Top 5 Guided Hikes in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a hiker's paradise, filled with hundreds of miles of trails winding through glacially carved mountain scenery, pristine lakes, and alpine forests. Whether hiking to pristine alpine lakes or navigating through dense forests, the park offers endless opportunities for exploration. While venturing out on your own is rewarding, a guided tour with a knowledgeable expert is the best to enhance your experience and get the most out of Glacier National Park

From seasoned hikers to first-timer visitors, a local guide will help you learn more about the park’s most popular destinations, unique geology, and how to hike with confidence. With hundreds of miles to choose from, picking the best trail and guided hike can be a challenge. Below are five unforgettable guided hikes, each offering a different perspective of Glacier National Park's outstanding wilderness.

Top 5 Guided Hikes in Glacier National Park

1 - Avalanche Lake & Trail of the Cedars

The Avalanche Lake Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Glacier National Park, known for its picturesque mountain backdrop and dense forests. This moderate 4.5-mile round-trip hike takes you through an old-growth cedar grove and alongside the Avalanche Creek gorge. This impressive and fast-moving creek is a great place to see the power of glacial water as it carves its way through the valley.

As you travel along the trail through the dense rainforest-like environment you'll follow the creek further up the valley before the trail opens up to the breathtaking sight of Avalanche Lake, surrounded by towering cliffs and the iconic cascading waterfalls.

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Duration: 5 Miles
• Highlights: Family-friendly trail, stunning lake views, forest walk

Book Now - Guided Hike to Avalanche Lake

Avalanche Lake is a great choice if you're interested in learning about the unique environments and geography of Glacier National Park. The trail is well-suited for families, offering a relatively easy route with plenty of places to stop and enjoy the surroundings. With a guide, you’ll learn about the park’s glacial history, local wildlife, and the unique plant species that thrive in this area. 

2 - The Highline Trail

For those seeking a more adventurous and longer full-day journey, the Highline Trail is a must. This iconic hike follows the Continental Divide along the dramatic cliffs of the Garden Wall, offering panoramic views of the park’s rugged peaks and valleys. Be mindful if you plan to book this guided hike, the trail is narrow at points, with a steep drop-off on one side, adding a thrilling element for experienced hikers.

Guided hikes along the Highline begin from Logan Pass located at the summit of Going-to-the-Sun Road. Booking a guided tour is one of the best ways to avoid crowded parking lots and experience the best of Glacier National Park, without the hassle.

• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
• Distance: 8 Miles
• Highlights: Stunning mountain vistas, wildflowers in bloom during the summer, frequent sightings of bighorn sheep and mountain goats

Book Now - Guided Hike on The Highline

The Highline Trail is ideal for hikers looking for a moderate challenge and breathtaking scenery. This trail isn't typically recommended for young children due to its exposure and length, but it's perfect for adventurous families with older kids. Hiking with a guide is an excellent way to learn about the alpine regions of the park, identify the numerous wildflowers, and understand the geological story of the Continental Divide.

3 - Hidden Lake Overlook

Though shorter in distance, the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail offers no shortage of outstanding views. Beginning from Logan Pass, this easy-to-moderate trail rewards you with a commanding view of Bearhat Mountain and the sparkling waters of Hidden Lake below. The alpine meadows along the way bloom with wildflowers in summer, and the frequent sightings of mountain goats make this trail an accessible yet unforgettable experience for hikers of all levels.

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Distance: 3 Miles
• Highlights: Views of Hidden Lake, alpine meadows full of wildflowers, and frequent mountain goat sightings

Book Now - Guided Hike to Hidden Lake Overlook

Hidden Lake Overlook is a great option for families or beginner hikers who still want to experience the dramatic beauty of Glacier’s higher elevations. A guide will make the hike even more memorable by offering insights into the fragile alpine ecosystem, explaining how the area’s glaciers shaped the landscape, and helping you spot wildlife like mountain goats that are commonly seen along the trail. This shorter hike is accessible but still offers one of the most stunning vistas in the park.

4 - Many Glacier Valley

Nestled in the park’s northeastern corner, the Many Glacier Valley is often dubbed the "Heart of Glacier National Park," and it’s easy to see why. With towering glacial peaks, idyllic alpine lakes, and common wildlife sightings, this valley offers one of the park’s richest hiking experiences.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Distance: 6 Miles
• Highlights: Outstanding mountain views, alpine lakes, frequent wildlife sightings

Book Now - Many Glacier Guided Day Hike

This hike through Many Glacier Valley is perfect for those seeking a truly immersive experience in Glacier National Park. With its breathtaking mountain views, serene lakes, and the chance to encounter wildlife up close, it’s an adventure that captures the very essence of Glacier National Park. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a memorable day in nature, this hike offers something for everyone—a chance to reconnect with the outdoors and witness some of the most iconic landscapes in the park.

5 - East Glacier Cultural Nature Hike

The East Glacier Cultural Nature Hike offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local cultural insight. This guided hike takes you through the stunning landscapes near East Glacier Park and provides a rare opportunity to learn about the rich history and traditions of the Blackfeet Nation.

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Distance: 5-7 Miles
• Highlights: Blackfeet cultural stories, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes

Book Now - East Glacier Cultural Nature Hike

The East Glacier and Badger Two-Medicine areas are home to a diverse ecosystem and significant cultural importance. As you hike through this dynamic landscape, your guide will help you identify native plants and trees used for traditional medicines and food by the Blackfeet people.

This hike is perfect for those who not only enjoy the natural beauty of Glacier National Park but also want to connect with the area's indigenous heritage. Your local Blackfeet guide will share their stories, traditions, and cultural perspectives that offer a deeper understanding of the landscape and its significance to the local Native American tribes.

Customize Your Own Private Guided Hike

For a more personalized experience, consider booking a Private Glacier National Park Tour tailored to your interests and fitness level. The fully customizable tours allow you to plan the perfect itinerary and spend more time getting to know Glacier. Choose between popular hikes such as Avalanche Lake or The Highline or opt for one of the lesser-known trails and dodge the crowds.

Whether you're looking to explore hidden gems off the beaten path, dive deeper into the park’s geology and wildlife, or enjoy a leisurely pace with family, your expert guide will work with you to create the perfect adventure, ensuring that your hike includes the views, trails, and experiences you value most.

Why Choose A Guided Hike?

A guided hike in Glacier National Park offers more than just a walk through nature; it’s an immersive journey into the park’s rich history, geology, and wildlife. With an expert leading the way, you’ll learn more than the average visitor to top destinations, discover fascinating stories behind the landscape, and hike safely with confidence—transforming your visit into an experience that stays with you for a lifetime.

With knowledgeable guides leading the way, you'll not only witness some of Glacier's most iconic sights but also gain unique insights that make your adventure even more enriching and memorable. Each step in this outstanding landscape draws you closer to the beauty and spirit of Glacier National Park, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Let the stories of the land, the wildlife, and the people inspire your next adventure, and experience the profound connection that only a place like Glacier National Park can offer.