They came up with their two children and each of them took turns raving about their trip to the park, saying that it was one of their absolute favorite national park experiences. The father had seen the mountain goat bumper stickers on my car as well as the hiking decals on my computer and connected the dots. While writing at a coffee shop today, a young family approached me and asked about Glacier National Park. There is also public transportation from other parking lots on the GTTS road.Hidden Lake Glacier National Park, Montana Words and Photography by Lauren Hurst Get here early or late to avoid the crowds.
Be aware the parking lot is typically full between 8:30am and 4pm. To get to the Hidden Lake Overlook Trailhead, take the Going-to-the-Sun Road and park at the Logan Pass Visitor Center.
As you rise, cross a stream or two, which hopefully means there are some Rocky Mountain goats nearby. You can also pick out the start of the wonderful Highline Trail, which takes you along the Continental Divide to Granite Park Chalet.īut you’re continuing ahead. Towering above the Visitor Centre is Mount Pollock, with Mount Piegan on the right. It goes without saying it’s worth it to stop and look behind you. On your left you will see Reynolds Mountain. These meadows, known as “Hanging Gardens” are fragile, and much of this path is on a boardwalk, designed to preserve the fragile grasses of this area.Īs you look up, you will see Clements Mountain towering on your right, with waterfalls coming down early in the season. This entire route is through alpine gardens, which makes it stunning. Walk behind the visitor center and you will see a load of people heading up towards Hidden Lake Pass. We didn’t mind as we had our good, sturdy leather boots (thank-you Zamberlan!), however people in sandals or running shoes were having a tough time.įrom the parking lot, head towards the visitor center. As early evening approached, the snow was melting, and the trail was quite wet. Our last trip in mid-July was very snowy, with only about half the hike without powder. We heard people ask him “Are you going skiing?” He didn’t even reply, and frankly we were left wondering what the people asking the question thought he might be doing besides skiing. In mid-July we saw a father with his kids carrying ski gear up to get some turns in. And it’s only 2.1 km each way!Įarly in the season this hike retains a lot of snow. There are literally hundreds of people doing this route, and for good reason.
This hike is some-kinda-wonderful, but don’t expect to be alone on the trail.