Dangerous hikes in Glacier
Visiting Glacier National Park for the first time can be overwhelming; however, it is a hiker’s paradise with an array of exceptional day hikes. The question arises: where should you go? Which trails should you explore? Is it possible to hike in multiple areas of the park?
Understanding this can be daunting. There are extensive trails, and maps can be unclear regarding how the various park areas connect. This article highlights some of the most popular hikes accessible from the Going-to-the-Sun Road, with one notable exclusion: Grinnell Glacier.
Hidden Lake
The Hidden Lake hike offers an easy, mostly boardwalk trail. This linear path begins at the Logan Pass parking lot, the highest point along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, and leads through expansive meadows to a stunning viewing point. Spanning 3 miles, it can become quite busy, even in the off-season due to its accessibility.
Easy hike in Glacier National Park
It is advisable to start early to secure a parking spot and face less trail traffic. Your efforts will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Hidden Lake, beautifully nestled amid towering mountains. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep and mountain goats; bringing binoculars may enhance your experience!
Trail of the Cedars
Trail of the Cedars is an enchanting boardwalk hike that connects with the Avalanche Lake trail and is one of two fully wheelchair-accessible trails in the park. This easy 0.6-mile loop features magnificent cedar trees and streams adorned with small waterfalls.
One of two wheelchair accessible trails in Glacier National Park
This scenic trail is ideal for those with limited time looking to sample Glacier National Park’s beauty. A parking area is available at the trailhead, but finding a spot during peak summer months can be challenging, as experienced even in late September, a prime visiting time.
Adjacent to the trail is a campground, making it an excellent spot to spend the night within the park.
Avalanche Lake
Avalanche Lake is among my favorite hikes accessible via the Going-to-the-Sun Road. The trail meanders deep into the forest, ultimately revealing a stunning glacial lake surrounded by majestic mountains.
This 4.5-mile out-and-back trail is classified as easy to moderate, making it a highlight of Glacier National Park that you simply must experience. The journey features a relatively flat path, making the length its only challenge. Avalanche Lake is a popular destination where you will encounter fellow travelers enjoying the scenery with activities such as reading, fishing, and having lunch in one of the park’s most picturesque settings.
Highline Trail and the Garden Wall
Highline Trail, complemented by the Garden Wall, is another remarkable option, albeit a more challenging hike that requires ample preparation.
The Highline Trail begins at Logan Pass and extends 7.6 miles to the Granite Park Chalet, with an additional 11.9 miles leading to Fifty Mountain Campground. The Garden Wall is located just before reaching the Granite Park Chalet, allowing you to determine your desired distance.
This hike features spectacular views at every turn, enticing you to capture photographs of the breathtaking scenery. The trail runs along the edge above the Going-to-the-Sun Road before transitioning into lush meadows and expansive vistas of multiple mountain ranges and glaciers. Wildlife sightings are common on this trail, as it traverses bear country inhabited by both grizzly and black bears. Therefore, carrying bear spray is strongly advised.
This challenging trek culminates in breathtaking views, rewarding your efforts with vistas of Grinnell Glacier from the Grinnell Glacier overlook. Remember to bring enough water; options for refilling from streams are available along the way.
Upon reaching the base of the Garden Wall, the real challenge begins. The strenuous ascent of approximately 1km (0.6 miles) with nearly 1000 feet of elevation gain is worthwhile, although you may question your decisions during the ascent. The reward includes spectacular views of Grinnell Glacier from the overlook. Take your time, enjoy a meal, and savor the scenery before making your descent.
This entire round trip hike is around 16 miles, proving to be a challenging yet fascinating experience, making it one of the best hikes in the park.
St. Mary and Virginia Waterfalls
This hike serves as a poignant reminder of climate change, with visible evidence from past wildfires. It commences at a small parking area along the Going-to-the-Sun Road and comprises an easy to moderate out-and-back path.
Just 1.1 miles into the trail, you will encounter St. Mary’s Falls. However, don’t stop there; the true highlight is yet to come.
Best trail for waterfalls in Glacier National Park
Virginia Falls is located 1.4 miles into the trail—a stunning waterfall that you can approach closely. The lush, damp surroundings evoke earthy, evergreen scents that enhance the experience.
Follow the St Mary’s falls trail to the end for Virginia Falls
Grinnell Glacier
For those not inclined to tackle the Garden Wall, an alternative option is the Grinnell Glacier trail situated within the Many Glaciers region of the park.
This 11.2-mile out-and-back trail is rated as challenging. During peak season, you may opt to take a boat that shortens the trek by 3.4 miles. This particular hike is deemed a must-do and is recognized as one of the park’s most scenic routes, offering intimate views of one of Glacier National Park’s most magnificent glaciers.
If time permits only one hike during your visit, prioritize this one and plan accordingly.
Concluding Thoughts
Glacier National Park quickly became one of my favorite national parks due to its pristine wilderness. With dense forests, impressive mountain ranges, glacial lakes, and the glaciers themselves, the park is a destination that demands to be visited. Additionally, the Continental Divide runs through the park along the Lewis Range, adding to its allure.
