Hiking the Highline Trail: Glacier National Park's Scenic Route

Discover the stunning landscapes of Glacier National Park on the Highline Trail, where alpine meadows and panoramic views await at every turn.

Last updated: Apr 2024

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Free trail access; park entrance fee $25
More than 500 Miles from you
National Star: Exceptional experiences within the country that are must-dos for adventurers
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Description

Experience breathtaking alpine meadows and expansive vistas on the Highline Trail in Glacier National Park, perfect for adventurers seeking moderate hikes. Discover the stunning landscapes of Glacier National Park on the Highline Trail, where alpine meadows and panoramic views await at every turn. Embark on a journey through the western side of the Continental Divide on the Highline Trail in Glacier National Park. This trail, known for its gentle terrain and the final ascent to Haystack Pass, offers hikers a unique opportunity to traverse glacially carved landscapes, complete with high alpine exposure. Starting from Logan Pass, the trail spans 7.2 miles round trip to Haystack Pass, with options to extend your hike for a more challenging adventure. As you set out, prepare for a section equipped with a hand cable for safety, perfect for those comfortable with heights. Along the way, the trail reveals the natural history of the area, from pika habitats in scree fields to ancient stromatolite formations in limestone and dolomite rocks. The climax of the hike, Haystack Pass, presents unparalleled views and a chance to spot alpine wildlife. Whether you choose to return from Haystack Pass or venture further to the Granite Park Chalet, this hike promises unforgettable high alpine vistas and a deep connection with nature.

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Outdoorsy

Challenging

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Itinerary

Start at the Highline Trailhead across from the Logan Pass parking lot.
Prepare for a cliffy stretch with a hand cable shortly after beginning.
Enjoy the diverse landscape, including alpine meadows and scree fields.
Take a break at the large boulders before Haystack Pass to admire the stromatolites.
Reach Haystack Pass for a lunch break and enjoy the views.
Decide whether to return to Logan Pass or continue to the Granite Park Chalet.

Location

Highline Trail, West Glacier, MT 59936

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Packing List

Sun, wind, and rain protection
At least two liters of water per person
Snacks or lunch for breaks
Comfortable hiking shoes
Camera for capturing the scenery

4.9 ● Google reviews

This was one of the most challenging hikes but so worth it. It was very cloudy and foggy the day I went, but still loved the hike. Make sure you arrive at Logan's Pass by 6:30 in order to get a spot for parking or even earlier if the weather is sunny. The drive up in the fog was crazy. I went out and back about 11 miles and it took about 5 hours. I was alone a lot of the hike, but had bear spray. Didn't see any wildlife but a ram up on the rocks. I would highly recommend this hike, if you want a challenging hike and are not afraid of small ledges and heights.

During my trip I walked the Avalanche Creek Trail, Hidden Lake Trail, Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, The Loop Trail from the Chalet, and by far the Highline Trail was the best. You're so high up and the views are beautiful. The Trail itself isn't very difficult at all its just a bit long at 7 miles. I took most of my best pics on this Trail.

A bucket-list hike that lives up to the hype! We opted for the 17mi version where we started at Logan Pass, went up to the Grinnell Glacier Overlook (1.6 miles and 1000 ft up later) to the Granite Park Chalet and back to Logan Pass! The views were incredible for the entire hike, we saw some wildlife (goats, and bighorn sheep), and thankfully no bears! We decided not to go down to the Loop trail because there was a mama grizzly sighting on the trail. I highly recommend packing plenty of water and snacks for the trail! The elevation gain and loss is abiut even where you can expect 900 feet up and down. And if you can, stop and eat lunch at the Granite Park Chalet! They've got restrooms (clean but smelly). Don't miss this hike!

A strenuous hike with stunning views. A must go for hikers who are prepared. Took 5+ hours from Logan Pass to the Loop. Make sure to start early to secure parking spot, preferably before 6:30am, and to finish at the loop before 6:30 pm to catch the bus back. Get prepared for varying weather.

Probably the beat hike in America but that’s hard to even say out loud. So many great hikes out there. I don’t know that they all have the continuous views that you get from this hike. The entire hike is a panorama of the entire west side of the park, and up to Logan Pass. Just a great time, so many things to see.

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