Would you cross a creek on a rickety log bridge if it led to one of the most beautiful lakes you’d ever seen? What if the trail was almost 13 miles long? If you’re up for this adventure, you must experience Glacier National Park’s Cracker Lake Trail.
You’ll find the Cracker lake trailhead at the south end of the parking lot above the Many Glacier Hotel.
Robert Brennan / alltrails.com Almost immediately, you’ll notice a split in the trail. Keep left to head to Cracker Lake.
For the first couple of miles, you’ll hike through thick forest… but before long, you’ll reach an opening that provides some great views of the Cracker Flats area.
Yushan Han / alltrails.com
The log bridges (there are a couple) are a minor, but necessary, part of the hike.
Albert Dedden / alltrails.com
There’s no need to worry if you have a fear of heights – they’re tame.
Jeff Rose / alltrails.com
Eventually, you’ll reach the breathtaking Cracker Lake, the highlight of your journey.
Justin Camp / alltrails.com
Cracker Lake is considered one of the most underrated parts of the park, and it’s easy to see why.
DZHeine / TripAdvisor Its vibrant turquoise hue is amazing to see in person.
Once you reach the lake, get comfortable and stay awhile.
Eveleentrow / TripAdvisor Since the trail is so long, many people choose to spend the night here. Backcountry camping is allowed.
There’s even an old mining site in the area.
cestovatel25 / TripAdvisor The Cracker Lake Mine was established in 1897 after copper was discovered on the south shores, but it was eventually determined that it wouldn’t be profitable.
Some bridges are worth crossing.
Robert Brennan / alltrails.com This trail is ranked as moderate, so if you’re a relatively experienced hiker who can handle a long walk through nature, you should add it to your summer bucket list.
Glacier National Park is full of gorgeous hiking trails. If this one seems a little long for you, check out this short and sweet trek.
Robert Brennan / alltrails.com
Almost immediately, you’ll notice a split in the trail. Keep left to head to Cracker Lake.
Yushan Han / alltrails.com
Albert Dedden / alltrails.com
Jeff Rose / alltrails.com
Justin Camp / alltrails.com
DZHeine / TripAdvisor
Its vibrant turquoise hue is amazing to see in person.
Eveleentrow / TripAdvisor
Since the trail is so long, many people choose to spend the night here. Backcountry camping is allowed.
cestovatel25 / TripAdvisor
The Cracker Lake Mine was established in 1897 after copper was discovered on the south shores, but it was eventually determined that it wouldn’t be profitable.
This trail is ranked as moderate, so if you’re a relatively experienced hiker who can handle a long walk through nature, you should add it to your summer bucket list.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
