Glacier National Park is located in northwestern Montana, near the Canadian border. Like other national parks, Glacier is home to numerous hiking options that range from basic to strenuous. If you are interested in healthy travel, take a hiking trip to the western part of the park where hundreds of miles of trail await you.
Time Frame
Although Glacier National Park is open year-round, winters can be snowy and shut down much of the park's operations. However, from late May to early September, the park enjoys cool summer weather and all of its facilities are open. This time frame is also high tourist season and popular sections of the park can become crowded.
Geography
Many of western Glacier's hiking trails begin around the park's Lake McDonald, the largest lake in the park. Formed by glacial activity in the area, the lake is about 10 miles long and sits at over 3,000 feet high. Since the trails around the lake can reach quite high heights, you may still encounter snow when hiking there during the summers.
Trails
There are numerous trails in the area that range in level and length. The half-mile McDonald Creek trail is an easy, paved option that begins now the Apgar Visitor Center, climbing only 30 feet in elevation. For a longer trip, try the five and a half mile mile Mt. Brown Lookout, which takes you up to 4,325 feet and provides panoramic views of the area.
Backcountry Hiking
Glacier National Park also allows visitors to camp in the backcountry, permitting you to combine your hiking trip with some camping. In order to camp in the backcountry, you must apply for a permit with the National Park Service. Glacier's website also has an in-depth guide to backwoods camping and hiking, featuring educational videos for each season.
Warning
Glacier National Park is very remote and features some dangerous hiking. On some trails you will cross very cold creeks. Make sure that you bring extra warm clothes to ward off hypothermia. Also, Glacier is bear country. If you are camping the backcountry, make sure that you bring and use bear-proof containers for your food to keep unwanted guests from visiting you.
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