Grinnell Glacier Viewpoint Trail
Glacier National Park's glaciers are disappearing. It's estimated they could be gone as soon as 2030. For now, there is still one you can visit.
Plan Around Grinnell Glacier Viewpoint Trail
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Grinnell Glacier Viewpoint Trail Details
Glacier National Park's glaciers are disappearing. It's estimated they could be gone as soon as 2030. For now, there is still one you can visit. The hike to Grinnell Glacier starts at the Grinnell Glacier Trailhead, but you can shave off a few miles if you take a boat shuttle across Swiftcurent Lake and Lake Josephine and start at the boat dock. You'll get in some leg-burning uphill work for part of the hike. From the trail you'll see Grinnell Falls. You'll also be able to view three glaciers as you make your way through the valley. A few stretches of trail hug a narrow ledge with steep drop-offs, just take your time. As you continue to climb you'll get great views from where you came. The Grinnell Glacier Overlook gives you incredible views of the 152-acre glacier, as well as Upper Grinnell Lake and the Garden Wall. Remember, Glacier is grizzly country. Carry bear spray, make noise and travel in groups. Access is via the Grinnell Glacier Trailhead near Many Glacier Hotel.
Difficulty
High
Distance
5.5 miles
Estimated time
6 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Grinnell Glacier Viewpoint Trail
Compare nearby parks around Grinnell Glacier Viewpoint Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Grinnell Glacier Viewpoint Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Grinnell Glacier Viewpoint Trail while the map context is still fresh.
0.0 mi away
Grinnell Lake Trail
You can start this hike at the Many Glacier Hotel, or you can shave off about 5 miles of round-trip hiking by taking a boat shuttle and starting your hike from the dock.
0.0 mi away
Swiftcurrent Lake Nature Trail
This self-guided nature tour loop is not a wilderness experience, but you'll get great views of Swiftcurrent Lake as you walk along the lakeshore.
0.1 mi away
Cracker Lake Trail
Anyone who sees a picture of Cracker Lake immediately adds it to their must-do list of Glacier hikes.
0.1 mi away
Many Glacier Hotel
Designed to resemble a Swiss chalet, the historic Many Glacier Hotel was built in 1915 by the Great Northern Railway.
0.1 mi away
Eastern Old North Trail Tour
The journey begins in the dramatic Swiftcurrent Valley before traveling through St. Mary and across the historic Old North Trail.
