Glacier National Park has some of our state’s most scenic hiking trails, many of which stay popular — and therefore crowded — during it’s peak season. If you want a more private hike, you’ll often have to choose one of the longer, more strenuous trails. The Cracker Lake Trail is definitely not an easy journey, but if you’re up for the challenge, it’s well worth it.
The Cracker Lake trailhead is located at the south end of the parking lot above the Many Glacier Hotel.
Robert Brennan / alltrails.com The first couple of miles take you through a thick forest, and you might be sharing the path with people on horseback.
A few miles in, the forested area clears away, and you’ll have some fantastic views of the lake.
Madisyn Taylor / alltrails.com You might even spot some mountain goats on the trail.
You may be tempted to turn around once you’ve taken in the views of the lake, but it’s worth going the extra mile to see it up close.
Nikki Evans / alltrails.com Cracker Lake looks turquoise in the sunlight.
This vibrant blue hue is the result of glacial flour and mine runoff in the area.
Robert Brennan / alltrails.com You’ll want a nice, close look.
The length from the beginning of the trailhead to the lake is just over 6 miles, meaning the entire duration is about 12.5.
Gregory Heimann / alltrails.com Obviously, this won’t be feasible for some Montanans, meaning the lake stays quiet and uncrowded.
Eventually, you’ll come to the Cracker Lake Mine remains.
cestovatel25 / TripAdvisor The mine was established in 1897 after copper was discovered on the south shore of the lake.
There have been quite a few bear sightings on this trail, which is understandable considering it’s grizzly territory.
Justin Camp / alltrails.com Travel in a group, make lots of noise, and carry bear spray.
This is one of the most visually stunning trails in Glacier National Park. You’ll see a little bit of everything, scenery wise.
Justin Camp / alltrails.com If you’d rather make it an overnight adventure, get a backcountry camping permit and spend the night by the beautiful lake.
Would you attempt the Cracker Lake Trail in order to get some peace and quiet? If you’re not a fan of crowds, here’s a list of peaceful places to go.
Robert Brennan / alltrails.com
The first couple of miles take you through a thick forest, and you might be sharing the path with people on horseback.
Madisyn Taylor / alltrails.com
You might even spot some mountain goats on the trail.
Nikki Evans / alltrails.com
Cracker Lake looks turquoise in the sunlight.
You’ll want a nice, close look.
Gregory Heimann / alltrails.com
Obviously, this won’t be feasible for some Montanans, meaning the lake stays quiet and uncrowded.
cestovatel25 / TripAdvisor
The mine was established in 1897 after copper was discovered on the south shore of the lake.
Justin Camp / alltrails.com
Travel in a group, make lots of noise, and carry bear spray.
If you’d rather make it an overnight adventure, get a backcountry camping permit and spend the night by the beautiful lake.
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