Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
User RatingsBe the first to add a review!
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Directions to Trailhead
Quartz Lake Loop Trail
Table of contents
The Quartz Lake Loop Trail is an incredibly serene and picturesque hike. The trail gains elevation quickly and takes you up to a high ridge before beginning to descend to the foot of Quartz Lake. You can take in stunning views throughout this entire hike and every twist and turn will showcase beauty.
Route Description for Quartz Lake Loop Trail
Exploring Quartz Lake Loop Trail will engage all of your senses as you wander through this serene part of Glacier National Park. The hike begins at the West Lake Trailhead, and you will cross a wooden footbridge that suspends over Bowman Creek. This is quite the view at the beginning of the hike. After walking for 0.4mi, you will arrive at the Quartz Lake Loop junction, stay to the left and hike a rather steep climb up to a high ridge. You will hike through a forested area during this time that is full of greenery and is surrounded by very tall trees. After your climb, you will begin your descent down to the foot of Quartz Lake. You will see the damage of the 1988 North Fork Fire during your walk through this area, and then Quartz Lake will come into view. Once you reach the foot of Quartz Lake, you will see the Livingstone Range that houses Logging Mountain, Vulture Peak and Cerulean Ridge. Continuing on, you will arrive at Quartz Lake Campground where some hikers chose to stay the night. At 6.5mi into the trail, you will walk along Quartz Lake, which will lead you to Lower Quartz Lake and Lower Quartz Lake Campground after 2.0mi. After this, you will begin to loop around and will face ascending terrain once again until you reach the beginning. Find more epic hikes in Glacier National Park * Grinnell Glacier * Hidden Lake Overlook * Ptarmigan Tunnel * Iceberg Lake * St Mary and Virginia Falls * Piegan PassGetting to the Quartz Lake Loop Trail Trailhead
To get to the Quartz Lake Loop Trail, head Northeast toward Glacier Drive and turn right. Turn left onto Inside North Fork Road, and in 0.2mi, turn right onto Bowman Lake Road. After driving for 5.4mi, turn right and arrive at your destination.Route Information
When to do:
May - September
Backcountry Campsites:
Quartz Lake Campground
Pets allowed:
No
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Low
Route Type:
Circuit
Quartz Lake Loop Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
0.0
No reviews
Write a review
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.
Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!