One of the country’s best overall hikes, Grinnell Glacier is over 11 miles of relentless beauty – you’ll pass turquoise lakes, runoff streams with picturesque waterfalls, and of course the mighty Grinnell Glacier, all while trekking through lush alpine forests amongst Montana’s pristine wildlife.
The Grinnell Glacier trail is roughly 11.4 miles out and back and is considered moderate to difficult. The elevation gain is serious – over 2,100 feet. That with the distance and variable weather makes this a challenging hike, but one absolutely worth doing. Depending on the season there will also be varying amounts of ice, snow and slippery trail conditions. When we did this, it took us 3 hours but we could only get 3.5 miles in due to ice and snow blocking the trail. Allot plenty of time for this hike, you’ll want to stop and takes photos every couple of steps. Since it’s within a national park. dogs cannot use this trail.
Details:
Directions (Google Maps): To get to the Grinnell Glacier Trail, search for the Grinnell Glacier Trailhead in Glacier National Park, MT or click here.
Directions (old school maps): From the east side of Glacier National Park, take Highway 89 north until you get to Babb. Just before you’ll take a left to get to the Many Glacier area. You’ll pass through the entrance station and then take the road for a few miles. Before you get to the turnaround parking lot near the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn, you’ll turn left into the parking lot. If it’s full you can park at the turnaround lot.
Driving Info: This is an easy and accessible drive the whole way, however these roads can be closed during inclement weather so reference the NPS website for latest conditions. There’s also plenty of wildlife on the roads so be cautious.
Time & Weather: We did this hike on a warm afternoon in early July. As always, weather in Montana can change drastically so stay aware.
Gear: Like any hike in Glacier National Park, bring bear spray and decent boots since there are plenty of loose rocks, running water and potential ice/snow on the trails. There is little shade on this hike so wear sunscreen and bring a hat/sunglasses. You can also bring binoculars on this hike, if you have them. You’ll have epic panoramic views all hike.
Trail Navigation: The trail is easy to follow the entire way, with only one junction to walk the floor of the valley towards the lake shore.
Water & Food: Definitely bring water since this hike takes a few hours and is in the sun most of the time. Bring snacks to enjoy somewhere along the way, as there are dozens of viewpoints to sit and admire the views.
Trailhead Info: This is a popular trail with a fairly large parking lot, but it will fill up on weekends and during peak tourist season.
Pictures of the Grinnell Glacier Trail:
You’ll cross over a creek bridge and eventually make your way to the shores of Lake Josephine. Some folks take boat tours from this access point, so you’ll likely encounter large groups of people coming in and out.
After you pass the lake shore, you’ll ascend slightly into the mountains and begin the long and gradual ascent up. The view of the staggering mountains and lush forests are absolutely pristine.
One of the most beautiful stretches of trail in the world.
The trail itself is wide enough and easy to manage. Some areas will be wet and rocky due to the runoff after winter. And with the spectacular views off your left, it’s easy to take your eyes off the ground.
Rounding this corner you can begin to see Grinnell Lake and it’s stunning turquoise color. Wildflowers dot the edges of the trail.
Closer to the endpoint of the trail, the entirety of Grinnell Glacier comes into view.
When we hiked in early July, the trail ended around here, roughly 3.5 miles in. This is looking up to the right where snow is continuing to melt into the lake below.
Looking down into the lake area, you can see dozens of streams and waterfalls making their way into Grinnell Lake.
Like we said, we unfortunately couldn’t make it to the actual glacier due to snow and ice on the trail. Even so, this is one of the best hikes we’ve ever done. As you make your way back to the trailhead, stay aware for grizzly bears, and pay attention to your footing. The views are sometimes too beautiful to not stare. Stay aware as you make your way back to the trailhead.
