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
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- 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:
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- 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:
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- 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.
