Hike! Glacier -- The Highline Trail

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Incredible views of the park and steep drop-offs characterize the Highline Trail as one of the most exciting and worthwhile ways to spend your time in Glacier National Park. Talk to any serious hiker and it’s probable that this hike has been or still is on their bucket list!

Phenomenal mountain views are your constant companion as you travel along this unlikely trail carved into the mountainside. It doesn’t get much more dramatic than this!

What You Need to Know

This trail can only be accessed if the high alpine portion of the Going-to-the-Sun Road is open. This is usually the last section of road to get plowed and is generally only open from late June/early July – early October. To check the road status, click here.

The Highline Trail is popular and that doesn’t come without crowds. Don’t expect to have much solitude as you hike, but enjoy every second of it!

Because of its elevation, the Highline Trail will likely still be snow-covered into July. Don’t hike this one without a map! Click here to see the one I personally love and use all the time while visiting Glacier.

Most people start hiking from Logan Pass and exit the trail at The Loop, making the total mileage approximately 11.8 miles round trip. If you hike it this way, be aware that you will need to make your way back up to where you started at Logan Pass. This can be done by catching the free Park Shuttle {expect long wait times depending on the time of day} or by arranging your own vehicle shuttle with members of your hiking group.

If you don’t want to hike all 11.8 miles, never fear! The views begin immediately….even hiking just a few miles in will provide you with an exciting and memorable experience.