Grinnell Glacier
Trail
10.3 mile
16.6 kilometer
out and back
Singletrack
Intermediate/Difficult
Elevation
Ascent:
1,774'
541 m
Descent: -1,777' -542 m
High: 6,508' 1,984 m
Low: 4,889' 1,490 m
Grade
Avg Grade: 7% (4°)
Max Grade: 35% (19°)
Dogs
No Dogs
Weather
Current trail conditions
Unknown
See History
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“An incredible out-and-back hike to the most visited glacier in all of Glacier National Park.”
— Jake Bramante
Features
Birding · Fall Colors · Lake · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife
Family Friendly While the full route might be a bit too strenuous for youngsters, there are scenic views to be had along the whole route, and any point can become a turn-around spot.
Overview
That being said, the distance and effort needed to complete this route make for a full journey.
Need to Know
Description
Start out on the first two level miles along Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine’s eastern and northern shores on the appropriately named North Shore Lake Josephine Trail. Towards the end of Lake Josephine, look for the right-hand turn onto the Grinnell Glacier Trail. This is where the elevation begins to increase for the next two or so miles.
As you climb up the flanks of Mt. Grinnell, the views keep getting better. From these higher vantage points, there's an increased chance of seeing wildlife in the surrounding meadows and down into the drainages below.
The tall cliffs of Angel Wing rise abruptly to the south while you can begin to see Grinnell Lake's incredible emerald color. This almost artificial hue is due to very small particles of rock that have been ground down by glaciers, that are suspended in the water of the lake. These particles are called "glacial flour." You'll notice the higher up the hike goes, the more vivid the color of the water becomes.
As the trail begins to level out, just below the glacier, there is a nice picnic and sitting area and a pit toilet. Please be sure to pack out any trash. Continue for the last climb up 0.34 miles through the rock until you arrive at Upper Grinnell Lake with Grinnell Glacier to your left. Straight ahead, Salamander Glacier hugs the cliffs of the Garden Wall.
The Continental Divide runs along the top of the Garden Wall and Going-to-the-Sun Road is just on the other side.
This content was created by Jake Bramante of Hike 734. Visit hike734.com for more expert Glacier content and maps that help you decide which trail to hike.
Flora & Fauna
Contacts
Land Manager: NPS - Glacier National Park
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