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Some trails are beautiful. Others are transformative. The Highline Trail in Glacier National Park is both.

For nearly 30 miles, this iconic route hugs the edge of the Continental Divide, weaving through alpine meadows, colorful wildflower meadows, and jaw-dropping viewpoints.

This is a hiking trail for people who want to unplug without disappearing. There’s no phone signal, no traffic, no notifications… just long miles, high passes, and the sound of wind across rock. You’ll spot mountain goats, marmots, and maybe even a grizzly from a safe distance.

The Highline Trail is more than a hike. It’s a meditation in motion. You’ll cross the dramatic Garden Wall, descend into lush basins, camp beneath cliffs, and wake to golden sunrises over glacial valleys. There’s a rhythm to it. Walk. Breathe. Pause. Repeat. Everything unnecessary falls away.

Most hikers start at Logan Pass and finish at Many Glacier or the Loop. Campsites are spaced beautifully for 3–4 days of trekking with time to slow down and really be present. Expect steep drop-offs, endless views, and the kind of silence that tunes your nervous system to the frequency of the land.

Whether you’re hiking solo, planning a nature-based retreat, or craving a backcountry reset, this trail delivers in spades.

Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Logan Pass to Granite Park Campground

  • Start at Logan Pass, the crown jewel of Glacier’s Going-to-the-Sun Road
  • Hike the exposed Garden Wall section (yes, the one with the cable handrail)
  • Spot bighorn sheep, wildflowers, and panoramic views over the valley
  • Continue 7.6 miles to Granite Park Campground, your first overnight stop
  • Optional detour to Grinnell Glacier Overlook if you’re feeling strong

Day 2: Granite Park to Fifty Mountain Camp (or back via the Loop for shorter version)

  • Trek north from Granite Park through subalpine forest and open ridgelines
  • Stop to filter water at mountain streams and snack in wildflower meadows
  • Reach Fifty Mountain Camp, one of the most remote and beautiful sites in the park
  • Fall asleep to the sounds of wind and the occasional marmot call

Day 3: Fifty Mountain to Many Glacier (via Swiftcurrent Pass)

  • Start early for a long day over Swiftcurrent Pass
  • Descend into the Swiftcurrent Valley with jaw-dropping views the entire way
  • Pass alpine lakes, waterfalls, and maybe moose in the valley
  • Arrive at Many Glacier, the finish line — and possibly the best backcountry lodge area in the park
  • Optional overnight at the campground or lodge to rest, eat, and soak it in

Optional Day 4: Rest + Local Exploration

  • Spend a day in Many Glacier hiking to Iceberg Lake
  • Relaxing by the lake, or taking a celebratory swim
  • Shuttle or hitchhike back to Logan Pass or your trailhead

What to Bring:

  • Backpack (40–60L)
  • Tent or shelter system
  • Sleeping bag (20–30°F) and pad
  • Lightweight stove, fuel, and meals
  • Bear spray and bear-safe food storage
  • Water filter or purification drops
  • Warm layers and rain gear
  • Headlamp, sunscreen, and small first aid kit
  • Printed or offline map and permitsTrekking poles for steep descents
  • Extra socks and quick-dry towel
  • Journal or lightweight book

Trail Info and Difficulty:

Level: Moderate to challenging
Total Distance: 30 miles (longer if adding side hikes)
Elevation Gain: 3,500 to 4,000 feet
Best Season: Late July to mid-September
Camping: Permit required for Granite Park, Fifty Mountain, and backcountry zones

The trail is well-marked but exposed in places. Be prepared for weather changes. Sun, wind, rain, and even snow can appear in one day.

Ready to Walk the Highline Trail?

This is one of those trails you dream about long after the dust washes off. If you’re ready to unplug, challenge yourself gently, and walk one of North America’s most inspiring ridgelines, the Highline Trail is waiting.

Let’s plan your Glacier National Park trek. Book a free call and we’ll help you sort out permits, gear, and timing so you can walk with ease and presence.

Location

FAQ

Do I need a permit?

Yes. Glacier requires backcountry camping permits. Apply in advance or plan ahead to join a group hiking tour.

How do I get back to Logan Pass after finishing?

There’s a seasonal shuttle, or you can arrange a car shuttle or hitch a ride with other hikers.

Can beginners do this trek?

Day hikers are common near Logan Pass, but once you’re a few miles in, it’s mostly quiet, especially at night.

Is it dangerous?

There are cliffs and wildlife, but it's safe with basic awareness. Always carry bear spray, follow trail etiquette, and stay on marked routes.

Is the Highline Trail crowded?

Yes, with preparation and good fitness. The terrain is well-traveled, and campsites are reasonably spaced.

Google Reviews

4.9
76 reviews
  • Carson Fuehne
    Carson Fuehne
    9 months ago

    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!

  • Dexter C
    Dexter C
    10 months ago

    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.

  • Lisa Lund
    Lisa Lund
    9 months ago

    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.

  • Ana Garcia
    Ana Garcia
    a week ago

    There was still snow on the ground but we got to see some long horn sheep in this area and the views are spectacular. A Must visit.

  • Jiyu Qian
    Jiyu Qian
    10 months ago

    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.

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Added By Kyle Pearce

I started Nature Retreats to spotlight ecolodges, retreat centers and ecotourism projects following sustainable tourism practices that benefit local communities and protect fragile biodiversity.

I have been running mindful hiking retreats for the last 7 years that integrate mindful awareness, experiential learning and community building practices.