Outbound Collective logo

Grinnell Glacier in Glacier NP

Browning, Montana

5.0/5
based on 11 reviews

Details

Distance

11.33 miles

Elevation Gain

1840 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Michael Johnston

Take in beautiful views of Grinnell Glacier and several alpine lakes. Jump on the trail early in the day to get it all to yourself. If you have extra time, bring your fishing pole for some casts into Swiftcurrent Lake.

The Grinnel Glacier Hike begins at the Grinnell Glacier Trailhead just past the Many Glacier Lodge. A fee of $25 is required to enter Glacier National Park for a seven-day pass. The Many Glacier region is entered from the east side of the park from the Blackfeet Indian Reservation.

The Grinnell Glacier Hike is one of the most beautiful hikes in the world with beautiful views of the glacier, as well as the views of Swiftcurrent Lake, Lake Josephine, and Grinnell Lake. If you leave early enough, you’ll get there before the crowds. The glacier itself is absolutely breathtaking with views of the falls, and the lakes on the way.

Parking is located near the Many Glacier Hotel located on Swiftcurrent Lake. Parking can be very limited in the summer, so arriving earlier in the day is highly recommended. There are many hikes in the area, so be sure to follow the signs designating the trail to Grinnell Glacier so you don’t get lost. There is an optional boat that crosses Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine for a fee.

Once you're done, head to the bar and restaurant located at the Many Glacier Hotel with beautiful views of Swiftcurrent Lake. This is the perfect place to stop after the grueling yet beautiful hike to the lake.

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app
Download GPX File

Features

Fishing
Photography
Hiking
Lake

Grinnell Glacier in Glacier NP Reviews

We have stayed at Many Glacier Hotel several times and the Grinnell Glacier Hike is one of the best of in the area. Incredible views, great wildlife - bring bear spray - we have taken the boat across Swiftcurrent Lake too and had a grizzly right on the other side. Moose will also sleep right off the trail, so keep an eye out for them and try not to spook them - ran into one right next to a trail in Many Glacier. The hike and views are beautiful and well worth the many other visitors enjoying the same area. Highly recommend this hike and also a night or two at the hotel. The sunrise here is amazing as well!

Hikers get to enjoy HUGE views and big wildlife on the way to Grinnell Glacier. Mountain goats, moose and grizzlies all made an appearance in one afternoon. Remember to bring your bear bell and spray!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike to Grinnell Lake

Camp at Many Glacier Campground in Glacier National Park

Redrock Falls

Kayak Swiftcurrent Lake

Ptarmigan Tunnel

Glacier's North Circle Route (North East Section)