Cracker Lake, Glacier National Park - June 2023

One of the more underrated hikes in Glacier, out of the popular Many Glacier area, Cracker Lake is deserving of consideration if you're looking for a big lake payoff. The trailhead sign says 12 miles will get you there and back again, but I have hiked it three times and always come closer to 14 than 12. Not a ton of elevation, but some hefty ups both coming and going mean you should be in pretty good shape to tackle this one.
One of the big drawbacks to this trail is the horse traffic. For just under two miles of trail, horses use the same trail, which means piles of poo. Which, after a rain or on a hot day, is not terribly fun. If you hike it early in the season, before the horse rides start up, no issue. I have hiked it during horse season, it was certainly not pleasant, but it wasn't as bad as expected. So if you can get through the first couple of miles, the rest of the trail is horse poo free. I just don't recommend wearing your best shoes.
The lake itself is stunning, glacier silt makes it a surreal blue, although depending on the day the color can change. However, especially early or late in the season, animals are very active throughout the area, so be prepared. We saw a bull moose and three grizzlies this day, all of which were very close to or right on the trail,. Stay alert, carry bear spray, make noise, and give them space. And when you're at the lake, if you decide to take a dip, brace yourself. It will be way colder than what you prepared for!