Hiking

There are over 700 miles of trails in Glacier National Park, and over half of park visitors report going on a hike. Trails are suitable for both short hikes and extended backpacking trips, but visitors must remember that they're ultimately responsible for their safety. Before setting out, be sure to stop by a park visitor center to get any warnings and recommendations for your route. Detailed trail status reports are available [here](http://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/trailstatusreports.htm), and any closures are listed [here](http://home.nps.gov/applications/glac/infobull/closures.cfm). Generally, lower-elevation trails and trails near the boundary of the park are snow-free by early summer. By mid to late July, trails in the higher elevations, over mountain passes, and on the Continental Divide are snow-free. There are lots of good day hikes in Glacier, and park staff is happy to help you choose the appropriate trail. Some of the self-guided walks interpret trailside features with brochures and signs. The Trail of the Cedars and Running Eagle Falls trails are wheelchair accessible. If you're planning a day hike, filling out a [Day Trip Plan](http://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/upload/Day-Trip-Plan.pdf) form and leaving it at the front desk of your hotel or with a non-hiking companion is recommended for your safety. Overnight hikers must stop at the Agpar Backcountry Office, St. Mary Visitor Center, or a ranger station to obtain a backcountry permit. If you'd like more information, visitor center bookstores carry a complete line of trail guides, topographic maps, and field guides. Publications are also available by mail and [online](http://glacierconservancy.org/shop-categories/).