Nestled in the heart of Montana’s pristine wilderness lies East Glacier National Park, a hiker’s paradise boasting breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and an abundance of trails waiting to be explored. With its rugged terrain, towering peaks, and crystal-clear lakes, this part of Glacier National Park offers some of the most spectacular hiking experiences in the United States.
In this post, I’ll give you the top hikes (for every skill level) in the East side of Glacier National Park, along with information on where to stay and reservation tips.
Where to Stay
There are several beautiful options for places to stay in East Glacier, whether you are looking to sleep indoor or outdoors. Some options that I found are:
- Many Glacier Hotel
- Swiftcurrent Motor Inn
- Glacier Park Lodge
- St. Mary Village
- St. Mary Campground
- Rising Sun Campground
- Many Glacier Campground
For a more in-depth look at these options, check out my post on where to stay in East Glacier.
Required Reservations
Being as popular as it is, in 2023 Glacier National Park tested out requiring vehicle reservations to access main parts of the park during peak season (typically May or June through September). This was a pilot program, so it’s unsure if it will be extended into 2024. But based on many other parks around the country doing this, I wouldn’t be surprised if this did continue in some way in 2024.
In 2023, reservations were required to access Going-to-the-Sun road and Many Glacier. If you are planning a trip in 2024 and beyond, make sure to check this page for updates.
Easy(ish) Hikes
Hidden Lake Overlook Trail
2.7 miles | 551 ft. of elevation gain | Easy-Moderate | Hike info
Accessible from the Logan Pass Visitor Center, the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Glacier National Park. This relatively short hike offers spectacular panoramic views of Hidden Lake, surrounded by rugged peaks and pristine wilderness. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to spot mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and the occasional marmot. This trail can get crowded during the summer months, so an early start is advisable.
St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail
3.1 miles | 452 ft. of elevation gain | Easy to Moderate | Hike info
This hike is pretty close to the east entrance of Glacier National Park. It is a short 3 miles that are pretty easy with not too much elevation. Almost a mile into the hike, you’ll pass the St. Mary Falls which are a beautiful color and flow right into the St. Mary River with beautiful mountain views behind it. At the end of the hike, you’ll reach Upper Virginia Falls, which is a much bigger waterfall. As if looking at the falls weren’t enough, if you turn and look the opposite direction you’re graced with a beautiful overview of the park.
Moderate Hikes
Iceberg Lake Trail
9.6 miles | 1,459 ft. of elevation gain | Moderate | Hike info
If you’re looking for a family-friendly hike with a fantastic payoff, the Iceberg Lake Trail is an excellent choice. This moderately challenging trail, starting near the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn, leads you through alpine meadows and dense forests before arriving at the stunning Iceberg Lake. The name is no exaggeration – you’ll likely encounter icebergs floating in the lake well into the summer months. The lake is nestled beneath towering peaks, creating a truly picturesque setting.
Apikuni Falls
1.8 miles | 580 ft. of elevation gain | Moderate | Hike info
This hike is short and sweet while still being a bit of an exercise with some beautiful scenery. The trail starts along Many Glacier Road right next to Lake Shelburne and travels along the Apikuni Creek. You’ll be treated with beautiful views of the Many Glacier peaks along the way and the amazing Apikuni Falls at the end.
Avalanche Lake
5.9 miles | 757 ft. of elevation gain | Moderate | Hike info
This hike is on the easy side of moderate. It will take you along the creek the whole way to the lake so you can enjoy the sound of water the entire time. You’ll also get some amazing views of the surrounding peaks along the way. Once you reach the lake, take a nice break and enjoy the serene blue water, and maybe a snack!
Hard Hikes
Grinnell Glacier Trail
10 miles | 2,047 ft. of elevation gain | Hard | Hike info
The Grinnell Glacier Trail is an iconic hike in East Glacier National Park. This trail offers stunning views of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and rugged mountains. The journey begins at the Grinnell Glacier Trailhead near the Many Glacier Hotel. Hikers will be rewarded with incredible vistas as they hike along the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake, Lake Josephine, and finally reach the mesmerizing Grinnell Glacier. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife, including mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and even the occasional grizzly bear.
The Garden Wall
15 miles | 3,415 ft. of elevation gain | Hard | Hike info
The Garden Wall Hike in Glacier National Park is a captivating adventure along the Highline Trail. It offers stunning views of peaks, glaciers, and vibrant wildflowers. Wildlife encounters, including bighorn sheep, deer and marmots, add to the excitement.
Most of the hike is relatively flat, except for two main climbs. The first is about 3 miles in and lasts about a mile. It’s tough but if you take it slow it’s not bad. The second one is quite a doozy! It is the last 3/4 mile of the hike, up to the Grinnell Glacier Overlook, and it’s not for the faint of heart. I would definitely recommend being in pretty good shape for this part. But the views are so very much worth it! You’ll be rewarded with an incredible view of the Grinnell Glacier on one side and the valley views of Going-to-the-Sun road on the other side. Absolutely amazing.
Grinnell Overlook via Granite Park
11.4 miles | 3,750 ft. of elevation gain | Hard | Hike info
This is a different option for getting to the Grinnell Glacier Overlook. I decided to do the Garden Wall instead of this because it was less elevation gain in longer mileage, which sounded a bit easier to me. But if you aren’t a fan of 15 mile hikes, this might be the option for you!
That trail begins a little further up Going-to-the-Sun road at the Loop Trailhead. It provides some different views from the Highline Trail as you climb up Swiftcurrent Mountain. You’ll also get to pass the Granite Park Chalet, which is a backcountry lodge built in 1914. You can even stay overnight here as a nice alternative to camping. You get a bed and can order sheets, blankets and food ingredients to cook in the rustic kitchen. And you’ll enjoy waking up to amazing views.
Dawson Pass and Pitamakan Pass Loop
18.8 miles | 3,779 ft. of elevation gain | Hard | Hike info
For the more adventurous hikers, the Dawson Pass and Pitamakan Pass Loop offers a long and challenging, but incredibly rewarding, journey. It can be done in one day for the really adventurous, but is often a backpacking journey.
This 18.8-mile loop begins at the Two Medicine Campground and takes you through lush forests, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes. You’ll be treated to jaw-dropping vistas of the Two Medicine Valley, Upper Two Medicine Lake, and abundant wildlife sightings. Miles 3 – 8 will be a definite challenge uphill, but after that it’s smooth sailing! The rest of the hike is gradual decline back to the start.
Conclusion
East Glacier National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its diverse range of hiking trails catering to all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a leisurely stroll or an experienced hiker seeking a challenge, East Glacier has it all. These top hikes provide a glimpse into the park’s natural wonders, from glaciers and lakes to wildlife and alpine meadows. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and embark on an unforgettable adventure in one of Montana’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. Explore East Glacier National Park and create memories that will last a lifetime.