there were over 150 documented glaciers in the park’s boundaries. Today there are fewer than 30 that remain.
- Inside the park is the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic highway that spans 50 miles and crosses the Continental Divide.
- The park is one of the last remaining strongholds for the grizzly bear population in the continental U.S.
- The glaciers grind rocks into fine particles known as glacial rock flour. When suspended in the glacial meltwater, it gives lakes in the park, such as Lake McDonald, their distinctive turquoise color.
A Quick Look at Glacier National Park
- Best time of year to visit. Late June through mid-September. The park is open year-round, but before and after these times the Going-to-the-Sun-Road is closed due to snow coverage and avalanche risk.
- How long to stay. I recommend staying for at least five days. Try to spend at least two days in each side of the park.
- How to get there. Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) is the closest airport. There are 7 entrances leading into the park, including the Polebridge Entrance, the Two Medicine Entrance, the Many Glacier Entrance, the Cut Bank Entrance, the West Glacier Entrance, the Saint Mary Entrance, and the Camas Creek Entrance. Only the last three connect to the Going-To-The-Sun Road.
- Places to Stay. If you wish to camp, you are in luck. The park has thirteen front country campgrounds. If you prefer not to camp, you can also stay at the Many Glacier Lodge, the Cedar Creek Lodge, or Swiftcurrent Motor Inn & Cabins.
Things to Know Before Hiking in Glacier National Park
- Glacier National Park is in bear country. Carrying bear spray is highly recommended when hiking or staying in bear country or any areas that are homes to potentially dangerous wildlife. Bear spray is a specialized type of pepper spray that is proven to be effective in deterring aggressive wildlife in the event of close encounters. In addition to being effective, bear spray is also a non-lethal option, is quick and easy to use, provides safety for both humans and wildlife, and creates peace of mind while in the wilderness.
- Cell phone reception is limited in most of the park. Before you head to the park, I highly recommend that you download and have offline copies of any reservation details, directions, or permits. In my earlier days of traveling, there have been many times where I found myself driving unnecessary distances to areas with service just so I could access information that I should have already had saved.
- Have offline access to hiking trail maps. Unless you are skilled in using topographical maps, I highly recommend that you have downloaded versions of any trail that you plan on hiking. If you do not have access to a fancy GPS with tracking and SOS messaging in the case of an emergency, you should download the AllTrails app and upgrade to AllTrails+ for $35.99 a year. This upgrade lets you download topographical, satellite, and other varieties of offline trails, shows you where you are, how far you have gone, and how much longer you must go, as well as your elevation gain, speed, and estimated burned calories. I use it for every non-overnight hike that I do.
- Pack essential items and proper clothing. Some very basic, but essential items that should always be carried while hiking include a navigation system, a flashlight or headlamp, sun protection, a first aid kit, insect repellent, a knife, matches, a lighter, or a fire started, extra food and water beyond the minimum expectation, and extra clothes such as a rain jacket, wind breaker, and warmer layers. Some of these items may feel unnecessary at first glance but it is better to have something and not need it, than to need it and not have it.
- Glacier National Park charges an entry fee. These fees usually cost $35 and grant you a week of additional access to over 425 sites that are also run by the National Park Service. In addition to a park pass, there is also a $2 vehicle reservation fee for driving on the going to the sun road that must be purchased in advance. This is to limit traffic in the park. If you plan on visiting three or more parks within a year, then I recommend you purchase the America the Beautiful annual pass. This pass will make entering parks a bit quicker, much easier, and provides you with access to the same number of parks that the week-long pass does, but for an entire year.
Twelve Breathtaking Hikes in Glacier National Park
1. Swiftcurrent Nature Trail
- Length: 2.6 miles
- Elevation gain: 127 feet
This trail is nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of Glacier National Park. This enchanting trail offers a picturesque journey through pristine wilderness and showcases the park’s diverse landscape. Along the trail, you will be treated to stunning vews of Swiftcurrent Lake, surrounded by majestic mountain peaks. The trail weaves through dense forests, open meadows, and alongside crystal-clear streams that provide a rich tapestry of natural beauty. The trail also provides many opportunities to spot native species such as bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and a variety of bird species. Swiftcurrent Nature Trail is an excellent first hike in Glacier National Park to get you accustomed with the park’s beauty.
2. St. Mary Falls and Virginia Falls Trail
- Length: 3.1 miles
- Elevation gain: 452 feet
These falls are a dynamic duo of cascading beauty and will enchant you with their spectacular displays of nature’s power. Tucked away in a lush, forested landscape, the trail serves as a prelude to the grandeur that will follow during your visit to the park. Continuing along the trail, the captivating Virginia Falls comes into view, showcasing a multi-tiered spectacle that is certain to captivate you. The misty spray, the vibrant greenery, and the sheer force of the water creates an awe-inspiring sight. Both falls are framed by the pristine wilderness of Glacier National Park, making the hike an unforgettable exploration of nature’s raw beauty and power.
3. Avalanche Lake
- Length: 5.9 miles
- Elevation gain: 717 feet
The Avalanche Lake Trail welcomes adventurers with its stunning scenery and immersive wilderness experience. This popular trail takes you on a captivating journey through old-growth forests and along the serene Avalanche Creek. As the trail ascends, the landscape opens to reveal towering cliffs and rugged mountain peaks. At the end of this hike is the breathtaking Avalanche Lake, cradled between snow-capped peaks and surrounded by dense forests. The waters of the lake reflect the surrounding splendor and create a sense of peace. This trail offers not only a physically rewarding hike but also a visual feast for those seeking the pristine beauty that defines Glacier National Park. The enchanting combination of alpine scenery and tranquil waters makes the Avalanche Lake Trail a must-explore destination for everyone.
4. Hidden Lake
- Length: 5.1 miles
- Elevation gain: 1,338 feet
This trail is a mesmerizing adventure through alpine landscapes that showcase the park’s rugged beauty. The trail unveils breathtaking panoramas of mountains, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. As you ascend through the rocky terrain, they are treated to sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and the vast expanse of the park. The highlight of the trail is the reveal of Hidden Lake, a pristine alpine gem nestled within the high-altitude environment. Along the trail, I spotted a wide variety of wildlife, including mountain goats, blacktail deer, and bighorn sheep. Look for tiny cream-colored dots near the top of the mountains. They are most likely mountain goats. The bright blue waters of Hidden Lake will reflect the towering peaks under the right weather conditions, creating a serene setting that makes this trail a awe-inspiring experience.
5. Two Medicine South Shore Trail
- Length: 6.8 miles
- Elevation gain: 659 feet
This trail offers a serene and picturesque journey along the shores of Two Medicine Lake and takes you through a landscape that is characterized by dense forests, meadows, and stunning lake views. The trail is relatively flat and accessible, making it suitable for hikers of various skill levels. As you progress along the trail, you are treated to panoramic views of the rugged peaks of the Continental Divide. The tranquility of the lake, the reflection of towering mountains in its clear waters, and the possibility of encountering wildlife are certain to add to the excitement of this hike.
6. Iceberg Lake
- Length: 9.6 miles
- Elevation gain: 1,459 feet
The Iceberg Lake Trail in is a captivating expedition that leads you to one of the most stunning alpine destinations I’ve seen in this park. It is also the first place I ever saw a grizzly bear. The trail winds through dense forests and open meadows and opens to reveal breathtaking views of the towering peaks. The climax of the hike is the pristine Iceberg Lake that sits right beneath rugged mountains and is surrounded by remnants of snow and ice, even in the heat of August. The turquoise waters of the lake, fed by melting glaciers, create a surreal and tranquil atmosphere and it’s not uncommon to spot icebergs floating in the lake. The lake houses some of the coldest water I have ever felt. I bet you can’t touch it for longer than ten seconds without going numb. This trail is a must-visit for anyone seeking a combination of alpine grandeur, wildlife sightings, and the serenity of a secluded mountain lake in the heart of Glacier National Park.
7. Grinnell Glacier Trail
- Length: 10 miles
- Elevation gain: 2,047 feet
One of the more challenging hikes in the Glacier National Park, the Grinnell Glacier Trail is a rewarding trek through some of the park’s most stunning landscapes. The trail takes you on a journey through dense forests, alpine meadows, and along the shores of turquoise lakes. As the trail ascends, the iconic Grinnell Glacier gradually comes into view. The panoramic vistas along the trail include sweeping views of pristine lakes and towering peaks, providing a stunning visualization. Although I did not see any, the trail is usually a hotspot for seeing grizzly bears and if frequently closed due to high numbers of sightings. Grinnell Glacier and its surrounding rugged mountain terrain, makes this trail one of favorites in all of Glacier National Park.
8. Siyeh Pass Trail
- Length: 9.8 miles
- Elevation gain: 2,244 feet
The Siyeh Pass Trail is a thrilling and challenging route that calls experienced hikers with its breathtaking alpine scenery. The trail winds through dense forests, traverses open meadows, and ascends steadily towards the pass. As you gain elevation, the landscape transforms into a high-altitude realm of rugged peaks and sweeping panoramas. The highlight of the hike is reaching Siyeh Pass, where the Continental Divide unfolds and showcases the beauty of snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows. The trail offers an opportunity to witness the park’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife, from mountain goats to marmots. This trail is perfect for anyone wanting a challenging adventure coupled with unparalleled views of Glacier National Park’s pristine wilderness.
9. Cracker Lake
- Length: 12.8 miles
- Elevation gain: 1,712 feet
This trail is sure to captivate you as it leads you to the mesmerizing turquoise waters of Cracker Lake. Set against a backdrop of towering peaks and alpine splendor, the trail winds through dense forests and opens to expansive meadows dressed in vibrant wildflowers. As you progress, the landscape transforms and reveals stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains. The trail ends at the breathtaking Cracker Lake, where the vibrant blue hue of the water is accented by the presence of floating icebergs and the rugged cliffs that frame the lake. The serene setting and the opportunity to witness the iconic Bullhead Point make this trail a must-visit for anyone seeking a moderately challenging hike that is full of rewards.
10. Highline Trail
- Length: 14.9 miles
- Elevation gain: 2,621 feet
The Highline Trail offers an exhilarating and iconic hiking experience and showcase the park’s alpine grandeur and breathtaking vistas. The trail follows the Continental Divide and treats you to panoramic views of the rugged peaks and deep valleys right from the start. Carved into the mountainside, the trail offers both exhilarating heights and stunning scenery. I didn’t even mean to take this trail and only made it about a mile in until I realized I was not on the hike I set out to do. Even traversing along narrow ledges for the short amount of time that I did, it is easy to see that the trail provides an awe-inspiring perspective of the alpine meadows and rocky terrain in the pristine wilderness of Glacier National Park. I definitely will be back to finish the trail and experience more of its unparalleled views of the park’s majestic landscapes.
11. Dawson Pass
- Length: 14.1 miles
- Elevation gain: 3,225 feet
The hike to Dawson Pass in offers a stunning vantage point that rewards you with unmatchable views of the park’s diverse landscapes. The trail to leads you through dense forests, across alpine meadows, and partially along the shores of Two Medicine Lake. As you ascend, the scenery unfolds to reveal more of the majesty of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The pass itself offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Two Medicine Valley and the sparkling waters of Two Medicine Lake. The rugged beauty of the terrain, coupled with the serenity of the alpine environment, makes Dawson Pass a captivating destination for those seeking a moderately challenging hike with a spectacular payoff in the heart of Glacier National Park.
12. Piegan Pass Trail
- Length: 16 miles
- Elevation gain: 3,077 feet
The Piegan Pass Trail is a picturesque journey through some of the park’s most enchanting landscapes. The trail takes you on a scenic adventure through dense forests, alpine meadows, and rocky terrain. As the trail ascends, the breathtaking views unfold and reveal the rugged beauty of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Piegan Pass itself is a high-altitude sanctuary that is nestled right between Piegan Mountain and Cataract Mountain and offers a sublime view of the alpine wilderness. Piegan Pass Trail is perfect for anyone seeking a challenging hike or overnight backpacking trip with abundant natural beauty and an immersive experience in the pristine landscapes of Glacier National Park.