what to pack day hiking: Your Essential Gear Guide

Planning a day hike through the dramatic landscapes of the Flathead National Forest or Glacier National Park is an exhilarating first step toward adventure. However, the success and safety of your outing depend less on the trail you choose and more on what you carry in your pack. Knowing precisely what to pack for a day hike in this region is critical, as it prepares you for Montana's notoriously unpredictable mountain weather, diverse terrain, and specific safety challenges, such as navigating bear country.

This guide goes beyond generic checklists. We provide a detailed, actionable breakdown of the ten absolute essentials every hiker needs, whether you're trekking through the Flathead National Forest or exploring Glacier. For each item, we will explain not just the "what" but the "why," offering specific examples and insider tips honed from countless hours on these very trails.

Proper preparation is the fundamental difference between a potentially difficult day and a comfortable, safe, and memorable experience. It allows you to focus on the stunning scenery and the joy of the hike, confident that you have everything you need to handle whatever the trail presents. From hydration systems and navigation tools to crucial safety gear, this list will ensure your pack is perfectly equipped for an incredible day exploring the Crown of the Continent.

1. Water and Hydration System

In the high-altitude environment of the Flathead National Forest and Glacier National Park, proper hydration is non-negotiable. Dehydration can quickly lead to fatigue, dizziness, and poor judgment on the trail, turning a beautiful day into a dangerous situation. Even on a sightseeing tour or a shorter e-bike ride in Glacier, staying hydrated is crucial for enjoying your experience safely.

Why It's Essential

The dry mountain air and physical exertion cause you to lose fluids faster than you might realize. A good rule of thumb is to carry at least two liters of water per person for a moderate half-day hike, increasing that amount for longer, more strenuous treks, higher temperatures, or significant elevation gain. Considering what to pack for a day hike starts with ensuring you have enough water to last your entire planned route, plus a little extra for emergencies.

Choosing Your Hydration System

Your choice of hydration system depends on personal preference and the type of activity.

  • Hydration Reservoirs (e.g., CamelBak, Osprey): These bladder-style systems fit inside your backpack and allow for easy, hands-free sipping through a tube. This convenience encourages you to drink more frequently, which is ideal for constant exertion.

  • Durable Water Bottles (e.g., Nalgene): Known for their toughness and wide-mouth design, these are easy to fill from streams (with proper filtration) and clean. They are a reliable, classic choice.

  • Lightweight Bottles (e.g., Smart Water): For those counting every ounce, these disposable-style bottles are incredibly light and pair well with screw-on water filters like the Sawyer Squeeze.

Pro Tip: For longer backpacking trips in the Flathead National Forest, a combination is often best: a primary reservoir for on-the-go sipping and a durable Nalgene bottle as a backup and for mixing electrolyte drinks at camp.

Hydration Best Practices

  • Pre-hydrate: Drink plenty of water the day before and the morning of your hike.

  • Drink Proactively: Don't wait until you feel thirsty. Take small, consistent sips every 15-20 minutes.

  • Add Electrolytes: On warm days or challenging hikes, mix an electrolyte powder into your water to replenish essential salts and minerals lost through sweat.

  • Know Your Sources: If planning a long hike, research your route for reliable water sources like streams or lakes, and always carry a trusted water filter or purification tablets.

2. Navigation Tools (Map and Compass/GPS)

In the vast wilderness of the Flathead National Forest and Glacier National Park, trails can be complex and cell service is often nonexistent. Getting disoriented is a real risk, which is why reliable navigation tools are an absolute must-have when considering what to pack for a day hike. While a wrong turn on an e-bike tour in Glacier might be a minor inconvenience, getting lost on a remote trail in the Flathead National Forest can quickly become a serious emergency.

Why It's Essential

A dependable navigation system ensures you stay on your intended route and can find your way back safely. Relying solely on your phone is a gamble against battery life and signal availability. Physical tools provide a crucial, failsafe backup, empowering you to make informed decisions if you encounter unexpected trail closures, bad weather, or simply get turned around.

Choosing Your Navigation System

The best approach is to carry a combination of digital and analog tools for redundancy.

  • Physical Map and Compass: A detailed topographic map (like those from USGS) and a reliable compass (such as a Suunto) are the gold standard. They don't rely on batteries and are essential for learning true land navigation skills, especially for backpacking in the Flathead National Forest.

  • GPS Devices: Dedicated GPS units or watches offer incredible accuracy and tracking features. For those who prefer a modern navigation aid, consider a GPS watch, and ensure it's equipped with a durable nylon band for a Garmin GPS watch to withstand rugged conditions.

  • Smartphone Apps: Apps like AllTrails are excellent for planning and on-trail reference but should be treated as a supplement, not a primary tool. Always download maps for offline use before you lose service.

Pro Tip: Before every hike, take a picture of the trailhead map with your phone. It provides a quick-reference overview of major junctions and landmarks, even if your primary navigation app fails.

Navigation Best Practices

  • Plan Ahead: Familiarize yourself with the route on the map before you start. Check out our guide to Glacier National Park maps to better understand the area.

  • Know Your Tools: Practice using your map and compass in a familiar area before venturing into the backcountry.

  • Conserve Battery: If using a phone or GPS device, keep it in airplane mode to save power. Carry a portable battery pack for longer hikes.

  • Check Your Position: Regularly orient yourself on the map at trail junctions and prominent landmarks to confirm you are on the correct path.

3. Sun Protection (Sunscreen and Hat)

In the mountains of the Flathead National Forest and Glacier National Park, the sun's intensity can be misleading. The higher elevation means you are closer to the sun, and UV exposure increases significantly, even on cool or overcast days. Effective sun protection is a critical part of what to pack for a day hike to prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage, ensuring your adventure remains enjoyable.

Why It's Essential

At higher altitudes, there is less atmosphere to filter out harmful UV radiation. This makes sunscreen, a protective hat, and sunglasses non-negotiable, whether you are on a multi-day backpacking trip in the Flathead National Forest or enjoying a sightseeing tour in Many Glacier. Sunburn can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion, seriously impacting your ability to complete your activity safely.

Choosing Your Sun Protection

The right combination of gear provides comprehensive coverage against the sun's rays.

  • Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: Look for SPF 30 or higher and water-resistant formulas. Sport sunscreens from brands like Neutrogena or Blue Lizard are designed to withstand sweat. Stick applicators are particularly convenient for mess-free reapplication on the trail.

  • Protective Headwear: A wide-brimmed hat, such as those from Patagonia or REI, is ideal for protecting your face, ears, and the back of your neck. A baseball cap can work in a pinch, but a wider brim offers superior coverage.

  • UPF Clothing: For maximum protection, consider lightweight, long-sleeved shirts with a Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating. Many outdoor brands offer breathable options that keep you cool while shielding your skin. Neck gaiters, like those from Buff, are also excellent for versatile neck and face coverage.

Pro Tip: Don't forget to protect your eyes. Wear sunglasses that block 99% or more of UVA and UVB radiation. Wraparound styles provide the best protection by reducing light that enters from the sides.

Sun Protection Best Practices

  • Apply Early and Often: Apply sunscreen generously about 15-20 minutes before you head outdoors.

  • Reapply Consistently: Reapply at least every two hours, or more frequently if you are sweating heavily or have been in the water.

  • Cover All Bases: Pay attention to often-missed spots like the tops of your ears, back of your neck, and the part in your hair.

  • Don't Trust the Clouds: Up to 80% of the sun's UV rays can pass through clouds, so apply protection even on overcast days.

4. Weather-Appropriate Clothing Layers

In the mountains of the Flathead National Forest and Glacier National Park, weather can change in an instant, shifting from sunny and warm to cold and rainy with little warning. Proper layering is the key to staying comfortable and safe, whether you're on a multi-day backpacking trip in the Flathead or snowshoeing in Glacier. This system allows you to adapt by adding or removing clothes to regulate your body temperature perfectly.

Why It's Essential

A good layering system is a cornerstone of what to pack for a day hike because it prevents both hypothermia and overheating. Getting soaked by sweat or rain can rapidly cool your body, leading to dangerous situations. By having distinct layers, you can manage moisture and trap or release heat as needed, ensuring you remain comfortable as you gain elevation or as the day progresses from a cool morning to a warm afternoon.

Choosing Your Layers

Your layering system should consist of three main components, each serving a specific function.

  • Base Layer: This is your next-to-skin layer, designed to wick moisture away. Opt for synthetics (like Under Armour or Nike) or merino wool (like Smartwool or Icebreaker), but avoid cotton, which holds moisture and chills you.

  • Mid-Layer (Insulation): This layer traps body heat to keep you warm. Fleece jackets (Patagonia R2) and puffy insulated vests or jackets filled with down or synthetic material are excellent choices.

  • Outer Layer (Shell): Your shell protects you from wind and rain. A quality waterproof and breathable jacket (from brands like Arc'teryx or Outdoor Research) is essential for unpredictable mountain weather.

Pro Tip: Start your hike feeling slightly cool. You'll warm up quickly once you start moving, and this prevents you from having to stop and shed a layer just a few minutes down the trail.

Layering Best Practices

  • Be Proactive: Remove your insulating layer before you start sweating heavily on a steep incline. It's much easier to stay dry than to get dry.

  • Keep Layers Accessible: Pack your rain shell and insulation layer near the top of your backpack so you can grab them quickly when the weather turns.

  • Pack for the Worst: Always check the forecast, but pack layers suitable for conditions that are colder and wetter than what is predicted.

  • Think Beyond the Torso: Don't forget a warm hat and gloves, even in summer, as they are crucial for retaining heat in cold, windy conditions.

5. First Aid and Emergency Kit

A minor blister or unexpected scrape can quickly turn a fantastic day hike in the Flathead National Forest into a painful ordeal. A well-stocked first aid kit is an indispensable piece of your gear, allowing you to manage common trail injuries effectively and prevent them from escalating. Being prepared for small medical issues is a fundamental part of responsible backcountry travel, whether you're backpacking near the Hungry Horse Reservoir or on a shorter family hike.

Why It's Essential

On the trail, you are your own first responder. From insect bites and twisted ankles to more serious situations, having the right supplies can provide immediate relief and stabilize an injury until you can get back to the trailhead. Thinking about what to pack for a day hike must include preparations not just for the hike you plan, but for the unexpected challenges that can arise miles from help.

Choosing Your First Aid Kit

You can buy a pre-made kit or build your own based on your specific needs and the length of your trip.

  • Pre-packaged Kits (e.g., Adventure Medical Kits): These are a convenient, lightweight option designed specifically for hikers. They typically include essentials for common injuries like blisters, cuts, and sprains.

  • Custom DIY Kits: Building your own allows you to tailor the contents to your personal medical needs, the group you're with, and the specific hazards of your chosen trail. You can include higher-quality items and exclude things you don't need.

  • Emergency Items: Beyond bandages, your kit should include an emergency whistle (three blasts is the universal signal for help), a Mylar emergency blanket for warmth, and a small multi-tool.

Pro Tip: Pack high-quality, sharp tweezers specifically for removing ticks and splinters. Also, include a small amount of antihistamine for allergic reactions to insect bites or plants.

First Aid Best Practices

  • Customize It: Always add any personal medications (like an EpiPen or inhaler), ensuring they are clearly labeled.

  • Prevent Blisters: Apply moleskin or athletic tape to "hot spots" on your feet before they become full-blown blisters.

  • Know Your Gear: Familiarize yourself with every item in your kit and how to use it before you hit the trail.

  • Get Trained: Consider taking a basic first aid or Wilderness First Responder (WFR) course. You can learn more about hiking safely in the backcountry on glacierhikesandbikes.com.

6. Proper Footwear and Hiking Socks

The rugged trails of the Flathead National Forest and Glacier National Park demand more than just any pair of sneakers. The right footwear is your primary defense against blisters, twisted ankles, and slips on variable terrain. Proper hiking shoes and socks provide the support, traction, and comfort needed to enjoy everything from a moderate day hike to a multi-day backpacking trip.

Why It's Essential

Your feet carry you across rocky passes and through forested valleys, making their health paramount to a successful trip. Ill-fitting shoes can cause painful blisters, while inadequate tread can lead to dangerous falls on wet or loose ground. When deciding what to pack for a day hike, investing in quality footwear and moisture-wicking socks is one of the most important choices you can make for both safety and enjoyment.

Choosing Your Footwear System

The best choice depends on the trail's difficulty and your personal comfort preferences.

  • Hiking Boots (e.g., Merrell, KEEN): These offer excellent ankle support and durable construction, making them ideal for rocky, uneven terrain found on many backpacking routes in the Flathead National Forest. Brands like The North Face and Columbia are also popular choices.

  • Trail Runners (e.g., Salomon): For those who prefer a lighter, more agile feel, trail runners provide great traction and breathability. They are perfect for well-maintained trails or for hikers who prioritize speed and low weight.

  • Merino Wool Socks (e.g., Darn Tough, Smartwool): Unlike cotton which holds moisture, merino wool wicks sweat away from your skin. This keeps your feet dry, regulates temperature, and is the single best way to reduce the risk of blisters.

Pro Tip: Always break in new hiking boots or shoes on shorter walks around your neighborhood before tackling a long trail. This helps mold them to your feet and identify any potential hot spots before they become a problem.

Footwear Best Practices

  • Shop Smart: Try on shoes in the afternoon when your feet are slightly swollen for the most accurate fit. Wear the type of hiking socks you plan to use on the trail.

  • Pack a Spare: Always bring an extra pair of merino wool socks. Swapping to a dry pair midday can feel rejuvenating and is a critical step in blister prevention.

  • Care for Your Feet: Keep your toenails trimmed short to prevent them from hitting the front of your boot on descents, which can cause bruising. For more in-depth advice, check out our guide on how to prevent blisters when hiking on glacierhikesandbikes.com.

7. Snacks and Energy Food

Proper nutrition is the fuel that keeps you moving, whether you're on a strenuous backpacking trip in the Flathead National Forest or enjoying a scenic e-bike tour in Glacier National Park. The right snacks maintain your energy, prevent fatigue, and keep your mind sharp, which is critical for making good decisions in the backcountry. Forgetting to pack enough quality food is a common mistake that can quickly turn an incredible adventure into a difficult slog.

Why It's Essential

Physical exertion, especially at elevation, burns a significant number of calories. "Bonking," or hitting a wall of exhaustion, happens when your body runs out of accessible energy. This can lead to dizziness, weakness, and poor judgment. Strategically snacking every 60-90 minutes helps maintain steady blood sugar levels and consistent physical performance, ensuring you have the energy to complete your hike safely and enjoy the stunning views.

Choosing Your Trail Snacks

The best hiking foods are calorie-dense, easy to pack, and require no cooking. A mix of carbohydrates for quick energy, and protein and fats for sustained fuel, is ideal.

  • Energy Bars (e.g., CLIF Bars): A convenient and widely available option, these are formulated to provide a balanced mix of carbs, protein, and fat. They are an easy-to-pack staple for any day pack.

  • Trail Mix (GORP): The classic "Good Ol' Raisins and Peanuts" mix is popular for a reason. Make your own to customize it with your favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruits for a perfect energy blend.

  • Nut Butters (e.g., Justin's): Single-serving packets of almond or peanut butter provide long-lasting energy from healthy fats and protein. They pair well with crackers, an apple, or can be eaten on their own.

  • Real Food: Don't underestimate simple, whole foods. A block of hard cheese, whole-grain crackers, beef jerky, or a durable piece of fruit like an apple can be a refreshing and satisfying treat on the trail.

Pro Tip: Always pack more food than you think you'll need. A good rule is to bring enough for your planned trip, plus an extra "emergency" day's worth of high-calorie, non-perishable snacks just in case your outing takes longer than expected.

Snacking Best Practices

  • Eat Before You're Hungry: Just like drinking water, you should eat proactively. Nibble on a snack every hour or so to keep your energy levels from dropping.

  • Balance Your Macronutrients: Combine quick-burning carbs (like dried fruit) with slower-burning fats and proteins (like nuts or jerky) to avoid energy spikes and crashes.

  • Replenish Electrolytes: On hot days or tough climbs, pack salty snacks like pretzels or salted nuts to help replace the sodium you lose through sweat.

  • Test Your Snacks: Never try a new energy gel or bar for the first time on a long, committing hike. Test it on a shorter outing to ensure it agrees with your stomach.

8. Headlamp or Flashlight

Even the best-laid plans can go awry, and a hike that you expected to finish in the afternoon sun can easily extend into twilight. In the dense forests of the Flathead National Forest or the deep valleys of Glacier National Park, darkness falls quickly. A reliable light source is a non-negotiable safety item, preventing trips, falls, and disorientation when daylight fades unexpectedly.

Why It's Essential

A simple miscalculation of time, a minor injury, or a more challenging-than-anticipated trail can leave you navigating in the dark. A headlamp provides hands-free illumination, which is critical for reading a map, treating a wound, or safely scrambling over obstacles. It’s an essential piece of equipment that belongs in every hiker's pack, regardless of the planned duration of the outing. Including this in what you pack for a day hike is a fundamental step in being prepared for the unexpected.

Choosing Your Light Source

Modern LED headlamps are lightweight, powerful, and have impressive battery life. The choice comes down to features and budget.

  • Reliable All-Rounders (e.g., Black Diamond Spot): These models offer a great balance of brightness, battery life, and features like a red-light mode for a reasonable price. They are a workhorse for any activity.

  • Rechargeable & High-Performance (e.g., Petzl NAO+, BioLite HeadLamp 425): For those who prefer rechargeable convenience or need advanced features, these options provide powerful beams and, in some cases, battery flexibility.

  • Budget-Friendly (e.g., Princeton Tec): Simple, durable, and reliable, these headlamps provide essential illumination without breaking the bank, making them a great backup or entry-level choice.

Pro Tip: Always carry a spare set of batteries for your headlamp. For multi-day backpacking trips in the Flathead National Forest, consider bringing a small, lightweight backup light in case your primary one fails.

Illumination Best Practices

  • Pack It, Always: Make it a habit. Your headlamp should live in an easily accessible pocket of your daypack.

  • Test Before You Go: Check the batteries and function of your headlamp before you leave for the trailhead.

  • Use Red Light: The red-light mode preserves your night vision, making it easier to see your surroundings beyond the main beam. It's also less disruptive to fellow hikers.

  • Plan for an Early Finish: Aim to be back at your car or campsite well before sunset, especially in the fall when daylight hours are shorter.

9. Insect Repellent

From the dense forests of the Flathead National Forest to the marshy areas near Glacier's lakes, biting insects like mosquitoes and ticks can be a persistent nuisance. More than just an annoyance, these pests can transmit diseases, making effective insect repellent an essential safety item. Protecting yourself ensures your focus remains on the stunning scenery, not on swatting away bugs.

Why It's Essential

Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk, especially near water sources, while ticks can be found in grassy and wooded areas throughout the Flathead National Forest. A good repellent creates a protective barrier, preventing bites that can lead to irritation, allergic reactions, or vector-borne illnesses like West Nile virus or tick-borne diseases. When deciding what to pack for a day hike, repellent is a small item that offers significant peace of mind.

Choosing Your Repellent

Different situations call for different types of protection. Your choice depends on the insect pressure and personal preference.

  • DEET-Based Repellents (e.g., OFF! Deep Woods): Considered the gold standard by the CDC for efficacy against a wide range of biting insects. A concentration of 20-30% provides long-lasting protection.

  • Picaridin-Based Repellents: A popular DEET alternative that is nearly as effective but is odorless and less likely to damage synthetic fabrics or gear.

  • Permethrin Clothing Treatment (e.g., Sawyer Permethrin): This is not applied to skin. You treat your clothes, tent, and pack with it at home before your trip. It repels and kills ticks, mosquitoes, and other insects on contact and lasts through multiple washes.

Pro Tip: For backpacking trips in the Flathead National Forest, a dual approach is best. Treat your outer layers and gear with permethrin beforehand, and carry a small bottle of picaridin or DEET-based repellent for exposed skin.

Repellent Best Practices

  • Apply Correctly: Spray repellent on all exposed skin. Apply sunscreen first, let it dry completely, and then apply insect repellent.

  • Don't Forget Clothing: Lightly spray the cuffs of your pants, sleeves, and collar to deter insects from crawling underneath your clothes.

  • Perform Tick Checks: After any hike, especially through brush or tall grass, thoroughly check your body, hair, and clothing for ticks.

  • Carry Removal Tools: Pack a pair of fine-tipped tick tweezers. If you find an embedded tick, use the tweezers to grasp it as close to the skin's surface as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure.

10. Multi-Tool or Knife and Repair Kit

While major gear failures are rare on a well-planned day hike, small issues like a broken buckle or a loose trekking pole can become significant annoyances. A compact multi-tool and a small repair kit are your trailside problem-solvers, providing the means to fix minor equipment problems and handle unexpected tasks. Whether you're adjusting gear on a backpacking trip in the Flathead National Forest or fixing a loose strap on a day pack, these items offer peace of mind for ounces of weight.

Why It's Essential

A simple knife or multi-tool is invaluable for everything from cutting moleskin for a blister to slicing an apple for a trailside snack. A basic repair kit, often weighing less than a candy bar, can address common equipment failures that could otherwise compromise your comfort or safety. Considering what to pack for a day hike means planning not just for the expected but also for the unexpected, and these tools are key to self-sufficiency.

Choosing Your Repair System

The right tools depend on your gear and comfort level. You don't need a full toolbox, just a few versatile items.

  • Classic Multi-Tools (e.g., Leatherman, Gerber): These often include pliers, screwdrivers, a knife, and scissors, making them excellent all-in-one solutions. The Leatherman Signal is specifically designed for outdoor use.

  • Swiss Army Knives (e.g., Victorinox): A simpler, often lighter option, these provide a reliable blade, tweezers, and scissors, which can handle most common day-hike needs.

  • Dedicated Folding Knife: For those who prioritize a high-quality blade, a simple folding knife from a brand like Benchmade is a lightweight and effective choice.

  • DIY Repair Kit: Create a small kit in a waterproof bag with essentials like duct tape (wrapped around a lighter or pencil), a few zip ties, safety pins, and a length of durable cordage like paracord.

Pro Tip: Wrap a few feet of duct tape around your water bottle or trekking pole. This saves space in your pack and ensures you always have this incredibly versatile repair tool on hand without carrying the whole roll.

Repair Kit Best Practices

  • Know Your Tools: Familiarize yourself with all the functions of your multi-tool before you need to use it in a pinch.

  • Keep it Accessible: Store your knife or multi-tool in an easily reachable pocket of your pack, not buried at the bottom.

  • Maintain Your Blade: A sharp knife is a safe knife. Keep your blade clean and sharp for effective and predictable cutting.

  • Customize Your Kit: Think about your specific gear. If your pack is known for finicky zippers, add a spare zipper pull to your kit.


Ready for the Trail? Let Us Handle the Details

Embarking on a day hike, whether through the rugged peaks of Glacier National Park or the dense forests of the Flathead National Forest, is an experience that stays with you long after the mud is washed from your boots. The key to a successful, safe, and enjoyable outing lies not in luck, but in preparation. As we've detailed, knowing precisely what to pack for a day hike transforms potential challenges into manageable situations, allowing you to focus on the breathtaking vistas and serene wilderness around you.

This comprehensive packing list, from essential hydration systems and navigation tools to critical safety items like bear spray and a first-aid kit, serves as your blueprint for adventure. Each item plays a crucial role. Proper layering adapts to Montana's notoriously fickle weather, sun protection guards you against harsh alpine rays, and the right snacks fuel your body for that final push to a summit. By thoughtfully assembling your pack, you are not just carrying gear; you are carrying confidence and self-reliance.

Your Packing Checklist: A Quick Recap

Before you zip up your pack, let's revisit the core principles of a well-prepared hiker. These are the non-negotiables that form the foundation of any safe and memorable day on the trail.

  • Master the Essentials: Always start with the ten essentials we covered. Water, navigation, layers, and first aid are the bedrock of trail safety. Never leave home without them, even for a short, seemingly easy hike.

  • Prepare for the Unexpected: A twisted ankle or a sudden downpour can happen to anyone. Packing items like an emergency shelter, a headlamp, and a multi-tool ensures you're equipped to handle minor setbacks before they become major problems.

  • Customize for Your Adventure: A family hike with young children requires different considerations than a strenuous solo trek. Tailor your food, gear, and first-aid supplies to the specific trail, season, and group you're hiking with. This personalized approach is what elevates a good packing list to a great one.

Key Takeaway: Your daypack is more than just a collection of items; it's your personal support system on the trail. Every piece of gear, from your hiking socks to your water filter, is a deliberate choice that enhances your safety, comfort, and overall enjoyment of the wilderness.

Mastering what to pack for a day hike is an empowering skill. It frees you from the anxiety of the unknown and opens the door to more ambitious and rewarding adventures. Now that your gear is dialed in, the only thing left to do is choose your trail and embrace the wild beauty of Montana. While you focus on packing your personal gear, let us handle the complex logistics of planning the perfect outing.

Ready to explore beyond the trailhead without the stress of reservations and route-finding? While you master your day hike packing list, let Glacier Hikes & Bikes manage the adventure logistics. We offer guided backpacking trips in the Flathead National Forest and unforgettable e-bike tours, sightseeing excursions, and snowshoeing trips in Glacier National Park, so you can focus purely on the experience. Book your hassle-free Montana adventure with us today!

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Your Guide to Guided Hikes Near Glacier National Park