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Grinnell Glacier Hike
Hiking Trail
Hard
11.71 mi
2,149 ft
Day hike to the impressive Grinnell Glacier.
The trip to the Grinnell Glacier viewpoint is one of the best day trips in Glacier National Park. This route features everything: wildflowers, alpine lakes, wildlife, vistas, and much more! It is one of the best trips in the park for someone looking to get close up to a glacier, too. The terminus at Upper Grinnell Lake features outstanding views of Grinnell Glacier.
The route begins in a forested area. You can shave off a few miles by taking the boat ride across Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine. Taking the boat is a fun experience, although hiking around the lakes provides excellent views too.
Be bear aware on this journey as the route traverses through prime grizzly habitat. Moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats are sometimes spotted in the area, too. It is a treat when you get the chance to see these incredible animals!
The forest slowly transitions to an alpine environment where wildflowers dot the landscape. Magnificent Grinnell Falls will come into view shortly thereafter. You eventually reach the viewpoint of Lower Grinnell Lake, which is one of the best views on the hike. Standing high above the lake, you get fabulous views of the surrounding peaks. The sparkling turquoise water of Lower Grinnell Lake is a sight to behold.
The route features more climbing from here, but the destination is not far off. Arriving at the viewpoint is a surreal feeling. You have now arrived at one of the most precious spots in the entire park, and the hike to get there wasn't even too strenuous!
Take some valuable time to rest here, as you will not want to leave the peaceful setting. The views of the Garden Wall from this spot are spectacular. If you dare, jumping into freezing Upper Grinnell Lake will surely chill the bones! The proximity to the glacier from here is impressive.
On a separate note, hiking to the Grinnell Glacier Overlook on the Highline Trail will provide an epic bird's eye view of this area. Being able to access both viewpoints in the park is incredible. It's highly recommended to visit the overlook in addition to this route.
Once ready, retrace your steps back to the trailhead. The descent is nice and gradual. Written by Jason Weiss
The trip to the Grinnell Glacier viewpoint is one of the best day trips in Glacier National Park. This route features everything: wildflowers, alpine lakes, wildlife, vistas, and much more! It is one of the best trips in the park for someone looking to get close up to a glacier, too. The terminus at Upper Grinnell Lake features outstanding views of Grinnell Glacier.
The route begins in a forested area. You can shave off a few miles by taking the boat ride across Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine. Taking the boat is a fun experience, although hiking around the lakes provides excellent views too.
Be bear aware on this journey as the route traverses through prime grizzly habitat. Moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats are sometimes spotted in the area, too. It is a treat when you get the chance to see these incredible animals!
The forest slowly transitions to an alpine environment where wildflowers dot the landscape. Magnificent Grinnell Falls will come into view shortly thereafter. You eventually reach the viewpoint of Lower Grinnell Lake, which is one of the best views on the hike. Standing high above the lake, you get fabulous views of the surrounding peaks. The sparkling turquoise water of Lower Grinnell Lake is a sight to behold.
The route features more climbing from here, but the destination is not far off. Arriving at the viewpoint is a surreal feeling. You have now arrived at one of the most precious spots in the entire park, and the hike to get there wasn't even too strenuous!
Take some valuable time to rest here, as you will not want to leave the peaceful setting. The views of the Garden Wall from this spot are spectacular. If you dare, jumping into freezing Upper Grinnell Lake will surely chill the bones! The proximity to the glacier from here is impressive.
On a separate note, hiking to the Grinnell Glacier Overlook on the Highline Trail will provide an epic bird's eye view of this area. Being able to access both viewpoints in the park is incredible. It's highly recommended to visit the overlook in addition to this route.
Once ready, retrace your steps back to the trailhead. The descent is nice and gradual. Written by Jason Weiss
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Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Continental Divide Trail Climb | 1.87 mi | 1,214 ft | 12.3% |
| Grinnell Glacier Trail Climb | 0.21 mi | 138 ft | 12.1% |
| Continental Divide Trail Climb | 0.32 mi | 351 ft | 20.3% |