4 Must-See Glacier National Park Hikes

Glacier National Park is one of America's true wonders. Never take for granted that you live so close to Glacier National Park here in Western Montana.

The hikes in GNP are out of this world, and there are so many. If you want to hit up some of the bigger, best-known hikes, we put together the Big 4: Glacier National Park Hikes, ranked by popularity on the AllTrails app.

Big 4: Glacier National Park Hikes

1) Avalanche Lake

Avalanche Lake is a must-see before you check out. It is the quintessential GNP hike and is backed up by having the most reviews on AllTrails.

Length: 6.1 miles

Elevation gain: 780 ft.

Estimated Time: 2.5-3 hrs.

Type: Out & Back

"The hike to Avalanche Lake is one of the most popular hikes in Glacier National Park due to the lake’s incredibly clear blue waters and the stunning views you will encounter throughout your trip. You can find the Avalanche Lake Trailhead not far from the West Entrance of the park, just past Lake McDonald." - AllTrails

Avalanche Lake. Credit: Everett McIntire (Unsplash)

2) Grinnell Glacier Trail

There are a couple of ways to tackle Grinnell Glacier Trail. The full-length hike is the most challenging and farthest hike, stretching 11.1 miles, taking about 5.5 hours.

Length: 11.1 miles

Elevation gain: 2,047 ft.

Estimated Time: 5.5-6 hrs.

Type: Out & Back

"Grinnell Glacier is an absolute must-see in Glacier National Park. This challenging hike offers something for everyone: glaciers, waterfalls, lakes, forest, wildlife, and incredible views along the way." -AllTrails.com

Grinnell Lake Credit: Dylan Taylor (Unsplash)

3) Hidden Lake Overlook

Another incredible hike to get to a lake? You better believe it. This one is just under three miles, so a little easier than the last couple of hikes.

Length: 2.8 miles

Elevation gain: 567 ft.

Estimated Time: 1.5-2 hrs.

Type: Out & Back

"This trail takes you up and over Hidden Lake Pass to Hidden Lake Overlook. Once you are there, you'll be standing between the towering Clements Mountain and the jagged ridgeline of Reynolds Mountain overlooking Hidden Lake." -AllTrails

4) Iceberg Lake

Iceberg Lake lives up to the name because you're bound to see icebergs floating in the lake due to the lack of sunshine (despite the photo featured below).

Length: 9.7 miles

Elevation gain: 1,453 ft.

Estimated Time: 4.5-5 hrs.

Type: Out & Back

"Many hikers love the challenge of jumping in to the icy lake for a cold plunge!" - AllTrails