Hiking Grinnell Glacier Trail in Glacier National Park: Complete Guide

Note to my fellow wanderers: This guide was written from my first-hand experiences. I try my best not to over-glamorize any location I travel to because I want HappyWander’s content to be as authentic as possible. My goal is to provide you real information so that you can have the best possible adventures wandering the world. Enjoy!

Is Glacier National the most beautiful National Park in the country? It might be my new number 1! Inside the heart of this beautiful park, the Grinnell Glacier Trail offers hikers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the United States. Towering peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and cascading waterfalls create a landscape that feels almost otherworldly, making it a bucket-list adventure for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a memorable day in the wilderness, this trail promises an unforgettable experience. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about hiking Grinnell Glacier Trail in Glacier National Park, USA.

Grinnell Glacier Overview

Glacier National Park, located in Montana along the Canadian border, is a stunning expanse of rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and dense forests. Often called the “Crown of the Continent,” the park covers over a million acres and is home to diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, mountain goats, and bald eagles. Its dramatic landscapes were shaped by glaciers during the last Ice Age, and today, the remnants of these glaciers continue to carve the valleys and feed the crystal-clear lakes that make the park so breathtaking. With more than 700 miles of trails, Glacier offers something for every level of hiker, from gentle lakeside strolls to challenging alpine treks.

Among the park’s most iconic hikes is the Grinnell Glacier Trail, a moderately strenuous trail that rewards adventurers with some of the most spectacular scenery in the park. Starting from the Many Glacier area, the trail winds through dense forests, past sparkling waterfalls, and along rugged ridgelines. Hikers are treated to sweeping views of turquoise glacial lakes, dramatic cliffs, and the surrounding peaks of the Lewis Range. The trail culminates at Grinnell Glacier, a stunning remnant of the massive glaciers that once covered the region, offering a rare glimpse of ice formations slowly retreating with time.

The Grinnell Glacier Trail is not just a visual feast—it’s also a chance to experience the park’s unique ecosystem up close. Along the route, hikers can encounter wildflowers, marmots, and even bighorn sheep, all thriving in this pristine environment. Seasonal conditions can vary, with snow lingering on higher elevations well into the summer, so preparation is key. Whether you’re chasing the perfect photo, seeking a challenging workout, or simply hoping to immerse yourself in nature, the Grinnell Glacier Trail offers a quintessential Glacier National Park experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Keep reading to learn the essentials of hiking Grinnell Glacier in Glacier National Park, as well as my recommendations to have your best adventure.

This is a map (via alltrails.com) of the route I did.

Where to Park

Parking is always a question I have for every hike. This one is pretty simple with lots of parking spots. If you are doing this one in peak season (summer), I recommend starting early. In October, there were a million spaces available, only a few dozen cars in the lot. You’ll want to park at the Many Glaciers Hotel parking lot (to the right of the hotel on the map below): 1147 Rte 3, Browning, MT 59417

Distance Traveled

According to my Alltrails.com GPS tracker, I traveled just over 11 miles, which felt accurate.

How Long Does it Take to Hike?

Alltrails.com recommends 5.5 to 6 hours. It took me just under 5 hours, and I stopped at the glacier for about 20 minutes. If you’re speedy and don’t stop anywhere, you could do this in 4 to 4.5 hours probably.

Elevation Change

According to Alltrails.com, I hiked 2073 feet in elevation, which felt about right. I don’t remember any one part that was exceptionally difficult. Going up was a steady climb. The nice thing about this hike is that because it’s a longer hike (over 5 miles each way), 2000+ feet of elevation isn’t felt too intensely.

Elevation Map for Grinnell Glacier in Glacier National Park (via alltrails.com)

Difficulty

If you exercise regularly, this hike was wasn’t too bad. The distance is the one thing that makes this one more strenuous. If you’re in moderate shape, you should be able to do this one. Not sure I’d be bringing kids or elderly along though.

Overall, I’d give this hike an 7 / 10 in difficulty.

Permits

To get into Glacier National Park, you’ll need to purchase a pass. However, if you go during the government shutdown (like I did in October 2025), there likely won’t be any one in the booth checking for your pass.

Cost

To enter Glacier National Park, you’ll need a park entrance pass. As of 2025, fees are:

• Private Vehicle (per vehicle, up to 15 passengers): $35 USD for 7 days
• Motorcycle: $30 USD for 7 days
• Individual (walk-in, bike, or transit): $20 USD for 7 days
• Annual Pass: $70 USD (unlimited entry for one year)

If you’re entering during the day, you can purchase your pass at the entrance station. Evening arrivals may find the station closed, so it’s best to arrive during operating hours to get your pass without hassle

When to Go

The Grinnell Glacier Trail is generally open from late May through late September, with July and August offering the most reliable hiking conditions.

• Late Spring/Early Summer: Snow may still cover much of the trail, and access to the glacier itself is often limited, though you can usually reach Grinnell Lake.
• Summer (July–August): Best time for a full hike—trail conditions are most predictable, and the glacier is fully visible.
• Fall (September): Cooler temperatures, beautiful foliage, and fewer crowds make for a stunning hike, but days are shorter and early-season closures are possible.
• Winter/Spring: Hiking is not recommended due to snow, ice, and unsafe trail conditions.

Having said that, I went in early October and the weather was stunning. It was sunny and in the mid 60s, with not that many people out on the trail.

Recommended Gear

Having the right gear can make or break your hiking experience. In Glacier National Park, preparing accordingly will help you maximize your adventure. I’ll highlight the gear that I brought hiking Grinnell Glacier Trail in October, as well as additional gear that might benefit you:

• The Proper Clothing: In October, it really depends on the weather. It was absolutely beautiful. I wore shorts and a long sleeve shirt. It’s never bad idea to wear long exercise pants with exercise shorts underneath and a short sleeve exercise shirt underneath. I typically roll up a waterproof/windproof jacket and keep it in my pack. I also recommend wearing some thick socks so you don’t get blisters. (If it’s cold, wool are great. if it’s not cold, get something breathable). I also brought along a sun hat, which also doubles as a rain hat.
• Hiking backpack with straps: If you don’t have a backpack with straps, I recommend you get one. They aren’t too expensive on Amazon. Your shoulders and back will thank you later.
• Portable charger: If you take a lot of photos / videos like me, you’ll want to bring a portable charger for your phone. I also use the alltrails.com app to navigate so having enough battery is important.
• Water bladder: If you want to save on weight and also help your backpack be more balanced than carrying a big bottle of water in your bag, a water bladder is important. I personally use a 3L water bladder.
• Hiking Shoes: I recommend waterproof hiking shoes. The terrain is not super tennis shoe friendly.
• Crampons: If it’s icy, definitely bring crampons.
• Snacks: Who doesn’t like snacks? While hiking, even on a short hike like this, some organic gummy bears did the trick for me.
• Bug spray: While I didn’t encounter mosquitos on this hike, it’s never a bad idea to be prepared. I can imagine in the summer you’d find some bugs out on the trail.
• First aid kit: It’s a good idea to bring Band-Aids, a bandage, and some cut cleaning items. I have needed band-aids in the past from slipping on rocks, but I did not on this hike.
• Sunscreen: You should bring sunscreen on this hike, it is very exposed.
• Flashlight: If you go anytime near sunrise or sunset, I’d recommend having a flashlight.

Nice to Have Gear:

Here are a few items that would make your hiking experience even better:

• Shoe impact insoles: These can help as you traverse hard rocks along the way.
• Phone tripod: If you go alone or with a group and want great pictures, a phone tripod is key. I use one on every hike I go on.
• DJI Osmo Action Camera: This is my go-to recording device for every hike I go on. I recorded the entire hike.
• Bear Mace: Uh, just in case! There are bears in the area.
• Hiking Poles: These can help take pressure off your body while you hike.

The Play By Play: My Route Hiking Grinnell Glacier Trail

So what’s it like hiking Grinnell Glacier Trail? Read my hiking guide play by play below:

Parking

So where to park? I recommend parking at the Many Glaciers Hotel, it’s a pretty large parking lot with a bathroom right next to it. In October, the lot was nearly empty, even on a super beautiful sunny day. I’d imagine in the summer this lot fills up QUICKLY, so plan accordingly.

It was slightly confusing figuring out where to go after parking, but it’s pretty simple now that I’ve done it: Head towards the hotel and lake behind it, head left (when facing the lake). That’s it. The trail starts right by the water.

Hiking Along Swiftcurrent Lake

Right off the bat, you get an incredible view of Swiftcurrent Lake. If you’re just strolling into Glacier National Park for the first time like I was, this is a wow moment. My first thoughts were “this place is expansive and raw.”

Just look at this place:

This portion of the hike along the Swiftcurrent Lake goes on for about a mile. Between this section of the hike and the next section along Lake Josephine is where you’ll likely encounter bears (if you do happen to see one). It’s the only area of the trail that I was seeing bear signs:

Hiking Along Lake Josephine

Almost immediately after hiking along Swiftcurrent Lake you’ll encounter Lake Josephine for another ~1 mile. This is what the first encounter with Lake Josephine looks like:

The views continue to shine as you hike the path along the lake:

Here’s a more interactive look at just how beautiful this portion of the trail is:

As you continue along Lake Josephine, you’ll start climbing up in elevation, especially once you pass the lake on Grinnell Glacier Trail.

Grinnell Glacier Trail

Grinnell Glacier Trail basically starts after you pass Lake Josephine, and that’s where the climbing begins. But with climbing pains comes beauty. This is perhaps the most beautiful section of the entire hike:

With views of the teal Grinnell Lake down below nad epic mountains all around you, this portion of the hike is spectacular:

One underrated part about Grinnell Glacier Trail are the vivid plant colors:

Once you pass Grinnell Lake, you’ll find the wonderful Grinnell Falls. I had no idea there was a waterfall on this hike, so this was a bonus for me:

Before you get to the finale, you’ll have to continue along a long and windy path, which starts to climb again in between the trail and Upper Grinnell Lake:

Did I mention to bring sunscreen? You’ll get scorched on this hike if you don’t wear it or a nice hat that covers your face.

Upper Grinnell Lake

Getting up to the Upper Grinnell Lake from Grinnell Glacier Trail will test your stamina, especially at the very last stretch just before the lake. But once you make it to Upper Grinnell Lake, congratulations! The work is done and you can relax.

Here’s what it looks like to arrive at this beauty:

My favorite part about Upper Grinnell Lake are the chunks of floating ice! Here’s a closer look:

All in all, this is a stunning place to take a rest before you had back down:

Walk Back

This hike is an out-and-back hike, meaning, you’ll have to return the same way you came. You’ll likely encounter quite a few hikers on the trail going the other way. It’s a beautiful hike all around so the walk back is the cherry on top to see it all again from a new perspective.

About My Experience Hiking Grinnell Glacier Trail

Overall, hiking Grinnell Glacier Trail was an amazing experience. I can definitely see why this trail is rated so highly online.

Favorite Parts

Here are a few of my favorite parts:

The Views

The views along Grinnell Glacier Trail the last half of the hike are truly epic. It’ll make you feel like you’re in a fairy tale. In fact, I saw a couple getting married on the side with the epic views behind them.

Upper Grinnell Lake

The Upper Grinnell Lake is a gem, I especially loved the floating ice chunks all over the lake. It’s quite unique in North America, at least from what I’ve seen.

Beautiful Nature

There aren’t many places I’ve been that feel this raw and exposed like Glacier National Park. I really like that feeling, and it forces you to respect nature, where you’re out on its turf abiding by its laws.

Least Favorite Parts

Here is my least favorite part of this hike:

The Gravel Road

There’s a portion of the road getting to Grinnell Glacier that is gravel. It’s not a huge deal, but I could see in the summer with lots of cars how dusty and annoying it would be. I was just surprised they didn’t pave this part of the road.

Takes 20-30 Minutes to Get to the Parking Area

Upon entering the park, it takes 20-30 minutes just to get to the parking area. Glacier is expansive, and it limits you to just a few things each day. Not a huge deal though!

Overall Score

This was my first hike ever in Glacier National Park (and Montana) and it did not disappoint. It’s a stunner for sure. I really liked how diverse the terrain was at different sections of the hike, as well as magical views and expected elements (such as the waterfall and ice chunks floating at Upper Grinnell Lake).

Overall, I give this trail a 9.5 / 10. This is one of the more beautiful hikes I’ve ever done.

Hiking Tips for Grinnell Glacier Trail After the Fact

Here are some hiking tips for Grinnell Glacier Trail that I learned after the fact that can help you have the very best adventure:

• While I didn’t see any bears, there are a few areas down by the lakes that they warn of bears. Definitely bring bear spray!
• I recommend bringing a hat and sunscreen. It felt like 80%+ of this hike is very exposed to the sun.
• The Upper Grinnell Lake is a great place to relax and eat some snacks. I didn’t stop until I reached this area (which also happens to be the end of the hike before you turn back).

Final Thoughts on Hiking Grinnell Glacier Trail in Glacier National Park

Thanks for getting through my complete guide to hiking the Grinnell Glacier Trail! This is one of the most epic hikes in Montana and ranks very highly in my book. From turquoise lakes and towering waterfalls to alpine meadows and the breathtaking Upper Grinnell Lake surrounded by floating ice, every step on this trail feels unforgettable. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just someone who loves exploring wild, untouched landscapes, this trail perfectly captures the beauty and spirit of Glacier National Park. If you’re planning a trip to Montana, don’t skip this one — it’s truly a bucket-list experience.

Happy wandering to you!