USA — Whitefish, Montana
Ascend the Grinnell Glacier Trail in USA's Glacier National Park for a demanding 17.1 km hike. This 6-8 hour route offers unparalleled panoramas of turquoise lakes and ancient ice, leading to the edge of a magnificent glacier. Traverse rugged terrain through a protected wilderness sculpted by ice, revealing dramatic cirques and towering peaks.
Distance: 17.1 km
Elevation Gain: 762 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 6-8 hours
The Grinnell Glacier Trail is a quintessential Glacier National Park experience, offering a challenging yet immensely rewarding day hike into the heart of the park's rugged backcountry. This iconic trail leads hikers to the edge of the Grinnell Glacier, a remnant of the last ice age, and provides unparalleled views of turquoise lakes, dramatic cirques, and towering peaks. It's a journey through a landscape sculpted by ice, a testament to the raw power of nature and a vivid reminder of the changing climate. The trail is renowned for its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and the sheer grandeur of its alpine environment. It is a must-do for any visitor seeking an immersive wilderness experience within the park.
The Grinnell Glacier Trail is a strenuous but highly sought-after hike in Glacier National Park, Montana. It begins in the popular Many Glacier valley, a region celebrated for its dramatic scenery and accessibility to the park's interior. The trail ascends steadily, offering increasingly spectacular vistas as it climbs out of the forested valley floor and into the alpine zone. Hikers will traverse open meadows, rocky slopes, and cross several streams, with the ever-present backdrop of the park's iconic peaks.
The trail's namesake, Grinnell Glacier, is one of the park's most accessible glaciers, though it has receded significantly in recent decades, serving as a poignant indicator of climate change. Reaching the glacier's terminus provides a tangible connection to the forces that shaped this landscape. Along the way, the trail passes by Grinnell Lake and Josephine Lake, their vibrant turquoise hues a result of glacial silt suspended in the water. These lakes are often accessible via boat shuttle, which can shorten the hike but still requires significant elevation gain to reach the glacier itself.
Wildlife sightings are common, including mountain goats, bighorn sheep, marmots, and occasionally bears. The trail is well-maintained but steep in sections, requiring good physical fitness and appropriate gear. The panoramic views from the upper reaches of the trail, particularly as you approach the glacier, are breathtaking, encompassing vast glacial cirques, waterfalls, and the rugged peaks of the Lewis Range. This hike is a true immersion into the wild heart of Glacier National Park.
The area now known as Glacier National Park has been inhabited by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years. The Blackfeet (Siksikaitsitapi) have a deep historical and spiritual connection to this land, which they call "The Backbone of the World." Their traditional territories encompass the eastern side of the park, and they have utilized the resources of the mountains for hunting, gathering, and spiritual practices for generations. The Grinnell Glacier area, with its abundant wildlife and dramatic landscapes, would have been a significant part of their ancestral lands.
The modern history of the Grinnell Glacier Trail is intertwined with the development of tourism in Glacier National Park during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As the Great Northern Railway expanded westward, it promoted the park as a premier destination, marketing it as the "Switzerland of North America." The construction of the iconic lodges, such as the Many Glacier Hotel, and the development of hiking trails were part of this effort to attract visitors. George Grinnell, a prominent conservationist and advocate for the region, played a crucial role in the establishment of the park. He was instrumental in lobbying for its protection and was a passionate explorer of its wilderness. The glacier and the trail were named in his honour, recognizing his significant contributions to preserving this natural treasure.
The trail itself evolved from rudimentary game trails and early exploration routes. Over time, it was improved and formalised by the National Park Service to accommodate increasing visitor numbers. The construction of the trail involved significant labour, often by Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) crews during the Great Depression, who built many of the park's enduring infrastructure elements. The trail's history is a narrative of exploration, conservation, and the ongoing effort to balance public access with the preservation of a fragile ecosystem.
The Grinnell Glacier Trail is typically accessible from July through September. The exact opening and closing dates are highly dependent on snowpack and weather conditions. Early season (July) may still feature significant snowfields, especially on north-facing slopes and at higher elevations, which can make the trail challenging and require specialized gear like microspikes or an ice axe. By mid-August, most of the snow has usually melted, revealing the full extent of the trail and its wildflowers.
Summer (July–August): This is the peak season for hiking the Grinnell Glacier Trail. The weather is generally warmer, and the days are long, providing ample time for the hike. Wildflowers are often in full bloom, creating a vibrant tapestry of colour in the alpine meadows. Wildlife is also active during this period. However, summer also brings the highest number of visitors, so expect the trail and parking areas to be crowded. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and can develop rapidly, bringing lightning, heavy rain, and hail. It is crucial to start early to avoid these storms and to be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
Early Autumn (September): September can offer crisp, clear days with fewer crowds and reduced insect activity. The foliage may begin to change, adding autumnal colours to the landscape. However, the weather becomes more unpredictable, with a higher chance of early snowstorms and colder temperatures. The trail may close due to snow at any time during September, so checking conditions before and during your hike is essential. The boat shuttle service typically ceases operations in early September, meaning a longer hike if you choose to walk the full distance to and from the trailhead.
Winter (October–June): The Grinnell Glacier Trail is impassable and dangerous during winter due to heavy snow, ice, and avalanche risk. The area is subject to extreme winter conditions, and attempting to hike it during this period is strongly discouraged and requires advanced winter mountaineering skills and equipment.
Option 1: Hiking the Full Trail (Recommended for a complete experience)
Option 2: Using the Boat Shuttle (Reduces distance and elevation gain)
Key Waypoints and Features:
Important Notes:
The Grinnell Glacier Trail is a challenging hike that requires careful planning. The most critical aspect is securing access to the Many Glacier area, as parking at the trailhead is extremely limited and fills by sunrise, often before the park officially opens. Visitors should consider staying at the Many Glacier Hotel or Swiftcurrent Motor Inn, or utilizing the park's shuttle system if it serves the Many Glacier area. If driving, arriving at the trailhead by 5:00 AM or 6:00 AM is often necessary during peak season. For those using the boat shuttle, tickets must be purchased in advance, as they sell out quickly. It is also essential to be physically prepared for a strenuous hike with significant elevation gain. Familiarise yourself with bear safety protocols and carry bear spray. Check the National Park Service website for current trail conditions, closures, and weather forecasts before your visit.
This is a day hike requiring no overnight accommodation. Hikers typically base themselves in the Many Glacier area, which offers lodging options such as the historic Many Glacier Hotel and the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn. These accommodations require booking well in advance, often a year or more ahead of time, due to their popularity. Alternatively, visitors can stay in nearby towns like St. Mary or Babb, or in Whitefish, Montana, which requires a longer daily drive to the park entrance and trailhead. Camping is available at designated campgrounds within Glacier National Park, such as Apgar Campground or St. Mary Campground, but these also require reservations and are often booked far in advance.
For day hiking the Grinnell Glacier Trail, a standard Glacier National Park entrance pass is required for each vehicle entering the park. This pass is valid for seven days. No separate permit is required for day hiking the Grinnell Glacier Trail itself. However, if you plan to camp overnight in the backcountry, a backcountry permit is mandatory and must be obtained in advance through a lottery system or on a first-come, first-served basis at park visitor centres. These permits are highly competitive, especially for popular areas like Many Glacier.
Vehicle Reservations: During peak season (typically late May through early September), Glacier National Park implements a vehicle reservation system for certain areas, including the Going-to-the-Sun Road and the Many Glacier corridor. Visitors will need to obtain a vehicle reservation for the Many Glacier area in addition to their park entrance pass to access the Grinnell Glacier Trailhead by car during these times. These reservations are released in advance and sell out very quickly. Check the official Glacier National Park website for the most up-to-date information on reservation requirements and release dates.
Boat Shuttle Tickets: If you plan to use the boat shuttle across Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine to shorten the hike, tickets must be purchased separately. These tickets are available for purchase online or in person at the Many Glacier Boat Company dock. It is highly recommended to purchase these tickets in advance, as they often sell out, especially for early morning departures.
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Grinnell Glacier Trail (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Grinnell Glacier Trail, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The Many Glacier area offers a wealth of activities beyond the Grinnell Glacier Trail:
Bear Safety: Glacier National Park is bear country. Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Hike in groups of three or more, make noise (talk, sing, clap) to avoid surprising bears, and be aware of your surroundings. Store food properly and never feed wildlife.
Weather: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for sun, rain, wind, and even snow, regardless of the season. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and can bring lightning. Start your hike early to avoid them. Check the forecast before you go and be prepared to turn back if conditions deteriorate.
Trail Conditions: The Grinnell Glacier Trail can be steep, rocky, and exposed in sections. Snow can linger on the trail well into July, especially on north-facing slopes. Check the National Park Service website for current trail conditions and closures before your hike. Microspikes or an ice axe may be necessary in early season.
Water: Carry sufficient water (at least 2-3 litres per person) and a water filter or purification tablets. While water sources are available, they should always be treated.
Altitude: The trail gains significant elevation. Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and acclimatize if possible.
Navigation: While the trail is generally well-marked, it is essential to carry a map and compass or a GPS device with downloaded offline maps. Do not rely solely on your phone's GPS, as service can be unreliable.
Emergency: Cell service is limited to non-existent on most of the trail. Consider carrying a satellite communication device for emergencies. Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.
Grinnell Glacier Overlook: Even if you don't hike all the way to the glacier, the overlook provides a spectacular vantage point. From here, you can see the vastness of the cirque and the distant glacier, offering a sense of the scale of the landscape.
Grinnell Lake: A beautiful, turquoise lake accessible via a shorter hike or by combining the boat shuttle with a walk. The colour of the water, due to glacial flour, is stunning.
Waterfalls: Numerous waterfalls cascade down the steep valley walls, especially in early to mid-summer when snowmelt is at its peak. These add to the dramatic scenery and the soundscape of the hike.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Keep an eye out for mountain goats and bighorn sheep often seen on the rocky slopes. Marmots are common in the alpine meadows, and bears are frequently sighted in the Many Glacier area.
Geological Features: Observe the U-shaped valleys, cirques, and moraines that are clear evidence of past glaciation. The exposed rock layers tell a story of millions of years of geological history.
The Grinnell Glacier itself: The ultimate point of interest. Witnessing this remnant of the ice age, even in its diminished state, is a powerful experience. Observe the ice formations, the meltwater streams, and the surrounding barren rock sculpted by its movement.
The Grinnell Glacier Trail traverses a fragile alpine environment. Adhering to Leave No Trace principles is crucial to preserving its beauty and ecological integrity for future generations.
By following these principles, you help ensure that the Grinnell Glacier Trail remains a pristine and awe-inspiring destination.
