Climb Mount Gould
Climb to the highest point of the Garden Wall and snap a picture from the top that you will never forget.
The climb to the summit of Mount Gould begins at the "Big Bend" on the Going-to-the-Sun Highway in Glacier National Park. Park at the Big Bend, and begin climbing on the climbers trail that leaves from the East side of the road. The route is roughly 3 miles each way, and climbs over 3,500 vertical feet.
Climb steeply up to the intersect with the Highline Trail, and take a left. Ascend to the saddle of Haystack Butte and turn to the East to face your nemesis. This face of rock looks intimidating, but can be climbed all the way to the summit. Class 3 all the way if proper route is chosen, scrambling up over rock shelves, zig-zagging up the face.
For a more detailed route description see here: summitpost.org and pick up a copy of the Climber's Guide to Glacier National Park for a step by step guide to nearly every peak in the park.
Be sure to watch the weather as it can change quickly, watch your footing, and mark your trail with cairns to safely return down. This exhilarating climb is inspiring, difficult, and challenging, but the views are well worth it.
Pack List
- Water (plenty of it)
- Snacks
- Camera
- Extra layers
- Rain jacket (you never know)
- Route description and map
- GPS
- Bear spray
RT Distance | 6 Miles |
Elevation Gain | 3500 Feet |
Activities | Hiking |
Skill Level | Advanced |
Season | Summer |
Trail Type | Out-and-Back |
Features |
Scenic
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Reviews
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My Favorite Summit In The Park
Great views of lake McDonald and the many glacier valley
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