best hikes glacier national park

Treehouse Rentals Near Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park
Hiking Trails

The Best Hiking Trails in Glacier National Park feature a variety of terrain from panoramic hikes overlooking the park, to scenic routes leading to rushing waterfalls.
With over 734 miles of hiking trails, the park has quite a diversity of trails to choose from.
Below you will find links to the best hikes most suitable for the types of trails you are searching for.

The best hiking trails in Glacier National Park are categorized by section for ease.
Day hikes, family hikes, short hikes, easy hikes, waterfall hikes and their overall best hikes!

The park does not disappoint with views, and offers hiking trails of all levels.

When to Visit Glacier National Park?

The best time to visit Glacier National Park is Late June – Mid October.
The Going-to-The-Sun Road access is closed to vehicles outside of this time frame due to snow.
Also, majority of hikes are not accessible outside of this time frame due to snowfall.

However if you are biking Glacier, the roads open up in Spring between April-early June for biking.
This also gives you a chance to venture the Going-To-The-Sun Road without cars or crowds.

Overall, Late June – Mid October is the Best Time To Hike Glacier National Park if you are wanting to drive and have access to majority of the hikes.

Best Day Hikes Glacier National Park

The best day hikes in Glacier are found primarily along the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Majority of these iconic hiking trails are along the Going-To-The-Sun Road are fixated at the highest point.
Day Hikes featured in this area are the Highline Trail and Hidden Lake Overlook.

West side of the Park consists of more family-friendly and kid-friendly hiking trails in Glacier.
– These hikes are great for all ages and levels of hikers.
They primarily feature gradual elevation gain, wildlife and scenic waterfalls.

Less Crowded Hikes Glacier National Park

East side of the Park features the less crowded day hikes.
This is the Two Medicine region and includes the Pitamakan and Dawson Loop, and Many Glaciers.
Many Glaciers is ‘the heart of the park’ featuring higher elevations.

Tips

Always carry bear spray.

For trail guidance, download the AllTrails Mobile App.

During the peak season, between Mid-June to Late September, you may try to opt for taking the Shuttle Bus to certain hikes.
Certain areas throughout the park have very limited parking, and shuttling would be a better option.
Each hike lists if a shuttle stop is available.
You can also check here as well, Shuttle Stops Glacier National Park.

The Best Day Hikes in Glacier take you on a summit to the top of the peaks overlooking the Park!

Rewarding Views

Family hikes in Glacier guide you on scenic trails that are great for all ages – featuring waterfalls and occasionally wildlife!

Best for Families

Looking for easy hikes in Glacier? These short, non-strenuous hikes bring you to some of the best views the park can offer without the hustle.

Less effort , same great views

Discover the Best Waterfall Hikes in Glacier National Park!
Waterfall trails that guide you through alpine meadows to rewarding waterfalls.