Trail

The Loop Trailhead

TrailOPERATIONAL★ 4.4
The Loop Trailhead at Glacier National Park opens onto a green valley with jagged, snow-capped peaks in the distance.

The Loop Trailhead offers a steady, non-technical climb through forest with rewarding views. Parking is tight, and shuttle may be required during peak season, so plan ahead.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
4.2
Route Type
Point-to-Point (descent or out-and-back; can be combined with the Highline Trail)
Difficulty Level
Strenuous to challenging (depends on Highline linkage)
Elevation Gain Feet
2600

Trail profile

Distance Miles
4.2
Route Type
Point-to-Point (descent or out-and-back; can be combined with the Highline Trail)
Difficulty Level
Strenuous to challenging (depends on Highline linkage)
Elevation Gain Feet
2600
Estimated Time
3-4 hours for Loop; 6-8 hours for Highline Trail to The Loop descent
Trail Surface
Packed dirt with sections of loose rock and scree
Trail Features
  • Grinnell Glacier Overlook (via Highline Trail)
  • Exposed ridgelines with distant glacier views
  • Crowded during peak season
Trail Highlights
Panoramic views of mountains, valleys, and glaciers; Grinnell Glacier Overlook

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Hairpin turn on Going-to-the-Sun Road, west side of Glacier NP
Parking Lot Size
Limited capacity
Parking Fill Time
Full by 7:00 AM during peak season
Shuttle Required
1
Shuttle Details
Glacier National Park shuttle is essential for completing The Loop as a point-to-point; plan to shuttle back to Logan Pass or start with Loop and return via shuttle; check schedule.

Permits & conditions

Permits Required
Yes
Permit Details
No permits required for day hikes; vehicle reservations may apply during peak season.
Fees
Standard park entrance fees; vehicle reservation fees may apply.
Trail Status
Open
Seasonal Closures
Snow can linger into July on higher elevations; mud season in spring/early summer.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
1
Water Sources
Water sources are not consistently reliable; carry at least 3 liters per person
Accessibility
Exposed, limited shade; not wheelchair accessible; several steep sections

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Bear country
  • Steep drop-offs
  • Rapid weather changes
  • Loose scree on descents
  • Wind exposure
Hazard Details
Make noise to deter surprised bears; carry bear spray; descend carefully on loose rock; weather can flip quickly; sun exposure high due to limited shade
Cell Service
Unreliable; plan for little to no signal along most of the route
Crowd Level
Very popular; can be crowded during peak season
Peak Crowd Times
Midday during peak season; early mornings quieter
Parking Strategy
The trailhead sits along Going-to-the-Sun Road at the west end of the Loop. Parking is a small pullout with very limited spaces and tends to fill by around 7:00 AM in peak season, so be prepared to circle or shuttle. During times when the road is fully open, a shuttle is required to access the trail. Arrive early or consider alternative access options if parking is full.
Effort Verdict
Moderate workout: 3.2 miles round trip with about 700 feet of elevation gain. It isn’t technical, but the steady climb will test endurance. Plan 2–3 hours for fit hikers and 3–4 hours for a more relaxed pace.
Ideal Hiker Profile
A hiker with solid aerobic fitness who can sustain a steady pace for 2–3 hours (fit hikers) or 3–4 hours (casual hikers). Comfortable with a 700-foot gain over 3.2 miles and prepared for bear country with bear spray. Suitable for solo travelers or small groups, provided you bring adequate water, layers, and a map.
Best Season
July through September
Best Time To Visit
Best in July–September after snowmelt; start early to beat crowds and afternoon storms.
Tips Advice
  • Tighten your boots.
  • Carry 3L water minimum.
  • Trekking poles strongly recommended for the steep descent.
  • Bear awareness: make noise and carry bear spray.

More details

Trail Markers
Well-marked with signage along Going-to-the-Sun Road and at trailheads
Dogs Allowed
Not allowed
Biking Allowed
No
Shade Level
Limited shade; exposed ridgelines; wind
Emergency Contacts
911 for emergencies; Glacier National Park rangers
Map Recommended
1
Best For
  • ✅ HIKE IF: You crave a long, exposed alpine traverse and can handle sun exposure and elevation.
  • ❌ SKIP IF: You have vertigo or plan a hike with young children.
Snow Dates
Snow can linger into July on higher elevations
Mud Season
Spring and early summer muddy conditions
Bug Season
Mosquitoes can be present in early to mid-summer
Insider Tips
  • Start before sunrise to secure parking and cooler temps.
  • Hike the Highline Trail Logan Pass to The Loop Trailhead, then use the shuttle to return.
  • Trekking poles strongly recommended for the descent; plan for afternoon thunderstorms.
Family Friendly Notes
Not recommended for young children due to steepness, exposure, and length; especially when linked with Highline Trail
Nearby Facilities
Restrooms at The Loop trailhead; parking is limited; Glacier National Park shuttle stops; water not guaranteed
Photo Ops
Photo opportunities include forested sections in the first half with filtered light, then rocky portions as views open up toward the surrounding peaks and the road corridor. Use a mid-range lens to capture distant ridges and a tripod for low-angle light in shaded areas or at dawn/dusk.
Review Summary
Hikers report a demanding ascent and a long, exposed descent; the route delivers expansive glacier-and-mountain views and a reliable shuttle system, but crowds can be heavy in peak season.

Location

The Loop Trailhead in Glacier National Park offers a sweeping alpine valley with snow-capped peaks under a clear blue sky.The Loop Trailhead offers dramatic views of snow-capped peaks and a forested valley in Glacier National Park.Loop Trailhead in Glacier National Park threads through a rocky, cascading stream with lush green walls.The Loop Trailhead informational sign in Glacier National Park describes preserving a landscape.

Frequently asked questions

Are bears a major risk here?

Yes. Bear country; make noise, carry bear spray, and store food properly; keep your distance from wildlife.

Is this trail suitable for kids?

Not recommended for young children due to steepness, exposure, and length; especially when linked with the Highline Trail.

Do I need permits or reservations?

No permits required for day hikes; vehicle reservations may apply in peak season via Recreation.gov.

Where can I park?

The Loop trailhead parking is limited and fills early; plan to arrive before sunrise or use the Glacier shuttle from Logan Pass.

Is there cell service on the trail?

Cell service is unreliable; plan for no signal and carry essential communication plans.

Are there water sources along the route?

Water sources are not consistently reliable; carry at least 3 liters per person.

What gear is non-negotiable?

Sturdy boots, trekking poles, bear spray, ample water, sun protection, and layered clothing for changing conditions.

Grinnell Glacier Trailhead

10.6 miles out-and-back to Grinnell Glacier. Start before dawn, hydrate, and use the shuttle to trim miles.

Hidden Lake Overlook

2.7–3 miles out-and-back, ~600 ft gain; overlook delivers alpine panorama and wildlife sightings.

Highline Trail Trailhead

Highline Trail: Logan Pass to The Loop — 11.8 miles with exposed ledges and a hand cable. Carry 2–3 L water.

Saint Mary Falls Trail

3.5 miles round-trip, easy to moderate. Water, falls, big payoff—start early to beat crowds.

Siyeh Pass Trail

Lung-buster to Siyeh Pass. Start before 7 AM, carry water, and shuttle Siyeh Bend to Sunrift Gorge.

Some booking links below are affiliate links, which may support YourNPGuide at no extra cost to you. Affiliate disclosure.

Sources

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated December 2025. Report an issue.