Don’t Attempt This One Hike in Montana Unless You’re up for a Real Challenge

If you love to lace up your hiking boots and spend a day in nature, there’s no place better than Glacier National Park. This incredible Montana destination is home to trails that range from easy nature walks to steep climbs, but each one is absolutely gorgeous. The Siyeh Pass Trail is certainly one of the more challenging trails in Glacier National Park … actually in all of Montana. This hike is long, steep, and rough. However, if you are willing to take on the physical and mental challenge it brings, the beauty awaiting you is difficult to compare.

If you are searching for an extreme hike—the type of hike with steep climbs, scary drop-offs, and unforgettable scenery—you’ll find it within Glacier National Park. Popular trails like the Highline Trail and Grinnell Glacier Trail are worth a spot on every expert hiker’s bucket list. But one that I believe deserves just as much attention, and is just as challenging, is the Siyeh Pass Trail.

Located along the Going-to-the-Sun Road and near the gorgeous Siyeh Bend, you will find the Siyeh Pass Trailhead. This is a 10-mile one-way trail that takes you from Siyeh Bend, over Siyeh Pass, and to Saint Mary Lake. For this trek, you’ll want to plan transportation at the other end of the trail if you don’t want to tackle the long distance back. If you hike the Siyeh Pass Trail while the Going-to-the-Road shuttles are running, you can take the shuttle back to your start.

Yes, the longer distance is one of the challenging aspects of this trail, but so is the climb. In total, you will gain more than 2,200 feet in elevation. As you hike, you’ll cross over all types of terrain from beautiful meadows to rocky ridges. You’ll climb glaciers and through valleys and forests. This is a trail where you must be prepared for anything.

For the first few miles, the trail is fairly easy. It’s not too difficult and is well-maintained. The meadows are stunning, and you can even stop and rest near flowing creeks, which offer a peaceful soundtrack before you continue on your way. You’ll also enjoy breathtaking mountain peaks surrounding you and vast skies high above.

This is a trail where preparedness is essential. There is little sun protection on your journey, and it can get windy—extremely windy. You are quite exposed as you hike, so dress appropriately. Also, do not forget bear spray, and keep an eye out for wildlife. You never know what creatures you’ll come across as you hike.

If you have a fear of heights, some parts of this trail can make your palms sweat. The trail narrows, rough terrain may make you feel unstable, and the steep drop-offs can be anxiety-inducing. Take your time and let the scenery distract you.

And speaking of the scenery, the views along this trail almost don’t seem real. From waterfalls and rugged mountain peaks to views where you can see for miles, it’s no wonder Glacier National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in the U.S. Views like these are hard to compare.

Keep in mind that roads into Glacier National Park, including the Going-to-the-Sun Road, are subject to seasonal closures, so plan your visits wisely. I recommend this hike in the summer months when you’ll enjoy wildflowers along your way—just one more way Mother Nature outdid herself in this gorgeous corner of Montana. Additionally, plan for at least six hours to complete this trail, and even longer if you take many breaks (which I strongly recommend).

The Siyeh Pass Trail in Glacier National Park is certainly challenging, and it’s not for beginning hikers. Still, for those with the stamina, drive, and courage, it’s a hike in Montana with countless rewards.

For more information about this trail and others in Glacier National Park, visit the National Park Service website. I also recommend reading all about a hiking experience an Only In Your State editor had within this park. And, of course, if you are feeling inspired and ready to plan your own trip to Glacier National Park, try Only In Your State’s itinerary planner before you go.