Pack your gear and try a local favorite hike.
A first hike in Glacier National Park can be intimidating if you’re not familiar with the park or terrain. After this quick read you will be armed with the knowledge of how to make your first day hike in Glacier Park a memorable success!
Day hiking in Glacier National Park
The first two things you should know are the trails in Glacier are immaculately kept, no bushwhacking or tripping over debris and vegetation. And while there is a chance you will see a bear in the park, bears just want to keep to themselves and would rather remain elusive. As long as you are making noise (chatting with fellow hikers or using a bear bell) the chances of an up close encounter are slim. Most trails in Glacier National Park will be heavily populated with many other hikers, so bear encounters are rare in these high traffic areas.
Now let’s talk about what you will want to pack your bag for a 3-6 mile day hike in Glacier Park. The main thing here is to make sure you have everything you need without making your bag bulky or heavy.
What to bring on your hike
- Water
- Bear spray
- Food (snacks)
- Sun block
- Bug spray
- Polarized sunglasses
- Hat
- Moisture wicking layer
Day pack itemized breakdown
Let’s quickly run through the items on your pack list. Number one, water – a hydration pack is preferable as it gives you easy access to water while still being able to keep a good pace rather than stopping to get out your water bottle.
Bear spray – encounters are rare but always be prepared. Attach your bear spray to the waist belt of your bag or belt loop of pants so it’s easily accessible.
Food – think easy to eat and lightweight, protein bars, trail mix, etc.
Sun block – this one is important because nothing can ruin a good vacation like getting a nasty sunburn on your first day. Apply before your hike and reapply during if you’re out for more than a couple hours with high temps and on a trail with lots of exposure.
Bug spray – you can find many small travel size or packable size bug sprays to fit in your bag. Mosquitoes are the main offender on a hike in the park if it’s a cool day.
Polarized sunglasses (lifehack tip) – many of the trails in Glacier National Park lead to lakes or have creeks and streams along the way. If the sun is bright, you will want polarized lenses to see the colorful rocks in Glacier’s lakes and streams.
A hat – solid protection from the sun. And when you get hot, dip it in the water an put it back on your head for immediate A/C!
Last but not least, pack a moisture wicking layer (preferably not cotton) that is long sleeved and will protect you from changing elements and dry quickly.
Last minute tips for your Glacier Park hike
Don’t break in a pair of new hiking boots on your first hike in the park. Don’t feed the wildlife. Have fun!