Glacier (CA) – Glacier Crest Trail
See glaciers and unique nature on the steep Glacier Crest Trail in Glacier National Park.
Single-day Hike
7h
Description
This hike follows the Asulkan Valley Trail for the first 2 kilometers. The steep Glacier Crest Trail then starts off on the left and winds up the mountain through dense forest. At kilometer 7 the forest opens up to a rocky path that leads up to the ridge. At the trail-end, this hike offers dramatic views of two glaciers – Asulkan and Illecillewaet.
For those of you suffering from vertigo: The trail is quite steep and is marked as ‘difficult’ due to that. However, if you stay on the path, no part of the trek is exposed.
What to bring
- Bike and Hike essentials
- Bear spray
- Be prepared for unpredictable weather
Tips
- Go in good weather, otherwise you will not be able to see the glaciers (see pictures below)
- Check the campground near the trailhead for a chalk board detailing bear sightings of the last couple of days. When we were there, there were several sightings per day and on a couple of the trails (and there was also heaps of scat along the trails). Be careful especially in foggy weather, make noise, ideally go in groups of at least 4, and know how to behave should you encounter a bear even though they are mostly harmless.
