A peaceful trek to the historic Granite Park Chalet.

This route begins at The Loop parking area and is best accessed via the free park shuttle. Done as an out-and-back, it is nearly 15 miles roundtrip. Optionally, hikers can take the Highline Trail from the chalet for a 14.5-mile point-to-point, returning to The Loop via the free park shuttle.

The Granite Park Trail starts across the road from the parking area. The beautifully built benchcut trail traverses the slope as it climbs steadily upward. Views of Heavens Peak across the valley and McDonald, Flattop and Mineral Creeks far below keep hikers captivated as they ascend.

Even on a typical fall day when the clouds hang so low that they envelop the entire landscape, there is plenty  to enjoy along the way. As the ethereal mist swirls around, it parts just enough... for just long enough to allow tantalizing glimpses of the majestic peaks in the distance. On a smaller, closer scale, the brilliant red mountain ash berries brighten up the trailside.

As the trail finally levels out a bit, the terrain becomes more wooded and soon comes to the intersection with the Granite Park backpacker campground trail on the left. Before setting off to camp at the campground, check with the park rangers to verify that it is open. This area is commonly frequented by bears, sometimes so heavily that the campground is closed. 

To reach the Granite Park Chalet, continue on past the campground. The chalet, an official National Historic Landmark, was built by the Great Northern Railway in 1915. Hikers can [make reservations](https://www.graniteparkchalet.com/) to stay in the beautiful historic lodge but they must backpack in to the location. For most, the chalet is a popular day hike destination that makes a scenic picnic location with picnic tables and pit toilets. 

After enjoying a leisurely picnic, turn around to return to The Loop trailhead, or continue past the chalet on the popular Highline Trail to Logan Pass. At the pass, use the shuttle to return to The Loop. Written by Scott Anderson

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