The Highline Trail in Glacier National Park is one of the park’s most iconic hikes, renowned for its stunning alpine scenery, diverse wildlife, and unique path along the Continental Divide, often referred to as the Garden Wall.

Stretching roughly 12 miles from Logan Pass to The Loop, the trail is famed for its panoramic views of rugged peaks, glacial valleys, and sweeping alpine meadows.

With much of the route skirting along the Continental Divide, hikers are treated to breathtaking scenery that feels both vast and intimate, as mountain goats, marmots, and wildflowers line the narrow, cliffside path.

What sets the Highline Trail apart is its unique combination of accessibility and adventure.

The trail begins at Logan Pass, a popular starting point along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road, and quickly ascends into a dramatic traverse where the path clings to the mountainside, sometimes only a few feet wide, with sheer drop-offs below.

Chains are bolted into the rock for added security in the narrowest sections, but the views of the Garden Wall, towering cliffs, and distant glaciers make the challenge worthwhile.

One of the highlights along the way is the Grinnell Glacier Overlook Spur Trail, a steep detour that rewards hikers with an unforgettable view of Grinnell Glacier tucked beneath jagged peaks.

From this vantage point, the immensity of the landscape becomes even more striking, as turquoise waters and ancient ice create a surreal alpine scene.

Many hikers choose to finish the trek by descending to The Loop, where a shuttle can return them to Logan Pass, making the journey both manageable and rewarding.

The Highline Trail is best hiked during the summer months, when snow has melted from the high passes and the wildflowers are in full bloom.

Despite its popularity, the trail retains a sense of wild solitude, offering glimpses of untouched wilderness and the grandeur of the Northern Rockies.

It is a hike that captures the essence of Glacier National Park — dramatic landscapes, raw natural beauty, and the thrill of adventure.

Highline Trail Overview

• • Location: Starts at Logan Pass Visitor Center on Going-to-the-Sun Road and stretches to Granite Park Chalet, with options to continue to The Loop or other destinations.

Distance:

• • Logan Pass to Granite Park Chalet: 7.6 miles one-way (15.2 miles round trip).
  • Logan Pass to The Loop (point-to-point): 11.6–12.1 miles.
  • Shorter out-and-back to Haystack Butte: ~7 miles round trip.

Elevation:

• • Gain: ~800 feet for the Logan Pass to The Loop route (minimal for the first 7 miles).
  • Loss: ~3,000 feet from Granite Park Chalet to The Loop.

The actual hike itself can be moderate to challenging, depending on the route. The trail is relatively flat to Granite Park Chalet but long, with exposure and a steep descent to The Loop. The optional Grinnell Glacier Overlook adds a strenuous 0.9-mile climb (1,000 feet elevation gain).

The usual time it takes is 5–8 hours for the one-way Logan Pass to The Loop hike and 3–4 hours for the shorter Haystack Butte round trip.

The best time during the year to take the hike is from July to September, when Going-to-the-Sun Road is open and snow has melted. Check trail status for snowpack, as it can linger into July.

Logistics and Tips

Going-to-the-Sun Road requires a vehicle reservation (May–September, 6:00 AM–5:00 PM). Arrive early or use the park shuttle from St. Mary or Apgar Village. No parking is available at The Loop trailhead.

The free park shuttle connects The Loop to Logan Pass but can have long waits (up to 1 1/2 hours). Check schedules at nps.gov/glac.

No permit is needed for day hiking, but backcountry camping (e.g., Granite Park Chalet or beyond) requires a permit.

There are limited water sources so it’s recommended that 2–3 liters of water be brought per person. A potable water fountain is at Logan Pass, and a stream near Granite Park Chalet requires treatment.

Yes, there are going to be bears, so bring along some bear spray. Also bring along some sunscreen, a sun hat or hooded shirt (little shade), layers for variable weather, high-energy snacks, and sturdy hiking shoes.

Bears are common; make noise, hike in groups, and keep bear spray accessible.

The ledge section is exposed; so you might want to avoid it if you’re Acrophobic.

The trail is very popular, especially the first few miles. Start early (before 7:00 AM) for fewer people and better parking odds.

The Highline Trail is often called Glacier’s “crown jewel” for its nonstop vistas, relatively gentle grade (until the descent to The Loop), and chances to see wildlife and glaciers. Hikers describe it as a bucket-list trek, with the Grinnell Glacier Overlook being a highlight for its jaw-dropping views. Despite its popularity, the trail offers moments of solitude, especially beyond Haystack Butte.

Casting your fly fishing line into Montana’s rivers is a lot like flirting with Mother Nature herself — those trout are just begging to be charmed!

Picture this: you’re knee-deep in the crystal-clear waters of the Madison or Yellowstone River, surrounded by jaw-dropping mountains, with fish so feisty they’d be likely to give even Ricky Gervais a run for his money.

Montana’s got over 3,000 miles of blue-ribbon trout streams — think Big Hole, Gallatin, or the legendary Blackfoot from “A River Runs Through It”.

Are you with me so far? Good. Let’s get you hooked up with Montana’s trout extravaganza!

Here’s the lowdown on prime spots and flies:

Prime Fly Fishing Spots in Montana

• • Madison River: The rock star of trout rivers, near Ennis. It’s got rainbows and browns so big they could star in a fishy action flick. Try the stretch between Quake Lake and Ennis for epic wade fishing.
  • Yellowstone River: Longest undammed river in the lower 48, cutting through Paradise Valley. It’s a buffet of cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout. Launch a drift boat near Livingston for a wild ride.
  • Big Hole River: Near Dillon, this gem’s got grayling and trout galore. Scenic as heck, but don’t get distracted by the views or you’ll miss the bite.
  • Rock Creek: A hidden blue-ribbon stream near Missoula. Tight and technical, it’s like the river’s daring you to nail your cast. Perfect for adventurous anglers.
  • Gallatin River: Think cinematic vibes from “A River Runs Through It”. Fish near Big Sky for easy access and feisty rainbows that’ll test your skills.

Best Flies to Fool Montana’s Trout

Dry Flies:

• • Parachute Adams (#14-18): The Swiss Army knife of flies—works everywhere, all season.
  • Elk Hair Caddis (#14-16): A must for summer evenings when caddisflies are partying.
  • Royal Wulff (#12-16): Flashy and fabulous, perfect for attracting attention on cloudy days.

Nymphs:

• • Pheasant Tail (#16-20): A go-to for mimicking mayfly nymphs under the surface.
  • Prince Nymph (#12-16): Beaded and beautiful, it’s like catnip for trout.
  • Hare’s Ear (#14-18): Versatile enough to fool fish in any river.

Streamers:

• • Woolly Bugger (#6-10): The bad boy of flies—black or olive for aggressive browns.
  • Muddler Minnow (#6-8): Imitates sculpins and drives big fish nuts, especially in fall.

Pro Tips

• • Timing: June to early July for epic hatches; September for fewer crowds and hungry browns. Avoid spooking fish by not splashing around like a big ole grizzly.
  • Gear: A 5-weight rod (8.5-9 ft) is your best buddy for versatility. Pack floating line and a variety of tippets (4X-6X).
  • Guides: If you’re new to Montana’s waters, hire a local guide — they know secrets even the fish haven’t figured out. Check outfits like Montana Fly Fishing Guides or Yellow Dog Flyfishing.
  • Regulations: Montana’s picky about licenses and catch-and-release zones. Grab a license online and check Fish, Wildlife & Parks for rules. Don’t be that guy who gets fined.

Since we’re all vibing with various specifics, let’s dive into lodges, guided trips, and dodging those sneaky Montana summer thunderstorms. I just might add a quick tale about a trout that tried to outsmart me that one time.

Top Montana Fly Fishing Lodges

• • Madison Valley Ranch (Ennis): Right on the Madison River, this place is cozier than a trout in a riffle. Think gourmet meals, hot tubs, and guides who know every fish by name. Perfect for luxury lovers who still want to get their boots wet.
  • The Lodge at Palisades Creek (near Yellowstone River): Tucked in Irwin, Idaho, but close to Montana’s Yellowstone action. Rustic-chic cabins, killer food, and access to private waters. It’s like glamping for anglers.
  • Missouri River Lodge (near Craig): On the Missouri River, this spot’s a nymphing paradise. Comfy rooms, expert guides, and a vibe that screams “fish hard, chill harder.”
  • Big Hole Lodge (Wise River): Small, family-run, and deep in the Big Hole Valley. Great for intimate groups who want solitude and monster browns. Their guides are like fish whisperers.
  • Firehole Ranch (West Yellowstone): High-end with access to Yellowstone Park waters. Think gourmet dining and views that’ll make you forget how to tie a clinch knot.

Tip: Book early (like, now for 2026) ‘cause these spots fill up faster than a hatch on the Madison. Expect $500-$1,000/night for all-inclusive stays with guiding. Check their sites or Yellow Dog Flyfishing for deals.

Guided Trips

• • Montana Fly Fishing Guides (Bozeman): These folks cover the Madison, Yellowstone, and Gallatin like pros. Half-day ($400-$500) or full-day ($600-$800) trips, wade or drift boat. They’ll teach you to cast like a poet.
  • Wild Trout Outfitters (Big Sky): Gallatin and Yellowstone specialists. Their guides are patient enough to untangle your line and your ego. Full-day trips around $650.
  • Montana Angling Company (statewide): Budget-friendly with custom multi-day trips. Great for mixing rivers like the Blackfoot and Bitterroot. ~$550/day for two anglers.
  • Fins & Feathers (Bozeman): Awesome for beginners. They’ll have you mending line like a pro by lunch. Half-day wade trips start at ~$350
  • Pro Tip: Tell your guide your skill level and what you’re chasing (big browns or native cutthroat?). They’ll tailor the trip. Bring cash for tips—$50-$100/day is standard for stellar service.

Dodging Montana’s Summer Thunderstorms

Montana’s summer weather is moodier than a trout during a mayfly hatch. Thunderstorms can pop up like uninvited guests, especially in July and August afternoons. Here’s how to stay dry and safe:

• • Check Forecasts: Use apps like AccuWeather or NOAA’s radar. Storms often hit between 2-6 PM, so plan morning floats or wade sessions.
  • Watch the Sky: Dark, anvil-shaped clouds or sudden wind shifts mean get off the water pronto. Lightning loves open rivers and tall rods.
  • Gear Up: Pack a lightweight rain jacket (Patagonia Nano Puff or similar) and a dry bag for your phone and snacks. Waders help, but don’t trust ‘em in a downpour.
  • Safe Spots: If thunder’s rumbling, ditch your rod (it’s a lightning magnet) and crouch low in a wooded area or your car. Wait 30 minutes after the last rumble before fishing again.
  • Local Hack: Ask guides about “weather windows.” They know when to sneak in a quick session before the sky throws a tantrum.

Oh and … That one time a Trout Stole My Lunch

So, I’m wading the Gallatin, right, feeling like Norman Maclean, when I set my sandwich (PB&J, classic) on a rock to retie a fly.

This cheeky rainbow trout leaps — leaps! — grabs the sandwich in midair, and splashes back like it’s auditioning for Jaws.

I’m standing there, rod in hand, jaw on the riverbed, while this fish is probably off bragging to all his buddies about the best lunch it ever stole.

Moral? Never trust a trout with your snacks, and always pack extras.

Upland game bird season opens Monday, Sept. 1, and archery season opens Sept. 6, coinciding with the kickoff of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ Bear Aware Month.

Upland game bird hunters and archery hunters are often hunting in areas where grizzly bears are active and looking for food, like creek bottoms with chokecherries or mountain areas where summer berries are still lingering. Bear activity begins to increase in September as they look to put on weight in advance of winter hibernation.

Grizzly bears can be found anywhere in the western two-thirds of Montana, and their distribution is denser and more widespread than in previous years. Some areas with dense concentrations of grizzly bears are very accessible to hunters. Keep these precautions in mind when hunting in grizzly country:

• • Carry and know how to use bear spray. Keep it within easy reach and be prepared to use it immediately.
  • Stay alert, especially when hearing or visibility is limited. Watch for environmental indicators of recent bear activity. If there is abundant fresh sign of grizzly bears in the area, consider hunting elsewhere. Let other hunters know when bears and/or fresh sign are observed.
  • Bird hunters should be extra careful while walking in and along areas of brush, especially along waterways. Grizzly bears use thick cover for day beds. Walk with the wind, carry bear spray and keep a close eye on hunting dogs. If there is abundant fresh sign of grizzly bears in the area, consider bird hunting somewhere else.
  • Travel and hunt in groups whenever possible. This can help you make casual noise to alert bears to your presence, and it may also increase your chances survival in the event of a bear attack.
  • Follow all food storage regulations. Contact the applicable land management agency (i.e. U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, etc.) to learn what food storage rules apply where you’re hunting.
  • Avoid carcass sites and concentrations of ravens and other scavengers.
  • Carry the equipment you need to process a carcass and get it out of the field as quickly as possible.
  • If you harvest an animal, remove it from the field as quickly as possible.

For hunting forecast information, visit fwp.mt.gov/hunt/seasons/forecasts.

sourced —

https://fwp.mt.gov/