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Swiftcurrent Pass Trail
Hiking Trail
Hard
13.84 mi
2,605 ft
A gorgeous day hike through the Swiftcurrent Valley.
For a fantastic day hike in Glacier National Park, be sure to check out Swiftcurrent Pass. If you are looking for a good physical challenge with panoramic views, this route is a great option. It isn't the most difficult hike in the park, but it definitely packs a punch.
The allure of this hike is the beautiful Swiftcurrent Valley. The entire hike ascends through the valley and culminates with spectacular views at Swiftcurrent Pass. Passing through the valley provides an excellent opportunity to view wildlife, as well as the chance to see the many lakes and streams throughout.
Be very alert along the first stretch of this hike, as this is bear territory. It's highly recommended to hike in a group and having bear spray readily accessible. Moose are often seen along this route too, which is a treat! Given that you are in Glacier, be prepared to see any species of wildlife!
The first lake you'll reach is Fishercap. The crowds will likely thin following Fishercap. Bullhead and Redrock lakes are next in line. Redrock Falls is also a sight to be had. Don't rush through this section, as the views are well-worth savoring.
Another plus of traversing through the valley is the abundance of wildflowers. Depending on the time of year, this area has some of the best wildflower displays to be found!
The uphill continues as you near the pass. The views open up with each step. Once at the pass, either stay here or make the worthy side trip up to the Swiftcurrent Lookout. Note, this will add another 1,000+ feet of elevation gain.
Swiftcurrent pass brings spectacular views of the valley below. The chain of lakes, along with Swiftcurrent Lake, appears in the distance. This is definitely one of the finest views Glacier Park has to offer. Take your time, have some lunch, and then retrace your steps back down to the Many Glacier area once you're ready.
You will not be disappointed you took the trip through the Swiftcurrent Valley! Written by Jason Weiss
For a fantastic day hike in Glacier National Park, be sure to check out Swiftcurrent Pass. If you are looking for a good physical challenge with panoramic views, this route is a great option. It isn't the most difficult hike in the park, but it definitely packs a punch.
The allure of this hike is the beautiful Swiftcurrent Valley. The entire hike ascends through the valley and culminates with spectacular views at Swiftcurrent Pass. Passing through the valley provides an excellent opportunity to view wildlife, as well as the chance to see the many lakes and streams throughout.
Be very alert along the first stretch of this hike, as this is bear territory. It's highly recommended to hike in a group and having bear spray readily accessible. Moose are often seen along this route too, which is a treat! Given that you are in Glacier, be prepared to see any species of wildlife!
The first lake you'll reach is Fishercap. The crowds will likely thin following Fishercap. Bullhead and Redrock lakes are next in line. Redrock Falls is also a sight to be had. Don't rush through this section, as the views are well-worth savoring.
Another plus of traversing through the valley is the abundance of wildflowers. Depending on the time of year, this area has some of the best wildflower displays to be found!
The uphill continues as you near the pass. The views open up with each step. Once at the pass, either stay here or make the worthy side trip up to the Swiftcurrent Lookout. Note, this will add another 1,000+ feet of elevation gain.
Swiftcurrent pass brings spectacular views of the valley below. The chain of lakes, along with Swiftcurrent Lake, appears in the distance. This is definitely one of the finest views Glacier Park has to offer. Take your time, have some lunch, and then retrace your steps back down to the Many Glacier area once you're ready.
You will not be disappointed you took the trip through the Swiftcurrent Valley! Written by Jason Weiss
Created By
Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bullhead Lake | 3.27 mi | 312 ft | 1.5% |
| Segment | 0.73 mi | 154 ft | 4.0% |