How to Hike the Highline Trail East

The Highline Trail East is one of the most iconic and breathtaking hiking experiences in North America, winding along the eastern edge of Glacier National Park in Montana. Renowned for its dramatic cliffside views, alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers, and unparalleled access to some of the most untouched wilderness in the contiguous United States, the trail attracts hikers from around the globe. While often confused with the more frequently traveled Highline Trail (which runs from Logan Pass to the Granite Park Chalet), the Highline Trail East refers to the extended eastern segment that continues beyond Granite Park toward the Many Glacier area, offering a more remote, less crowded, and deeply immersive journey through the heart of the Rockies.

Understanding how to hike the Highline Trail East requires more than just physical preparationit demands strategic planning, environmental awareness, and a respect for the rugged terrain and unpredictable mountain weather. This guide is designed to equip you with everything you need to know to safely and successfully complete this challenging yet rewarding route. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or an ambitious day-hiker seeking an unforgettable adventure, this comprehensive tutorial will walk you through every critical stepfrom trailhead logistics and gear selection to navigation, safety, and Leave No Trace principles.

Unlike many popular trails that have been heavily commercialized, the Highline Trail East retains a sense of solitude and raw natural beauty that is increasingly rare. Hiking it correctly means honoring its history, preserving its ecology, and approaching it with humility. This guide is your roadmap to doing just that.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Route and Distance

The Highline Trail East is not a single, clearly marked trail with fixed endpointsits a sequence of connected trails and ridgelines that extend from the Granite Park Chalet area eastward toward the Many Glacier region. The most commonly attempted full route spans approximately 22 to 25 miles, depending on your starting and ending points. The trail typically begins at the Logan Pass Visitor Center (elevation 6,646 feet), follows the classic Highline Trail to Granite Park Chalet (about 5.5 miles), then continues along the hidden eastern spur that climbs over Haystack Butte, descends into the Belly River Valley, and ascends again toward the Swiftcurrent Pass area.

Most hikers complete the Highline Trail East as a point-to-point trek, requiring shuttle coordination or a two-car system. The trail does not loop back on itself, so planning your transportation in advance is non-negotiable. Some choose to hike only the eastern extension from Granite Park to Many Glacier (roughly 1214 miles), which still offers the most dramatic sections of the route.

2. Obtain Required Permits and Reservations

Glacier National Park operates under a strict permit system for backcountry camping and certain trail access points. If you plan to spend the night on the Highline Trail East, you must secure a backcountry permit through the National Park Services online reservation system. Permits are released 60 days in advance and fill up quickly, especially during peak season (late June through early September). Day hikers do not require a permit, but they must still register at the visitor center for safety tracking purposes.

Additionally, if you plan to use the parks shuttle system to reach Logan Pass, you must reserve a spot on the Going-to-the-Sun Road shuttle during peak hours (typically 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.). These shuttles operate on a first-come, first-served basis with online reservations, and failure to secure one may require a very early start or a long drive to alternate trailheads.

3. Choose Your Timing Wisely

The optimal window to hike the Highline Trail East is mid-July through mid-September. By mid-July, most of the snowpack has melted from the high-elevation sections, and wildflowers are in full bloom. Early July can still feature lingering snowfields on exposed ridges, particularly near Haystack Butte and Swiftcurrent Pass, requiring crampons and ice axe proficiency. Late September brings cooler temperatures and the potential for early snowstorms, which can make trail navigation hazardous.

Avoid hiking during thunderstorm season (typically mid-afternoon in July and August). The exposed ridgelines of the Highline Trail East offer no shelter, and lightning strikes are a real danger. Start your hike before sunrise to maximize daylight and minimize exposure to afternoon storms.

4. Plan Your Transportation

Because the Highline Trail East is a point-to-point route, you must arrange transportation between the start and end points. The most common strategy involves two vehicles: one parked at Logan Pass and another at the Many Glacier Hotel or the Swiftcurrent Auto Camp. If you dont have access to two cars, you can use a private shuttle service such as Glacier National Park Shuttle or a local taxi company that operates in the area. Confirm availability well in advanceoptions are limited and prices rise during peak season.

Public shuttles do not run between Logan Pass and Many Glacier. You cannot rely on the Going-to-the-Sun Road shuttle for this transfer, as it operates only on the west side of the park. Plan your drop-off and pickup times with precision, allowing for a buffer of at least one hour in case of delays.

5. Pack the Right Gear

Essential gear for the Highline Trail East includes:

• Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support and waterproofingrocky, uneven terrain demands reliable traction.
• Layered clothing including moisture-wicking base layers, a fleece or insulated mid-layer, and a waterproof shell. Temperatures can drop below 40F even in summer.
• Navigation tools: a physical map (National Geographic Trails Illustrated

  789), a compass, and a GPS device with offline maps. Cell service is nonexistent along most of the route.

• Hydration system: at least 3 liters of water capacity. There are no reliable water sources between Granite Park and Swiftcurrent Pass; you must carry all water or treat from alpine streams.
• Food: high-calorie, lightweight meals for 12 days. Plan for 2,5003,500 calories per day depending on exertion level.
• First aid kit: include blister care, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
• Emergency supplies: whistle, headlamp with extra batteries, fire starter, space blanket, and a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger (e.g., Garmin inReach).

Do not underestimate the wind exposure on the trail. Even on sunny days, wind chill can make conditions feel significantly colder. A windproof outer layer is non-negotiable.

6. Start at Logan Pass and Hike to Granite Park Chalet

The classic Highline Trail begins at the Logan Pass Visitor Center. From the parking lot, follow the signed trailhead to the west. The first 1.5 miles are relatively gentle, climbing through subalpine fir and mountain hemlock forests. Around the 2-mile mark, youll reach the famous Highline section: a narrow, exposed path carved into the mountainside with steep drop-offs on your right. This is where the trail earns its reputation.

Stay focused. The trail is well-maintained but narrow in placessome sections are only 18 inches wide. Use handholds where provided, and avoid distractions like taking photos while walking on exposed ledges. Keep children and pets close at all times.

After 5.5 miles, youll reach Granite Park Chalet, a historic 1914 stone lodge operated by Glacier National Park. This is a natural rest stop. Even if youre not staying overnight, the chalet offers a water spigot, restrooms, and a small snack counter (seasonal). Use this opportunity to refill water, eat a meal, and assess your energy levels before continuing east.

7. Navigate the Eastern Extension: From Granite Park to Swiftcurrent Pass

After Granite Park, the trail becomes less defined. Look for cairns (rock piles) marking the path as it climbs northeast toward Haystack Butte. This section is often called the Haystack Traverse. The trail ascends 800 feet over 1.5 miles through a boulder field and scree slope. This is the most technically challenging portion of the entire route. Use trekking poles for stability, and test each step before committing your weight.

At the summit of Haystack Butte (elevation 7,400 feet), youll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Belly River Valley and the distant peaks of the Lewis Range. Take a moment here to orient yourselfthis is the last high point before the descent.

The descent into the Belly River Valley is steep and loose. Watch for signs of recent rockfall and avoid walking directly beneath overhanging cliffs. The trail reappears as a faint path along the valley floor, following the riverbed for approximately 2 miles. This section is often muddy and overgrown with willows. Wear gaiters to keep debris out of your boots.

As you approach Swiftcurrent Pass, the trail begins to climb again. The final 1.8 miles are steep and exposed, but the views of Swiftcurrent Lake and the surrounding peaks are among the most spectacular in the park. The trail ends at the Swiftcurrent Pass trail junction, where you can connect to the trail leading down to Many Glacier Hotel (about 3.5 miles) or continue on to the Lake Sherburne area.

8. Complete the Final Leg to Many Glacier

From Swiftcurrent Pass, follow the signed trail down to the Many Glacier area. The descent is long and relentlessover 2,000 feet of elevation loss over 3.5 miles. Take frequent breaks, hydrate, and stretch your quads and calves. This section is often the most fatiguing due to the cumulative elevation loss and accumulated miles.

At Many Glacier, youll reach the hotel parking area or the trailhead for the Grinnell Glacier Trail. If youve arranged a shuttle or vehicle pickup, this is your destination. If youre continuing your journey, you can connect to other trails in the Many Glacier region, including the Iceberg Lake or Two Medicine trails.

9. Leave No Trace and Exit the Trail

Before you leave the trail, conduct a final sweep of your campsite or rest area. Pack out everything you brought in, including food scraps, toilet paper, and hygiene products. Even biodegradable items can disrupt fragile alpine ecosystems. If you used a cathole for waste, ensure it was dug at least 68 inches deep and located at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and campsites.

Report your completion to the park visitor center if required. This helps rangers track trail usage and respond to emergencies more efficiently.

Best Practices

1. Acclimate Before You Hike

Glacier National Park sits at high elevation, and altitude sickness is a real concern. If youre coming from sea level or a low-elevation area, spend at least one full day in the park before attempting the Highline Trail East. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and rest. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If you experience these, descend immediately and seek medical advice.

2. Travel in Groups of Three or More

While solo hiking is permitted, the Highline Trail East is remote and unforgiving. Traveling with at least two other people increases safety dramatically. If someone is injured, one person can stay with them while another seeks help. Always inform someone not on the hike of your itinerary and expected return time.

3. Monitor Wildlife Activity

Grizzly bears and black bears are common in this region. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Store food and scented items in bear-resistant containers or hang them at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from the trunk of a tree. Never hike with food in your backpack unless its sealed in a bear canister. Make noise on blind corners and in dense brushmost bears will avoid humans if they hear you coming.

Also be alert for mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and moose. While generally non-aggressive, they can become dangerous if startled or if you get too close. Maintain a distance of at least 100 yards from all wildlife.

4. Stay on the Trail

Trampling vegetation on the Highline Trail East damages fragile alpine ecosystems that take decades to recover. Stick to the established path, even if it appears muddy or overgrown. Cutting switchbacks or creating new trails accelerates erosion and disrupts native plant communities.

5. Prepare for Rapid Weather Changes

Mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable. A clear morning can turn into a thunderstorm by noon. Always carry rain gear, even if the forecast looks perfect. Temperatures can drop 20F in under an hour. If you hear thunder or see dark clouds forming, seek shelter immediatelydo not wait. Avoid standing on ridgelines or under isolated trees.

6. Hydrate and Fuel Strategically

At high elevations, your body dehydrates faster. Drink water every 2030 minutes, even if you dont feel thirsty. Electrolyte tablets or powder can help maintain sodium balance. Eat small snacks every hourtrail mix, energy bars, dried fruit, and jerky are ideal. Avoid heavy meals that can cause sluggishness.

7. Know When to Turn Back

There is no shame in turning back. If youre fatigued, the weather turns, or youre unsure of your route, retreat to the nearest safe point. The Highline Trail East is not a race. The most successful hikers are those who prioritize safety over summiting. Your next hike will still be there tomorrow.

Tools and Resources

1. Recommended Maps and Apps

National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map

789 Glacier National Park

AllTrails Pro: Offers offline map downloads and user-submitted trail reports. Use it as a supplementary tool, not a primary navigation source.

Gaia GPS: Excellent for route planning and tracking. Download offline maps of Glacier National Park before entering the park.

2. Essential Gear Brands

• Footwear: Salomon, La Sportiva, or Merrell for rugged, waterproof hiking boots.
• Backpacks: Osprey Atmos AG 65 for multi-day trips; Deuter Speed Lite 24 for day hikes.
• Water filtration: Sawyer Squeeze or Katadyn BeFree for lightweight, reliable purification.
• Bear spray: Counter Assault or UDAPchoose one with a 30-foot range and a safety clip.
• Lighting: Black Diamond Storm Headlamp with red-light mode for night navigation without disturbing wildlife.
• Communication: Garmin inReach Mini 2 for two-way satellite messaging and SOS.

3. Official Park Resources

Visit the Glacier National Park official website for real-time trail conditions, shuttle schedules, and backcountry permit availability. The parks backcountry office at the Apgar Visitor Center provides free trail maps and safety briefings. Staff are knowledgeable and can offer personalized advice based on current conditions.

4. Recommended Reading

• Glacier National Park: A Complete Hikers Guide by Jim DuFresne
• Where the Wild Things Are: A Hikers Guide to the Northern Rockies by David R. Sanger
• Leave No Trace: A Guide to the New Wilderness Ethics by The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics

5. Online Communities

Join the Glacier National Park Hikers Facebook Group or the Reddit r/glacierpark community. These are excellent sources for real-time trail updates, weather reports, and advice from recent hikers. Many users post photos and GPS tracks of their routes, which can be invaluable for planning.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Solo Day Hiker Who Made It Back

In July 2022, a 38-year-old hiker from Chicago attempted the Highline Trail East as a long day hike, starting at Logan Pass at 5 a.m. He carried 3 liters of water, a light pack, and a Garmin inReach. He reached Granite Park Chalet by 10:30 a.m., took a 45-minute break, and continued east. By 2 p.m., he encountered a sudden thunderstorm near Haystack Butte. He used his emergency space blanket and waited out the storm in a shallow rock overhang. He descended carefully, avoiding the exposed ridge, and reached Many Glacier by 7:15 p.m. He later posted his experience online, emphasizing the importance of the inReach device: It gave me peace of mind. I sent a message to a friend saying Storm. Safe. Waiting. Thats all it took.

Example 2: The Couple Who Turned Back

A pair of hikers from Portland attempted the full route in late June 2023. They had trained for months but underestimated the snowpack on the eastern ridge. After 8 miles, they encountered a 30-foot snowfield with no clear path. Without ice axes or crampons, they assessed the risk and chose to retreat to Granite Park. They spent the night at the chalet and returned the next day with proper gear. Turning back wasnt failure, one wrote in her blog. It was wisdom. We got to see the trail another day, and we didnt risk our lives.

Example 3: The Group That Got Lost

In August 2021, a group of four hikers from Minnesota relied solely on their smartphone GPS and ignored trail markers. They missed the cairns leading from Granite Park to Haystack Butte and ended up on an unmarked game trail. After five hours of wandering, they activated their PLB. Rangers located them by helicopter and escorted them to safety. No one was injured, but they were fined $150 for unauthorized off-trail travel. We thought we were being adventurous, one admitted. We were just reckless.

FAQs

Is the Highline Trail East dangerous?

Yes, it can be. The trail features exposed ridgelines, steep drop-offs, unpredictable weather, and remote terrain. However, with proper preparation, it is no more dangerous than other high-elevation alpine trails. The key is respectnot fear.

Can I hike the Highline Trail East in one day?

Yes, but its extremely strenuous. The full route from Logan Pass to Many Glacier is 2225 miles with over 5,000 feet of elevation gain and loss. Only experienced, well-conditioned hikers should attempt it as a day hike. Most prefer to split it into two days with an overnight stay at Granite Park Chalet.

Do I need a permit to hike the Highline Trail East?

You do not need a permit for day hiking. However, if you plan to camp overnight anywhere along the trail, you must obtain a backcountry permit from Glacier National Park.

Are there water sources on the Highline Trail East?

There are intermittent streams and snowmelt pools, but they are not reliable. Always treat water from natural sources. Carry enough water to last between known refill points, especially between Granite Park and Swiftcurrent Pass.

Is the trail crowded?

The western section (Logan Pass to Granite Park) can be busy, especially in July and August. The eastern extension beyond Granite Park is significantly less crowded. You may hike for hours without seeing another person.

Whats the best time of year to hike?

Mid-July to mid-September is ideal. Early July may still have snow on the ridge; late September risks early snowstorms and freezing temperatures.

Can I bring my dog?

No. Dogs are not permitted on any backcountry trails in Glacier National Park, including the Highline Trail East. This is to protect wildlife and preserve the natural environment.

What should I do if I see a bear?

Stay calm. Do not run. Speak calmly and firmly to let the bear know youre human. Slowly back away without turning your back. If the bear approaches, use bear spray. If it charges, stand your ground and spray when its within 30 feet.

Are there any facilities on the trail?

Only Granite Park Chalet has restrooms and water. There are no other facilities. Plan accordingly.

Whats the hardest part of the trail?

Most hikers cite the Haystack Butte ascent as the most physically demanding. The loose scree, steep incline, and lack of handholds make it slow and exhausting. The exposed ridge sections can also be mentally challenging for those with a fear of heights.

Conclusion

Hiking the Highline Trail East is more than a physical journeyits a passage through some of the most pristine and awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth. It demands preparation, humility, and a deep respect for natures power. The trail doesnt reward speed or ego; it rewards patience, awareness, and mindfulness.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, youre not just preparing to hike a trailyoure preparing to become a steward of the wild. Every step you take on the Highline Trail East should honor the mountains, the wildlife, and the generations of hikers who came before you.

As you lace up your boots and set out toward the horizon, remember: the goal isnt to conquer the trail. Its to listen to it. To feel the wind on your skin, the sun on your face, the quiet beneath your feet. The Highline Trail East doesnt ask for muchjust your presence, your care, and your reverence.

Go prepared. Go safely. Go with wonder.