We took a boat across Lake Josephine to see Grinnell Glacier from the water, since we couldn't hike to it because of snow. It was the most beautiful views I've ever seen. There's a lodge right on the banks of the lake, very "Sound of Music" looking, rustic. 360-degree views of snow-covered mountains. Just gorgeous.
Loved the small lake that was a mere 1/4 mile hike from Swiftwater Lake. The story the boat captain had of how the boat got to Josephine Lake was AMAZING. I won't tell you how it got there but you won't be disappointed if you take the boat rides then hike to Grinnell Glacier.
This is the location of the Many Glacier Hotel which is stunning. While at Lake Josephine, be sure to take the boat ride to the end of the lake and walk the trail to Grinnell Lake. Hike safely and in a group and make lots of noise (well, enough to keep the bears at bay). DO NOT let that scare you from witnessing another of Mother Natures beautiful creations. Leave yourself a good 3-4 hours for this visit.
Saw a Grizzly next to this lake while hiking out to Grinnel. Enjoyed this part of the hike as you were surrounded by mountains.
Green and serene. Humbling how spectacular this area is. Mountains rise right out of the water! You take a boat ride from Many Glacier HOtel across Swiftcurrent Lake and walk over a .25 mile hill and down to Lake Josephine. Just be prepared that you are at a high altitude and although short, you may feel winded climbing up the short steep incline to get to the other side! But definitely doable.
We took the Glacier Park Boat tour of Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine. Very enjoyable and lots of beautiful scenery. The narration was very good and very informative. We did get to see a mother brown bear with her cub while on Swiftcurrent. The walk between the lakes was some what steep but not as difficult as advertised.
We went on a boat ride to two lakes. It's about a 15 min ride per lake with a hike in between. It was nice.
The short walk from Swift Current Lake to Josephine is definitely worth it. There are further options for hikes from there.
We truly enjoyed the boat trip, as well as saving us some hiking miles on the way to Grinnell Lake. If you can, purchase your tickets ahead of time via phone so you know you have your spot on the boat. Many people try purchase tickets on site but they are often sold out a day or two ahead of time. The boat captain has great information about the area on the ride to your first 'portage' where you will get off the boat, walk a short distance and board another boat. Once you get to the final destination, keep in mind the return times and that the boats can be full so you have to wait for the next departure. This was a great way to visit Grinnell Lake and if you do take that hike, don't miss Hidden Falls right before the suspension bridge - short hike up but it is steep. If you have the energy and time, Grinell Glacier would have been a great hike too.