Highline Trail

Why It's Special

The Highline Trail is more than just a path; it's a promenade through the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Carved into the sheer rock face of the Garden Wall, the trail follows the Continental Divide, offering continuous, jaw-dropping views of the Livingston Range and the U-shaped valleys below. For much of its length, you are walking on a narrow ledge—well-maintained and protected by a hand-support cable in the most exposed section—with a vertical drop that will thrill even seasoned hikers. The experience is an immersion in alpine grandeur, from vast fields of vibrant wildflowers like beargrass and glacier lilies to frequent encounters with mountain goats and bighorn sheep, who are notoriously unfazed by human presence. The final optional ascent to the Grinnell Glacier Overlook provides one of the park's most iconic vistas, a reward that makes the extra effort unforgettable. It's a journey that feels suspended between sky and earth, a quintessential Glacier National Park adventure.

Best Season

The window for hiking the Highline Trail is famously brief and entirely dictated by winter's lingering snowpack. Prime season typically runs from early-to-mid July through mid-September. Attempting the trail earlier often means encountering treacherous, snow-covered sections that may require an ice axe and experience. The park's trail crews work tirelessly to clear the path, and the official opening is a much-anticipated event each summer. Hiking in July and early August offers the peak of the wildflower bloom, with the alpine meadows exploding in a riot of color. By September, the crowds begin to thin, the air turns crisp, and the foliage of huckleberry bushes and aspen trees adds a golden hue to the landscape. Always check the official NPS trail status report for Glacier National Park before your planned hike, as conditions can change rapidly and early-season snowfall can close the trail unexpectedly.

Logistics

The classic Highline Trail hike is a one-way, 11.8-mile journey from Logan Pass to a shuttle stop known as The Loop. This requires using Glacier's excellent shuttle system or coordinating a two-car shuttle. Accessing the trailhead at Logan Pass requires a vehicle reservation for the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor, which must be secured online in advance and is highly competitive. The parking lot at Logan Pass fills extremely early, often before 7:00 AM, making the park's free shuttle bus the most reliable option for most visitors. You can board a shuttle heading east from Apgar Visitor Center or west from St. Mary Visitor Center to get to the Logan Pass Visitor Center trailhead. After completing the hike at The Loop, you can catch a shuttle back to your starting point. Be prepared for potential wait times for the shuttle, especially during peak afternoon hours. This point-to-point route is predominantly downhill and level, making it more accessible than an out-and-back.

Pro Tips

• Start Early: To avoid the worst of the crowds and the risk of afternoon thunderstorms, aim to be on the trail by 8:00 AM at the latest. An early start also increases your chances of spotting wildlife.
• Carry Bear Spray: Glacier National Park is home to a dense population of both grizzly and black bears. Carry bear spray, know how to use it, and make noise while you hike, especially around blind corners.
• Layer Up: The weather at this altitude is notoriously fickle. Even on a warm day, winds along the exposed Garden Wall can be chilling. Pack layers, including a rain jacket, a fleece, and a warm hat.
• Water and Sun Protection: There is very little shade on the trail. Bring at least 2-3 liters of water per person, along with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect against intense alpine sun.
• Check Conditions: Before you leave, check the Glacier National Park website for the latest trail status, weather forecasts, and shuttle system updates. The trail can close unexpectedly due to weather or wildlife activity.
• Side Trip to the Overlook: If you have the energy, the 0.8-mile (one-way) spur trail to the Grinnell Glacier Overlook is a strenuous but immensely rewarding climb. It offers a breathtaking, top-down view of Grinnell Glacier and Upper Grinnell Lake that should not be missed.
• Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe and respectful distance from all animals. Never feed wildlife, as it habituates them to humans and can lead to dangerous encounters for both you and the animal.