Avalanche Lake Trail

Avalanche Lake is one of the most popular hikes in Glacier National Park.

Guide Sections

Use Avalanche Lake Trail's guide sections to understand how this stop fits into the larger park plan.

Hiking

Avalanche Lake Trail Details

Difficulty

Low

Distance

3.1 miles

Estimated time

2.15 hours

Region

N/A

Avalanche Lake is one of the most popular hikes in Glacier National Park. It's an easy hike to a spectacular alpine lake. You aren't going to be alone on this trail, but it's still worth checking out. The hike begins on the popular Trail of the Cedars, where you'll walk among ancient giant trees on an accessible boardwalk. The trail takes you to Avalanche Gorge, a sight not to be missed. Aquamarine water cuts through the rock, and spray from the frothing water allows for lush moss to grow along the sides of the creek. The trail then follows Avalanche Creek through the forest to Avalanche Lake. Avalanche Lake sits in a bowl, surrounded by high mountains. Waterfalls from snowmelt race down the mountain faces into the turquoise lake. Remember, Glacier is grizzly country. Carry bear spray, make noise and travel in groups. The trailhead is at Avalanche Creek.