Hike to Apgar Lookout

Precursor: I completed this hike in November, hence the snow in the photos. Due to a lack of tree coverage, this hike is best suited for a cool summer day, or in the late spring and early autumn. It is doable in the heat of the summer, but be sure to pack plenty of water.

This hike begins by trekking through a recovering forest, which was originally destroyed in the 2003 Roberts Fire. The first section of the hike, roughly three-quarters of a mile, has little to no climb to it. Soon, though, the trail begins to gain elevation. There are several switchbacks in the trail as you climb. As you approach the lookout, there is a nearby pit toilet. Upon reaching the structure itself, it is about a quarter of a mile to the highest point of the mountain. Though none were seen on the day I completed the hike, there is the possibility of viewing wildlife along the trail.

From the lookout, a beautiful view of Lake McDonald can be seen to the northeast, though from some angles slightly obstructed by trees and a large TV transformer standing nearby. Surrounding the head of the lake, Stanton Mountain, Mount Vaught, The Garden Wall, Edwards Mountain, Little Matterhorn, and Gunsight Mountain stand. Looking east, you can see far into the Lewis Range of mountains. Looking back from where you came, you can see into the North Fork and Middle Fork areas, along with the surrounding communities.

This hike is easily completed in a half-day, allowing time to explore Apgar Village or, if visiting Glacier for a while, head over to the east side of the park to explore the following day.