Day Hiking Gear for Glacier National Park: A Practical Pack List
Captured by: Casey Alexandra Media & Edited by myself (Danielle - Her Way and the Highway)
INTRODUCTION
Glacier National Park is one of the most rugged and awe-inspiring places I’ve ever been. I have hiked over 200+ miles in this park so far and having the right gear can make or break your trip. After a lot of trial and error solo and in groups, I’ve refined my hiking set up.
Montana weather in the mountains changes quickly, wildlife encounters are common, and many trails are long and remote. If you’re wondering what to pack for a Glacier day hike, here’s what I actually carry in my pack!
*This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase at no extra cost to you.
gear list
Backpack: Osprey Daylight 13L Hiking Pack
Note: I’ve carried this pack for years. Now that I’ve got more camera gear and want more comfort optional items, I’ll upgrade to a larger pack around 20-25L soon!
Don’t forget a rain cover (sometimes these come with the packs).
Water Reservoir: 3D Hydro 3L Reservoir
Note: I bought this last year for longer hikes and love it. If you’re not looking to load up on a lot of gear, use a regular water bottle. Just make sure you have enough water on you or a way to filter if you don’t. Here’s the filter I use: Katadyn BeFree 1.0L Water Filter Bottle
Note: I recently restocked bear spray from Costco which is a great option if you need multiple canisters. Remember you cannot fly with these. If you’re staying at a hotel, check to see if they will rent or let you borrow a can for your adventures.
Note: Your bear spray should be accessible and on your hip or chest. Bear encounters happen so quickly.
Satellite Phone: Garmin InReach Mini 2
Note: Since I do a lot of solo travel, this has given me a lot of piece of mind for myself and others. At a minimum download an offline map, like with AllTrails.
Layers (yes, even in the summer)
Rain Jacket: Torrentshell 3L Jacket
Puffy: Patagonia Down Sweater
General quick dry clothing: favorite places to shop for hiking layers is Athleta (in picture above), Vuori, Topo Designs
Hat: Black & Liberty & Buff
Sunglasses: Sunski
Boots: Lowa Evo GTX Mid
Also, don’t forever socks: REI with Coolmax (summer)
Note: I’m not a trail runner girl yet, but never say never. I love the ankle support even though these weigh more than some other options.
First Aid Supplies
First Aid Kit: add lighter with duct tape wrapped around it
Hand sanitizer
Snacks:
Sour Jelly Belly or Trolli Sour Worms
Whatever else you like!
OPTIONAL
Poles: REI Flash Carbon Trekking Poles
Notes: I only started using poles for backpacking trips, but they make a huge difference in knees for steep descents!
Packable sit pad: Nemo Foam
Camera Gear
Clip: Peak Design Camera Clip
Camera: Sony A7IV
Lens: Sony 24-70mm GM II
Book: Kindle
Who doesn’t want to read with a view?
FINAL THOUGHTS
I hope this list makes you feel more confident about hiking in Glacier National Park. With a little bit of preparation and the right gear, you’ll be prepared to face the unexpected of the outdoors.
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*This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase at no extra cost to you.