Great Glacier Trail
A classic Illecillewaet-area hike combining railway-era history, forest climbing and glacier-country views.
Route overview
Moderately steep historic glacier approach with views toward Mount Sir Donald and Vaux Glacier.
Great Glacier Trail follows the historic approach once used to reach the Illecillewaet Glacier from Glacier House. The glacier has retreated far upslope and is not reached by the maintained trail, but the route still offers a strong panorama of Mount Sir Donald, Vaux Glacier and the surrounding Columbia Mountains.
Trail facts
- Country
- Canada
- Region
- Illecillewaet Valley
- Distance
- 8.4 km return from Illecillewaet Valley; subtract 2 km when starting from Illecillewaet Campground
- Typical duration
- 2.5 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- 320 m elevation change
- Best season
- Mid-summer through early autumn after official opening and seasonal maintenance
- Trail type
- Return
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- National park admission normally applies; no separate day-hike permit is normally required.
Safety context
The trail ends well before the glacier. Do not continue toward unstable ice, moraines or informal glacier approaches. Carry sufficient water, expect changing weather and remain alert for bears. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Moderate sustained climb, limited water, wildlife, lingering snow, unstable glacial terrain beyond the endpoint and multiple trailheads.
Highlights
Canada, Glacier National Park, Great Glacier Trail, Illecillewaet Glacier, Mount Sir Donald, day hike, Parks Canada
Why find a buddy
Good for matching uphill pace, maintaining bear awareness and agreeing in advance not to extend beyond the official endpoint.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.