Cracker Lake

Mountain Goat

Cracker Lake – 12.5mi / 20.1km

Mountain Goat

You won’t believe your eyes when you see the mint green color of Cracker Lake surrounded by 3,000 foot cliffs. The hike to and from Cracker Lake is a long one, but worth it (it can be broken up into two days by utilizing the campground with a permit). The beginning of the trail is frequented by the horse concessionaires, so it can be less than pleasant with what they leave behind.

The trail then works its way through forests and avalanche chutes with views out onto Lake Sherburne. From there, the forest swallows you up until you climb your way into the Cracker Lake basin. Once there, sheer cliffs and alpine meadows surround you with a rock outcropping that’s a perfect lunch spot. This basin is a wonderful place to look for larger animals.

Trailhead: Upon entering the populated area of Many Glacier, make a left over the Swiftcurrent Creek bridge towards the historic Many Glacier Hotel and park in the parking lot. The trailhead is at the southeast end of the parking lot by the horse concessionaire.

Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,500ft / 450m

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