Great Glacier Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2.5-3.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
7.9 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
420 m
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Directions to Trailhead
Great Glacier Trail

The Great Glacier Trail is an 7.9 km out-and back hiking route in Glacier National Park that features waterfalls, as well as amazing views of the Vaux Glacier and Mount Sir Donald. This hiking route travels along some fairly easy terrain and has a small elevation gain, making it a fun trek for hikers of all skill levels, including families. This is a low effort/high reward hiking route that should definitely be on your list if you are looking to explore the natural beauty of Glacier National Park.

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Route Description for Great Glacier Trail

The Great Glacier Trail is a popular hike in Glacier National Park due to its easy-to-navigate terrain, beautiful landscape, and scenic views. The trail climbs uphill through the forest on a well-worn path that largely skirts alongside the Illecillewaet River for the length of the route. Hiking along the forested route, you will be able to hear the rushing waters of the river as you make your way past some immense boulders that are scattered throughout the area on the way to a bridge crossing. While crossing the bridge over Asulkan Brook, you will be able to spot a waterfall next to Vaux Glacier, as well as Cheops and Grizzly mountains to the northwest across Highway 1.

After the bridge crossing, the trail will begin to climb uphill through the forest along a series of switchbacks, eventually opening up to offer amazing views of the glacier. The next part of the trail is fairly exposed, first along some rocky terrain, before coming to a beautiful alpine meadow. Continue along the trail as you take in the awesome views of Vaux Glacier and Mount Sir Donald, eventually making your way over a shallow creek by hopping across some large boulders. Having reached the end of the trail, rest up and have a quick snack while enjoying the scenic views before setting back out on the Great Glacier Trail to return to your vehicle below.

Getting to the Great Glacier Trail Trailhead

To reach the parking area for the Great Glacier Trail from Revelstoke, head east on BC-1 E for 60.0 km and park at the roadside parking lot on your right to access the trailhead. Alternatively, you can turn right 300 m after the parking lot to access the parking at Illecillewaet Campground and shave 1.0 km off the beginning of your hike.

Route Information

  • When to do

    May-October

  • Backcountry Campsites

    Illecillewaet Campground

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Great Glacier Trail Elevation Graph

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