Top 9 Hikes in Glacier National Park: Your 2026 Guide
Welcome to the definitive guide for exploring the Crown of the Continent on foot. Glacier National Park boasts over 700 miles of trails, a vast network that can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors and seasoned hikers alike. From dizzying alpine passes to serene lakeside strolls, choosing the right path is crucial for an unforgettable experience. This guide simplifies your planning by breaking down 10 of the absolute best hikes in Glacier National Park.
We've organized our list to be as practical as possible, grouping trails by region (Many Glacier, Logan Pass, Two Medicine) and difficulty level. For each hike, you'll find essential stats, must-see highlights, and insider tips to maximize your time on the trail. We cut through the clutter to give you actionable information, helping you navigate shuttle systems, trail conditions, and crowd patterns with confidence. Whether you’re looking for a short, family-friendly walk to a waterfall or an epic, all-day trek to a remote glacier, this list provides a clear roadmap.
While this guide focuses on the incredible hiking within the park, remember that the adventure extends beyond its borders. Planning a comprehensive Montana vacation means looking at all available experiences. As you explore these trails, consider complementing your trip with guided e-bike tours on the Going-to-the-Sun Road for a unique perspective, or venturing into the adjacent Flathead National Forest for guided backpacking and hiking trips. This guide will help you build a well-rounded itinerary that captures the true spirit of this wild and majestic landscape. Let's find your perfect trail.
1. Grinnell Glacier Trail (Many Glacier)
The Grinnell Glacier Trail is arguably the most quintessential of all hikes in Glacier National Park. This iconic trek delivers an unparalleled scenic payoff, leading you directly to the base of an active glacier. The trail winds past the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine before beginning a steady ascent, revealing breathtaking views of turquoise glacial lakes, cascading waterfalls, and wildflower-filled meadows. It's a journey through multiple ecosystems, culminating in a dramatic, ice-carved amphitheater.
Trail Stats & Highlights
Difficulty: Strenuous
Distance: 10.3 miles (16.6 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,600 feet (488 m)
Highlights: Grinnell Glacier, Salamander Glacier, Grinnell Lake, active geology, frequent wildlife sightings (bighorn sheep, mountain goats, bears).
Why It's a Must-Do
This hike offers a firsthand look at the park's namesake glaciers before they recede further. The final approach to the glacier and Upper Grinnell Lake is a powerful experience, putting you face-to-face with ancient ice. The trail is exceptionally well-maintained, making the significant elevation gain manageable for determined hikers. However, its popularity means the Many Glacier area experiences extreme parking congestion. To avoid the stress of finding a spot at a packed trailhead, consider a convenient alternative. Our Many Glacier shuttle service provides hassle-free access, ensuring you start your adventure on the right foot.
Pro Tips for This Hike
Start Early: Aim to be on the trail by 7:00 AM to beat the crowds and afternoon sun.
Layer Up: The weather can change in an instant. Bring a rain jacket, fleece, and hat, even on a sunny day.
Use Trekking Poles: They provide stability on rocky sections and significantly reduce the impact on your knees during the long descent.
Check Trail Status: The final section of the trail often holds snow until late July. Always check with a ranger station for current conditions before you go.
2. Heavens Peak Trail (Lake McDonald)
For those seeking a strenuous climb with a truly epic reward, the Heavens Peak Trail delivers some of the most commanding panoramic views in Glacier National Park. This demanding hike is a serious undertaking, ascending steadily through dense forests before opening up into fragile alpine meadows. The final push to the summit is a true test of endurance, but the payoff is an unparalleled 360-degree vista.
Trail Stats & Highlights
Difficulty: Strenuous
Distance: 8.8 miles (14.2 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 3,894 feet (1,187 m)
Highlights: Unobstructed 360-degree summit views, panoramic lookouts over the Continental Divide, solitude, and a challenging ascent.
Why It's a Must-Do
Heavens Peak offers a different kind of Glacier experience. Unlike more crowded trails, this hike provides a sense of rugged isolation and true mountain conquest. From the 8,684-foot summit, the entire park seems to unfold at your feet, with views stretching for over 50 miles on a clear day. It’s an ideal choice for experienced hikers looking to push their limits and earn a perspective that few park visitors ever get to see. The sheer vertical gain makes it one of the more formidable day hikes in Glacier National Park, promising both a physical challenge and immense satisfaction.
Pro Tips for This Hike
Start Before Sunrise: An early start is non-negotiable to ensure you have enough daylight for both the ascent and descent.
Monitor the Weather: High-elevation peaks are prone to sudden and severe weather changes. Check the forecast rigorously and plan to be off the summit before afternoon thunderstorms typically develop.
Pack Extra Water: With the intense elevation gain and exposure, you will need more water than you think. There are limited refill opportunities on the trail.
Be Bear Aware: This trail travels through prime bear habitat. Make noise, carry bear spray, and know how to use it.
3. Gunsight Pass Trail
For hikers seeking a more rugged and solitary experience away from the main corridors, the Gunsight Pass Trail offers one of the most dramatic backcountry hikes in Glacier National Park. Starting from the Jackson Glacier Overlook on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, this trail is a serious undertaking that rewards with pristine wilderness and breathtaking alpine scenery. The route descends into a valley, crosses a river, and climbs past Florence Falls to the serene Gunsight Lake before ascending the pass itself.
Trail Stats & Highlights
Difficulty: Strenuous
Distance: 11.8 miles (19 km) roundtrip to Gunsight Pass
Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet (427 m) to the pass
Highlights: Jackson Glacier views, Florence Falls, Gunsight Lake, solitude, challenging stream crossings, dramatic mountain passes.
Why It's a Must-Do
This hike provides a genuine backcountry adventure without the need for an overnight permit if you tackle it as a long day hike. It showcases the raw, untamed beauty of Glacier’s interior, offering a stark contrast to the more developed trails. The journey to the pass is a powerful reminder of the park's vastness, with sweeping views of glaciers, peaks, and pristine lakes. It is an ideal choice for experienced hikers looking to push their limits and find solitude.
Pro Tips for This Hike
Plan a Full Day: This is a long, demanding hike. Plan for 8-10 hours on the trail and start as early as possible.
Check Stream Conditions: Reynolds Creek can be a hazardous crossing, especially in early summer. Always check with a ranger for current water levels and safety information before attempting.
Carry a Map and GPS: The backcountry nature of this trail requires strong navigational skills. Do not rely solely on your phone.
Be Bear Aware: This is prime grizzly habitat. Make noise, hike in groups, and carry bear spray, knowing how to use it.
4. Lake McDonald Loop Trail
For those seeking a more serene and accessible experience, the Lake McDonald Loop Trail offers a delightful taste of Glacier's classic scenery without the strenuous climbs. This gentle path hugs the shoreline of the park's largest and most famous lake, providing iconic views of the monumental peaks reflected in its glassy waters. It's a perfect choice for families, photographers, or anyone looking for a relaxing stroll through a lush, moss-draped forest of ancient cedars and hemlocks.
Trail Stats & Highlights
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3.1 miles (5.0 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 100 feet (30 m)
Highlights: Stunning lakefront views, iconic reflections of the Livingston Range, old-growth cedar forest, excellent birdwatching, and accessibility from Lake McDonald Lodge.
Why It's a Must-Do
This trail proves that not all memorable hikes in Glacier National Park have to be grueling. It provides an intimate connection with the tranquil west side of the park, offering quiet moments for reflection by the water's edge. The minimal elevation gain makes it an inclusive option for all ages and fitness levels. While we don't offer guided hiking in GNP, this is a fantastic self-guided introduction to the park's beauty. For guided adventures, consider our backpacking trips in the nearby Flathead National Forest or our sightseeing tours in other park regions.
Pro Tips for This Hike
Go Early or Late: The best light for photography and the calmest water for reflections occur just after sunrise or before sunset.
Bring Binoculars: The forest and shoreline are prime habitats for a variety of birds, including common loons and Barrow's goldeneyes.
Pack a Picnic: Find a spot along the shore to enjoy a meal with an unbeatable view. The colorful stones that make the lake famous are best seen up close.
Mind the Parking: The area around Lake McDonald Lodge is extremely popular. Arrive early to secure a parking spot, especially during the peak summer months.
5. Twin Falls Trail
For those seeking a more tranquil experience away from the park's busiest corridors, the Twin Falls Trail offers a beautiful and moderately challenging alternative. Starting near the North Shore of Lake McDonald, this hike takes you through a lush, moss-draped old-growth forest of cedar and hemlock. The trail follows the creek, gradually ascending until it reveals the powerful and picturesque Twin Falls, two distinct streams of water cascading down a rugged rock face.
Trail Stats & Highlights
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 7.3 miles (11.7 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 800 feet (244 m)
Highlights: Impressive twin waterfalls, diverse forest ecosystems, fewer crowds, excellent photography opportunities, serene creek-side path.
Why It's a Must-Do
The Twin Falls Trail is a perfect example of the quieter hikes in Glacier National Park, delivering a significant scenic reward without the strenuous climbs of high-alpine routes. It's an ideal choice for hikers looking to immerse themselves in the deep woods and enjoy the sounds of nature. The relatively gentle grade makes it accessible to a wide range of fitness levels, providing a fulfilling half-day adventure. It’s a fantastic way to appreciate the park's diverse landscapes beyond the iconic peaks.
Pro Tips for This Hike
Best Timing: Plan your hike for late June or July to see the falls at their peak flow from snowmelt.
Sturdy Footwear: The trail can be muddy and rocky in sections, so wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots for better traction and support.
Bring a Camera: The falls and the surrounding forest offer incredible opportunities for long-exposure waterfall shots and nature photography.
Time Management: Allot around 5-6 hours for the roundtrip journey to fully enjoy the hike and spend time at the falls without rushing.
6. Piegan Pass Trail
The Piegan Pass Trail offers a magnificent journey into Glacier's high alpine country without the extreme difficulty of some other summit hikes. Starting from the Siyeh Creek trailhead along Going-to-the-Sun Road, this trail provides a more moderate backcountry experience, ascending gradually through forests before opening into a spectacular, sweeping basin. It delivers dramatic views of towering peaks like Siyeh Mountain and the distant, vibrant turquoise of Cracker Lake. This is one of the classic mountain pass hikes in Glacier National Park, beloved for its expansive scenery and wilderness feel.
Trail Stats & Highlights
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Distance: 7.6 miles (12.2 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,750 feet (533 m)
Highlights: Panoramic views from Piegan Pass, Cataract Mountain, Siyeh Mountain, potential wildlife sightings (marmots, pikas, goats), alpine wildflowers.
Why It's a Must-Do
This hike is the perfect choice for those wanting to experience a high mountain pass and its breathtaking vistas without committing to an all-day, overly strenuous trek. The reward-to-effort ratio is exceptional, with the final approach to the pass revealing an incredible panorama that makes every step worthwhile. It's an ideal route for seasoned hikers looking to acclimate or for strong beginners wanting to push their limits. Its location on Going-to-the-Sun Road also makes it a prime candidate for a day of spectacular sightseeing and hiking.
Pro Tips for This Hike
Check Snow Conditions: Piegan Pass sits at 7,560 feet and can hold snow well into July. Always check the trail status with a ranger before you start.
Bring Layers: You will experience significant temperature changes as you gain elevation. A windbreaker or fleece is essential for the exposed, often breezy pass.
Start Early: An early start helps you secure parking at the small trailhead and gives you plenty of time to enjoy the views at the top before the afternoon clouds roll in.
Allow Ample Time: Plan for a 5-6 hour adventure to fully appreciate the scenery without feeling rushed.
7. Iceberg Lake Trail
For those seeking a dramatic alpine destination without the grueling elevation gain of other high-country hikes, the Iceberg Lake Trail is an absolute gem in the Many Glacier valley. This trail offers one of the most unique payoffs in the park: a stunning turquoise lake cradled beneath a sheer rock cirque, where icebergs often linger well into August. The path maintains a relatively gentle grade as it traverses through lush forests and open meadows bursting with wildflowers, making it one of the more accessible full-day hikes in Glacier National Park.
Trail Stats & Highlights
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 9.7 miles (15.6 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,275 feet (389 m)
Highlights: Floating icebergs in summer, Ptarmigan Wall, Iceberg Peak, abundant wildlife (grizzly bears, bighorn sheep), vibrant wildflower displays.
Why It's a Must-Do
The experience of arriving at Iceberg Lake is truly unforgettable. The massive cliffs of the Ptarmigan Wall soar 3,000 feet above the water, creating a shady amphitheater that protects snow and ice from the summer sun. This hike is a prime location for spotting grizzly bears foraging in the open avalanche chutes, so keeping your distance and carrying bear spray is essential. The steady, moderate climb makes it an excellent choice for fit hikers looking for incredible scenery without an overly strenuous effort. It beautifully showcases the raw, subalpine beauty of Glacier.
Pro Tips for This Hike
Start Early: The trailhead is shared with the popular Ptarmigan Tunnel hike and parking fills extremely fast. An early start ensures a spot and cooler hiking temperatures.
Bring Warm Layers: Even on a hot day, the air temperature at the lake is significantly colder due to the ice and shade from the cirque. A jacket is a must.
Pack Binoculars: The surrounding slopes are fantastic habitats for wildlife. Binoculars will help you safely spot grizzlies and mountain goats from the trail.
Allow Ample Time: Plan for a 6-7 hour day to fully enjoy the hike, have lunch at the lake, and take plenty of photos without feeling rushed.
9. Highline Trail (The Garden Wall)
Often hailed as one of the most beautiful hikes in the world, the Highline Trail is a legendary route that traverses the spine of the Continental Divide. This iconic journey begins at Logan Pass and hugs the Garden Wall, a dramatic cliff face offering continuous, jaw-dropping views into the heart of the park. The trail itself is a marvel of engineering, carved directly into the mountainside, providing an exhilarating sense of exposure while remaining relatively level for the first several miles. It’s an unforgettable alpine experience filled with wildflowers, waterfalls, and panoramic vistas.
Trail Stats & Highlights
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Distance: 11.8 miles (19 km) point-to-point (Logan Pass to The Loop)
Elevation Gain: 800 feet (244 m) gain, 2,900 feet (884 m) loss
Highlights: Garden Wall, panoramic Continental Divide views, Grinnell Glacier Overlook (optional side trip), abundant wildlife (mountain goats, bighorn sheep, marmots), alpine meadows.
Why It's a Must-Do
The Highline Trail offers a premier alpine hiking experience without an overwhelming initial climb. The consistent, dramatic views make it one of the most rewarding hikes in Glacier National Park. The trail's point-to-point nature allows you to cover immense ground and see a vast cross-section of the park's high country. Because this is a one-way hike, logistics can be tricky, as it requires catching a park shuttle or arranging other transportation from The Loop trailhead back to Logan Pass.
Pro Tips for This Hike
Arrange Your Ride: Before you start, have a solid plan for getting back from The Loop. The park shuttle is a great option but can be crowded.
Hike Logan Pass to The Loop: This direction is primarily downhill, saving your knees and energy for enjoying the scenery.
Start at Sunrise: An early start helps you secure a coveted parking spot at Logan Pass and gives you ample time to enjoy the trail without rushing.
Check the Weather: Conditions on the Divide change rapidly. Bring rain gear and warm layers, as wind and storms can appear unexpectedly.
For more inspiration on incredible trails, see our comprehensive breakdown of the top 10 best day hikes in Glacier National Park.
9. St. Mary Lake and Virginia Falls Trail
The St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail is a fantastic option along the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor, offering a big scenic reward for relatively moderate effort. This popular hike showcases the powerful beauty of the park's waterfalls, starting with the picturesque St. Mary Falls before continuing to the much larger, multi-tiered Virginia Falls. The trail follows the vibrant, turquoise waters of Virginia Creek through a forest regenerating from the 2015 Reynolds Creek Fire, offering a unique landscape where new life contrasts with old burn scars.
Trail Stats & Highlights
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.7 miles (6 km) roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 525 feet (160 m)
Highlights: St. Mary Falls, Virginia Falls, views of Mount Jackson, beautiful creek scenery, excellent photography opportunities.
Why It's a Must-Do
This trail provides one of the best waterfall experiences among all hikes in Glacier National Park without requiring a strenuous, all-day commitment. The accessibility from the Going-to-the-Sun Road makes it easy to incorporate into a day of sightseeing. The final approach to Virginia Falls is particularly memorable, as the mist from the powerful cascade offers a refreshing cool-down on a warm day. It’s an ideal choice for families and intermediate hikers looking for an iconic Glacier experience.
Pro Tips for This Hike
Go Early or Late: The trailhead parking is very limited. Arrive before 8:00 AM or after 3:00 PM for a better chance at a spot.
Wear Waterproof Shoes: The trail can be muddy in sections, and the area around Virginia Falls is often slick with spray.
Bring a Windbreaker: Even on a calm day, the mist from the falls can be chilly. A windproof or rain jacket is highly recommended.
Continue Past the Bridge: For the best view and photos of Virginia Falls, cross the footbridge and continue a short distance up the trail to the base of the main drop.
Beyond the Trails: Exploring More of the Glacier Region
You've just journeyed through a curated list of the most breathtaking hikes in Glacier National Park, from the iconic Grinnell Glacier Trail to the panoramic Highline Trail. Each path offers a unique window into the soul of the Crown of the Continent. While we've highlighted these incredible self-guided hiking opportunities, it's important to remember that the adventure doesn't stop at the trailhead. In fact, a truly well-rounded trip involves exploring the diverse activities available throughout this majestic landscape.
The key takeaway from this guide is simple: preparation is paramount. Understanding the nuances of each trail transforms a good hike into a great one. Mastering details like the park’s shuttle system, the necessity of bear spray, and Leave No Trace principles ensures your focus remains where it should be: on the stunning, raw beauty surrounding you. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker tackling Gunsight Pass or a family enjoying the gentle stroll to Virginia Falls, the right plan makes all the difference.
Broadening Your Glacier Adventure
While the hikes in Glacier National Park are a primary draw, logistics inside the park can be challenging. This is precisely why expanding your itinerary to include experiences beyond the park's core hiking trails can create a more robust, enjoyable, and stress-free vacation. The surrounding region offers incredible opportunities that complement and enhance your time in the park.
At Glacier Hikes & Bikes, we've built our expertise around this concept. Although we do not offer guided hiking or backpacking trips inside Glacier National Park, we specialize in a variety of other unique adventures that sidestep common hurdles, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the magic of the Montana wilderness.
Guided Backpacking in the Flathead National Forest: Craving a multi-day wilderness escape without the competitive permit lotteries of Glacier? Our guided backpacking trips in the adjacent Flathead National Forest are the perfect solution. We handle the route-finding, gear, and gourmet backcountry meals, so you can disconnect and experience true solitude among spectacular landscapes that rival those found inside the park.
E-Biking the Going-to-the-Sun Road: Imagine pedaling up the world-famous Going-to-the-Sun Road without worrying about traffic or finding a parking spot at Logan Pass. Our guided e-bike tours make this dream a reality. You can soak in the epic, jaw-dropping views at your own pace, stopping for photos whenever you wish, all while getting a fresh-air perspective that you just can't get from inside a car.
Seamless Sightseeing in Many Glacier & Two Medicine: These two valleys are legendary for their dramatic scenery and abundant wildlife, but access can be challenging. Let us handle the driving. Our sightseeing and shuttle services provide comfortable, hassle-free transportation, allowing you to relax and focus on spotting moose, bears, and bighorn sheep while learning about the area’s rich Blackfeet cultural history from our knowledgeable guides.
Winter Wonderland with Guided Snowshoeing: The magic of Glacier doesn't end when the snow falls. Discover the profound tranquility of the park in winter on a guided snowshoeing trip. We'll lead you through a silent, snow-covered forest to pristine viewpoints, revealing a side of Glacier that most visitors never get to see.
Your trip to Glacier should be about making memories, not wrestling with logistics. By integrating these unique experiences, you can build a more diverse and fulfilling adventure that captures the full spirit of this incredible region.
Ready to elevate your visit beyond the trailhead? Let Glacier Hikes & Bikes handle the details so you can focus on the adventure. Explore our guided e-bike tours, sightseeing shuttles, and Flathead National Forest backpacking trips to create a seamless and unforgettable Montana vacation.
