Glacier Crest Trail
The Glacier Crest Trail is a 12.7 km out-and-back hiking route in Glacier National Park that offers awesome views over the rugged mountains and the nearby Illecillewaet Glacier. Hike up the steep incline and winding switchbacks along the trail to arrive at the pole marking the end of the trail, from which point a further 100m trek will bring you to an amazing vantage point over the glacier. This trail is both a great workout and an opportunity to experience some beautiful BC terrain.
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Route Description for Glacier Crest Trail
The Glacier Crest Trail is a popular hiking route in Glacier National Park that takes hikers on a steep uphill climb to experience amazingly scenic views that look out over the immense body of the Illecillewaet Glacier. With an elevation gain of 1114m, this 12.7 kmkm grind will lead you up a series of switchbacks before climbing up the steep scree to reach a crest overlooking the frosty glacier. Looking back across the valley, you will be able to see the Cheops and Grizzly Mountains on the other side of Highway 1, and to the northeast, you will find Mount Sir Donald. The Glacier Crest Trail may be difficult, but if you can find the energy to hike an extra 100m past the end-of-trail marker, you will be rewarded with some truly picturesque views.
Getting to the Glacier Crest Trail Trailhead
To get to the parking area for the Glacier Crest Trail from Revelstoke, drive east on BC-1 E for 60.0 km and utilize the roadside parking lot on your right, where you will find the trailhead. Alternatively, turn right 300 m past this parking area, where you will find parking at the Illecillewaet Campground. This alternate start point will take 1.0 km off the start of your hike.
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Glacier Crest Trail Elevation Graph
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