Are dogs allowed on Grinnell Glacier Trail?

No, dogs are not permitted on Grinnell Glacier Trail. This is typical in many national parks and wildlife refuges — check for a nearby dog-friendly alternative.

Do I need a permit to hike Grinnell Glacier Trail?

No, Grinnell Glacier Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Grinnell Glacier Trail?

Grinnell Glacier Trail is rated difficult. It is 10.6 miles long with 1,601 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Grinnell Glacier Trail?

Grinnell Glacier Trail is best hiked in summer. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

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DifficultOut and Back

Glacier National Park/Montana

Grinnell Glacier Trail

East Glacier Park, Montana

10.6 mi

Distance

1,601 ft

Elev. Gain

4h 20m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Difficult

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

Hike to one of the park's most accessible glaciers, passing stunning Swiftcurrent Lake, Lake Josephine, and Grinnell Lake. Views of Grinnell Glacier and Salamander Glacier.

Trail Conditions

Open

Updated Apr 19, 2026 — may be out of date

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

Wildlife encountersChanging weatherUneven terrain

Trail Details

No dogs
Kid-friendly

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Rock

Official sources & verification

Managed by National Park Service

Verify before you go

Source of truth

National Park Service unit page
Alerts, conditions, and the unit's plan-your-visit page.

Verify by phone or mail

Operator:406-888-7800
Address:64 Grinnell Drive, Glacier National Park Headquarters · West Glacier, MT · 59936

Best Seasons

Summer

Highlights

Grinnell GlacierUpper Grinnell LakeSalamander GlacierBighorn sheepWaterfalls

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

Verified from National Park Service public trails dataset

Trail centerline: National Park Service public trails dataset. Source ↗

Grinnell Glacier Trail

About This Trail

Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions

Hazards & Warnings

Trail Details

Best Seasons

Highlights

Reviews

No reviews yet

Nearby Trails

Iceberg Lake Trail

Cracker Lake Trail

Highline Trail

Hidden Lake Overlook

Deadwood Falls

Baring Falls Via Piegan Pass Trail

Other trails in Glacier National Park

Highline Trail

Iceberg Lake Trail

Hidden Lake Overlook

Avalanche Lake Trail

Deadwood Falls

Quartz Lake Loop Trail

Campgrounds near this trail

Many Glacier Campground

Flattop Campground

Avalanche Creek

St. Mary Campground

Divide Creek Campground

Heart of Glacier RV Park & Cabins

Similar trails in Montana

Highline Trail

Iceberg Lake Trail

Beehive Basin Trail No. 40

Sypes Canyon

Danny On National Recreation Trail

Bass Creek Trail