Backpacking trails in Glacier National Park

Backpacking in Glacier National Park is spectacular, with some of the best scenery in North America. We’ve shared some of our favourite backpacking routes here, and this includes some of the classic trails in Glacier National Park.

Whether you are looking for a weekend trip, or planning on booking an epic, week-long backpack, you’ll need to get permits. While there are often walk-in permits, it is preferable to reserve your permits in advance. The NPS website for Glacier National Park has great information about how to use their modified lottery system. We’ve used this system, and found the lottery system to function very well.

So start planning your next backpacking trip to Montana’s Glacier National Park!

Best Backpack Trails in Glacier National Park

1. North Circle Trail (89.3 km, 4,026 m, 4-6 days): This is the backpack in Glacier. Though it’s hard to get a permit, this is an incredible route, providing enormous variety and some of the best views in Glacier National Park.
2. Pitamakan-Dawson Loop (28.4 km, 958 m, 1-3 days): Another great backpack in Glacier National Park, this route can be done in a single day, but it’s much more fun to do it as an overnight backpack.
3. Boulder Pass (39.6 km, 968 m, 2-3 days): Another great backpacking trail in Glacier National Park, this one goes into a more remote part of Glacier. This can be done in 2 long days, but is best done as a 3-day trip.
4. Extended Highline (61.8 km, 3,035 m, 3-4 days): While many hikers enjoy the lower highline hike, from Logan Pass to Granite Park Chalet, this trail continues along the Upper Highline trail, home to some of the best views in Glacier. It’s very hard to get permits for this route, however it is spectacular if you do get them.

Best Time to Go Backpacking in Glacier National Park in 2026

Glacier’s backpacking season is short and weather-dependent. Most high routes, including the Highline and the North Circle, are not reliably snow-free until mid-July, and by late September snow can return to the passes. July to mid-September is the sweet spot, with wildflowers peaking in July and quieter trails and autumn colour in September. The Going-to-the-Sun Road, which reaches Logan Pass and several trailheads, usually opens fully in late June or July, so check the road status before you build a trip around it.

Planning Your 2026 Glacier Backpacking Trip

Planning a Glacier backpacking trip for 2026? Overnight trips need a backcountry permit, and demand far outstrips supply for the marquee loops, with the North Circle and the Extended Highline especially hard to draw. The advance application window opens in spring through Recreation.gov, with a smaller pool of permits released closer to your dates, so apply as early as you can and keep backup itineraries ready.

Looking wider? Explore more backpacking trails in Montana or backpacking routes across the USA, or pair your trip with the day hikes in Glacier National Park. Prefer to have it organised? Browse our worldwide hiking tours or our guided tours across North America.

Frequently Asked Questions About Backpacking in Glacier National Park

Do you need a guide to backpack in Glacier National Park?

No. Glacier’s backcountry is well-signed and you can backpack it independently once you hold a permit. A guided trip is an option if you’d rather have the logistics, permits and food handled for you, but it isn’t required.

How much does a Glacier backcountry permit cost?

Expect a per-person, per-night camping fee, plus a non-refundable fee to enter the advance permit application. Rates are set each season, so check for the current year before you apply.

Do you need bear spray in Glacier?

Glacier is home to both grizzly and black bears, so carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it is strongly recommended. Use the food-storage devices provided at backcountry campsites, cook away from your tent, and make noise on the trail to avoid surprising wildlife.

Which Glacier backpacking trail is best for first-timers?

Of the routes here, the Pitamakan-Dawson Loop is the most approachable: it is rated moderate and works as a one to three-day trip. The North Circle and the Extended Highline are far harder, both to complete and to get a permit for, so they suit experienced backpackers.