Looking for the best hikes in Glacier National Park? From the breathtaking Highline Trail and the scenic walk to Hidden Lake Overlook to the unforgettable hike to Grinnell Glacier, Glacier National Park is home to some of the most spectacular trails in the United States.
We’ve visited Glacier National Park multiple times, hiking trails across Going-to-the-Sun Road and Many Glacier. In this guide, we combine our firsthand experience with practical planning advice to help you choose the right hikes based on difficulty, scenery, and how much time you have in the park.
Whether you want an easy scenic walk, a classic first-time hike, or a challenging full-day adventure, this guide covers the best hikes in Glacier National Park for every skill level.
If you are still planning your trip, start with our Glacier National Park Travel Guide, which has links to all of our articles on Glacier and covers when to visit, where to stay, and how to get around the park.
Let’s dive into the best hikes in Glacier National Park and help you choose the perfect trails for your visit.
How to Choose the Best Hikes in Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is huge, and choosing hikes can be overwhelming on a first visit. Some trails start along Going-to-the-Sun Road, while others require driving to Many Glacier or Two Medicine.
We’ve organized this guide so you can quickly find hikes based on difficulty, scenery, and how much time you have in the park.
| If You Want… | Do This Hike |
| Best first hike in Glacier | Hidden Lake Overlook |
| Iconic Glacier experience | Highline Trail |
| See a glacier up close | Grinnell Glacier |
| Easy scenic hike | Avalanche Lake |
| Fewer crowds | Pitamakan + Dawson Pass |
| Waterfalls | St. Mary & Virginia Falls |
Short on time? Most first-time visitors should focus on hikes along Going-to-the-Sun Road and in the Many Glacier area.
Best Hikes in Glacier National Park by Difficulty
One of the biggest challenges when planning a trip to Glacier National Park is choosing hikes that match your fitness level and available time. While some trails are short and easy walks to scenic viewpoints, others are full-day alpine adventures.
Here’s a quick guide to the best hikes in Glacier National Park based on difficulty.
Easy Hikes in Glacier National Park
Perfect for first-time visitors, families, or anyone looking for incredible scenery without a long or strenuous hike.
- Hidden Lake Overlook – One of the most rewarding short hikes in the park, starting at Logan Pass with panoramic mountain views and frequent wildlife sightings.
- St. Mary Falls – A short and scenic waterfall hike along Going-to-the-Sun Road.
- Avalanche Lake – A beautiful forest hike ending at a peaceful alpine lake surrounded by waterfalls.
Moderate Hikes
These hikes require more time and endurance but reward hikers with some of Glacier’s most iconic scenery.
- Highline Trail – One of the most famous hikes in Glacier, featuring jaw-dropping views high above Going-to-the-Sun Road.
- Apikuni Falls – A shorter hike with steady elevation gain leading to a dramatic waterfall in the Many Glacier area.
Strenuous Hikes
These longer hikes are ideal for experienced hikers looking for Glacier’s most spectacular landscapes.
- Grinnell Glacier – A bucket-list hike featuring turquoise lakes, waterfalls, wildlife, and close-up glacier views.
- Iceberg Lake – A stunning alpine lake often filled with floating icebergs well into summer.
- Ptarmigan Tunnel – A challenging hike ending at a historic tunnel with incredible mountain views.
- Pitamakan Pass – One of the most epic day hikes in Glacier National Park with sweeping panoramic scenery.
The Highline Trail
Glacier National Park Hiking Map & Areas Explained
Glacier National Park is large and spread out, and many of the park’s best hikes are located far from one another. Understanding the main regions of the park will help you choose hikes and plan driving times more efficiently.
Going-to-the-Sun Road & Logan Pass
This is the most popular area of Glacier National Park and the best place for first-time visitors. Many of the park’s most famous hikes start here, including Hidden Lake Overlook, Avalanche Lake, and the Highline Trail. Expect incredible alpine scenery, easy trail access, and busy parking areas during peak summer months.
Best for: First-time visitors and iconic Glacier views.
Many Glacier
Often called the most beautiful area of Glacier National Park, Many Glacier is known for dramatic mountain scenery, wildlife sightings, and classic full-day hikes.
Top hikes here include Grinnell Glacier, Iceberg Lake, Ptarmigan Tunnel, and Apikuni Falls.
Best for: Glacier views, wildlife, and bucket-list hikes.
Two Medicine
Two Medicine receives fewer visitors but offers scenery that rivals the rest of the park. Trails here feel more remote and peaceful, making it a great alternative during busy summer months.
The Pitamakan Pass and Dawson Pass loop is one of Glacier’s most spectacular hikes.
Best for: Fewer crowds and experienced hikers.
Map of the Hiking Trails in Glacier
How to Use This Map: Click the icons on the map to get more information about each point of interest. To take this map with you, click the star next to the title of the map which adds it to your Google account. Next, within your Google Maps app, select ‘Saved’ and then select ‘Maps’. This map title will now appear in your list.
Best Hikes in Glacier National Park
This list is organized by geographical location. Glacier National Park is a large park with several distinct areas. The hikes in this post are located in Many Glacier, Two Medicine, and the area around Going-to-the-Sun Road and Logan Pass.
Note: All hiking distances are round trip.
Hikes Along Going-to-the-Sun Road
For 50 miles, this road twists and turns through gorgeous mountain scenery. It tops out at Logan Pass, where you can start two of the hikes on this list. For many visitors, especially if it is your first time to Glacier National Park, the area around Going-to-the-Sun Road is where you will spend a lot of your time.
Avalanche Lake
Best family-friendly hike in Glacier
Distance: 4.6 miles out-and-back
Total Ascent: 500 feet
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Length of Time: 2 to 3 hours
Trailhead: Trail of the Cedars, near Lake McDonald
Avalanche Lake is much different from most hikes on this list. Many hikes in Glacier National Park feature alpine trails and panoramic views of the mountain peaks. This hike is different. You will hike alongside Avalanche Creek and through a dense forest. There are no big climbs, no high alpine views, just a quiet trail through the woods that ends at a very pretty lake.
This hike starts at the Trail of the Cedars, a 0.7-mile loop trail. For the best experience, take the boardwalk trail through the dense forest of cedar trees and make sure you see Avalanche Gorge.
Trail of the Cedars and Avalanche Gorge
At the top of the loop, follow the signs to Avalanche Lake. It’s an overall uphill walk to get to the lake, but it is nothing too strenuous. Avalanche Lake makes a great picnic spot.
This hike may lack the jaw-dropping views you get on other hikes in Glacier like the Highline Trail, but this is still a gorgeous hike, and the forest smells so good!
Avalanche Lake
Hidden Lake Overlook
If you only do one hike in Glacier, this is what we recommend.
Distance: 2.8 miles out-and-back
Total Ascent: 460 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Length of Time: 1.5 hours
Trailhead: Logan Pass
This is a hike we do every time we visit Glacier. It’s short, it’s incredibly scenic, and we’ve had great luck spotting both mountain goats and bighorn sheep when we do this hike.
The trail to Hidden Lake Overlook is one of the most popular hikes in Glacier National Park. Starting at Logan Pass, you will walk a combination of boardwalk and gravel trails to get to the overlook of Hidden Lake. Along the way, keep a lookout for mountain goats. This is one of the easiest places to see them in Glacier National Park.
Hidden Lake Overlook
View on the return hike from Hidden Lake
From the overlook, you can continue on the trail for another 1.2 miles (2.4 miles round trip) to Hidden Lake.
Highline Trail
Glacier’s most iconic hike
Distance: 11.6 miles point-to-point
Total Ascent: 800 feet
Total Descent: 3000 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Length of Time: 5 to 7 hours
Trailhead: Logan Pass or the Loop. Starting at Logan Pass makes this an overall downhill walk.
The Highline Trail is one of the best hikes in Glacier National Park. For almost 12 miles, this trail takes hikers high above Going-to-the-Sun Road, with stunning views of the park and a chance to see glaciers, wildflowers, and wildlife.
This hike is done point-to-point, from Logan Pass to the Loop. The elevation gain is minimal, so if you are looking for a hike with high alpine views without having to hike up a massive mountain, you won’t find a better hike than the Highline Trail.
PRO TRAVEL TIP: In 2026, there will be a 3-hour time limit to park at Logan Pass. If you plan to do this hike, you will need to make a reservation in advance for the park shuttle.
Highline Trail
Here is our guide on the Highline Trail, which has maps, lots of photos, plus things we learned while hiking this trail.
How to hike the Highline Trail from Logan Pass to The Loop
Step-by-step trail guide for the Highline Trail.St. Mary & Virginia Falls
Best short waterfall hike
Distance: 2.4 miles to St. Mary Falls, 3.8 miles to Virginia Falls (round trip)
Elevation Change: 260 feet loss (to St. Mary Falls) and a 285-foot gain (to Virginia Falls)
Difficulty: Easy
Length of Time: 1 hour (St. Mary Falls) to 2 hours (Virginia Falls)
Trailhead: St. Mary Falls Trailhead or St. Mary Falls Shuttle Stop
This trail takes you alongside part of St. Mary Lake and through a forest that was burned in July 2015. You can hike to St. Mary Falls, a beautiful two-tiered waterfall, with the option to continue onto Virginia Falls.
St. Mary Falls
There are two places to start this hike. There is a small parking lot on Going-to-the-Sun Road, labeled St. Mary Falls Trailhead. With a bit of luck, you can find a parking space midday. Or, take the shuttle to the St. Mary Falls Shuttle Stop. Starting at the shuttle stop takes off 0.4 miles round trip from the hiking distances below.
Hikes in Many Glacier
This is one of the most beautiful areas of Glacier National Park. With massive, snow-covered mountains, waterfalls, lakes, and glaciers, this is a hiker’s paradise.
Apikuni Falls
Best short hike in Many Glacier
Distance: 2 miles out-and-back
Total Ascent: 700 feet
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Length of Time: 1 hour
Trailhead: Apikuni Parking Area
This is a short, popular hike to a waterfall that is located near Many Glacier Hotel.
Tami Freed/shutterstock.com
Cracker Lake
Distance: 12.6 miles out-and-back
Total Ascent: 1400 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Length of Time: 6 to 8 hours
Trailhead: Many Glacier Hotel parking lot
Cracker Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Glacier National Park. It is a brilliantly colored aquamarine lake that is surrounded by grassy slopes and wildflowers on the nearby mountains.
kan_khampanya/shutterstock.com
This hike starts near the Many Glacier Hotel. The first few miles of the trail are a horse trail, so it can be muddy and rutted.
Grinnell Glacier
Best overall hike in Glacier National Park
Distance: 10.6 miles out-and-back
Total Ascent: 1600 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Length of Time: 5 to 7 hours
Trailhead: Grinnell Glacier Trailhead on Continental Divide Trail or Lake Josephine
This hike has it all…stunning alpine scenery, waterfalls, emerald green lakes, wildflowers, the chance to see wildlife, and of course, a glacier.
On this hike we spotted moose, bear, and mountain goats. The wildlife sightings and the gorgeous scenery made this was one of our favorite experiences in Glacier National Park.
View on the hike to Grinnell Glacier
Grinnell Glacier
There are two ways to do this hike. You can do this as a round-trip hike from main trailhead on Continental Divide Trail. Or, you can shorten this hike by taking the boat across Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine. Get all of the details here ↓
Grinnell Glacier Hike: Complete Trail Guide (+2026 Updates)
Everything you need to hike to Grinnell Glacier.Iceberg Lake
One of Glacier’s most beautiful alpine lakes
Distance: 9.6 miles out-and-back
Total Ascent: 1200 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Length of Time: 5 to 7 hours
Trailhead: Swiftcurrent Motor Inn
Many people who hike this trail state that it is one of their favorite hikes in Glacier National Park. It’s still on our to-do list.
Pung/shutterstock.com
This hike shares the trail to Ptarmigan Tunnel. You will also be walking through grizzly bear territory, so hike in groups, make lots of noise, and bring bear spray. Like the hike to Grinnell Glacier, you are treated to spectacular alpine views, wildflowers, and a beautiful alpine lake.
Ptarmigan Tunnel
Unique historic hike with epic views
Distance: 10.6 miles out-and-back
Total Ascent: 2300 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Length of Time: 5 to 7 hours
Trailhead: Swiftcurrent Motor Inn
This hike shares the trail to Iceberg Lake. At about the halfway point, the trail to Ptarmigan Tunnel breaks off to the right. The trail gets steeper and more strenuous and you are treated to amazing alpine views. Near the end of the hike, you will walk through Ptarmigan Tunnel, which was blasted out of the rock in the 1930’s. From the far end of the tunnel, enjoy more stunning views of Glacier National Park.
Kelly vanDellen/shutterstock.com
This trail is not as popular as Cracker Lake or Iceberg Lake, so if you like the idea of hiking without the crowds, this is a good one to consider.
Hikes in Two Medicine
The Two Medicine area may not be as popular as Going-to-the-Sun Road or Many Glacier, but the scenery and the trails are just as spectacular. And since this area gets fewer visitors, it feels more off-the-beaten-path.
Pitamakan Pass and Dawson Pass
An epic day hike in Glacier
Distance: 14.8 miles out-and-back
Difficulty: Strenuous
Length of Time: 7 to 9 hours
Trailhead: North Shore Trailhead
This epic day hike is done as a loop. Starting at the North Shore Trailhead near Two Medicine Campground, you will to Pitamakan Pass, circling around Rising Wolf Mountain. As you approach Pitamakan Pass, the views are jaw-dropping.
At Pitamakan Pass, you will hike across the saddle, a narrow ridge where you have panoramic views of Glacier National Park. Continue to Dawson Pass and once you make it to Two Medicine Lake, take the shuttle back to Two Medicine Campground.
Daniel DRSW/shutterstock.com
When to Go Hiking in Glacier National Park
Going-to-the-Sun Road is typically open from the end of June/early July through mid-October. Opening and closing dates are dependent on snowfall.
The best time to go hiking in Glacier National Park is in this time frame: early July through mid-October. The Many Glacier and Two Medicine areas may be open before and after these dates, but snow on the trails can make hiking hazardous. It’s best to visit Glacier National Park in the summer and early fall if you plan to go hiking and to have the opportunity to visit all areas of the park.
Please practice the seven principles of Leave No Trace: plan ahead, stay on the trail, pack out what you bring to the hiking trail, leave areas as you found them, minimize campfire impacts, be considerate of other hikers, and do not approach or feed wildlife.
Important Tips for Hiking in Glacier National Park
Hiking in Glacier National Park requires a bit more planning than many other national parks. Parking is limited, wildlife activity can affect trail access, and conditions can change quickly throughout the season. These tips will help you have a safe and smooth hiking experience.
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lots at popular trailheads, especially Logan Pass, Avalanche Lake, and Many Glacier, often fill by early morning during the summer months.
For the best chance at finding parking:
- Arrive before 7:00 am during July and August
- Visit later in the afternoon when crowds begin to leave
- Use the park shuttle when parking areas are full
Logan Pass is typically the most competitive parking area in the park.
Parking Restrictions at Logan Pass
Starting July 1, 2026, there will be a 3-hour time limit for parking at Logan Pass. Because of this, anyone planning to hike the Highline Trail (which takes 5+ hours) will have to make a reservation in advance for the Going-to-the-Sun Road Shuttle.
Timed Entry Reservations
Timed Entry Reservations are not required in 2026, but they were in past years. There is always the chance this could change, so if you are planning a visit in 2027 or later, it’s something to keep in mind.
Check Trail Status for Grizzly Bear Closures
Glacier National Park is prime grizzly bear habitat, and trails occasionally close due to bear activity.
Closures most commonly occur in:
- Many Glacier
- Iceberg Lake area
- High alpine meadows during peak berry season
Before heading out, always check the daily trail status report at visitor centers or online.
Bring Bear Spray (And Know How to Use It)
Glacier National Park is home to both grizzly bears and black bears.
Park officials strongly recommend:
- Carrying bear spray on all hikes
- Hiking in groups when possible
- Making noise on the trail
- Never approaching wildlife
Bear spray can be rented or purchased near park entrances if you are flying into the area.
What to Bring on a Glacier Hike
Even short hikes in Glacier can feel remote, and mountain weather can change quickly.
We recommend bringing:
- Plenty of water
- Snacks or lunch
- Layers for changing weather
- Rain jacket
- Sun protection
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Offline maps or downloaded navigation
- Bear spray
For longer hikes, start early and pack extra food and warm layers.
Essential Hiking Gear: What Should You Bring on a Day Hike?
If you are new to hiking or are curious about what you should bring on a hike, check out our Hiking Gear Guide. Find out what we carry in our day packs and what we wear on the trails.Check the National Park Service Website for Updates
Construction projects, road work, weather conditions, and access rules can change each season in Glacier National Park.
Before your visit, check the National Park Service website for:
- Road openings and closures
- Construction updates
- Shuttle and reservation requirements
- Trail conditions
- Wildlife advisories
This is especially important early and late in the hiking season.
Download Maps Before You Go
Cell service is very limited throughout Glacier National Park. Download maps in advance using Google Maps or a hiking app so you can navigate even without reception.
How to Plan a Trip to Glacier National Park
Now that you know the best things to do in Glacier National Park, here are a few resources to help you plan your visit:
Get started with our Glacier National Park Travel Guide, which has links to all of our articles about Glacier National Park, with lots of helpful information and photos.
Our detailed 1–5 Day Glacier National Park Itinerary shows you exactly how to organize your time, including where to stay and how to structure your days.
If you’re planning a larger western road trip, this Grand Teton, Yellowstone, Glacier National Park Itinerary combines three of America’s most spectacular national parks into one unforgettable route.
If you have any questions about the best hikes in Glacier National Park, or you want to share your favorite hike, let us know in the comment section below.
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