Glacier National Park Itinerary: Highline Trail

Experience a day of adventure in Glacier National Park with this thoughtful itinerary crafted around the Highline Trail.

5:30 AM: Enter GNP at the West side entrance at West Glacier

Tip: Please visit here for more information regarding a vehicle reservation. Vehicle reservations are required for the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road and North Fork and for Many Glacier, depending on the dates/season.

5:30 AM – 6:00 AM – Drive to The Loop

Activity: Arrive at The Loop to either drop off an extra vehicle or continue on to Logan Pass. If you don’t have an extra vehicle, continue onward to Logan Pass and you can catch a shuttle back to your vehicle after the hike.
Tip: Parking can be limited, so arriving early is key.

Activity: Enjoy a light breakfast at Logan Pass. You can have a quick snack such as granola bars, fruit, or a sandwich. Take some time to enjoy the early morning views. Make sure to pack a lot of water, electrolytes, and food for your hike.

Trail Info: Begin your hike on the Highline Trail from Logan Pass. This trail is renowned for its breathtaking views of the park and its alpine meadows.
Duration: The hike to Granite Park Chalet may take around 3 hours, depending on your pace and the time you spend enjoying the scenery.

Activity: Enjoy your packed lunch at Granite Park Chalet. This historic chalet offers stunning views and is a great place to take a break.
Suggestion: Make sure to bring enough food and water for the hike and your lunch. Sometimes there are concessions available at the chalet for purchase.

Trail Info: Continue from Granite Park Chalet down to The Loop. This section can be brutal on the knees but will offer a different perspective of the park’s stunning landscapes.
Tip: Be prepared for varying terrain and possibly some switchbacks as you descend.

Activity: If you left a vehicle at The Loop, you can drive it back to Logan Pass. If not, catch a free shuttle back to Logan Pass.
Tip: Check the shuttle schedule ahead of time to avoid long waits.

Activity: Head to Lake McDonald Lodge. This drive provides a beautiful way to wind down after a day of hiking.

Location: Enjoy dinner at the Lake McDonald Lodge dining room. The lodge offers a range of dining options with views of the lake.
Suggestion: Make a reservation if possible to ensure you have a spot.

Activity: After dinner, take a relaxing stroll along the lake or find a comfortable spot to unwind and enjoy the sunset. The lake’s serene atmosphere is perfect for reflecting on your day.

Weather: Check the weather forecast and trail conditions before starting your hike, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
Gear: Ensure you have sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing, sunscreen, a hat, plenty of water, electrolytes, and a first-aid kit. Trekking poles are highly encouraged for this hike.
Bear Aware: Pack bear spray and be aware of bears and other wildlife that you may encounter.
Shuttle Schedule: If using a shuttle, confirm the schedule and pick-up locations ahead of time to coordinate with your plans.

Additional Resources:

Day Hiking Essentials

Enjoy your adventurous day in Glacier National Park!