Trying to decide on the most beautiful hiking trail in Montana is like trying to choose the brightest star in the sky. Our trails are second to none here in the Treasure State, and we have fantastic hikes for people of all skill levels. Still, we can admit there are a few gems that shine especially bright.
Recently, Popular Mechanics listed the most incredible hiking trail in every state. The Grinnell Glacier Trail was the pick for Montana, and we think that was an excellent choice.
The Grinnell Glacier Trail is a bucket list hike for all active Montanans.
Koa Barghausen / alltrails.com It’s one of the most popular trails for experienced hikers at Glacier National Park, and for good reason.
At 11 miles in length, this is not exactly an easy day hike.
Jaclyn Sears / alltrails.com Of course, you don’t have to hike the entire thing to experience its sheer, rugged, unparalleled beauty.
The Grinnell Glacier Trailhead is located about 0.5 miles from the turnoff for the Many Glacier Hotel.
Jeff Dion / alltrails.com However, if you go in the summertime, you can shave 3.4 miles off the round-trip hike by taking the two shuttle boats across Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine. It only takes 10 minutes to cross each lake by boat.
Whatever route you take, take note: this is definitely not a hike meant for beginners.
Zach Mariani / alltrails.com Not only is the trail quite long, it’s steep, narrow, and extremely tough to navigate at times. Only experienced hikers should attempt it, and no one should hike alone.
That being said, this trail is also unbelievably visually rewarding.
Jaclyn Sears / alltrails.com If you can take your eyes off the sweeping views, you’ll want to look out for wildlife in the area. This does include grizzlies – so you’ll want to pack some bear spray.
After so many steep climbs, the magnificent views seem especially impressive.
Jaclyn Sears / alltrails.com You’ll never forget your first glimpse of Grinnell Glacier.
Take plenty of precautions, but definitely add this phenomenal hike to your bucket list.
Hunter Smith / alltrails.com For avid nature lovers and longtime Montana residents, it almost feels like a rite of passage.
Do you agree with Popular Mechanics? Is this the most incredible hiking trail in Montana?
Koa Barghausen / alltrails.com
It’s one of the most popular trails for experienced hikers at Glacier National Park, and for good reason.
Jaclyn Sears / alltrails.com
Of course, you don’t have to hike the entire thing to experience its sheer, rugged, unparalleled beauty.
Jeff Dion / alltrails.com
However, if you go in the summertime, you can shave 3.4 miles off the round-trip hike by taking the two shuttle boats across Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine. It only takes 10 minutes to cross each lake by boat.
Zach Mariani / alltrails.com
Not only is the trail quite long, it’s steep, narrow, and extremely tough to navigate at times. Only experienced hikers should attempt it, and no one should hike alone.
If you can take your eyes off the sweeping views, you’ll want to look out for wildlife in the area. This does include grizzlies – so you’ll want to pack some bear spray.
You’ll never forget your first glimpse of Grinnell Glacier.
Hunter Smith / alltrails.com
For avid nature lovers and longtime Montana residents, it almost feels like a rite of passage.
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Address: Grinnell Glacier Trail, Montana 59417, USA
