Glacier National Park is a bucket-list destination for every kind of adventurer. And while roadtrip sightseers, birdwatchers and whitewater rafters all have a blast, hikers discover a truly unmatched paradise on over 700 miles of trail. Here’s everything to know for your trail adventure in the Crown of the Continent this summer.
The west side of the park offers numerous trailheads and some of the best year-round attractions, too. Avalanche Lake Trail is the most popular, with the first 0.7 miles on the paved and accessible Trail of the Cedars boardwalk.
Next, try Huckleberry Mountain Trail for an intermediate hike at the Camas Road entrance. If the views at the lookout aren’t impressive enough, the namesake snacks along the way will be.
TIP: If you want to dial up the difficulty, hike to Sperry Chalet. After 6.3 miles, you’ll have gained almost 3,500 feet in elevation, and your legs will have earned the impressive view.
Logan Pass sits at 6,646 feet on the Continental Divide, offering several trailheads that are must-see attractions. Hidden Lake offers a relatively easy stroll with a mix of boardwalk and well-maintained natural trail, leading to incredible views. And the Highline Trail is a Glacier staple that spans the iconic Garden Wall.
Over on the east side, the trails are quieter with lots of wildlife activity and plenty of iconic Montana views.
Hike the St. Mary and Virginia Falls trails for easy strolls with gorgeous waterfall rewards. Head to Iceberg Lake for an intermediate hike that delivers abundant wildflower blooms, Glacier’s infamous summer snow and towering peaks all around.
Ptarmigan Trail & Tunnel is a difficult choose-your-own adventure hike departing from the Iceberg-Ptarmigan Trailhead. Go as far as 10 miles to experience the 240-foot tunnel and the glacially sculpted valley and lake.
Glacier National Park is home to the largest population of grizzly bears in the lower 48 states. With a robust population of black bears, too, seeing bears in the wild is a common thrill. Bears are dormant in the winter months and usually emerge from their dens in April or May, so spring and summer visitors have the best chance of spotting them.
TIP: Be sure to carry bear spray and know how to use it! Buy it locally or rent it from Glacier Outfitters.
In addition to bears, Glacier is home to a diverse population of mammals, birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians. Among the 71 documented mammal species, some frequently seen animals are Rocky Mountain goats, bighorn sheep, elk, moose, beavers and pikas.
Hiking with binoculars is a great way to spot animals from afar, which is much safer (for you and the animals) than having a surprise encounter up close. When you do encounter wildlife, give them plenty of space. Do not approach them, and definitely do not feed them!
TIP: Make plenty of noise to alert wildlife to your presence. If it’s been a while since your last sing-along, now’s your chance.
By adopting Leave No Trace practices, you’ll ensure that today’s Glacier experience is available for future generations. Stay on established trails, dispose of waste properly and check weather and trail conditions before heading out. Always let someone know where you’re planning to hike, and remember that cell service is limited so bring a paper map as a backup plan.
It’s also important to dress and pack wisely. High-altitude weather changes quickly, and sometimes drastically, so dress in layers and you’ll be ready for sun, wind, rain and even snow. Proper footwear is a must. Sturdy shoes or boots with ankle support will help you go the distance and handle variable trail conditions.
TIP: Here’s your essential items packing list: water, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, rain gear, extra clothing layers, a camera, a flashlight or headlamp and a basic first aid kit.
Making a shuttle reservation can help you avoid parking hassles and tackle longer hikes. Stay up to date on shuttle info, parking limits and other tidbits with our Visiting Glacier in 2026 Guide.
What’s more fun — planning your hike, tackling the miles or sharing trail memories over a cold drink at the day’s end? Make your hiking dreams a reality this summer, and start planning your Glacier adventure.
About the Author
Sarah Ericson is a writer based in northwest Montana, where you’ll often find her walking, biking or skiing in the woods, floating down rivers or sitting in her garden. She is an associate editor for Whitefish Review and she’s always looking for new places to explore — both on the page and in real life.
