Readers' Choice Mountain West: Gunsight Pass, Glacier NP

We could argue about the best hike in Glacier until the cows come home or the grizzles hibernate. The simple fact is there are so many spectacular hikes in Glacier that it's impossible to pick the best. There simply are no bad hikes in Glacier. It's truly a magic place.

I've been to Glacier many times, and in my humble opinion, the best hike in the best park in the world is many glacier --> elizabeth lake --> glenn lake --> stoney indian --> 50 mountain --> out (or stop at the chalet if you have the extra day). I've hiked all over the US, and it just does not get any more beautiful and uniquely "glacier" than stoney indian and 50 mountain, particularly stoney. Backpacker rated this loop, which I've heard called "the Northern Loop," the best Alpine Hike in a recent edition, but other than that you don't hear much about it. What tells you everything is that this loop books up within just a few days of the April reservation deadline. So get your request in there early and enjoy!

I agree that this hike has great views, but Glacier has better hikes than this one. Also, as with most of the trails in Glacier, the actual mileage is up for debate. I've been on this trail, and done this hike many times, and I put it somewhere between 19-21 miles if you don't stop off at Florence falls or Lake Ellen Wilson. Lastly, that picture is of Mt. Jackson, Gunsight pass is not visible.

Another good one is the Old Man Lake/Pittamaken Pass loop in the Southeast corner of Glacier National Park. If I recall correctly it is a roughly 20 mile loop that traverses forest, alpine meadow and high mountain passes. Tremendous views and an incredible camp spot next to the lake. There is a lot of Grizzly activity in that area so make noise.