If you’re driving through Glacier along the Going-to-the-Sun Road and only have time for one short hike, make it this one. The Hidden Lake Overlook trail is the easiest hike in Glacier National Park, one that surrounds us with epic scenery without having to climb a mountain.
About the Hike to the Hidden Lake Overlook
Located at the highest point of the Going-to-the-Sun Road is the Hidden Lake Overlook trail. Known as being the easiest hike in Glacier National Park with some of the best views, the Hidden Lake Overlook trail is good for the entire family due to its length and easy-accessibility. There’s also an extension from the overlook that brings you to the base of Hidden Lake. Many times during the year the trail is closed due to bear activity. Find current trail status updates here.
Planning to drive the entire Going-to-the-Sun Road? Check out my blog post here on the best stops to make along the way!
Tips for Hiking the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail
Beings the trail is accessible from the Logan Pass Visitor Center, the most popular spot along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, parking is hard to come by. Show up to the lot before 8 AM or after 5 PM to ensure you’ll get a spot.
Looking for another hike from Logan Pass? Check out my post about the Highline Trail here (photo below for inspo!)
The beginning of the Hidden Lake Overlook trail is paved so hiking boots aren’t required for this trek. Beings we climb in elevation the entire way, the trail is technically rated as moderate but its short length allows us to take our time. As with all hikes in Glacier NP, be bear aware. Bring along bear spray every time you get out on the trails, familiarize yourself with the rules surrounding wildlife in our National Parks and always follow the Leave No Trace principles.
A reservation pass is now required to drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Find more info about that here
Hiking the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail
Distance: 2.9 Miles
Type: Out & Back
Elevation Gain: +567 Feet
Best Time to Hike: June – October
Features: Glacier, wildlife and alpine lake views. Good for the entire family. Dogs not allowed.
Getting to the Hidden Lake Overlook Trailhead
As mentioned, the trail to the Hidden Lake Overlook is accessible from the Logan Pass Visitor Center along the Continental Divide at over 6600 feet. Upon parking, walk up behind the visitors center on the right to find the beginning of the trailhead (directions here).
Beginning the Hike to the Hidden Lake Overlook
As we emerge to the trailhead from the back of the Logan Pass Visitor Center, that incredible Glacier scenery takes hold. In the first half mile we gain about 300 feet in elevation, evident by the boardwalk that keeps climbing and climbing. The openness to the surrounding vistas is a treat with pops of wildflowers all around.
The grade starts to even out in the next half mile, gaining only another 100 feet. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like big horned sheep who like to make their appearance here. Not long after the terrain turns from boardwalk to gravel we cross over a waterfall that stream-feeds a small body of water.
At around mile marker 1.4 and a climb of nearly +500 feet in elevation, we reach the incredible Hidden Lake Overlook, making that quick calf-burner worth every step.
From the overlook we get magnificent views of Hidden Lake and Bearhat Mountain rising over 8600 feet above. There is an extension to the trail that goes beyond the overlook down to the banks of Hidden Lake. Every time I’ve hiked this trail though it’s been shut down due to bear activity. Maybe you’ll get lucky and actually get to hike the rest of the trail!
Before heading out on trails, it’s imperative that you’re familiar with the “Leave No Trace” principles.
Read More: Leave No Trace: The 7 Rules of the Backcountry
Learn more about Leave No Trace on their website here.
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