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Day Hike Avalanche Lake in Glacier NP

West Glacier, Montana

4.7/5
based on 3 reviews

Description

Added by Conor Barry

2 mile hike with 500' elevation gainGreat sceneryAwesome, old-growth forestsScenic lakeWaterfallsAvalanche Gorge

Length: 2 MilesElevation Gain: 500 ft

Starting at the Trail of the Cedars Trailhead on Going-to-the-Sun Road, the hike to Avalanche Lake winds through old-growth forests, passes waterfalls and eventually arrives at a large mountain lake surrounded by huge cascades and towering peaks. The first half mile of the trail is paved/boardwalk. This loop, Trail of the Cedars, is an easy stroll through dense woods. Mosses and ferns cover the forest floor. At the apex of the loop you'll find the junction to the Avalanche Lake trail. At this junction you'll also meet up with Avalanche Gorge. Here, Avalanche Creek has cut its way through the rock creating many cascades and unique rock formations. After taking the junction to Avalanche Lake the trail begins to climb. The trail gains 500 through old-growth forests. Here the trees are covered in spanish moss and the forest floor is covered in other mosses and ferns. Its an amazing sight to take in. The trail eventually reaches the lake where the forest opens up to a large beach. Three huge cascades pour down the cliffs surrounding the lake. Stop here and try to take it all in. The trail is an out-and-back so head out the same way you came in.

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Features

Fishing
Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Beach
Family Friendly
Forest
Lake
River
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildflowers
Wildlife
ADA Accessible

Day Hike Avalanche Lake in Glacier NP Reviews

This is a good hike that can be done by the whole family. The stream next to the trail has some very interesting sections to photograph.

Love this area. Easy hike to a beautiful destination. Your pictures capture it well

Beautiful area. Easy hike to a beautiful destination. Your pictures capture it well

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Avalanche Lake via Trail of Cedars

Trail of the Cedars

Explore Avalanche Creek

Bike Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park

Photography on Logan Pass

Grinnell Glacier Overlook via Highline Trail