Cracker Lake in Montana 2025

Cracker Lake is famous for its beautiful turquoise water color thanks to rock flour (silt) elements from Siyeh Glacier. Located at the head of a canyon, Cracker Lake is framed by Mount Siyeh, Cracker Peak, and Allen Mountain. The lake can be reached by a 6.1 mi (9.8 km) trail from the Piegan Pass with 1400 ft (427 m) elevation gain. The trailhead is located at the south end of the parking lot for the Many Glacier Hotel. After you reach the fork in the trail, take a left towards Cracker Lake.

The Cracker Lake trail goes through wooded forests, with beautiful mountains and lake views, creek crossings, waterfalls, abandoned mines, and much more. Once at the lake, hikers can relax at the beach and swim in clear water. The lake features a small campground to spend the night overlooking the water. Wildlife includes moose, marmots, and bear. Carrying a bear spray is recommended for any hike in Glacier National Park.

Glacier National Park is the most popular destination in Montana called the Crown of the Continent. It boasts some of the most stunning views in North America. The best time to visit Glacier National Park is during the summer, from July through September (the second week of July through August is the most popular time). June and October could also work, but the higher elevations are likely to be blocked with snow.