Granite Park Trail from The Loop

This is an 8.4-mile out-and-back from The Loop Trailhead to Granite Park Chalet, or 4.2 miles each way. It rises roughly 2,400 feet on a sustained climb; allow about six hours with breaks. The chalet and long mountain views reward a strenuous day, but the mostly exposed ascent is a poor fit for an easy walk.

A footbridge comes early. Near 0.6 mile, stay right at Packer’s Roost for the chalet. The steady climb crosses open slopes and recovering forest; around 2.8 miles, healthier pine forest returns. Near 3.6 miles, pass the spur for Granite Park Backcountry Campground, then reach the Highline junction. Turn left for the chalet rather than continuing along Highline.

The route crosses slopes burned in the 2003 Trapper Fire. The fire ran from near Flattop Mountain past The Loop toward the chalet; hikers and guests sheltered there while crews worked to save the building. The open burn and its regrowth now frame broad views of Heavens Peak above McDonald Creek valley. Higher up, look toward the Garden Wall and Swiftcurrent Mountain, where a fire lookout stands on the summit.

Granite Park Chalet was built in 1914–15 by the Great Northern Railway, one of its last nine park chalets. Its logs and stone were gathered locally. The chalet is the turnaround, not a summit; its grounds look toward Bear Valley and Heavens Peak. It has no running water, so don’t count on a refill there.

Start at The Loop Trailhead on Going-to-the-Sun Road, about eight miles west of Logan Pass. The parking area is extremely limited; a restroom is listed at the trailhead. Road access is seasonal. Carry enough water for the full hike, and treat stream water if you use it. Pets are not allowed on park trails or in the backcountry.