## Exploring the Wonders of Glacier National Park: Unmissable Adventures Await
Glacier National Park is truly one of the most captivating parks in the United States, and arguably, the entire world. With a multitude of activities to enjoy, hiking stands out as the best way to immerse yourself in its natural beauty. Much of the park’s splendor lies beyond the roads, hidden in its vast wilderness. Without venturing onto its trails, you might miss out on some of its most breathtaking sights.
Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road
If hiking isn’t your thing or isn’t an option, take a scenic drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. This route offers stunning views and picturesque vistas that are accessible from your vehicle.
Must-Do Day Hikes in Glacier National Park
For those eager to explore on foot, here are some of our top recommended day hikes in Glacier National Park:
# Highline Trail
– Distance: 15-18 miles
– Type: Point to Point or Out and Back
– Difficulty: Hard
– Average Time: 8-10 hours
The Highline Trail is a must-experience hike, offering iconic landscapes and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Incorporating the Garden Wall section provides breathtaking views of Grinnell Glacier. Expect a full-day adventure and start early to secure parking and catch the shuttles if doing the point-to-point route.
# Ptarmigan Tunnel Hike
– Distance: 10.6 miles
– Type: Out and Back
– Difficulty: Hard
– Average Time: 5-6 hours
This hike can be polarizing, but those who love it appreciate the amazing views and frequent wildlife sightings, especially since this area is prime grizzly habitat. The Ptarmigan Tunnel, carved through the mountain, offers a dramatic transition in scenery that makes this trail unique.
# Iceberg Lake
– Distance: 9.3 miles
– Type: Out and Back
– Difficulty: Moderate
– Average Time: 4 hours
Located in the Many Glacier section, Iceberg Lake is a favorite among visitors. It’s a popular hike where you can enjoy lunch and maybe even a nap by the serene lake. Keep an eye out for moose and bears, and practice safe wildlife viewing. This trail shares its first 2.8 miles with the Ptarmigan Tunnel hike, making an early start essential if you plan to combine the two.
# Upper Two Medicine Trail
– Distance: 11.2 miles
– Type: Loop
– Difficulty: Moderate
– Average Time: 4-5 hours
Two Medicine is one of Glacier’s less-visited gems. The Upper Two Medicine Trail provides stunning views of lakes and mountains, and you can make a side stop at Twin Falls. Enjoy the beautiful nature without the high crowds.
# Grinnell Glacier Hike
– Distance: 11 miles
– Type: Out and Back
– Difficulty: Hard
– Average Time: 5.5-6 hours
This iconic hike brings you close to Grinnell Glacier, traversing alpine meadows, forests, and lakes. You can reduce the hiking miles by taking a boat across Swiftcurrent Lake from the Many Glacier Hotel, but be sure to catch the earliest one.
# Avalanche Lake
– Distance: 5.9 miles
– Type: Out and Back
– Difficulty: Moderate
– Average Time: 2.5 hours
Starting from the Western entrance at Apgar, this popular trek leads through wooded areas and along scenic streams to the beautiful Avalanche Lake. It’s a relatively easy hike and perfect as a warm-up. Arrive early for parking and a more peaceful experience.
# Hidden Lake Trail
– Distance: 2.7-5.3 miles
– Type: Out and Back
– Difficulty: Moderate
– Average Time: 1.5-2.5 hours
Hidden Lake Trail begins at Logan Pass Visitor Center and offers two hiking options: a shorter route to the overlook or a longer trek down to the lake. The overlook is highly recommended, and the additional hike to the lake, though trickier, is rewarding.
More Adventures in and Around Montana
– MONTANA: How to Get to Glacier National Park
– MONTANA: Guide to Grant-Kohrs Ranch NHS
– MONTANA: Guide to Pompeys Pillar NM
– ROAD TRIPS: From Yellowstone to Salt Lake City
– ROAD TRIPS: From Mount Rushmore to Yellowstone
– NORTH DAKOTA: Guide to Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Embark on these adventures and discover why Glacier National Park remains an extraordinary destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.