You’d be hard-pressed to find a part of Glacier National Park that isn’t beautiful. Between its pristine lakes, tranquil waterfalls, majestic mountain views, and quiet campgrounds, it’s truly a nature lover’s paradise and has certainly earned its nickname, the Crown Jewel of the Continent.
But if you want to experience some of the best views in the entire park, you’ll have to be up for a challenge—and you should either be a very experienced hiker or go with someone who is. The Highline Trail is consistently the highest-ranked hike at Glacier year after year, and this bucket list trail is well worth taking,
First, we’ll admit that the listed length of the Highline Trail at 7.6 miles is a bit misleading, as it’s measured from point to point. If you want to see the entire thing, you’ll have to cover substantially more ground.
Shelby Reilley / alltrails.com The trail itself departs from Logan Pass and spans 7.6 miles to the historic Granite Park Chalet. However, you’ll either have to turn around and repeat the mileage back to the start of the trailhead or walk an additional (steep) four miles down the Loop Trail to the Going-to-the-Sun Road and take the free shuttle back up to Logan’s Pass. If all of that seems like too much, you can always hike a few miles in and then turn around.
You won’t have to wonder when you’ll start seeing all the breathtaking scenery here.
Tapan Shah / alltrails.com This entire hike is absolutely full of incredible vistas you won’t believe are real.
Despite the trail’s popularity, it isn’t uncommon to see wildlife in the area.
Taylor Hoots / alltrails.com Mountain goats are an especially common sight, and they don’t seem to be bothered by the summer crowds.
While most of the trail is fairly flat, this is definitely not an easy trek.
Heather Roberts / alltrails.com The path itself is often very narrow, and there are some steep drops that will require careful steps.
Of course, it’s all worth it when you arrive at viewpoints like this.
Shawn McClain / alltrails.com The mountain peaks, the glacier valleys, and the rugged alpine landscapes will have you thanking your lucky stars you’re in Montana.
While the trail is technically open year-round, it can be unreachable at times due to the weather.
Nate Kirsch / alltrails.com The best times to enjoy it are from mid-June until mid-October. Early fall is especially delightful.
The Highline Trail isn’t just the top hike at Glacier National Park—it’s considered one of North America’s signature hiking trails.
Jim Ward / alltrails.com If you’re a confident hiker, add it to your Montana bucket list.
Have you ever hiked the Highline? Share your experience with us in the comments!
Shelby Reilley / alltrails.com
The trail itself departs from Logan Pass and spans 7.6 miles to the historic Granite Park Chalet. However, you’ll either have to turn around and repeat the mileage back to the start of the trailhead or walk an additional (steep) four miles down the Loop Trail to the Going-to-the-Sun Road and take the free shuttle back up to Logan’s Pass. If all of that seems like too much, you can always hike a few miles in and then turn around.
Tapan Shah / alltrails.com
This entire hike is absolutely full of incredible vistas you won’t believe are real.
Taylor Hoots / alltrails.com
Mountain goats are an especially common sight, and they don’t seem to be bothered by the summer crowds.
Heather Roberts / alltrails.com
The path itself is often very narrow, and there are some steep drops that will require careful steps.
Shawn McClain / alltrails.com
The mountain peaks, the glacier valleys, and the rugged alpine landscapes will have you thanking your lucky stars you’re in Montana.
Nate Kirsch / alltrails.com
The best times to enjoy it are from mid-June until mid-October. Early fall is especially delightful.
Jim Ward / alltrails.com
If you’re a confident hiker, add it to your Montana bucket list.
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Address: Highline Trail, Montana 59936, USA
