Glacier National Park Backcountry Chalets

One of the most unique experiences in Glacier National Park is being able to stay in a remote high country chalet.  Glacier Park offers two of these breathtaking experiences. 

Both backcountry chalets offer basic services and reservations are required if you want to experience an overnight stay.

The first is Granite Park Chalet which is more like a hostel.  It is first come – first serve for a nominal fee and is located in an alpine wonderland below the continental divide.  While Sperry Chalet is known for the mountain goats that use the area, Granite Park Chalet is known for the grizzly bears that spend time in Bear Valley and the slabrock parks around the chalet.

The most popular routes to Granite Park Chalet are the Highline trail that takes off from Logan Pass. The 7 mile hike to the Chalet traverses the Garden Wall and provides breathtaking views of the McDonald Valley. The Highline trail can be covered in snow during June, but trail crews and volunteers will actually shovel snow off portions of the trail.

The shorter route to Granite Park Chalet is by the Loop Trail which takes off at "the Loop" along going to the Sun Road. The loop trail is a little over 3 miles long, but it is an uphill climb the entire way. During late August into September, huckleberries ripen along the trail and grizzly bears may be encountered at anytime. Avoid hiking alone, make noise, watch for bear sign and carry bear pepper spray.

Second is Sperry Chalet which is perched high up on a mountain, not far from the Sperry Glacier, and offers rooms and meals in the same package.  It is about a 7 mile hike or horseback ride up the trail to the chalet. 

Sperry Chalet is known for the mountain goats which tend to hang close to the chalet. It isn't unusual to have mountain goats on the deck and looking in the windows. Remember that you shouldn't approach or attempt to feed any of the wildlife in Glacier Park. That includes the mountain goats at Sperry Chalet. They do provide a great photo opportunity, but remember to use a telephoto setting on your camera and keep your distance.