Cracker Lake

Dogs No Dogs

Features Lake · River/Creek · Swimming · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

From the cerulean blue waters of Cracker Lake to the absolutely massive rock face of Siyeh Peak the run into Cracker Lake is worth the work it takes to visit. The only drawback is the popularity of the route to horses which tend to leave a fair amount of dung along the trail that runners must avoid.

Start in the Many Glacier area of the Park and begin the relatively easy run about six miles into the Glacier backcountry. This is an excellent distance for an overnighter and the camping at the head of the basin is sublime.

Follow Allen Creek up the gorgeous, glacial mountain valley under the peaks of Allen and Wynn Mountains. Here, you'll enjoy the sight of snow on the high peaks well into the late summer months, and see the cascading waterfalls from the high cliffs as that snow melts.

Upon reaching your destination at the head of the basin, you are treated to the north face of Siyeh Peak. This is considered by some to be the tallest vertical rock face on the continent - including the imposing faces of California's Yosemite.

The intrepid alpine lake swimmer may choose to brave the frigid waters of Cracker Lake. Don't be fooled by its deep blue tropical-looking color - it is extremely cold!

Visit hike734.com for more expert Glacier content and maps that help you decide which trail to hike.