Nearly four years ago, a friend and I hiked part of the Highline Trail in Glacier National Park. This trail is renowned for its stunning scenery. The full hike spans about twelve to fourteen miles, but most hikers opt for an out-and-back route instead of completing the entire trail. We discovered that this preference largely stems from the final four miles, which feature a steep decline that can be tough on the knees and offers little in the way of views.
If you're planning to hike the full trail, here are some tips to keep in mind. First, be prepared for the length of the hike. We woke up at 3:30 a.m. to drive from our campsite to the parking lot. Arriving early is crucial, as this lot is one of the smallest for such a popular hike. We noticed people had even slept in their cars overnight to secure a spot. Thankfully, we arrived early enough to find parking without any issues. We started our hike at sunrise, and the overcast sky worked to our advantage, providing some relief from the sun. The trail has no shade, and although there isn’t much elevation gain, the sun can really wear you out, so pack plenty of water and snacks.
Around mile 7 there’s a junction with the Garden Wall Trail. I highly recommend taking this detour to Grinnell Glacier, where you’ll gain 900 to 1,500 feet in elevation over less than a mile. The views from up there were my absolute favorite in Glacier. Don’t forget to bring a lightweight jacket, as it can get quite windy and chilly.
After descending from Garden Wall, you’ll return to the main trail and reach the chalet in about a mile. The chalet offers lodging, snacks, restrooms, and drinks, making it a popular stop for many hikers. Some people spend the night there before heading back the next day, while others pause to rest before continuing. We stopped briefly but needed to keep moving, as we were concerned about our dog, Lylah, waiting in the car.
The descent was challenging. I found myself practically sprinting the last four miles, which was far from straightforward. The trail features steep steps and undulating terrain, with little tree cover along the way. Once you finally reach the bottom, you'll need to wait for the shuttle back to the parking lot. A word of caution about the shuttle system: it can be chaotic and overcrowded. If you're in a large group, I recommend sending someone ahead to secure a ride back. We saw groups waiting for over half an hour, and when the second shuttle arrived, I managed to grab one of the last two spots. Lylah was fine in the car, and after picking up our friend J, we headed back to the campsite.
Overall, we had a fantastic trip, and the hike was definitely worth it. If we do it again, we might leave Lylah with other campers overnight or stay at the chalet ourselves. It's definitely on our list for a return visit—maybe next time!
Avalanche Lake is one of the standout hikes on the west side of Glacier National Park, renowned for its stunning scenery and accessibility. Having completed this hike twice, I’m excited to share essential details to help you make the most of your visit.
Getting There: Parking Tips
First and foremost, parking can be a challenge, especially given the hike's popularity. It’s best to arrive early in the morning or around 6-7 PM to avoid the crowds. On my first visit nearly four years ago, I arrived early and secured a spot without any issues. However, during my most recent hike in the afternoon around 4 PM, I had to circle the parking lot for about 15 to 20 minutes before finding a space. Planning ahead for parking can save you time and frustration.
The Hike: What to Expect
The hike to Avalanche Lake is approximately 5 miles round trip and is classified as mild, making it suitable for a wide range of hikers. The trail begins with a short half-mile entry through a beautiful cedar forest, setting the stage for the adventure ahead. After this, you’ll encounter a series of steps that lead into the heart of the trail.
As you navigate the hike, be prepared for some uphill sections. While there are a few challenging spots, the overall elevation gain is manageable compared to other hikes in the park. The trail winds through lush woods, with occasional signs of past slides—fallen trees that the park staff do an excellent job of clearing from the path.
Given the trail’s popularity, expect to share it with other hikers. Although the path is wide, you may find yourself waiting or stepping aside to let others pass during peak hours.
Scenic Stops and Highlights
The trail follows a picturesque river, with numerous spots where you can pause to cool off or take a break. However, I recommend saving your dip for when you reach the lake itself. Just before you arrive at the lake, there’s a well-maintained restroom facility to the right, which can be a welcome sight for many hikers.
As you approach Avalanche Lake, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views, including a beautiful waterfall cascading in the distance. This is truly one of my favorite aspects of the hike—the moment you step into the clearing and catch sight of the serene lake is unforgettable.
The water here is refreshing and chilly, perfect for a quick dip after your hike. I highly recommend taking some time to relax by the shore, enjoy a meal, and soak in the stunning scenery. If you can, stay to witness the sunset; the views are absolutely worth it.
Final Thoughts
Avalanche Lake is a must-visit for anyone exploring Glacier National Park. With its accessible trail, stunning views, and refreshing waters, it offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Just remember to plan your visit carefully, especially regarding parking, and prepare to enjoy a truly memorable experience in this beautiful natural setting. Happy hiking!
About a month ago, we returned from Glacier National Park. For those who haven’t ventured that far northwest, it’s located in the upper part of Montana, right on the Canadian border. The park is considered a peace park since it extends across the border into Canada, which is a fascinating concept. It really makes me reflect on the possibilities of being neighbors with Canada. I’m inspired to cross over and explore more incredible places that I can check off my map.
For now, I’m grateful for the hikes we completed during our trip. Our time in Glacier was amazing, with perfect weather throughout. The hikes we accomplished could have been challenging if we hadn’t chosen the right time to visit and if we hadn’t had many overcast days. Here are the hikes we tackled:
- Avalanche Lake
- Highline Trail
- Logan Pass
- Siyeh Pass
We initially planned to do the first three, but we added Siyeh Pass after hearing rave reviews from rangers and fellow hikers. Over the course of the week, we hiked more than 30 miles! We were treated to breathtaking views, spotted numerous marmots, and enjoyed an abundance of beautiful wildflowers. I have so much to share about this experience, and I can’t wait to tell you more. It truly became one of my favorite parks, and I want to share everything we discovered.
Next up: Avalanche Lake!
