Glacier National Park offers over 700 miles of trail, so everyone can find their own path in the park. Many locals rank the Chief Mountain–Elizabeth Lake out-and-back among the best hikes in glacier national park for first-timers who still crave big-sky drama. Due to my time, I chose this beginner-friendly trail that could be completed as a round trip within a day. This trail from Chief Mountain Trailhead to Elizabeth Lake is a secret gem in the park’s far northeast corner. The trail runs along the Belly River valley for almost 10 miles before returning and crosses gentle terrain to a beautiful mountain lake. Along the way, you can see wildflower meadows, stroll beside a babbling brook, and camp beneath towering summits—without the lung-busting climbs of Glacier’s headline routes.
Bear Mtn
Trailhead: chief mountain montana Trailhead (right on the U.S.–Canada border, north of Many Glacier, find more trails in map)
Distance: ~10 miles (16 km) one-way; ~20 miles out-and-back
Elevation Gain: ~1,000 feet (305 m) overall (mostly on the return hike)
Difficulty: Moderate (good for beginners)
Time: 1-2 days (often done as an overnight backpacking trip)
Permit: Required for overnight camping at Elizabeth Lake (Foot) campground
Highlights: Lush valley scenery, Belly River Ranger Station, abundant wildlife, and stunning lake views
Toward Elizabeth Lake
The trek starts on the Belly River Trail, which—as the name suggests—parallels the Belly River. The path begins a gentle downhill, a welcome feature for new hikers. Over the first two miles or so, the trail loses about a thousand feet of elevation as it drops into the Belly River valley. The descent is gradual and easy on the knees (remember, you’ll be climbing back up on the return). Most of the trail is quite dull, as it winds aimlessly through the forest with no scenery to admire. Even the river itself only becomes visible after walking a considerable distance. Scroll through any gallery of glacier national park pictures and you’ll spot this mellow river-bend glowing emerald in late summer.
At the bottom of the valley, a whole new world appears. I visited around August—summer is the best time if you’re planning to go. Tall grasses and wildflowers line the trail, swaying in the wind. I walk beside the Belly River, its clear water making soothing sounds. This place feels untouched and serene, far away from any road, yet the path remains clear and easy to follow. Bring one of those weather-sealed glacier national park cameras with a polarizing filter, the lake’s clarity begs for saturated shots.
Belly River Trail
Reaching the Belly River Ranger Station
After hiking about five miles, I reached the Belly River Ranger Station. The view here is remarkably open, offering a clear sight of Mt Merritt. Continuing forward, I come across a historic log cabin nestled in a clearing. It’s an indication that I walk on the right track and I’m not alone here. It’s a perfect place to rest, grab a snack and relax in the sun. Chat with the ranger if you see them around as they are usually keen to share trail information and what wildlife they have spotted recently. If you have run out of water, refill it from the creek. After that tighten your pack straps, before heading to Elizabeth Lake.
Mt Merritt
From the ranger station, the path meets the Ptarmigan Trail, which swings southwest toward the waypoint. The terrain here is mostly flat. The trail winds through patches of thick spruce forest and open meadow, crossing a few small creeks on sturdy wooden footbridges. The mountains around you grow taller and closer, as if you’re being embraced by Glacier’s craggy peaks. On my left (south), the Ptarmigan Wall—a sheer rampart of gray rock with a jagged skyline—comes into view and looms larger with each step. If you’d like a gentle warm-up day, tackle scenic point glacier national park near Two Medicine before heading north to Chief Mountain.
Arrival at Elizabeth Lake: A Serene Oasis
Eventually, after hiking ten miles, the trees part and Elizabeth Lake fills the view. It feels like an undiscovered oasis beneath knife-edge peaks. Evening light glows on the sharp reflection of the Ptarmigan Wall in the still waters. Towering above the lake, that wall’s row of stone spires dominates the skyline. The foot campground sits on the north shore. After the long hike, it’s the ideal resting place—drop your pack and stroll to the water’s edge. Some old maps flip the name to lake elizabeth, but rangers will gently correct you: it’s Elizabeth Lake. Moose and mountain goats often wander by; surrounded by such beauty, fatigue melts into awe.
Elizabeth Lake
Highly recommended for staying overnight, the evening is pure magic. You can cook dinner here and swap stories with fellow hikers. After nightfall, the Milky Way bursts out above. In the silence, you might hear an owl call from the forest. Also able to catch the gentle lap of water on the shore. I drift off to sleep with starlight on the water. A soothing hush of wilderness surrounds you.
Morning brings a misty calm over the lake. After packing up camp and savoring a quick breakfast, it’s time to hike back. The uphill push out of the Belly River valley will get your legs working. Keep a steady pace and pause occasionally to admire the sunlit valley below. By late morning, I’m back at the Chief Mountain trailhead. feel a bit tired but happy, and already dreaming of my next adventure.
Bighorn sheep
Tips for First-Timers
- Permits & Planning: If you plan to camp at Elizabeth Lake, secure a backcountry permit well in advance. Popular camps fill quickly, so apply early. For those craving four walls, the historic Many Glacier Hotel remains one of the best places to stay in glacier national park. Yet for my money, a quiet tent beside the water is still the best place to stay in glacier national park. Just don’t confuse this alpine basin with elizabeth lake ca down in Los Angeles County—reachable via elizabeth lake road and decidedly lacking glaciers.
- Wildlife Safety: Glacier is prime bear country, home to both grizzlies and black bears. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Keep it within easy reach (not buried deep in your pack). Although the chances of encountering a bear are very slim, you never know—it’s safer to take it just in case.(Check Bear Safety)
- Gear Up: Wear sturdy hiking boots to support your feet over the long miles. Dress in layers. Mountain weather can change quickly. A chilly morning can turn into a hot afternoon. Then grab your Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles and insect repellent (there are plenty of bugs, especially in early summer), and you’re ready to go.
- Water & Snacks: One perk of this route is the abundance of fresh water. You’ll encounter plenty of streams along the way. This means you can refill your bottles as needed and don’t have to carry as much water at once, which your shoulders will appreciate. Remember bring your favorite snacks and energy bars
- Pacing & Timing: For many first-timers, 10 miles is likely the longest hike yet. Pace yourself and start in the morning so you have plenty of daylight. Aim to reach Elizabeth Lake with a couple hours of daylight left, so you can set up camp and relax before dark.
- Leave No Trace: The Belly River area feels unspoiled, and we all want to keep it that way. Pack out everything you pack in, even tiny bits of trash.
Hiking from Chief Mountain to Elizabeth Lake is the kind of trip that can turn a novice into a lifelong backpacker. It’s wild enough to feel like a true adventure. Yet gentle enough for a first-timer to tackle with confidence. Maybe you’re an avid day-hiker itching to try backpacking. Or perhaps you’re someone looking for an escape into nature. Either way, this trail is a perfect place to start. Glacier’s quiet northeast corner is ready to welcome you. Pack your gear, lace up your boots, and go discover it. (Check Our Latest Gears)
