Outbound Collective logo

Walk the Swiftcurrent Nature Trail, Glacier National Park

Browning, Montana

5.0/5
based on 4 reviews

Details

Distance

2.66 miles

Elevation Gain

135 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Sarah Giek

The Swiftcurrent Nature Trail is an easy loop around Swiftcurrent Lake in the Many Glacier area of Glacier National Park. The trail offers incredible views of the Lewis Range and also provides visitors with the opportunity to see wildlife in the park. It is easily accessible from the Many Glacier Hotel parking area and is suitable for the whole family.

Walking in either direction, the trail is easy to follow. If you take the loop counter-clockwise, you will reach the Grinnell Glacier parking area in just over a half mile (which is an alternate starting point for this trail). Follow the signs and continue left to rejoin the trail. About a mile later, you will reach the southern boat dock. I would recommend the short detour here, which will take you across the channel to the shore of Lake Josephine. The views you’ll get of Mount Gould are more than worth the few minutes it will take to get there.

Throughout, the trail will provide countless opportunities to stop and take in your surroundings, including views of Mount Wilbur, Mount Siyeh, and Mount Grinnell. Keep an eye out for moose in the water and bears in the woods. Remember to bring your bear spray and hike with a group, if possible.

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app
Download GPX File

Features

Photography
Hiking
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Lake
Picnic Area
Scenic
Wildlife

Walk the Swiftcurrent Nature Trail, Glacier National Park Reviews

If you want a scenic trail, good for kids, this is the one for you.

I loved walking around the nature trail here. So many different compositions you could get. I'd highly recommend coming here if you go to Glacier.

The moment you see the lake you'll understand why Many Glacier Hotel was built right on it. Incredible views, pristine area. Like the author of this adventure and the other review, definitely carry bear spray. When you're done hang out on the porch of Many Glacier Hotel. Perfect place to have a beer and watch the sunset.

I 100% agree with the writer of this adventure, bring your bear spray! Don't let the term "walk" fool you, as this trail is in the heart of bear country. I have experienced bears on this trail multiple times, in the evening, so do all that you can to minimize confrontation. Besides that, the views of the lake and surrounding mountains are superb! Take your camera with you on this stroll, then stop in the Many Glacier Hotel for a drink and a snack.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Kayak Swiftcurrent Lake

Cracker Lake

Hike the Skyline Experience

Grinnell Glacier in Glacier NP

Hike to Grinnell Lake

Camp at Many Glacier Campground in Glacier National Park