How to Hike the Buffalo Tracks Trail

The Buffalo Tracks Trail is one of the most compelling and culturally rich hiking experiences in the northern Rocky Mountains. Nestled within the boundaries of Glacier National Park, this trail offers more than just physical exertion—it delivers a profound connection to the land as it was traversed by Indigenous peoples for millennia. The trail’s name derives from ancient bison migration paths carved into the earth over centuries, now preserved as visible indentations in the bedrock, known locally as “buffalo tracks.” These natural grooves, worn smooth by generations of hooves, serve as silent monuments to ecological harmony and ancestral wisdom.

Unlike many modern trails designed for mass tourism, the Buffalo Tracks Trail remains relatively untouched, preserving its raw, untamed character. Hiking this path is not merely about reaching a destination—it’s about engaging with history, ecology, and the rhythms of the natural world. For outdoor enthusiasts, historians, and spiritual seekers alike, this trail offers a rare opportunity to walk in the footsteps of those who lived in deep reciprocity with the land.

Understanding how to hike the Buffalo Tracks Trail requires more than a map and sturdy boots. It demands respect for the environment, awareness of cultural significance, and preparation for variable alpine conditions. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to safely and meaningfully experience this extraordinary trail. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a curious first-time hiker, this tutorial will equip you with the knowledge, tools, and mindset needed to honor the trail and return home transformed.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research and Plan Your Visit

Before setting foot on the Buffalo Tracks Trail, thorough research is non-negotiable. This trail is not marked with frequent signage, nor is it maintained like popular tourist routes. Start by visiting the official Glacier National Park website and reviewing the most current trail advisories. Pay close attention to seasonal closures, bear activity reports, and weather forecasts specific to the Many Glacier region.

The trailhead is located approximately 3.5 miles north of the Many Glacier Hotel, accessible via the Glaciers Park Road. Parking is limited and fills quickly during peak season (late June through early September). Arrive before 7:00 a.m. to secure a spot. If you plan to camp overnight, secure a backcountry permit through the park’s reservation system at least six months in advance. Walk-in permits are rarely available during summer months.

Check the National Park Service’s trail condition reports for recent updates on trail erosion, fallen trees, or stream crossings. The Buffalo Tracks Trail intersects with several seasonal creeks that can become impassable after heavy rain or snowmelt. Always confirm current conditions with a park ranger before departure.

2. Understand the Trail’s Cultural Significance

The Buffalo Tracks Trail is not just a physical path—it is a living cultural landscape. For centuries, the Blackfeet Nation and other Indigenous groups followed these ancient bison corridors to hunt, gather, and conduct ceremonies. The tracks themselves are sacred; they are not relics to be photographed for social media but remnants of a living tradition.

Before your hike, take time to learn about the Blackfeet people’s relationship with the land. Read books such as “The Way to Rainy Mountain” by N. Scott Momaday or visit the Blackfeet Heritage Center and Art Gallery in Browning, Montana. Understand that some areas along the trail are considered ceremonial and should not be disturbed. Do not step on or touch the buffalo tracks directly. Observe them from a respectful distance.

Many hikers unknowingly violate cultural protocols by sitting on sacred rocks, leaving offerings, or taking stones as souvenirs. These actions are not only disrespectful—they are illegal under federal law. Leave everything as you find it. Your presence is a privilege, not a right.

3. Choose the Right Season and Time of Day

The optimal time to hike the Buffalo Tracks Trail is between mid-July and mid-September, when snow has fully melted and the weather is most stable. Early July can still bring lingering snowpack at higher elevations, particularly near the trail’s summit at 7,200 feet. Late September brings the risk of sudden snowstorms and freezing temperatures, even at midday.

Start your hike at dawn. The trail is exposed in sections, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in the Rockies. By beginning early, you’ll avoid the worst of the heat, have more daylight for navigation, and increase your chances of spotting wildlife—especially bighorn sheep and elk—before they retreat to higher ground.

Avoid hiking during midday heat (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) in August. Temperatures can soar to 90°F in the valleys, and the lack of shade on the upper ridge increases risk of heat exhaustion. Early morning and late afternoon offer the most comfortable temperatures and the most dramatic lighting for photography.

4. Prepare Your Gear

Proper gear can mean the difference between a rewarding journey and a dangerous ordeal. Here is a detailed packing list tailored to the Buffalo Tracks Trail:

• Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with aggressive tread. The trail includes loose scree, slick rock, and muddy sections. Trail runners are not recommended.
• Clothing: Layered system: moisture-wicking base, insulating mid-layer (fleece or down), and waterproof shell. Even in summer, temperatures can drop below 40°F at elevation.
• Backpack: 20–30 liter capacity with hip belt. Carry all essentials—no reliance on trailside amenities.
• Navigation: Topographic map (USGS 7.5’ series: Many Glacier) and compass. GPS devices can fail; don’t rely solely on apps.
• Water: Minimum 3 liters per person. Water sources are unreliable; treat all water with a filter or chemical purification.
• Food: High-calorie, lightweight snacks: nuts, jerky, energy bars, dried fruit. Avoid bulky meals.
• First Aid Kit: Include blister care, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, antihistamines, and personal medications.
• Bear Spray: Carry on your belt, not in your pack. Know how to deploy it quickly. Practice with an inert canister before your trip.
• Headlamp: With extra batteries. Even if you plan to finish before dark, delays happen.
• Emergency Shelter: Lightweight bivy sack or space blanket. Hypothermia can set in rapidly in alpine zones.

Do not carry unnecessary items. Every ounce adds up on steep ascents. Pack only what you need to survive and thrive on the trail.

5. Begin Your Hike from the Many Glacier Trailhead

From the parking area, follow the clearly marked path toward the Many Glacier Hotel. After 0.3 miles, you’ll reach the junction for the Iceberg Lake Trail. Do not take this route. Instead, continue straight on the unmarked but well-worn path heading northeast. This is the beginning of the Buffalo Tracks Trail.

The first mile is relatively flat, winding through subalpine meadows dotted with wildflowers—lupine, paintbrush, and avalanche lilies. Watch for moose tracks in the mud and listen for the distant call of the hermit thrush. This section is the most accessible and offers a gentle warm-up.

At the 1.2-mile mark, you’ll encounter a large cairn (rock pile) on the right. This is the unofficial trail marker. From here, the path becomes less defined. Use your map and compass to maintain a northeast bearing. The trail ascends gradually through a forest of Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir.

At 2.5 miles, you’ll emerge onto a rocky ridge with panoramic views of Swiftcurrent Lake. This is the most exposed section. Wind can be fierce. Secure your hat and slow your pace. This is also the most likely place to encounter mountain goats. Give them space. Do not approach or feed them.

6. Navigate the Buffalo Tracks Section

At approximately 3.8 miles, you’ll reach the namesake buffalo tracks. This is the heart of the trail. The grooves in the sandstone bedrock run parallel for over 200 feet, worn smooth by centuries of bison passage. Do not walk on them. Observe from the side. Take photographs from a distance. Do not use chalk, paint, or any marking tool to enhance visibility.

The tracks are best viewed in the morning light when shadows accentuate their depth. If you’re visiting in late summer, you may see fresh bison scat nearby—a sign that the animals still use the corridor, albeit rarely. This is not a tourist attraction; it is an ecological and spiritual landmark.

After passing the tracks, the trail continues upward toward the summit. The final 0.7 miles are steep and rocky. Use your hands for balance. There are no guardrails. Proceed with caution, especially if the rock is wet. A single misstep here can result in serious injury.

7. Reach the Summit and Return

The summit at 7,200 feet offers a 360-degree view of Glacier National Park. You’ll see the Garden Wall to the west, the Swiftcurrent Valley to the east, and the distant peaks of the Canadian Rockies. This is a place for quiet reflection. Eat your lunch here. Take a moment to breathe deeply. This is the reward for your effort.

Do not linger too long. Weather can change in minutes. Begin your descent by 1:00 p.m. at the latest. The return journey is faster but more taxing on the knees. Use trekking poles to reduce impact. Rest frequently. Hydrate. Watch for signs of altitude sickness: headache, nausea, dizziness. If symptoms occur, descend immediately.

When you reach the trailhead, do not leave trash, food wrappers, or gear behind. Pack out everything you brought in. Even biodegradable items like apple cores or orange peels disrupt natural processes.

8. Document and Reflect

After your hike, take time to reflect. Journal your thoughts. Sketch the landscape. Record what you saw, felt, and learned. Share your experience with others—but do so respectfully. Avoid posting exact GPS coordinates or revealing sensitive cultural sites. Preserve the trail’s mystery and sanctity.

Consider writing a letter to the Blackfeet Nation expressing gratitude for the opportunity to walk their ancestral path. Many Indigenous communities appreciate acknowledgment, even if they do not expect it.

Best Practices

Practice Leave No Trace Principles

The Buffalo Tracks Trail thrives because it remains undisturbed. Follow the seven Leave No Trace principles rigorously:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know the regulations, weather, and terrain. Do not improvise.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to the trail. Do not create shortcuts or camp on vegetation.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash, including toilet paper and hygiene products. Use a cathole 6–8 inches deep, 200 feet from water, if necessary.
4. Leave What You Find: No rocks, flowers, feathers, or artifacts. These belong to the land and its people.
5. Minimize Campfire Impact: Fires are prohibited above 6,500 feet. Use a camp stove.
6. Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance. Never feed animals. Store food in bear-proof containers.
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep noise low. Yield to uphill hikers. Share the trail.

Respect Cultural Boundaries

The Buffalo Tracks Trail lies within the traditional territory of the Blackfeet Nation. While the trail is open to the public, certain areas are spiritually significant and off-limits to non-Indigenous visitors. Do not assume that all parts of the trail are equally accessible.

If you encounter a ceremonial object—such as a cloth tied to a tree, a stone arrangement, or a feather on the ground—do not touch it. These are offerings. Leave them undisturbed. If you’re unsure, assume it’s sacred.

Do not use drones. They are banned in Glacier National Park and are deeply offensive to many Indigenous communities, who view them as intrusions on sacred space.

Prepare for Wildlife Encounters

Grizzly bears, black bears, mountain lions, and moose inhabit the Buffalo Tracks Trail corridor. Your safety depends on awareness and preparation.

Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Practice drawing it quickly from your holster. Keep it accessible—not buried in your pack. Make noise while hiking, especially in dense brush or near streams. Talk, sing, or clap periodically to alert wildlife to your presence.

If you encounter a bear:

• Stay calm. Do not run.
• Speak calmly and firmly. Identify yourself as human.
• Back away slowly. Do not turn your back.
• If the bear charges, stand your ground. Most are bluffs.
• If attacked by a grizzly, play dead. Lie flat on your stomach, hands clasped behind your neck, legs spread to make it harder to flip you.
• If attacked by a black bear, fight back with any available object.

Store all food, toiletries, and scented items in bear-resistant canisters. Hang them 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from the trunk if camping. Never sleep in the same clothes you cooked in.

Manage Altitude and Weather

The trail reaches elevations above 7,000 feet. Altitude sickness can strike quickly, even in fit individuals. Symptoms include headache, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If you experience these, descend at least 1,000 feet immediately.

Hydrate aggressively. Drink 1 liter of water per hour. Electrolyte tablets help maintain balance. Avoid alcohol and caffeine before and during your hike.

Weather in the Rockies is unpredictable. Even on sunny mornings, afternoon thunderstorms are common. Lightning strikes are a real danger on exposed ridges. If you hear thunder, descend immediately. Do not take shelter under trees or on rock outcrops. Seek low ground and crouch on your sleeping pad if caught in the open.

Travel in Groups and Inform Others

Never hike the Buffalo Tracks Trail alone. Even experienced hikers have gone missing on this trail due to sudden weather shifts or falls. Travel in groups of at least two, preferably three or more.

Leave a detailed itinerary with someone you trust. Include your planned route, expected return time, and emergency contacts. If you don’t return by your stated time, they can alert park rangers. This simple step has saved countless lives.

Tools and Resources

Essential Maps and Apps

While GPS devices and smartphones are helpful, they are not infallible. Always carry a paper map and compass as your primary navigation tools.

• USGS Topographic Map: “Many Glacier, MT” 7.5’ Quadrangle. Available for free download from the USGS website or purchase in print from the Glacier National Park Visitor Center.
• Gaia GPS App: Download offline maps for Glacier National Park. Includes trail overlays, elevation profiles, and satellite imagery. Subscription required.
• AllTrails Pro: Offers user-submitted trail reviews and photos. Use with caution—some routes may be outdated or inaccurate.
• National Park Service App: Official app with park alerts, trail conditions, and ranger contact info.

Books and Educational Materials

Deepen your understanding of the trail’s cultural and ecological context with these recommended resources:

• “The Blackfeet: Raiders on the Northwestern Plains” by John C. Ewers – A detailed historical account of Blackfeet life and bison hunting practices.
• “Glacier National Park: A Natural History” by David G. H. Hargrave – Comprehensive guide to the park’s ecosystems, geology, and wildlife.
• “Wisdom of the Elders: Native American Stories of the Land” edited by Linda M. Waggoner – A collection of Indigenous oral traditions that illuminate spiritual relationships with nature.
• “The Buffalo Commons: A Vision for the Great Plains” by Frank J. and Deborah S. Popper – Explores the ecological and cultural restoration of bison habitats.

Permits and Regulations

Backcountry permits are required for overnight stays. Apply through the National Park Service’s Backcountry Permit Reservation System. Day hikers do not need permits but must register at the trailhead kiosk.

Fire restrictions are in effect during dry periods. Check current rules before departure. No campfires are allowed above 6,500 feet. Use a lightweight stove instead.

Pets are prohibited on the Buffalo Tracks Trail. They disturb wildlife, leave scent trails that confuse animals, and are not permitted in designated wilderness areas.

Community and Volunteer Resources

Consider joining a trail stewardship program. Glacier National Park partners with organizations like the Glacier National Park Conservancy and the Blackfeet Heritage Foundation to maintain trails and educate visitors. Volunteer opportunities include trail cleanup, cultural interpretation, and habitat restoration.

Participating in these programs not only helps preserve the trail but also deepens your connection to the land and its people. Many volunteers return year after year, not just as hikers, but as guardians of the trail.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Solo Hiker Who Learned Respect

In 2021, a 32-year-old hiker from Colorado attempted to hike the Buffalo Tracks Trail alone. He ignored weather warnings and arrived at the trailhead at 11 a.m. After reaching the summit, he took photos of the buffalo tracks and removed a small stone as a “souvenir.” On his descent, a sudden hailstorm rolled in. He became disoriented and spent 14 hours in the cold.

Rescuers found him hypothermic but alive. He later wrote a letter of apology to the Blackfeet Nation, returned the stone, and now volunteers with a youth outdoor education program teaching cultural sensitivity to hikers. “I thought I was conquering the mountain,” he wrote. “I didn’t realize I was trespassing on a living memory.”

Example 2: The Family Who Walked with Intention

A family of four from Minnesota hiked the trail in September 2022 after months of research. They read Blackfeet stories, packed culturally respectful meals, and brought no cameras. They spent 20 minutes in silence at the buffalo tracks, offering tobacco leaves—a traditional gesture of gratitude. They did not speak the entire way back.

At the trailhead, they met a Blackfeet elder who had come to pray at the site. He nodded to them, smiled, and said, “You walked with good feet.” The family later donated to the Blackfeet Language Preservation Fund in his honor.

Example 3: The Photographer Who Shared Responsibly

A professional photographer from Portland captured stunning images of the Buffalo Tracks Trail in 2023. Instead of posting exact locations on Instagram, he published a photo essay titled “Where the Earth Remembers,” focusing on the spiritual significance of the trail. He credited the Blackfeet Nation, avoided revealing sensitive sites, and included links to educational resources.

His work went viral—not for the scenery, but for its reverence. He received hundreds of messages from people inspired to learn more about Indigenous stewardship. He now leads guided cultural hikes in partnership with tribal educators.

FAQs

Is the Buffalo Tracks Trail suitable for beginners?

The trail is not recommended for complete beginners. It is rated as strenuous due to elevation gain, uneven terrain, and exposure to weather. Hikers should have prior experience with backcountry navigation and be physically prepared for 7–9 hours of continuous hiking. If you’re new to hiking, consider shorter trails like Hidden Lake or Grinnell Glacier first.

Can I bring my dog on the Buffalo Tracks Trail?

No. Pets are prohibited on all backcountry trails in Glacier National Park. This includes dogs, cats, and other animals. The restriction exists to protect wildlife, preserve natural behaviors, and honor Indigenous cultural practices.

Are there water sources along the trail?

There are intermittent streams and seeps, but they are unreliable and often contaminated by wildlife. Always treat water with a filter or purification tablets. Do not rely on natural sources.

Do I need a permit to day hike the Buffalo Tracks Trail?

No, a permit is not required for day hiking. However, you must register at the trailhead kiosk. This helps park rangers track usage and respond quickly in emergencies.

Can I camp on the trail?

Yes, but only with a valid backcountry permit. Camping is allowed only in designated sites. No dispersed camping is permitted. Reservations open six months in advance and fill quickly.

Why are the buffalo tracks important?

The buffalo tracks are ancient pathways carved by bison over thousands of years. They represent one of the longest continuously used migration corridors in North America. For Indigenous peoples, they are sacred landmarks tied to creation stories, hunting traditions, and spiritual practices. They are not just geological features—they are living history.

What should I do if I find an artifact?

If you find an arrowhead, pottery shard, or any human-made object, do not touch it. Take a photo from a distance and note the location. Report it immediately to a park ranger. Removing artifacts is illegal under the Archaeological Resources Protection Act.

Is the trail accessible for people with mobility impairments?

No. The Buffalo Tracks Trail is not wheelchair accessible. It features steep, rocky, and uneven terrain with no paved or graded sections. Accessible alternatives in Glacier National Park include the Loop Trail at Many Glacier and the Apgar Nature Trail.

What’s the best time of year to see wildflowers?

Mid-July through early August is peak wildflower season. Lupine, Indian paintbrush, and glacier lilies bloom in vibrant colors across the meadows. Bring a wildflower guidebook to identify species.

Can I hike the trail in winter?

Winter hiking is strongly discouraged. The trail is buried under snow, avalanche-prone, and lacks maintenance. Temperatures can drop below -30°F. Only experienced winter mountaineers with specialized gear should attempt it—and even then, only with prior approval from park authorities.

Conclusion

Hiking the Buffalo Tracks Trail is not a checklist item to be ticked off. It is a pilgrimage—a chance to walk slowly, listen deeply, and remember that the land remembers us long before we arrived. This trail does not belong to us. We belong to it.

Every step you take echoes the footsteps of those who came before: the bison whose hooves shaped the earth, the ancestors who honored the land with prayer and patience, and the countless generations who understood that true wealth lies not in conquest, but in coexistence.

By following the guidelines in this tutorial, you are not just preparing for a hike—you are becoming a steward. You are choosing to walk with humility, to learn with openness, and to leave with reverence.

When you return home, share your experience—not as a conquest, but as a gift. Tell others about the buffalo tracks not as a photo op, but as a sacred inheritance. Encourage others to prepare deeply, respect fully, and hike mindfully.

The trail will be there tomorrow. But only if we choose to protect it. And only if we choose to honor the people whose legacy it carries.

Walk gently. Listen well. And remember—you are not just hiking the Buffalo Tracks Trail. You are walking with history.