10 Glacier National Park Hiking Trails You Will Love

Hiking immerses you in the best Glacier has to offer. Imagine walking through sun-drenched alpine meadows flush with wildflowers and framed by jagged peaks. Or experience the thrill that follows a climb, and you breathlessly soak in your reward—mountain vistas that stretch for miles. I have hiked on trails around the globe, from Iceland to New Zealand. The paths in Glacier, in many aspects, are wilder, more rugged, and remote. And easily hold footing with the world’s best.

To help you choose the right hikes for your Glacier trip, I share an overview of the top 10 trails I recommend below. Some, we did on our family’s 4-day Glacier National Park visit. Others, I wanted to fit in, but due to lack of time or parking, we could not tackle. For these, I tap other experts who hiked the routes to lend their knowledge and first-hand tips. See what we share below and decide which trails are best for you. Then, use this list, with its essential information, to plan an epic Glacier National Park hiking trip.

Curious about other things to see and do in Glacier? Check out this comprehensive guide to 37 things to do in and around Glacier National Park.

Top 10 hiking trails in Glacier National Park.

Given West Glacier is the most popular and heavily trafficked entrance to Glacier National Park, I list the top 10 trails I recommend from west to east. View their trailhead locations via this map. Or click to learn more from the list below.

Avalanche Lake Trail (includes the Trail of the Cedars).

Trail details: 5.9-mile out-and-back, moderately challenging, with a 757-foot elevation gain. This mileage includes the .9-mile interpretive Trail of the Cedars loop. 

Trailhead location: 5.7 miles northeast of Lake McDonald Lodge on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Coordinates: 48.67945 – 113.81956.

Parking: Park in one of three areas:

1. Entrance to Avalanche Creek Campground. There are limited parking spaces in the lot adjacent to the Trail of the Cedars path.
   
   
2. Avalanche Creek Picnic Area, on the opposite side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road from the trailhead.
   
   
3. Just north of the trailhead in the narrow parking strip lot along the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
   
   

Or, in-season, catch a ride to the trailhead on the free Glacier National Park shuttle.

Trail overview: 

The Avalanche Lake trail is a 5.9-mile out-and-back hike on paths through an old-growth forest. It runs adjacent to the small cataracts of Avalanche Creek, making its way to the tranquil and mountain-ringed Avalanche Lake. Compared to many other Glacier routes, this trail is relatively moderate. Given a gradual ascent, it offers a perfect opportunity for visitors looking to enjoy the park’s natural beauty without a strenuous hike.

This trail is two separate trails in one. Its lower section is a .9-mile relatively flat loop—the Trail of the Cedars. The north portion of this family-friendly lower path is a raised walkway with interpretive signage and artwork. To get to Avalanche Lake, you will walk one leg of this loop. To keep things interesting, on your way back, return to your car or the shuttle by taking the other leg.

Arriving early before the crowds, our family loved this walk through the woods that paralleled streams and small waterfalls. Upon reaching the lake and from its rocky shores, we took time to soak in the wild alpine surroundings mirrored in its glittering and calm surface. Following the path around its southwest edge, we took mini spur trails to one of several rocky beaches, where we stopped for a snack and more views.

Heading back, instead of returning straight to our car, parked in the small lot next to the Avalanche Creek Campground, we circled the lower section of the Trail of the Cedars, enjoying another waterfall view and more time in the woods. Once back at our car, we grabbed a spot at a picnic table next to the parking area for an early lunch.

Helpful tips: 

• Avalanche Lake and Trail of the Cedars are busy trails, especially after 9 AM. If you are looking for more outdoor serenity, arrive to hike this trail early. Or later, after 5 PM. Since the sun rises in Glacier around 5 AM and sets around 10 PM in early July, you may have lots of daylight to work with if you visit in the summer months.
  
  
• There are two bathroom stops on this trail. The first is on the Trail of the Cedars loop just below the turnoff to Avalanche Lake. Then, again, when heading to Avalanche Lake, just before reaching the lake, see a trail turnoff to the right, where you wait in line to use one of two vault toilets.
  
  
• If you want to lose the crowds, follow the path along the lakeshore and to more rocky beaches and views.
  
  
• Want to picnic pre- or post-hike? Find picnic tables next to the Avalanche Campground parking area or the Avalanche Creek Picnic Area on the opposite side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
  

Hidden Lake Trail.

Trail details: 5.1-mile out-and-back, moderately challenging, with a 1,338-foot total elevation gain.

Trailhead location: Next to the Logan Pass Visitor Center. Coordinates: 48.69546, -113.71831. 

Parking: Park in the Logan Pass parking lot or the overflow narrow parking strip just east of it along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Or take the Glacier National Park free shuttle# in-season.

Note from Janice: Since we sadly could not find parking available at Logan Pass to do this trail during our trip, I reached out to Taryn at ChasingTrail.com to share her experience. 

Trail overview:

It’s easy to see why Hidden Lake is one of the most popular day hikes in Glacier. Aside from being absolutely gorgeous, it’s easily accessed and one of the park’s shorter treks. In just 2.5 miles or 1.3 miles, if you turn back at the overlook, you’ll walk among high alpine scenery across picturesque boardwalks and be surrounded by snow-dusted mountain peaks. There’s an excellent chance you’ll spot some resident wildlife, too.

Start at the Logan Pass Visitor Center, walking across lush meadows blanketed with wildflowers in the summer. Soon, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of rugged mountains stretching in every direction. Scan the cliffs and hillsides for moving dots. White dots are mountain goats, while brown and black are either bears or bighorn sheep. 

The trail leads to Hidden Lake Overlook, the perfect spot to take in the scenery. On clear days, the lake’s glassy, turquoise waters sparkle against the backdrop of Bearhat Mountain. If you’re up for more adventure, head to Hidden Lake. The vast majority of people don’t continue past the overlook, so you’ll leave most of the crowds behind. The lakeshore is another 1.3 miles and a rocky, steep descent, but nothing particularly technical. 

Helpful tips:

• Logan Pass is one of the busiest areas of Glacier, and parking can be challenging. Arrive before 6 AM or late in the day. Or take the free park shuttle here. 
  
  
• Because this trail straddles the Continental Divide and is the park’s high point, Logan Pass is only accessible for a short period every year. It’s the last area that park crews clear and the first to experience snow. Plan to hike Hidden Lake between July and September. 
  
  
• Temporary trail closures due to bear activity are frequent, especially past the overlook. Obey all posted warnings and pay extra attention to your surroundings on this hike. 
  
  
• Hidden Lake is short enough that you can do another hike along Going-to-the-Sun Road, or even two, on the same day. I highly recommend the ‘3 Falls’ hike from Sun Point, which includes Sun Point Nature Trail, Baring Falls, and St. Mary and Virginia Falls.
  
  

Highline Trail.

Trail details: 14.9-mile out-and-back, challenging, with a 2,621-foot elevation gain.

Trailhead location: Logan Pass, opposite the Logan Pass parking lot entrance. Coordinates: 48.69658, -113.71814. 

Parking: Park in the Logan Pass parking lot or the overflow narrow parking strip just east of it along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Or arrive via the Glacier National Park free shuttle in-season.

Note from Janice: Since my family preferred shorter, though still spectacular day hikes, I reached out to Jess, from UprootedTraveler.com, to share her experience.

Trail overview & helpful tips: 

The Highline Trail is arguably the most epic hike in Glacier National Park—and even in the United States. During our time hiking the trail, we passed rustic mountain chalets, tons of wildlife, colorful glacial lakes, and, of course, the incredibly dramatic Rocky Mountains.

The Highline Trail is a bit of a choose-your-own-adventure experience. Your first option is to hike it as an out-and-back trail, starting from Logan Pass and ending at Grinnell Glacier Overlook or the Granite Park Chalet, before returning to the trailhead. Alternatively, you can hike it as a one-way trail, starting from Logan Pass to Grinnell Glacier Overlook or the Granite Park Chalet, taking the Granite Park Trail to the Loop, and then grabbing the park shuttle back to the trailhead. This latter option will cut the mileage by about half. However, check the shuttle’s calendar to ensure it’s operating during your hike. 

During our time on the Highline Trail, we hiked the Grinnell Glacier Overlook and Granite Park Chalet and absolutely loved them both. While it makes for a very long and exhausting day hike (this increases the mileage to 16.5 miles), it’s inarguably one of the most stunning hikes we’ve ever done.

The only downside of the Highline Trail is it has a limited season when it’s open and accessible, typically from early July through early October, when you can drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Remember to get to the park early—not only will this give you plenty of time to finish your hike with sufficient daylight, but you’ll also have a much better chance of snagging a parking spot at the trailhead at the busy Logan Pass Visitor Center.

Siyeh Pass Trail.

Trail details: 9.8 miles point-to-point, challenging, with a 2,244-foot elevation gain. 

Trailhead location: At Siyeh Bend, begin at the Piegan Pass Trailhead, 2.8 miles east of Logan Pass. Coordinates: 48.70176, -113.66761.

Parking: Park in the narrow parking strips adjacent to the Going-to-the-Sun Road on either side of Siyeh Bend. Expect space for ~40 vehicles. Or park your car in the Sunrift Gorge area where Baring Creek crosses under the Going-to-the-Sun Road and take the shuttle to Siyeh Bend. Or do the hike in reverse. Alternatively, leave your car behind and catch the Glacier National Park free shuttle in-season for your drop off and pickup.

Trail overview: 

Considered one of the more underrated hikes in Glacier—gorgeous with views on a clear day and wind-exposed and less comfortable on an overcast one. Unlike other Glacier routes, either out-and-back trails or loops, this is an in-season point-to-point hike where you rely on the free Glacier National Park shuttle (check its schedule and operational dates) to return you to your parked car or preferred drop spot. 

You have the choice of beginning this hike at higher elevation Siyeh Bend, considered the ideal place to start, or Sunrift Gorge, where Baring Creek crosses under the Going-to-the-Sun Road. If starting from Siyeh Bend and after crossing Siyeh Creek, you will climb into evergreen forest, thinning as you gain elevation, eventually giving way to an alpine meadow at Preston Park—a destination in its own right. Here, expect to see wildflowers or possibly a grizzly—known to frequent the meadow. Along the way, and as you ascend the switchbacks to the pass, you’ll see multiple glaciers, peaks, and mountain views for miles.  

Helpful tips:

• Bring trekking poles if you have them. Some of this hike crosses scree fields and varied terrain, which makes having poles helpful. 
  
  
• Due to the high elevation of this trail, check in with a ranger to confirm the route is clear and safe to hike without special gear. If it is not, consider starting from Siyeh Bend (aka the Piegan Pass Trailhead) to Siyeh Pass and backtrack to Siyeh Bend instead of continuing to Sunrift Gorge. 
  
  

Wondering what gear you might need to bring on your Glacier trip? Check out this comprehensive and downloadable packing list.

St. Mary & Virginia Falls Trail.

Trail details: 3.1-mile out-and-back, moderately challenging, with a 452-foot elevation gain. 

Trailhead location: At the small St. Mary & Virginia Falls parking lot, 6.8 miles east of Logan Pass or 10.9 miles west of the St. Mary Visitor Center. Coordinates: 48.67522, -113.6045. 

Note: the free Glacier National Park shuttle drops hikers at a different trailhead location .2 miles west of the parking lot. From here, hikers join the main trail via a short spur trial. There is no additional parking at the shuttle spot. 

Parking: Park in the small St. Mary & Virginia Falls parking strip lot, sized for just under 20 vehicles. If you cannot find parking here, drive .5 miles east and park along the Going-to-the-Sun Road at Sunrift Gorge, where it crosses Baring Creek. From here, via the lower section of the Siyeh Pass (to Baring Falls) and Piegan Pass trails, connect to the St. Mary & Virginia Falls trail. Doing this adds a mile each way to your hike. Or catch a ride on the Glacier National Park free shuttle in-season.

Trail overview & helpful tips: 

Although the initial landscape of this trail, clustering around the St. Mary River, shows the signs of its 2015 fire, this is a beautiful day hike featuring two waterfalls. After gradually descending through a regenerating forest with open views of the surrounding mountains, you will reach the bridge fronting thundering and turquoise-hued St. Mary Falls. From here, you will follow the path as it climbs into a healthy forest unaffected by the burn.

As our family ascended this part of the trail, we stopped at one of many rocky spots adjacent to Virginia Creek to explore the rushing water tumbling down from the higher-up falls—ideal places for a rest or picnic. Reaching the trail summit after climbing through the forest is a reward. Crossing a wooden bridge, you will come to the foot of Virginia Falls and likely soak up some of its towering cascade and the spray that comes off it. Once you enjoy the welcome cool down, if hiking on a hot summer day, explore beyond the main viewing area to catch sight of the falls from various vantage points from the rocks below. 

Twin Falls Trail.

Trail details: 2.0-mile out-and-back from the Two Medicine Lake West End boat dock, moderate, with a 121-foot elevation gain.

Trailhead location: This trail begins at the Two Medicine Lake West End boat dock. Book a round-trip boat tour with Glacier Park Boat Company on Two Medicine Lake to get dropped at this dock. All tours include time for hiking to Twin Falls. Board the boat at the Glacier Park Boat Company dock at Two Medicine Lake. Coordinates: 48.47427, -113.40892.

If boat tickets are sold out or you prefer to skip the cost and have a longer hike, you can begin this trail from the North Shore Trailhead adjacent to the Two Medicine Lake Campground area. Coordinates: 48.49213, -113.36549.

Parking: Park in the lots adjacent to the lake and the Two Medicine General Store. 

Trail overview:

If you’ve been hiking hard-core trails, give yourself a break and explore pretty Twin Falls. First, as an excuse to visit the jaw-dropping beauty and peaks of the Two Medicine area—a spot many Glacier visitors skip due to its out-of-the-way southeast entrance. 

You can choose to make this hike a 7.1-mile out-and-back experience, beginning your hike at the eastern edge of the lake near the general store. Or do as we did and buy a round-trip boat tour of Two Medicine Lake on Glacier Park Boat Company, which deposits guests who want to disembark and walk the trail at the West End boat dock.

From the dock, you can catch the trail to Twin Falls, now a much shorter 2-mile out-and-back hike, given you do not need to follow the full length of the north shore of Two Medicine Lake to get there. Although our 1 PM pre-booked boat tour included the option for a guided hike, my family skipped joining the group, instead choosing to do this trail on our own. It was a good choice as we got to quietly enjoy the pretty path lined with wildflowers, blue skies, and jagged peaks, eventually making our way to the falls, where we took photos and explored its rocks and pools.

Helpful tips:

• If you would like to hike this trail from the West End boat dock, book your Glacier Park Boat Company tours in advance. They will sell out, especially in high season. Each boat tour offers the option for passengers to disembark and hike. Two boat tours a day offer guided group hikes. Check the boat company website for the most up-to-date schedule.
  
  
• After your hike, return to the boat dock to catch a scheduled return boat to the parking area. You will learn the return schedule before you disembark and see it posted at the West End boat dock area. On busy days, be prepared to wait for up to one or two boats to fill before getting a spot to return to the eastern shore.
  
  
• In addition to the Twin Falls trail, the Two Medicine area offers several other trails with scenic views and waterfalls for hikers. These include Running Eagle Falls (.7-mile loop), Aster Falls Trail (2.5-mile out-and-back), and the Scenic Point trail (7.7-mile, out-and-back). 
  
  

Grinnell Glacier Trail.

Trail details: 7.6-mile out-and-back via the Lake Josephine boat dock, with a 1,867-foot elevation gain. Or 10-mile out-and-back from the Grinnell Glacier Trailhead with a 2,047-foot elevation gain. This is a challenging route. 

Trailhead location: We began this trail at the Lake Josephine boat dock, having booked a Many Glacier round-trip boat tour with Glacier Park Boat Company to get dropped at this dock. Board the boat behind the Many Glacier Hotel. Coordinates: 48.77481, -113.68253.

If tickets for boat tours are sold out or you prefer to skip the cost and have a longer hike, you can begin this trail from the Grinnell Glacier Trailhead near the Many Glacier Campground area. Coordinates: 48.79705, -113.66856.

Parking: If catching the boat to begin your trail from Lake Josephine, park in the main lot above the Many Glacier Hotel and walk down to the dock. However, if you begin this trail from the Many Glacier Trailhead, find parking that can accommodate 50+ vehicles at the trailhead with space for overflow along the main road (Route 3). 

Trail overview:

Often referred to as the crown jewel of hikes in Glacier National Park—this trail deserves it. On a clear day, the route to Grinnell Glacier offers all that outdoor lovers could hope from a Glacier National Park hike. Take in stunning alpine views, wildlife with bears and moose frequenting this trail, waterfalls, wildflowers, aquamarine lakes, glaciers, and vistas from nearly every vantage point that take your breath away with their beauty. 

Our family hiked the Grinnell Glacier Trail, beginning from the Lake Josephine boat dock. I had pre-booked the 8:30 AM hiker shuttle scenic boat ride with Glacier Park Boat Company. This shuttle took us across the truly stunning waters of Swiftcurrent Lake. Then, after disembarking and a brief hike to a second boat, we made our way across the equally and possibly more gorgeous waters of Lake Josephine.

Not only did taking these boats shave miles of hiking time to reach this trail, but it was also a joy to be on the boats, making our way improbably further into the wilderness, soaking in a gorgeous July Montana morning. From the dock, we followed the Josephine Walk trail, hugging the lake’s southern shore until it crossed Cataract Creek and ascended to meet with the Grinnell Glacier Trail. 

As we walked up the Grinnell Glacier trail, the vistas became increasingly gorgeous with views of Lake Josephine and even Grinnell Lake. Given the prevalence of grizzlies near this trail, we tacked onto another friendly hiking couple for safety in numbers, sticking together as a group of five as we followed the path up. Making our way through cascades of meltwater, across snow patches, and alpine flower fields, we were wowed by the majestic mountain views at every turn along the trail.

Eventually reaching our goal of Grinnell Glacier, tucked into the bowl of a mountain, we headed down to the water’s edge for a closer look. And to enjoy the spectacle of this ancient glacier with its cascading waterfalls tumbling into still turquoise blue waters dotted with ice and snow. We took our time at the shoreline, soaking in the warm July Montana sun, to rest and enjoy our lunch at such a beautiful spot. Retracing our route back to the Lake Josephine boat dock, we caught a return boat to the Many Glacier Hotel. 

Helpful tips:

• Grizzlies frequent this trail. Follow all safety precautions and ideally hike in a group. 
  
  
• Due to its higher elevation, this trail may open later in the season. Before hiking, check in with rangers at one of three park Visitor Centers to confirm its condition and whether it is open.
  
  
• If you plan to combine this trail with the Many Glacier round-trip boat ride, be prepared to patiently wait in line to catch a return boat. Particularly if the weather turns rainy while you are waiting, only a small number of arriving passengers may disembark, leaving fewer open seats for hikers wanting to return to the Many Glacier Hotel. Because of this, bring extra snacks and rain gear just in case. 
  
  
• At the end of the day, the Glacier Park Boat Company continuously runs its last return boat (generally 5:45 PM) until all ticketed hikers can board and return to the Many Glacier Hotel. If you prefer to wait for this last boat and the weather remains clear, extend your time in the area by hiking to Grinnell Lake, 1.2 miles from the Lake Josephine boat dock, to find a sunny spot on the rocky shore to rest and relax after your Grinnell Glacier hike. 
  
  

8 & 9. Iceberg Lake Trail & Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail

I list these two hikes together because they share the first 2.6 miles of the trail. Or consider combining both trails for a challenging 14.8-mile out-and-back hike and an epic day in Glacier. You will begin at the same trailhead.

Iceberg Lake Trail details:9.1-mile out-and-back, moderately challenging, with a 1,459-foot elevation gain. 

Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail details: 10.6-mile out-and-back, challenging, with 2,362-foot elevation gain. 

Trailhead location for both trails: At the Iceberg Ptarmigan Trailhead just behind the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn lodging area. Coordinates: 48.79959, -113.67922.

Parking for both trails: Find parking next to the trailhead behind the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn lodge buildings. However, there is only space for ~15 cars. If this lot is full, you must park in front of the Inn, adding ~ .2 miles to your hike. 

Trail overview for Iceberg Lake: 

Often considered a more moderate hike and good for all skill levels, this lengthy route may still feel challenging for less experienced hikers, given its total mileage. Expect to quickly gain elevation (~200 feet) in the first .25 mile of this route, which rewards hikers with dense forests, open meadows, and stunning views of the surrounding peaks, then thankfully level out for a more leisurely ascent. At Iceberg Lake, depending on the season of your hike, expect to see floating icebergs in aquamarine waters set against a snowcapped rugged mountain backdrop—an ideal destination for a well-deserved rest and a snack.

Trail overview for Ptarmigan Tunnel:

After following the first 2.6 miles of the Iceberg Lake Trail, this route continues north through stunning alpine landscapes to the Ptarmigan Tunnel. Expect fewer hikers as many turn off at the Iceberg Lake junction. The remainder of this trail is known for its steep ascents and exposed sections, but the views of the surrounding mountains and the experience of passing through the tunnel make it worth the effort. Catch vistas of Ptarmigan Lake and its valley at the start of the tunnel. Then, upon exiting, catch sight of several peaks and a river flowing into Elizabeth Lake.

Helpful tips: 

• Both trails see frequent grizzly and wildlife. Be prepared with trail safety knowledge and bear spray when hiking. Additionally, reconfirm trail conditions and open status with rangers before hiking. Sometimes, portions of the trails will close due to bear activity. 
  
  
• The Many Glacier area offers a wealth of trails catering to different hiking abilities. These routes include the Grinnell Glacier and Grinnell Lake Trails, Swiftcurrent Pass Trail, and the two trails I share in this section. If you can, try to book in-park lodging, which is limited, in the Many Glacier area to stay for a few days to enjoy these trails to their fullest.
  
  

Swiftcurrent Pass Trail.

Trail details: 13.7-mile out-and-back, challenging, with a 2,467-foot elevation gain. Or make this a shorter and less challenging hike. See the trail overview below for options.

Trailhead location: The northwest corner of the parking area fronting the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn. Coordinates: 48.79765, -113.67869.

Parking: Park in the lot in front of the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn. Or in overflow parking along Route 3 leading to the Inn.

Trail overview:

Hikers have the option to make this hike, through the Swiftcurrent Valley, passing along two lakes framed by mountains, less challenging. This can be done by hiking 1.8 miles to Red Rock Lake and just past the lake to Red Rock Falls, then turning back. This portion of the hike is relatively flat with an extremely gradual 170-foot elevation gain. Or by continuing a mostly flat trail with a slight incline to Bullhead Lake, 1.6 miles further (and 3.4 miles from the trailhead), to see more impressive alpine scenery and increase your chances of seeing moose, which frequent the lakes in this area. 

However, for those who love a challenging climb combined with a commanding view, go the entire 6.8-mile distance to ascend the heart-pumping switchbacks to Swiftcurrent Pass. Plan to gain 2,200 feet in elevation in three miles. 

Helpful tips: 

• The Swiftcurrent Valley is another popular grizzly habitat. Be prepared with trail safety knowledge and bear spray when hiking. Additionally, reconfirm trail conditions and open status with rangers before hiking. 
  
  
• You can reach the Granite Park Chalet by hiking another mile beyond Swiftcurrent Pass. However, if you are lucky enough to have a reservation and stay overnight at the Chalet, know that taking this trail with an overnight pack to get there will be a leg burner. An easier way to reach the Chalet is to get dropped off at Logan Pass (via the free Glacier National Park shuttle in-season) and take the Highline Trail, which turns around at the Chalet. You will ascend a fraction of the elevation to get there.
  
  

Planning your Glacier National Park trip.

To help ease your Glacier National Park trip planning, I share 17 essential tips, from choosing the right time to visit and finding the best accommodation to packing essential gear and knowing which passes you need, in this comprehensive planning guide. In it, I link to more detailed articles that supply the depth of information you need to ensure your safest, most memorable, and knowledgeably planned visit. Check it out below.

6 essential Glacier hiking tips.

Specifically for hiking in Glacier National Park, here are six helpful tips to keep in mind: 

1. Always check in with a ranger at one of three Glacier National Park visitor centers about the trails you plan to hike. Learn if your trail is open and what condition it is in. If early in the season, the trail might still be snow-covered. If it is, having poles and traction cleats like Yaktrax might be necessary to traverse icy sections of the route.
   
   
2. When planning to drive your vehicle to trailheads, early starts pay off. Arriving at in-demand parking areas like Logan Pass by 6 AM is one of the only ways to secure a parking spot.
   
   
3. If you don’t want to deal with the hassle and uncertainty of limited parking, consider taking the free Glacier National Park shuttle in season to get to trailheads along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Check schedules and operational dates to confirm the shuttle is operating during your visit. Then, in terms of getting a seat—hope for the best, but be prepared to be patient in all kinds of weather if a full shuttle or two must pass you by before you can secure a spot.
   
   
4. Familiarize yourself with the current season reservation and pass system for Glacier National Park. Rules evolve annually to control park traffic. 
   
   
5. Know bear and wildlife trail safety. Always hike with bear spray, and ideally in a group. I cover this topic in more detail here in my 17 essential planning tips article, where I recommend books and resources to learn more.
   
   
6. Stay flexible. Trails can close, weather can turn, and parking may be unavailable. Have a backup plan in mind if it turns out you can’t hike your first-choice trail.
   
   

Then, finally, have a great trip! Experiencing Glacier National Park by walking some of its most epic trails on a well-planned getaway makes for one of the most memorable travel experiences you can have.

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Related reading.

If you are planning a Glacier or Montana trip, check out these related articles. Get more information, ideas, and resources to plan better travel and get out the door with less hassle.

• How to Plan a Glacier National Park Trip: 17 Essential Tips
• The Best Of Glacier NP: An Action-Packed 4-Day Itinerary
• Glacier Reservation & Pass: How to Enter This National Park
• Glacier NP: Ultimate Guide Where to Stay Inside the Park
• The Best Places to Stay Near Glacier National Park
• Glacier National Park: 37 Amazing Things to See & Do
• The Best Places to Eat Around Glacier National Park
• What to Pack for Glacier NP: You’ll Love This Checklist
• 39 Amazing Ideas for Things to See & Do in Missoula
• How to Make the Most of Missoula in 3 Days
• Pre-Trip: A Practical Checklist to Close the House & Pack
  
  

Feedback & questions.

Did this article help? Do you have questions about an upcoming visit? Or, updates to the information shared? Please share in the comments below and I will respond.