Glacier Peak Loop landscape

Photo: Photo by Alek Newton on Unsplash

Glacier Peak Loop

~7 days · 82 mi · strenuous · Loop

Quick facts

Distance82 mi
Days out7
Elevation gain22,218 ft
Gain / mile271 ft
High point7,139 ft

What the Glacier Peak Loop is known for

A circumnavigation of Glacier Peak in Washington's Glacier Peak Wilderness, linking the PCT with valley and pass trails around the volcano. WTA lists the loop at 88.5 miles with about 25,300 ft of gain and recommends at least 5-10 days. Remote and strenuous, with trails typically snow-free only July through October.

Route map & campsites

Route map of the Glacier Peak Loop on OpenStreetMap terrain Open in Planner →

Route shape from OpenStreetMap geometry. Start · End · Camp

Elevation profile

Elevation ranges from 7,848 ft to 23,205 ft over 82 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).

  • Uphill 42.8 mi · 52%
  • Downhill 34.4 mi · 42%
  • Flat 4.7 mi · 6%

Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.

Frequently asked questions

How many days does the Glacier Peak Loop take?

Most backpackers hike the Glacier Peak Loop in about 7 days (6 nights out) over its 82 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.

How much elevation gain is on the Glacier Peak Loop?

The Glacier Peak Loop climbs roughly 22,218 ft total — about 271 ft per mile, topping out near 7,139 ft.

Related trails

Sources & attribution

Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.

Plan the Glacier Peak Loop Plan Free →