- Camping & Backpacking, Destinations, Hiking
Complete Guide to Cracker Lake in Glacier National Park
As one of the most beautiful lake hikes in Glacier National Park, I was ecstatic when the opportunity to backpack to Cracker Lake for an overnight arose. One of the people I followed on Instagram shared that they had an extra permit, and I was happy to join them. Casey and I met as strangers at the Many Glacier Campground and left as designated travel buddies!
If you’re looking for a phenomenal overnight trail in Glacier National Park, consider getting permits for Cracker Lake. You will not be disappointed.
With epic views of the mountainous canyon, a turquoise blue lake, and an easy-to-follow trail, this overnight trip in Glacier is perfect for everyone up for a little challenge.
In this blog post, I will share all the details of the hike, getting backcountry permits in Glacier National Park, and answer some frequently asked questions.
If that sounds good to you, let’s get into it!
Just a heads up! This post contains affiliate links which means I could earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support!
After spending a night a Cracker Lake, it became one of my favorite trails in Glacier National Park. However, it is also a phenomenal trail to complete as a day hike. If you don’t have the time or the permits to stay overnight at Cracker Lake, no worries! A day hike is just as great.
Before you can start planning your trip to Cracker Lake, here are some quick links for you to help with Glacier trip planning.
- Getting There: The two airports that are popular for flying into include Whitefish, MT and Missoula, MT. Find affordable flights here.
- Getting Around: You will need a personal vehicle to get around. Many car rentals offer a bear spray rental. Reserve a rental car here!
- How Long to Visit: A worthy trip to Glacier can be anywhere from three days to a week! However long you’re visiting, you’ll have a great time!
- Where to Stay: There are 13 front country campgrounds in Glacier National Park that you can reserve on recreation.gov. Otherwise, you can book a hotel or VRBO.
- Getting Into the Park: You will need an America the Beautiful Pass to enter Glacier National Park, which you can purchase here. In August, you will additionally need a vehicle reservation for Going-to-the-Sun Road via the West Entrance, Many Glacier, and North Fork.
- Favorite Hikes in Glacier: Cracker Lake, Grinnell Glacier, Highline, and No Name Lake! However, you have HUNDREDS of trails to choose from.
Let’s get into planning your epic Cracker Lake Hike in Glacier!
General Trail Stats
Region: Glacier National Park
Distance: 12.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet elevation gain
Level: Hard
Time: 6+ Hours Day Hike or Overnight
Trail Type: Out & Back
When to go: July – Early September
Pass/Permit?: America the Beautiful & Backcountry Permit for Overnights
Dogs Allowed?: No
Important Information: Bear Spray is HIGHLY encouraged. Grizzlies frequent the area.
Need to Know BEFORE Hiking/Backpacking Cracker Lake
Here is everything you need to know before you can hit the trail!
Where is the Trailhead located?
Cracker Lake is located on the ancestral lands of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla tribes. As well as the Ktunaxa ɁamakɁis and Niitsítpiis-stahkoii ᖹᐟᒧᐧᐨᑯᐧ ᓴᐦᖾᐟ. We are grateful for the stewards of this land past and present. We are honored to be and recognize that we are guests on this land.
Getting to the trail
The trailhead for Cracker Lake is Located behind the Many Glacier Lodge on the east side of the park. Just north of St. Mary, Montana, is the entrance to Many Glacier.
The entrance to Many Glacier requires a vehicle reservation and a National Park Pass.
Trailhead Facilities
The trailhead has bathrooms and bear-safe garbage cans. It is located in the parking lot of the Many Glacier Hotel.
Season to Visit
Going to the Sun Road is closed in winter, so access to Many Glacier from the west side of the park requires travelers to go around the park. The road typically opens in Early June and closes in Late October. Check the road condition status here.
Completing the trail at any point throughout the summer is the perfect time! While the water in Cracker Lake may be a little colder earlier in the summer season, it is still worth the plunge.
Passes/Permits
Cracker Lake is located within the Glacier National Park bounty and is accessible from the Many Glacier Entrance.
You will need a national park pass to enter the park, which has an annual fee of $80. However, the cost of this pass is paid for in just three visits to a National Park or National Forest throughout the year. You can purchase your national park pass in advance here!
Additionally, the Many Glacier entrance requires a vehicle reservation permit. This permit costs $2 and secures your access to the park during the summer season. If you do not get a vehicle Reservation, you enter the Many Glacier area before 6 am or after 3 pm. Purchase your vehicle Reservation 120 days in advance at 7 am or the day prior to entrance at 7 pm.
Cracker Lake: Day Hike or Overnight?
The Cracker Lake Hike is one of the best hikes in the Many Glacier area of Glacier National Park. But should you complete the Cracker Lake hike as a day hike or overnight?
Day Hike
Cracker Lake is phenomenal as a day hike. While on the longer side, it has only a moderate amount of elevation gain, making it pretty accessible for most park visitors.
Plan on getting to the Cracker Lake trailhead early to secure your parking spot and avoid significant sun exposure on the way up.
Overnight
The beauty of Cracker Lake is best experienced as an overnight. The sunset and sunrise views from the far end of the lake are gorgeous. If you cannot get an overnight permit when they are initially released, check the glacier reservation system multiple times throughout the summer; they often open up.
Bears on Cracker Lake Trail in Glacier National Park
There are active grizzly bears on the Cracker Lake Trail in Glacier National Park! Here is what you need to know:
- There is a bear hang at the campsite. Bring rope & bag to hang all food and scented items at the bear hang at all times. No scented items should enter the campsites.
- Keep bear spray on your person at all times.
- Report bear sightings to rangers. They are actively monitoring the grizzlies that frequent the area.
- Never put food or scented items in the pit toilet at Cracker Lake. Bears can and have gotten into the pit toilet.
- Only eat and prepare food at the designated food prep area in the campground.
If you have any other questions, drop them in the comments. I’m happy to help answer them!
Hiking Cracker Lake in Glacier National Park
Cracker Lake is a hidden gem in Glacier National Park, offering stunning turquoise waters within the dramatic mountain cliffs. This moderately strenuous hike is about 12.6 miles round trip, with a total elevation gain of 1,400 feet. It is a popular day hike but can also be an overnight trip if you manage to get a backcountry permit on recreation.gov.
Here is what you can expect along each mile of trail!
Trailhead to Mile 1
The trail begins at the Many Glacier Hotel parking lot on the far side of the lot. The trailhead is easy to spot. Stop and look at the trail sign for additional information about the trail!
For the first mile, the path is relatively level, leading you through a dense forest of aspen and pine trees. You’ll occasionally catch glimpses of Swiftcurrent Lake off to your left. Keep an eye out for Moose, as they can be common in the area.
The trail is well-marked but shared with horses, so keep to the right to avoid taking the horse trails! Watch your step; the trail is regularly overcome with horse poop. I didn’t find it to be horrible, but many people on AllTrail reported that it ruined their time on the trail.
TIP: Start early to avoid the midday heat and crowds. The forest provides shade but can get buggy along the various waterways, so pack insect repellent.
Mile 1 to Mile 2
Around the 1-mile mark, you’ll begin a gentle ascent. This section of the trail is slightly more exposed, so wearing a hat or sun hoodie is recommended. During the late summer, wildflowers are prevalent, providing a vibrant contrast to the surrounding rock formations. As you climb, you’ll start to get views of Mount Allen and Mount Wynn.
You might also see some wildlife along this stretch, as the open meadows are a favorite spot for deer and occasionally bear sightings.
HINT: Stay alert, make noise, and keep your bear spray handy.
Mile 2 to Mile 3
This section of the trail takes you past the stunning red rock cliffs that define this region. As you approach Cracker Flats, the terrain flattens out, giving you a break from the uphill sections. The cliffs provide some shade in the early morning, and you’ll often hear the sounds of cascading water from distant waterfalls.
Cracker Flats is a significant marker of your hike, offering vast open spaces with tall grasses and a clear view of the surrounding peaks. If you’re hiking in the early morning or late afternoon, this is an excellent spot to watch for bighorn sheep and grizzly bears.
Mile 3 to Mile 4
After crossing Cracker Flats, you’ll feel a noticeable incline. To your right, the steep cliffs and dramatic rock formations of Siyeh Mountain come into view as you walk along the small river.
You’ll cross a couple of small creeks via wooden footbridges. Keep an eye out for horse trails; you’ll want to go the opposite route to stay on the trail. If you’re hiking later in the season, the vibrant reds and yellows of fall foliage might start to appear.
As you near mile 4, you’ll cross a beautiful foot bridge over Canyon Creek. This a good spot to fill up on water. I use a filtering water bottle.
Mile 4 to Mile 5
The trail becomes steeper after crossing the log bridge. You’ll notice a few switchbacks in this section, as the trail hugs the mountainside. After a few switchbacks, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Cracker Lake’s turquoise waters off in the distance.
The vivid color of the lake is due to the glacial silt, known as “rock flour,” suspended in the water. Similar phenomenon occurs with Peyto Lake in Banff National Park, Canada. The contrast between the turquoise water, the reddish cliffs, and the alpine greenery is gorgeous.
Mile 5 to Mile 6.3
Around 5.5 miles into the hike, the trail levels out, and you’ll emerge onto the shores of Cracker Lake. The views here are absolutely breathtaking, with Siyeh Glacier and the surrounding cliffs towering above the lake. Cracker Lake is located within a glacial cirque.
There are designated backcountry campsites here if you plan to stay overnight. As well as a pit toilet for backcountry campers.
If you’re here for a day hike, this is the perfect place to enjoy lunch or a snack by the water or on top of the large Red Rock cliff overlooking the lake.
NOTE: The wind can be strong near the lake, so be prepared with an extra layer of clothing.
Mile 6.3 to Mile 12.6
The return hike follows the same path, offering a different perspective of the landscape. It’s mostly downhill or flat, but the rocky sections can feel rough on the legs after the climb.
Make sure to pace yourself, especially as the day goes on. If you started early, you might encounter more hikers and horseback riders on your way back to the Many Glacier Hotel.
TIP: Remember that horses have the right of way on the trail!
Cracker Lake offers a rewarding challenge with unforgettable views, making it a must-do hike in Glacier National Park. Whether you’re hiking it as a long day hike or spending the night at the backcountry campsite, Cracker Lake is bound to become one of your favorite hikes in Glacier.
What to Pack
Here is a short packing list of what to bring with you for an overnight stay at Cracker Lake:
For a full list of backpacking gear, check out my save vs splurge blog post for high quality gear that does not break the bank.
- Hiking Boots/Shoes: For the length of this trail and the rocky terrain, consider wearing sturdy hiking boots. > Check Out My Hiking Boots
- Hiking Socks: Wool hiking socks are a must for preventing blisters. Darn Tough is my favorite hiking sock brand. >Get Hiking Socks
- Sandals: It would be a crime not to bring a comfortable pair of shoes with you on this trail! Pack some sandals to dip your toes in the water! >Shop Teva Sandals
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes on the trail with polarized sunglasses. > Buy Sunglasses
- Leggings or Hiking Pants: The trail has some overgrowth. I recommend wearing long pants on the trail. >Check Out My Favorite Leggings
- Breathable Long Sleeves: I love wearing sun shirts while hiking. Especially if they have a hood. >Get a Sun Shirt
- Sports Bra: I started wearing a merino wool sports bra on the trail and I will never look back. > Check Prices Now
- Jacket: It can get pretty chilly on the trail, especially next to the lake. Bring a nano puff jacket to keep you warm along the route and at camp! >Check out My Favorite Jacket
- Rain Jacket: The weather can turn pretty quickly from pleasant to rainy on the east side of Glacier. Bring a Rain Jacket with you just in case! >Lightweight & Breathable Rain Jacket
- Tent: If you’re staying the night, bring a good 3-season tent. >Here is the tent I brought
- Sleeping Bag: Bring a down sleeping bag with a low temperature rating. >Check Out Sleeping Bags
- Sleeping Pad: I’ve tested a number of sleeping bags and can honestly say the EXPED Ultra is my favorite. >Shop Sleeping Pads
- Pillow: For an extra comfy night’s rest, pack a pillow! >Favorite Pillow
- Backpacking Pack: For an overnight, I also bring my Osprey Aura 60. It has been my pack for five seasons and is still holding up well. >Get the Pack
- Rain Cover: I always bring a rain cover with me to keep my pack dry in the unfortunate event of inclement weather on the trail. > Here’s my Rain Cover
- First Aid Kit: Adventure Medical creates specialized first aid kits for your trail needs. >Get a Backpacking Medical Kit
- Headlamp: Packing a headlamp is one of the best pieces of safety equipment you can bring on the trail. >Shop My Favorite Rechargeable Headlamp
- Bear Hang: The Cracker Lake trail has frequent grizzly bear encounters and the park’s preferred method for food storage is hanging your food bag in the designated area. You can do this with a 40ft cord and roll-top bag.
- Bear Spray: Bear Spray is a requirement for this trail due to frequent bear activity. Secure the bear spray to the outside of your pack for quick accessibility. >Get Bear Spray Here
- Camera: The Fujifilm x100V is my go to travel camera/ It is lightweight and captures beautiful photos. If you’re looking for a phenomenal camera, this is by far the best fixed-lens camera out there for travelers. >Shop Fujifilm
- Printed Reservation: Park staff will check permits along the trail. It is important to carry your permit in an easily accessible pocket in your backpack.
There are so many other items you can and should bring for a safe and comfortable trip. A backcountry toilet kit and your toiletry bag are among some of those items.
Remember: All scented items need to be stored in the bear hang at all times when not in use. This includes toiletries, wipes, and other scented items. If your stove system has food particles on it, store that in the bag as well.
Don’t forget your swimsuit!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the hike to Cracker Lake?
The trail to Cracker Lake is 12.6 miles long with 1,450 feet of elevation gain. To complete the trail, you should reserve about 6 hours for hiking the trail in its entirety, but if you plan on swimming or having lunch at the lake, allow additional time.
The hike out is significantly quicker than on the way in, but it is also the perfect trail for a leisurely stroll.
Is Cracker Lake worth it?
Cracker Lake is one of the best lake trails in Glacier National Park. While a little bit on the longer side, it is still a fantastic day hike and an even better overnight.
Some other epic trails in the area include Ptarmigan Tunnel and Grinnell Glacier.
Can you swim in cracker Lake Glacier National Park?
Absolutely, you can swim in Cracker Lake! Early in the hiking season, the lake is frigid, and swimmers should be cautious when spending long periods of time in the water. However, by late July, the water had warmed up and was at a perfect swimming temperature (on the colder side).
Why is Cracker Lake so blue?
The blue color of Cracker Lake can be attributed to glacial silt, also known as rock salt. The extremely fine rock residue is suspended in the lake, keeping sunlight from penetrating through the lake to the bottom.
Do you need a permit for cracker lake?
You need a backcountry permit to stay overnight at the lake. There are a few backpacking campsites at the lake with gorgeous views.
Day hikers will only need to pay the entrance permit and have a vehicle reservation.
Where do you park for Cracker Lake?
The Cracker Lake trailhead is the same lot as the Many Glacier Hotel. Drive past the hotel, and the road curves up to a large parking lot.
Keep in mind that this lot will be extremely busy in 2025. The road to Swiftcurrent Inn will be closed after the Many Glacier Hotel.
Do you need a bear canister in Glacier National Park?
While some of the backcountry areas of Glacier National Park allow bear cans for proper food storage, park officials require visitors to use the bear hang system in this area of the park.
Question not answered? Drop it in the comments so I can help!
Pack It Up
Cracker Lake is bound to become one of your new favorite trails. The meandering trail through woods and along mountainsides to a gorgeous blue lake is unlike any of the other alpine lakes in the national park.
If you’re going to be completing an overnight trip, you will need to pick up a backcountry permit at one of the ranger stations.
The best time of year to complete the trail is late July, when the trail is snow-free, and the wildflowers are in full bloom.
Keep an eye out for moose and grizzly bears along the trail an in the campground!
I love the Cracker Lake Trail, and I know you will too. Let me know in the comments what some of your favorite trails are in Glacier National Park!
Meet the Author -
Sarah Borgen
I am an Educator and outdoor Enthusiast based out of Seattle and writer of Exploren Borgen! My adventures consist of weekends spent in the woods, on a hike, car camping, and taking a deep breath of fresh air. When not on an adventure, you can find me in a classroom teaching high school science! I love having a job that allows me to the opportunity to discuss things like conservation, sustainability, and accessibility.
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Meet the author
Sarah Borgen, AKA your outdoor bestie
I’m an outdoorsy educator and adventure advocate, which is why I’m passionate about creating resources – like blogs, guides, and interactive maps – to simplify your travels. I’m eager to share some of Washington’s greatest destinations and hidden gems with you.
