Cracker Lake Trail
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Difficulty Rating:
Cracker Lake's hike reveals stunning views of the canyon while leading you to the magical alpine lake. But before beautiful vistas envelop you, you'll have to travel along a horse loop for 2.0mi, which may not produce the most pleasant smells in the world. Once you're past this initial part of the trail, it becomes incredibly scenic and definitely worth the initial slog!
Getting there
Start the Cracker Lake Trail from the top end of the parking lot at Many Glacier. From Babb, on US 89, take Rte 3 into Glacier National Park Many Glacier Entrance. Continue for roughly 11.0mi (through the gates) to Many Glacier hotel.
About
| When to do | May - October |
| Pets allowed | No |
| Family friendly | Older Children only |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | High |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Cracker Lake Trail
Elevation Graph
Cracker Lake Trail Description
Expect a muddy, buggy first 2.0mi, as horses from Many Glacier share this trail! Later in the season, it may be scorched and rutted – either way, the first 2.0mi are quite challenging to get through. But beauty awaits you on the other side!
The hike begins at the Piegan Pass/Cracker Lake trailhead at the end of the parking lot in Many Glacier. Following the trail along the horse loop for the first 2.0mi, you will eventually cross a small bridge over Allen Creek, which will bring you to the end of the horse loop. At this point, hikers should head straight through the junction and will notice the conditions of the trail improve significantly.
The trail begins to ascend along switchbacks. After another 1.0mi, you will catch a glimpse of a large waterfall cascading through the trees ahead. Another 1.0mi later, you will reach a break in the forest and views of the canyon will emerge into view. Shortly after, roughly 0.5mi after viewing the canyon for the first time, you will cross canyon creek and reenter the forest for another 1.0mi.
Once you leave the forest, at roughly 4.8mi from the trailhead, you will experience unobstructed views until you reach the lake. You can not see the lake at this point, but canyon vista is spectacular. After another 1.0mi, the lake will start to inch into the foreground. You can stop here and head back, or if you have the energy, continue onwards to the abandoned Cracker Lake Mine and the lake itself.
Find more epic hikes in Glacier National Park
Insider Hints
This is prime grizzly country - be bear aware. Bring bear spray, travel in groups, make plenty of noise as you come around twists and turns. Your odds of seeing a grizzly on this hike are very high.
Do note that there is a three-site campground nearby, so you can always opt to turn this into a backpacking trip.
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Ben Hanes 4 years ago
The cascading waterfalls was a glorious sight to behold. As you can imagine, this hike is short but beautiful.
maxjohanson 4 years ago
This is simply an experience not to be missed.
Polina Ivanov 5 years ago
It really cure my stress from studying. Nature is amazing.
Amanda P. 5 years ago
This hike is so cool. After catching glimpse of the cascading waterfall I got very excited. Do you know that feeling after seeing your favorite dessert? It's pretty much the same for me.