Glacier National Park: The Best Hikes Under 5 Miles

Glacier National Park, often referred to as the “Crown of the Continent,” offers a stunning array of natural beauty, from rugged mountain peaks to pristine alpine meadows.

It’s a paradise for hikers, with trails that cater to all skill levels. I love Glacier National Park so much, our family visits every year. I’m always blown away by the beauty that surrounds us when we are there.

Driving Going to the Sun Road, sitting by Lake McDonald, and hiking deep into the park are some of the best ways to spend time at Glacier.

This year when we went, I was recovering from surgery, and so we had to look for a few easy hikes to do. Did we miss out? Nope, it was still amazing!

For those seeking short yet rewarding adventures, here’s a list of the top short hikes in Glacier National Park under 5 miles, perfect for travelers who want to experience the park’s majesty without embarking on a lengthy trek.

Best Hikes in Glacier National Park under 5 miles

1. Trail of the Cedars

• Distance: 0.7 miles loop
• Difficulty: Easy
• Description: This wheelchair-accessible, boardwalk nature trail takes you through a lush, ancient cedar forest. It’s an ideal hike for families, offering an intimate experience with nature without much effort. The highlight is a boardwalk section that crosses Avalanche Creek, providing stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and surrounding forest. There is very little elevation gain on this hike.

🏔 If you are feeling up to a little longer hike, you can keep going after the loop and head to Avalanche Lake, one of our favorite spots in the park.

2. Running Eagle Falls

• Distance: 0.6 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Easy
• Description: Also known as “Trick Falls,” this trail leads to a unique waterfall with two distinct flows: one above and one below the rock face, depending on the season. The trail is short and accessible, making it perfect for all ages and skill levels.

3. Avalanche Lake Trail

• Distance: 4.5 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Description: This trail starts with the Trail of the Cedars and then veers off into a scenic climb through the forest. The destination is Avalanche Lake, a serene spot surrounded by cliffs with several waterfalls cascading into the lake. It’s a great place for a picnic and to enjoy the tranquility of nature. This hike has a little more elevation gain than others, but it’s manageable.

4. St. Mary Falls and Virginia Falls

🏔 Don’t stop when you get to the lake! Continue around to the “back side” to get away from the crowds, its a great place to have lunch before heading back!

• Distance: 2.9 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Description: This hike takes you to two stunning waterfalls. The trail first leads to the picturesque St. Mary Falls and then continues to Virginia Falls, offering a more secluded and powerful waterfall experience. The trail offers beautiful views of St. Mary Lake and its surrounding peaks.

5. Hidden Lake Overlook

• Distance: 2.7 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Description: Starting from the Logan Pass Visitor Center, this trail offers spectacular panoramic views of the park. The hike takes you through wildflower meadows and offers a chance to spot wildlife like mountain goats. The overlook provides a breathtaking view of Hidden Lake, a perfect spot for memorable photos.

🏔 Get there early, or take a shuttle, parking at the Logan Pass Visitor Center is hard to find.

About Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park, located in Montana’s Rocky Mountains, is known for its breathtaking landscapes that include over 700 miles of trails. It’s a hiker’s paradise, but also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to see grizzly bears, moose, and mountain goats.

The park is part of the world’s first International Peace Park, a testament to its global significance. You can cross from Glacier National Park into Canada’s Waterton National Park (bring your passport)

Don’t be afraid to head to Glacier in the Winter! You won’t have access to the whole park, but it’s gorgeous, and you’ll have the place mostly to yourself! It’s my favorite time to visit Glacier

Tips for Visiting:

• Stay Prepared: Weather can change quickly, so dress in layers and carry rain gear.
• Bear Safety: Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprise encounters.
• Leave No Trace: Help preserve the park’s natural beauty by packing out all trash.
• Check Trail Conditions: Some trails may be closed due to weather or wildlife activity. Always check the current conditions at the park visitor centers.
• There are 4 Main Entry Points to the Park: There are seven entrances to Glacier National Park, but the main Entry Points are West Glacier in the Lake McDonald area, St. Mary, Two Medicine Lake, and the Many Glacier area entrance. Be sure to check which entrance you should use before your hike.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking to soak in the natural beauty with a short walk, Glacier National Park’s easy hikes under 5 miles round trip offer an unforgettable experience. Happy hiking!