Avalanche Lake Route Guide
Table of contents
Route Description for Avalanche Lake
During the busy season, once the road is fully open to vehicle traffic, it becomes tough to find parking here. Either plan to arrive very early in the morning, or take a shuttle from another area of the park.
This is a popular, renowned family-friendly hike! The old-growth cedars and hemlocks, lush greens ferns, and mosses mirror the verdant scenery blanketing the Pacific coast more than anywhere else in the park.
The trek begins at the Trail of the Cedar trailhead. You can start the walk from either direction. After walking for around half a mile, you will reach the junction for Avalanche lake. The lake is either just before or after (depending on which direction you start) a bridge traversing the rushing waters of Avalanche Creek. Once you reach the Avalanche Lake trail, you will embark on a short ascent before continuing along the path adjacent to the creek for 0.8 km. Eventually, you'll enter the woods.
At the point where Hidden Creek and Avalanche Creek meet, roughly another half-mile ahead, there will be significant debris from the many avalanches that erupt throughout this area. Continue along the trail for another 1.1 km until you reach the base of Avalanche Lake. There is a little beach a short distance away that makes for a decent rest spot before you return the same way you came.
Find more epic hikes in Glacier National Park
Insider Hints for Avalanche Lake
- The walk to Avalanche Lake is a wonderful accessible hike in the park, perfect for anyone who cannot hike far.
- Parking here gets extremely crowded since it is also the Trail of the Cedars parking. Therefore, it is vital to get there early.
- Consider staying the night at Avalanche campground to get ahead of the crowds. It is a first come first serve with 87 sites.
Getting to the Avalanche Lake Trailhead
From the entrance to West Glacier, turn right on the Going to the Sun Road and continue for roughly 27.4 km to the Trail of the Cedars trailhead.Route Information for Avalanche Lake
When to do:
May - September
Backcountry Campsites:
No
Pets allowed:
No
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
High
Route Type:
Out and back
Avalanche Lake Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews for Avalanche Lake
I highly recommend the Avalanche lake hike to anyone visiting Glacier National Park. It is a low-moderate hike into a lake at the box end of canyon.
- Trip Length
- 03:00
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This was a satisfying hike to the lake. Amazing views of creek and surrounding peaks.
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Incredible hike. The forest offers some relaxing vibes in this short hike.
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Amazing hike. Totally hooked by the lovely surroundings.
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The botany in this area is fascinating! It might be due to the effect of the avalanche remnants.
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Really great hike. Surprisingly there were very few people, while we were doing it.
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This is a great hike for small children and the elderly. It was fun and safe to do, but it's better to be cautious because it can be quite crowded.
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The snow-swept mountain peaks were mesmerizing. The entire journey was so amazing. Every mile was worth it.
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This hike is perfect for people of any ages! Be sure to visit it!
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I had a wonderful time trekking. The journey was worthwhile. There are outstanding views along the way.
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