Montana's Picturesque National Park Is A Hiking Paradise To Add To Your Bucket List

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When you think of U.S. states most blessed by natural beauty, Montana has to come in high on that list. After all, they call it "Big Sky Country" for a reason, and beneath that impressive heavenly dome are snow-capped mountains, amazing stretches of river considered some of the best in the west, deep forests, hidden canyons, open plains, and pristine lakes — like the captivating Whitefish Lake. Montana is simply a nature-lover's dream, and nowhere is this embodied more than in Glacier National Park.

Situated in the jagged Rocky Mountains near the border with Canada, Glacier National Park encompasses over 1 million acres of towering granite peaks and deep valleys carved out by the glaciers it's named for. This unique piece of real estate is an awe-inspiring amalgamation of rock, ice, lakes, and trees, and is sometimes referred to as the "Crown of the Continent." Much of Glacier National Park is also designated as wilderness, which means if you really want to see what the place has to offer, you have to lace up your boots and hit the trail. 

Luckily, Glacier National Park is home to over 700 miles of hiking paths. These range from short, approachable jaunts to multi-day backcountry adventures that take you straight through the park's rugged heart. Whatever your level of skill or interest, a hike in Glacier National Park is an experience you'll likely take with you for the rest of your life.

For those just interested in day hiking in Glacier National Park, there are plenty of options. For something easy, try the Trail of the Cedars, a 0.7-mile boardwalk nature trail that follows Avalanche Creek through old-growth forest, while the John's Lake Loop is a 2-mile walk near the northeast shore of Lake McDonald (and makes a great side quest while driving Montana's most scenic road). The Hidden Lake Overlook Trail takes you up and over Hidden Lake Pass to a viewpoint between two imposing mountains, and the Grinnell Glacier Trail is a challenging 10.9-mile out-and-back hike that climbs up to the glacier it's named for, featuring views of waterfalls, lakes, and forest along the way.

If you're feeling adventurous, Glacier is a wonderland for overnight and multi-day excursions, such as the Bowman Lake to Kintla Lake trek. This 39-mile hike heads up over two passes and offers breathtaking views of glaciers, meadows, and plenty of wildlife. Other longer trips include four days along the untamed and idyllic Belly River, the awe-inspiring Stony Indian Pass Trail, and the Park Creek Trail, a 26.3-mile (one way) path that winds through some of the most remote parts of the park.

Glacier National Park is a raw and remote place with plenty of wild animals — including a healthy population of grizzlies — so always carry bear spray and bear-proof canisters, such as the Backpacker's Cache Bear-Proof Container. It's also wise to hike in groups and make plenty of noise as you go. Any overnight hikes require wilderness permits — some of which can only be secured by lottery — so make sure everything's in order before heading out. Glacier National Park is served by the Glacier Park International Airport in Kalispell. From there, it's about a 45-minute drive to the West Entrance of the park.

The town of Kalispell has all your outfitting needs, including food, clothing, and gear, while the village of West Glacier sits at the West Entrance and has a handful of decent accommodations. Your best bet is Glacier Guides Lodge, a rustic mountain retreat with comfortable, clean rooms furnished with two queen-sized beds; a locally sourced continental breakfast; and access to fishing, hiking, biking, and rafting guide services. Interested in hitting two parks in one trip? Then head out on this glorious Montana road trip to Yellowstone.