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Camp beneath one of the largest rock faces on the continent.


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Map Key

13.0

Miles

20.9

KM

93%

Runnable

6,045' 1,842 m

High

4,842' 1,476 m

Low

1,434' 437 m

Up

1,434' 437 m

Down

4%

Avg Grade (2°)

29%

Max Grade (16°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Lake · River/Creek · Swimming · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Overview

From the cerulean blue waters of Cracker Lake to the absolutely massive rock face of Siyeh Peak the run into Cracker Lake is worth the work it takes to visit. The only drawback is the popularity of the route to horses which tend to leave a fair amount of dung along the trail that runners must avoid.

Description

Start in the Many Glacier area of the Park and begin the relatively easy run about six miles into the Glacier backcountry. This is an excellent distance for an overnighter and the camping at the head of the basin is sublime.

Follow Allen Creek up the gorgeous, glacial mountain valley under the peaks of Allen and Wynn Mountains. Here, you'll enjoy the sight of snow on the high peaks well into the late summer months, and see the cascading waterfalls from the high cliffs as that snow melts.

Upon reaching your destination at the head of the basin, you are treated to the north face of Siyeh Peak. This is considered by some to be the tallest vertical rock face on the continent - including the imposing faces of California's Yosemite.

The intrepid alpine lake swimmer may choose to brave the frigid waters of Cracker Lake. Don't be fooled by its deep blue tropical-looking color - it is extremely cold!

Visit hike734.com for more expert Glacier content and maps that help you decide which trail to hike.

Contacts

Shared By:

Sam H

Trail Ratings

  4.8 from 29 votes

#3

in Many Glacier

#340

Overall
  4.8 from 29 votes
5 Star
83%
4 Star
17%
3 Star
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2 Star
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1 Star
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Recommended Route Rankings

#3

in Many Glacier

#9

in Montana

#340

Overall
20 Views Last Month
5,238 Since Apr 22, 2015
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Photos

Trail to Cracker Lake
Sep 26, 2022 near Swiftcu…, MT
Cracker lake when it first comes into view
Aug 23, 2018 near Swiftcu…, MT
Cracker lake
Sep 26, 2022 near Swiftcu…, MT
Stunning scenery abounds!
Sep 2, 2015 near Swiftcu…, MT
Cracker Lake headwall
Apr 22, 2015 near Swiftcu…, MT
Approaching Cracker lake
Sep 26, 2022 near Swiftcu…, MT

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