Glacier National Park, nestled in the heart of Montana, is a hiker’s paradise with over 700 miles of trails. While the park offers challenging treks for seasoned adventurers, it also boasts numerous easy hikes that showcase its breathtaking beauty without demanding too much exertion. If you’re looking for the Easy Hikes in Glacier National Park under 5 miles, you’re in for a treat. These trails offer stunning vistas, wildlife spotting opportunities, and unforgettable experiences, all within a manageable distance for hikers of various skill levels.
1. Hidden Lake Overlook Trail
The Hidden Lake Overlook Trail is one of the most popular and rewarding short hikes in Glacier National Park. Starting from Logan Pass Visitor Center, this trail offers an excellent introduction to the park’s alpine scenery. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and, if you’re lucky, glimpses of mountain goats and bighorn sheep.
Trail Highlights:
- Distance: 2.7 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 540 feet
- Time: 1-2 hours
What to Expect:
- Panoramic views of Hidden Lake and surrounding peaks
- Abundant wildlife, including mountain goats and bighorn sheep
- Colorful wildflower meadows in summer
- Some snow patches that may linger into July
The trail begins on a paved path and boardwalk, protecting the fragile alpine meadows. As you climb, the terrain becomes more rugged, but the views become increasingly spectacular. The overlook provides a stunning vista of Hidden Lake nestled beneath Bearhat Mountain, making it a perfect spot for photos and a snack break.
Tips for Hikers:
- Start early to secure parking at Logan Pass and avoid afternoon thunderstorms
- Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Wear sturdy shoes and bring layers, as weather can change quickly at high elevations
- Consider continuing down to the lake shore for a longer, more challenging hike
2. Trail of the Cedars to Avalanche Lake
This hike combines the wheelchair-accessible Trail of the Cedars with a moderately challenging trek to the stunning Avalanche Lake. The trail offers a diverse experience, from old-growth forests to a crystal-clear alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks.
Trail Highlights:
- Distance: 4.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 730 feet
- Time: 2-3 hours
What to Expect:
- Ancient cedar and hemlock forest
- Gorgeous turquoise waters of Avalanche Lake
- Waterfalls cascading down surrounding cliffs
- A mix of boardwalk, paved trail, and natural path
The hike begins on the Trail of the Cedars, a peaceful boardwalk loop through a dense forest of ancient western red cedars and western hemlocks. As you continue to Avalanche Lake, the trail follows Avalanche Creek, offering beautiful views of the rushing water. The finale is the breathtaking Avalanche Lake, its turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding mountains.
Tips for Hikers:
- Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning reflections on the lake
- Be prepared for a busy trail, especially in peak season
- Keep an eye out for wildlife, including bears (carry bear spray)
3. St. Mary and Virginia Falls
This scenic hike takes you to two beautiful waterfalls in the St. Mary area of the park. The trail offers a perfect blend of forest scenery, mountain views, and the refreshing sight and sound of cascading water.
Trail Highlights:
- Distance: 3.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 525 feet
- Time: 2-3 hours
What to Expect:
- Two impressive waterfalls: St. Mary Falls and Virginia Falls
- Beautiful forest and mountain views
- Opportunities to cool off in the mist on hot days
- Potential wildlife sightings, including deer and various bird species
The hike begins with a descent through a forest recovering from a past wildfire, offering unique views and ecological lessons. You’ll first reach the powerful St. Mary Falls, where three separate streams of water converge into a turquoise pool. Continuing on, you’ll climb to the even more impressive Virginia Falls, a 50-foot cascade surrounded by lush vegetation.
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Tips for Hikers:
- Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be rocky and slippery near the falls
- Bring a camera for stunning waterfall photos
- Consider visiting in spring or early summer when the falls are at their fullest
- Take care on the steps and rocks near the falls, which can be slippery
- Carry plenty of water, especially on hot summer days
4. Swiftcurrent Nature Trail
Located in the Many Glacier area, this flat loop trail around Swiftcurrent Lake is perfect for families and those seeking an easy stroll with big views. It’s an excellent introduction to the park’s scenery and wildlife.
Trail Highlights:
- Distance: 2.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Time: 1-2 hours
What to Expect:
- Reflective views of mountains in Swiftcurrent Lake
- Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities
- Historic Many Glacier Hotel
- Interpretive signs providing information about the area’s ecology and history
The trail offers constantly changing views as you circle Swiftcurrent Lake. You’ll see the historic Many Glacier Hotel, towering peaks reflected in the lake’s calm waters, and potentially a variety of wildlife. The flat, well-maintained path makes this an ideal hike for all ages and abilities.
Tips for Hikers:
- Great trail for sunrise or sunset photography
- Keep an eye out for moose near the lakeshore and bears in the surrounding hills
- Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Consider taking a boat tour on the lake to complement your hike
- Visit in early morning or evening for the best chance of wildlife sightings
5. Redrock Falls
This pleasant hike in the Many Glacier area takes you through forests and meadows to a series of cascading waterfalls. It’s a great option for those looking for a bit more distance without too much elevation gain.
Trail Highlights:
- Distance: 3.7 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 285 feet
- Time: 2-3 hours
What to Expect:
- Multiple lake views along the trail (Fishercap Lake and Redrock Lake)
- Series of beautiful waterfalls at the end
- High chances of wildlife sightings, including moose and bears
- Diverse landscapes including forests, meadows, and rocky areas
The trail begins near the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and quickly reaches Fishercap Lake, a common spot for moose sightings. As you continue, you’ll pass Redrock Lake before reaching the falls. The waterfall itself is a series of cascades tumbling over red rocks, creating a picturesque scene.
Tips for Hikers:
- Bring bear spray and hike in groups
- Take time to explore the different tiers of the falls
- Consider continuing to Bullhead Lake for a longer hike
- Wear shoes that can handle some wet and muddy sections
- Start early to increase chances of wildlife sightings and avoid afternoon crowds
6. Baring Falls
For a quick and rewarding hike, Baring Falls is hard to beat. This short trail leads to a charming waterfall near St. Mary Lake, offering a perfect blend of forest scenery and water features in a compact package.
Trail Highlights:
- Distance: 0.7 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
What to Expect:
- Easy access from Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Beautiful 25-foot waterfall in a forested setting
- Views of St. Mary Lake
- Lush vegetation and potential wildflower sightings in spring and early summer
The trail to Baring Falls is short but sweet. It meanders through a dense forest before opening up to reveal the picturesque waterfall. The falls cascade over a series of rock steps, creating a serene and photogenic scene. The proximity to St. Mary Lake adds to the scenic value, offering beautiful views on clear days.
Tips for Hikers:
- Combine with Sun Point Nature Trail for a longer experience
- Great option for families with young children or those with limited time
- Visit in spring for maximum water flow
- Bring a camera for close-up shots of the falls
- Consider a picnic by the falls or at nearby St. Mary Lake
7. Running Eagle Falls
Also known as Trick Falls, this unique waterfall in the Two Medicine area is accessible via a short, wheelchair-friendly trail. It’s a geological wonder that showcases the park’s diverse water features.
Trail Highlights:
- Distance: 0.7 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 15 feet
- Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
What to Expect:
- Unique “trick” waterfall where water seems to emerge from rock
- Cultural significance to the Blackfeet people
- Easy accessibility for all skill levels
- Interpretive signs explaining the geology and cultural importance of the falls
Running Eagle Falls is a fascinating natural phenomenon. Depending on the water level, you might see water flowing from an opening in the rock face (the “trick”) or cascading over the top of the cliff. The short, paved trail makes this an excellent option for those with mobility concerns or families with strollers.
Tips for Hikers:
- Learn about the Blackfeet legend associated with the falls from the interpretive signs
- Visit in spring to see both the upper and lower falls flowing
- Great spot for a quick picnic
- Consider combining with other short hikes in the Two Medicine area for a full day of exploration
- Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the falls
8. Sun Point Nature Trail
This scenic trail offers spectacular views of St. Mary Lake and the surrounding mountains. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to experience the grandeur of Glacier’s landscapes without a strenuous hike.
Trail Highlights:
- Distance: 1.9 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Time: 1-2 hours
What to Expect:
- Panoramic vistas of St. Mary Lake
- Wildflower meadows in summer
- Historic site of former Sun Point Chalet
- Opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting
The Sun Point Nature Trail begins at a large parking area and quickly ascends to offer sweeping views of St. Mary Lake. As you hike, you’ll pass through open areas with stunning vistas and sections of forest that provide shade and diverse plant life. The trail ends at a dramatic overlook, perfect for soaking in the beauty of the park.
Tips for Hikers:
- Bring a windbreaker as it can be breezy at the point
- Great spot for sunrise photography
- Consider combining with Baring Falls hike for a longer adventure
- Look for wildflowers in early summer, including bear grass and Indian paintbrush
- Bring binoculars for a closer look at distant peaks and potential wildlife sightings
9. Rocky Point Trail
This lesser-known trail near Lake McDonald offers beautiful lake views and a chance to escape the crowds. It’s an excellent option for those staying in the Lake McDonald area looking for a peaceful hike.
Trail Highlights:
- Distance: 2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 229 feet
- Time: 1-2 hours
What to Expect:
- Stunning views of Lake McDonald
- Opportunity to see regrowth after the 2003 Robert Fire
- Quiet trail away from busier areas
- Mix of forest and lakeshore environments
The Rocky Point Trail starts near Fish Creek Campground and winds through a recovering forest before reaching the shores of Lake McDonald. The trail offers several vantage points of the lake, with the final rocky outcrop providing expansive views of the water and surrounding mountains.
Tips for Hikers:
- Bring insect repellent in summer months
- Great trail for bird watching, especially in early morning
- Visit in fall for beautiful autumn colors
- Consider a swim in Lake McDonald on hot days (but be prepared for cold water)
- Look for signs of forest regeneration and learn about fire ecology in Glacier
10. Johns Lake Loop
This easy loop trail near Lake McDonald takes you through old-growth forest and along McDonald Creek, offering a serene hiking experience close to park amenities.
Trail Highlights:
- Distance: 2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 190 feet
- Time: 1-2 hours
What to Expect:
- Serene forest setting with massive old-growth trees
- Views of Johns Lake and McDonald Creek
- Possibility of seeing wildlife like deer and birds
- A mix of environments including dense forest, lakeside, and creek views
The Johns Lake Loop begins near the Going-to-the-Sun Road and quickly immerses hikers in a lush forest environment. The trail passes by Johns Lake, a small, picturesque body of water often frequented by waterfowl. As you continue, you’ll reach McDonald Creek, where you can observe the power of glacial waters and potentially spot American dippers hunting for insects.
Tips for Hikers:
- Watch for slippery roots on the trail, especially after rain
- Great option for a quiet morning walk
- Combine with Sacred Dancing Cascade for a longer hike
- Bring a field guide to identify the diverse plant species along the trail
- Take time to sit quietly by Johns Lake or McDonald Creek to observe wildlife
What to Pack for Short Hikes in Glacier National Park
Before we dive into the hikes, here’s a quick list of essentials to pack:
- Day Pack: A comfortable, lightweight pack like the Pingora Lucid 20
- Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots such as Danner Mountain 600
- Hiking Socks: Moisture-wicking socks like Darn Tough Merino Wool socks
- Water Filter and Bottle: Katadyn BeFree Filter and a 2L water bladder
- Portable Battery: For keeping your devices charged, like the NB10000
- Headlamp: Essential for safety, try the Biolite 325
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Bear Spray: A must-have in bear country
- Snacks and Lunch: Energy-rich foods for the trail
- Camera: To capture the stunning views
Best Times to Visit Glacier National Park
- Summer (July-August): Peak season with warm weather and all facilities open. Expect crowds and book accommodations well in advance.
- Fall (September-October): Fewer crowds, beautiful fall colors, and active wildlife. Some facilities start closing in late September.
- Spring (May-June): Wildflowers bloom and waterfalls are at their fullest. Be prepared for some snow at higher elevations.
- Winter (November-April): Limited access but beautiful snowy landscapes. Perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Final Thoughts
These 10 easy hikes in Glacier National Park offer a perfect blend of accessibility and natural beauty. They showcase the park’s diverse landscapes, from pristine lakes and thundering waterfalls to alpine meadows and dense forests, all within a comfortable distance for most hikers. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, traveling with family, or simply looking for shorter trails, these hikes provide an excellent way to experience the majesty of Glacier National Park.
Remember to always check current trail conditions, carry bear spray, and practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the park’s beauty for future generations. Happy hiking in Glacier National Park!
