10 Best Day Hikes in Glacier National Park for 2026
Glacier National Park is a hiker's paradise, boasting over 700 miles of trails that weave through pristine forests, past turquoise alpine lakes, and up to breathtaking glacial overlooks. With so many spectacular options, planning the perfect trek can feel overwhelming. This guide cuts through the clutter to help you find the right trail, detailing 10 of the best day hikes in Glacier National Park for every skill level, from easy family-friendly strolls to challenging alpine expeditions.
Our goal is to equip you with the essential information needed to explore the Crown of the Continent confidently and safely. For each hike, we provide a comprehensive breakdown covering:
Trail statistics: Distance, elevation gain, and estimated time.
Difficulty rating: Clear guidance on what to expect.
Logistical details: Trailhead access, parking insights, and shuttle options.
Scenic highlights: The must-see viewpoints and natural wonders along the way.
Navigating the park's logistics, such as vehicle reservations and limited parking at popular trailheads, can be a significant hurdle. While we do not offer guided hiking or backpacking trips inside Glacier National Park, our expertise lies in creating unique and hassle-free adventures that complement your visit. We specialize in guided backpacking trips in the stunning Flathead National Forest, which borders the park, as well as e-bike tours, sightseeing tours, and snowshoeing adventures.
To help simplify your Glacier visit, we offer sightseeing tours and convenient shuttle services in the Many Glacier and Two Medicine valleys. These services can provide hassle-free access to the trailheads for some of the incredible self-guided hikes featured in this list. Let's find the perfect trail for your unforgettable Glacier experience.
1. Grinnell Glacier Trail
The Grinnell Glacier Trail is arguably the most iconic trek in Glacier National Park, delivering a powerful punch of dramatic alpine scenery. This quintessential hike offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the park's glaciated landscape, revealing turquoise lakes, flower-filled meadows, and the powerful presence of the namesake glacier. It’s a must-do for any visitor seeking one of the best day hikes in Glacier National Park.
The trail begins in the Many Glacier valley and climbs steadily, providing ever-expanding views of Grinnell Lake, Angel Wing, and Mount Gould. The final push brings you to Upper Grinnell Lake, where icebergs often float in the milky-blue water at the foot of the rapidly receding Grinnell Glacier.
Trail Snapshot & Key Details
Distance: 10.6 miles roundtrip (or 7 miles with boat shuttle)
Elevation Gain: 1,600 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Estimated Time: 4-6 hours
Best Season: Late July through September
Trailhead: Grinnell Glacier Trailhead or Many Glacier Hotel
Why It's a Top Hike
The Grinnell Glacier Trail encapsulates everything that makes Glacier National Park special: accessible glaciers, stunning lake views, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. The payoff at the end is one of the park’s most breathtaking vistas, making the challenging ascent entirely worthwhile.
Pro Tips for Your Hike
To make the most of this popular trail, planning is essential. Parking at the trailhead fills up extremely early, often before 7 AM. Consider arriving early or utilizing the park's shuttle system. Due to the area's popularity and complex access regulations, it's wise to plan your logistics well in advance.
Instead of worrying about trailhead access, consider our sightseeing tours in the Many Glacier valley. You can enjoy the world-class scenery stress-free. For a guided adventure, our backpacking trips in the nearby Flathead National Forest offer a fantastic alternative for those seeking a more secluded experience.
2. Iceberg Lake Trail
For a spectacular hike with a truly unique reward, the Iceberg Lake Trail is an essential addition to any Glacier National Park itinerary. This moderately graded trail leads to a stunning, secluded lake tucked beneath the sheer 3,000-foot cliffs of the Ptarmigan Wall. The trail offers a more gradual climb than other classics in the park, making it one of the best day hikes in Glacier National Park for a wide range of abilities.
The path meanders through lush forests and opens into vast meadows painted with wildflowers, offering expansive views and frequent wildlife sightings. The destination is the trail's namesake, Iceberg Lake, where large chunks of ice and snow often linger well into the summer, creating a surreal and photogenic arctic-like scene in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
Trail Snapshot & Key Details
Distance: 9.7 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,275 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated Time: 4-5 hours
Best Season: Late June through September
Trailhead: Behind the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn in Many Glacier
Why It's a Top Hike
The Iceberg Lake Trail delivers an incredible payoff for a relatively moderate effort. Its accessibility, combined with the breathtaking scene of icebergs floating in an alpine lake during peak summer, makes it an unforgettable experience. The consistent opportunities to spot wildlife like grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, and moose along the way only add to its appeal.
Pro Tips for Your Hike
This is one of the most popular trails in Glacier National Park, so arriving early at the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn is crucial for securing a parking spot. Bear activity is very common in this area, so be sure to carry bear spray and make noise while hiking. The best time to see the most impressive icebergs is typically late June and July.
While we highlight these amazing park hikes, remember that our guided backpacking trips explore the pristine wilderness of the nearby Flathead National Forest. We also offer incredible sightseeing tours within the Many Glacier valley if you'd prefer to see the sights without a long trek.
3. Hidden Lake Overlook Trail
The Hidden Lake Overlook Trail is one of the most accessible and rewarding hikes in Glacier National Park, offering breathtaking alpine views for a relatively modest effort. Starting from the popular Logan Pass Visitor Center, this trail traverses a beautiful "hanging garden" of wildflowers, delivering hikers to a stunning overlook with sweeping vistas of Hidden Lake cradled beneath the jagged peaks of Bearhat Mountain. It’s a perfect choice for families and those looking for a high-altitude experience without a strenuous climb.
The trail itself is a combination of boardwalk and dirt path, designed to protect the fragile alpine tundra. As you climb gently towards the overlook, you'll be surrounded by the dramatic scenery of the Continental Divide, making every step memorable. This trail is an excellent introduction to the high country and stands out as one of the best day hikes in Glacier National Park for its sheer scenic impact.
Trail Snapshot & Key Details
Distance: 2.7 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 540 feet
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Estimated Time: 1.5-2 hours
Best Season: Late June through September
Trailhead: Logan Pass Visitor Center
Why It's a Top Hike
Hidden Lake Overlook provides one of the biggest scenic payoffs for the least amount of effort in the park. Its accessibility from Logan Pass, combined with the high probability of seeing wildlife like mountain goats and bighorn sheep, makes it an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. The panoramic view from the overlook is a quintessential Glacier postcard moment.
Pro Tips for Your Hike
Logan Pass is the highest point on the Going-to-the-Sun Road and its parking lot fills exceptionally early, often by 7:30 AM. Arrive very early or late in the afternoon to find parking. The weather here is unpredictable and often windy; a wind-resistant jacket and layers are essential.
For a unique way to experience this area without parking stress, consider our guided e-bike tours on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. For those interested in exploring beyond the park's busiest trails, our guided backpacking trips in the nearby Flathead National Forest offer more solitude.
4. Mount Jackson Loop Trail
For experienced hikers seeking solitude and a rugged, off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Mount Jackson Loop Trail is an exceptional choice. This challenging route offers a profound immersion into Glacier’s wild alpine heart, rewarding intrepid trekkers with magnificent views of Jackson Glacier and surrounding peaks. It stands out as one of the best day hikes in Glacier National Park for those looking to escape the crowds and test their skills.
The trail traverses high-alpine terrain, crosses through dense forests, and navigates scree fields, providing a true backcountry feel within a day-long journey. The expansive vistas and the sense of isolation make this a memorable and deeply rewarding experience for seasoned adventurers ready for a significant challenge.
Trail Snapshot & Key Details
Distance: Approximately 12.5 miles loop
Elevation Gain: 3,400 feet
Difficulty: Very Strenuous
Estimated Time: 8-10 hours
Best Season: Late July through September
Trailhead: Jackson Glacier Overlook on Going-to-the-Sun Road
Why It's a Top Hike
The Mount Jackson Loop delivers an unparalleled sense of wilderness and achievement. Unlike more popular trails, it provides solitude and a raw, untamed landscape. The close-up perspectives of Jackson Glacier and the panoramic views from the high passes are a spectacular payoff for the strenuous effort required.
Pro Tips for Your Hike
This is a demanding hike that should only be attempted by experienced individuals with solid navigation skills. Start very early to allow a full day for completion and pack extra layers, as weather can change in an instant. Always carry a detailed topographic map, a compass, and a GPS device. Check with a ranger station for the latest trail conditions before you go.
For those seeking a challenging but expertly guided adventure without the navigational risks, consider our guided backpacking trips in the nearby Flathead National Forest. These excursions offer a similar sense of wild beauty and solitude with the added security of a professional guide.
5. Going-to-the-Sun Road Highline Trail
Often cited as the most scenic trail in the park, the Highline Trail is a breathtaking adventure that offers some of the most dramatic and expansive views in Glacier. This famous path traverses the Garden Wall, hugging a steep mountainside with a sheer drop-off that provides an exhilarating experience. It's a signature journey that showcases wildflower-filled alpine meadows, abundant wildlife, and panoramic vistas of the park's interior, making it one of the absolute best day hikes in Glacier National Park.
The trail begins at Logan Pass and follows a relatively level path carved into the rock face, providing constant, unparalleled views of the U-shaped valleys below. While the initial section can be intimidating for those with a fear of heights, a hand cable provides security along the narrowest ledge. The trail eventually opens into wider meadows before reaching the Granite Park Chalet.
Trail Snapshot & Key Details
Distance: 11.8 miles one-way (to The Loop shuttle stop)
Elevation Gain: 800 feet (with a 2,200-foot descent)
Difficulty: Strenuous (due to length)
Estimated Time: 5-7 hours
Best Season: Mid-July through September
Trailhead: Logan Pass Visitor Center
Why It's a Top Hike
The Highline Trail delivers a "greatest hits" of Glacier's alpine scenery in a single trek. Its high-elevation path provides continuous, jaw-dropping views that few other trails can match. The opportunity to see mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and grizzly bears in their natural habitat makes it an unforgettable wildlife-watching experience.
Pro Tips for Your Hike
Parking at Logan Pass is extremely limited and often full by 7 AM. Arriving early or using the park's free shuttle is crucial for accessing this hike. The trail is very exposed, so bring ample water, sunscreen, and layers.
A fantastic way to experience this part of the park without the stress of parking is on two wheels. Our guided e-bike tours on the Going-to-the-Sun Road offer a unique and immersive way to see the landscape. For a guided trekking adventure, our backpacking trips venture into the equally stunning and less crowded Flathead National Forest.
6. Siyeh Pass Trail
For adventurous hikers seeking a grand alpine experience with fewer crowds, the Siyeh Pass Trail offers a rewarding and challenging journey. This trek provides a stunning alternative to more popular routes, delivering immense views of vast meadows, dramatic peaks like Mount Siyeh, and a pristine mountain pass. It stands out as one of the best day hikes in Glacier National Park for those wanting a sense of solitude and raw wilderness.
The trail begins at Piegan Pass Trailhead and ascends through forests before opening into the sprawling Preston Park meadows, famous for their vibrant summer wildflower displays. The path continues its climb to the rocky, windswept Siyeh Pass, where panoramic vistas unfold in every direction. The descent towards Sunrift Gorge is steep but offers continuous, breathtaking scenery.
Trail Snapshot & Key Details
Distance: 10.1 miles point-to-point
Elevation Gain: 2,240 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Estimated Time: 6-7 hours
Best Season: Late July through September
Trailhead: Piegan Pass Trailhead (start) to Sunrift Gorge (end)
Why It's a Top Hike
Siyeh Pass provides a true backcountry feel without requiring an overnight permit. Its diverse landscape, from lush meadows to a barren alpine pass, showcases the park's ecological variety. The point-to-point nature of the hike ensures new scenery throughout, making the significant effort feel incredibly worthwhile for seasoned hikers.
Pro Tips for Your Hike
This is a point-to-point hike, so you must arrange transportation. Use the park’s free shuttle to get from your endpoint at Sunrift Gorge back to your vehicle at Piegan Pass Trailhead. Start very early to secure parking and allow ample time. The pass is exposed and weather can change rapidly; bring weather-resistant gear.
For those inspired by this kind of rugged beauty but seeking a guided adventure away from park crowds, our guided backpacking trips in the adjacent Flathead National Forest offer a similar immersive wilderness experience.
7. Gunsight Lake Trail
For those seeking a true wilderness experience away from the main crowds, the Gunsight Lake Trail is an adventurous trek into the backcountry. This hike descends through diverse ecosystems, from dense forests to open avalanche chutes, culminating at a stunningly remote alpine lake framed by the imposing Gunsight Mountain and Jackson Glacier. It’s a rewarding challenge that makes our list of the best day hikes in Glacier National Park for its solitude and raw, untamed beauty.
The trail begins at the Jackson Glacier Overlook on the Going-to-the-Sun Road and drops steadily toward the valley floor. After crossing Deadwood Falls, the path meanders through lush forests and crosses several streams before revealing the breathtaking turquoise waters of Gunsight Lake, a perfect spot to rest and soak in the magnificent scenery.
Trail Snapshot & Key Details
Distance: 12.8 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 890 feet (net loss on the way in, gain on the way out)
Difficulty: Strenuous
Estimated Time: 5-7 hours
Best Season: July through September
Trailhead: Jackson Glacier Overlook (on Going-to-the-Sun Road)
Why It's a Top Hike
The Gunsight Lake Trail offers an incredible sense of immersion in Glacier's wild heart. Its less-traveled path provides excellent opportunities for solitude and wildlife spotting, while the destination itself is a pristine alpine jewel. The "reverse" elevation profile, hiking downhill first and uphill on the return, adds a unique physical challenge that rewards hikers with an unforgettable sense of accomplishment.
Pro Tips for Your Hike
This is a long and remote day hike, so preparation is key. Start early to allow ample time, and bring trekking poles for stability, especially during stream crossings. Be sure to carry extra water and energy-rich snacks. Always check with a park ranger for the latest trail conditions, particularly regarding stream levels and any potential rockfall in canyon sections.
For those who love this type of backcountry adventure, remember that our guided backpacking trips explore the equally spectacular and often more secluded landscapes of the surrounding Flathead National Forest.
8. Piegan Pass Trail
For hikers seeking stunning high-alpine scenery without the intense crowds of other major trails, the Piegan Pass Trail is an outstanding choice. This hike traverses a spectacular mountain pass, offering panoramic views of the Garden Wall, Piegan Mountain, and the Many Glacier valley. It's a journey through classic Glacier landscapes, from shaded forests to wide-open meadows bursting with wildflowers.
The trail ascends gradually from the Siyeh Bend trailhead on Going-to-the-Sun Road, climbing into a breathtaking alpine basin. As you gain elevation, the views become increasingly dramatic, culminating at the pass itself. From this windswept vantage point, you're rewarded with an unforgettable vista of the park's rugged interior, making this one of the best day hikes in Glacier National Park for photographers and solitude seekers.
Trail Snapshot & Key Details
Distance: 9 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,750 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Estimated Time: 4-6 hours
Best Season: Mid-July through September
Trailhead: Piegan Pass Trailhead (at Siyeh Bend)
Why It's a Top Hike
The Piegan Pass Trail delivers a premier high-country experience with a fraction of the foot traffic found on other iconic hikes. Its main draw is the incredible variety of scenery and the magnificent panoramic views from the pass. The opportunity to see abundant wildflowers from mid-July to early August adds another layer of magic to an already spectacular trek.
Pro Tips for Your Hike
Starting early is key to securing a parking spot at Siyeh Bend and allowing plenty of time to enjoy the pass. The weather in this exposed alpine environment can change rapidly, so be sure to bring layers, including a rain jacket and warm hat, even on a sunny day. Water sources are available, but a purification filter is essential.
For those looking to extend their adventure beyond a single day, the surrounding Flathead National Forest offers exceptional multi-day backpacking trips. Our guided backpacking adventures provide a fantastic way to deeply explore the wild backcountry adjacent to the park with all logistics expertly handled.
9. Pegan Glacier Trail
For experienced hikers seeking a true backcountry adventure, the Pegan Glacier Trail offers a challenging and rewarding escape into some of Glacier National Park’s most remote and dramatic alpine terrain. This is not a maintained trail for the casual visitor; it's a demanding, off-trail route that requires excellent navigation skills and mountaineering experience. The reward for this effort is solitude and breathtaking views of pristine glaciated landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and jagged peaks.
The route ascends steeply from the Jackson Glacier Overlook area, involving cross-country travel over moraines and scree fields. The final destination is a stunning cirque holding the Pegan Glacier, a raw and powerful landscape that few park visitors get to witness. This is an undertaking that truly tests your backcountry prowess and delivers an unparalleled sense of accomplishment.
Trail Snapshot & Key Details
Distance: Approximately 8-9 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: ~3,000 feet
Difficulty: Very Strenuous / Expert
Estimated Time: 7-9 hours
Best Season: Late July through September
Trailhead: Unmarked route beginning near Jackson Glacier Overlook
Why It's a Top Hike
The Pegan Glacier Trail makes the list for its sheer wildness and the rare opportunity it provides for solitude and a genuine mountaineering experience within the park. It’s one of the best day hikes in Glacier National Park for seasoned adventurers who want to get off the beaten path and witness the park’s raw, untamed beauty up close, far from any crowds.
Pro Tips for Your Hike
This route is for experienced backcountry experts only. Do not attempt it without advanced navigation skills, a detailed topographic map, and a GPS. Always check conditions with a ranger before heading out, as the terrain can be hazardous. An ice axe and crampons may be necessary, especially in the early season.
For those looking for a challenging but guided experience without the navigational risks, consider one of our guided backpacking trips in the spectacular Flathead National Forest. You can enjoy similar rugged beauty with the safety and knowledge of an expert guide.
10. Baring Falls and Baring Creek Trail Loop
For families, casual hikers, or those looking for a gentle yet rewarding walk, the Baring Falls and Baring Creek Trail Loop is an excellent choice. This short and scenic trail offers a delightful experience without the strenuous elevation gain of other high-country treks, providing intimate access to a beautiful waterfall and the rushing waters of Baring Creek. It’s a perfect introductory hike and one of the best day hikes in Glacier National Park for its accessibility and charm.
The trail meanders through a lovely forest, offering glimpses of the surrounding mountains before arriving at the picturesque Baring Falls. The loop continues along the creek, providing serene sounds and plenty of spots to pause and enjoy the natural beauty. It's an ideal option to stretch your legs and experience Glacier's scenery up close.
Trail Snapshot & Key Details
Distance: 0.8 miles roundtrip loop
Elevation Gain: 100 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated Time: 30-60 minutes
Best Season: Late June through September
Trailhead: Sunrift Gorge Pullout
Why It's a Top Hike
Baring Falls offers a high scenic reward for very little effort, making it a standout choice for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. Its proximity to the Going-to-the-Sun Road and ease of access make it a perfect addition to any park itinerary, whether as a primary destination or a quick, memorable stop. The beautiful waterfall and peaceful creek-side path deliver a classic Glacier experience in a compact, family-friendly package.
Pro Tips for Your Hike
This trail is an excellent warm-up or cool-down hike that can easily be combined with nearby attractions like Sun Point Nature Trail. The lush, damp environment near the creek can attract insects, so bringing bug repellent is a good idea. Due to its accessibility, the trail can be popular; however, it generally feels less crowded than other major trailheads. Allow extra time for waterfall photography, as the setting is particularly photogenic.
Ready for More Adventure? Explore Beyond the Park Trails
You're now equipped with a detailed guide to some of the absolute best day hikes in Glacier National Park. From the iconic trek to Grinnell Glacier to the breathtaking views along the Highline Trail, each path offers a unique window into the soul of the Crown of the Continent. We’ve covered everything from trail specifics like distance and elevation to the crucial logistics of parking and shuttle access, ensuring you have the knowledge to plan a successful and unforgettable self-guided hiking adventure. The key takeaway is clear: with a bit of planning, spectacular scenery and stunning wildlife are well within your reach.
But planning a trip to Glacier, especially during peak season, involves navigating more than just trailheads. Vehicle reservations, crowded parking lots, and the sheer scale of the park can present significant logistical challenges. Your adventure shouldn't be defined by stress; it should be about immersion and discovery. This is where looking beyond self-guided hiking can transform your entire Glacier experience.
Maximizing Your Glacier Experience
While this guide focuses on empowering you to tackle the trails independently, it's vital to recognize that your exploration doesn't have to stop there. Sometimes, the most memorable adventures are the ones where you can let go of the planning and simply be present in the moment.
Rethink Your Transportation: Instead of worrying about snagging a parking spot at Logan Pass, consider our sightseeing tours in Many Glacier or Two Medicine, or a guided e-bike tour on the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Explore the Periphery: The magic of this region isn't confined to the park boundaries. Our guided backpacking trips in the adjacent Flathead National Forest offer a different kind of wildness with fewer crowds and a deeper sense of solitude.
Embrace All Seasons: Glacier's beauty isn't limited to summer. The shoulder seasons and winter unlock entirely different landscapes and activities, from crisp autumn bike rides to serene snowshoe treks.
Guided Adventures Beyond the Park's Trails
It's important to clarify that we do not offer guided hiking or backpacking trips inside Glacier National Park. Our passion and expertise lie in providing unique, hassle-free experiences that complement your park visit. If you love the idea of exploring this incredible ecosystem with an expert guide, we have several options that let you experience the region in a new way.
Consider these alternatives to enhance your trip:
Guided E-Biking on Going-to-the-Sun Road: Imagine gliding up the world-famous road without the confines of a car. Our guided e-bike tours allow you to feel the crisp mountain air, stop for photos whenever you wish, and learn about the area's history and geology from a local expert.
Guided Backpacking in Flathead National Forest: For those seeking true wilderness immersion, join us for a guided backpacking trip in the vast Flathead National Forest. Just beyond the park, these remote trails offer unparalleled solitude and pristine landscapes.
Sightseeing and Shuttle Tours: Leave the driving to us. Our sightseeing tours of the stunning Two Medicine and Many Glacier valleys provide a stress-free way to access some of the park's most dramatic scenery and trailheads.
Winter Snowshoeing: Experience the quiet magic of Glacier in winter. Our guided snowshoeing trips take you into a serene, snow-covered wonderland, offering a peaceful and unique perspective on the park.
To keep your energy levels sustained throughout any of these adventures, from a long day hike to a multi-day backpacking trip, proper nutrition is key. Consider packing some of the best on-the-go protein snacks to ensure you stay fueled and ready for whatever the trail brings. Ultimately, whether you hike independently or join a guided tour, your time in the Glacier region is an opportunity to create lasting memories.
Ready to trade logistical stress for pure adventure? Let Glacier Hikes & Bikes handle the details. Explore our guided e-bike tours, sightseeing shuttles, and wilderness backpacking trips to discover a different side of Glacier Country. Glacier Hikes & Bikes.
