Hidden Lake Trail Glacier National Park Montana
Iconic hike in Glacier NP offering stunning alpine lake views and frequent wildlife sightings, starting from Logan Pass.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Secure parking & fewer crowds
Hidden Lake Trail Glacier National Park Montana
Best Time
Secure parking & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic hike in Glacier NP offering stunning alpine lake views and frequent wildlife sightings, starting from Logan Pass.
"The views are great all the way to the top. It can be done by most individuals to the overlook."
🚗 Arrive Before 7 AM
Logan Pass parking fills FAST. Get there super early or use the park shuttle to avoid disappointment.
🐻 Bear Spray is Essential
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Wildlife encounters are common; maintain a safe distance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hidden Lake Overlook
Logan Pass
Panoramic views of a stunning alpine lake nestled among rugged peaks. A must-see vista!
Mountain Goat Sightings
Along the trail
Keep an eye out for playful mountain goats often seen grazing near the trail. Remember to keep your distance!
Wildflowers in Bloom
Alpine meadows
During summer, meadows burst with vibrant wildflowers, adding a splash of color to the dramatic landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds to Hidden Lake
Wildlife Safety is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Before 7 AM
Logan Pass parking fills FAST. Get there super early or use the park shuttle to avoid disappointment. 
🐻 Bear Spray is Essential
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Wildlife encounters are common; maintain a safe distance.
🥾 Hike to the Overlook
The overlook is a moderate 2.7-mile roundtrip. The full trail to the lake is steep and longer.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this alpine hike. There are no water sources along the trail.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Before 7 AM
Logan Pass parking fills FAST. Get there super early or use the park shuttle to avoid disappointment.
🐻 Bear Spray is Essential
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Wildlife encounters are common; maintain a safe distance.
🥾 Hike to the Overlook
The overlook is a moderate 2.7-mile roundtrip. The full trail to the lake is steep and longer.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this alpine hike. There are no water sources along the trail.
☁️ Check Weather Forecast
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for sun, rain, or even snow, regardless of the season.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views from the Hidden Lake Overlook, calling it one of the best trails in Glacier National Park. The abundance of wildlife, particularly mountain goats, is a major highlight. Some find the full hike to the lake strenuous due to its steepness, and parking at Logan Pass is a significant challenge for many.
"Turn back after 4 miles unless u want to hike down, very steep down for the last 4 miles to the loop. I do not recommend doing all 12 miles, just do the first 3-4 miles and then turn around"
Jessica Sweet
"One of the best trails I have done. The views are great all the way to the top. It can be done by most individuals to the overlook. Easy for an experienced hiker and moderate for most people."
Wyatt W. Penke
"Great short trail that with a lake overlook!"
Sophie Su
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hidden Lake Trail begins at the Logan Pass Visitor Center, located on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Parking here is extremely limited and fills up very early, often by 7 AM. Consider using the park's shuttle system or arriving before sunrise to guarantee a spot.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is typically open from late June or early July through mid-October, depending on snow conditions. Always check the official Glacier National Park website for current road status before your visit.
Yes, you can drive to the Logan Pass Visitor Center, which is the starting point for the Hidden Lake Trail. However, parking is a major challenge. Arriving very early is crucial.
The primary parking is at the Logan Pass Visitor Center. It's free but fills up extremely fast. Some visitors suggest looking for parking further down the road and walking, but this is not ideal.
Glacier National Park operates a shuttle system that stops at various points along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, including Logan Pass. This is a great alternative to driving and parking. Check the park's website for current shuttle routes and schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You do not need a separate ticket for the Hidden Lake Trail itself. However, you will need a park entrance pass for Glacier National Park. During peak season, a vehicle reservation may also be required for the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor. Check the NPS website for the most up-to-date entry requirements.
The Logan Pass Visitor Center typically opens in late June and operates through mid-October. Hours vary, but it's generally open from around 9 AM to 5 PM. The trailhead is accessible even when the visitor center is closed, but facilities will be unavailable.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Glacier National Park. You can purchase a pass at one of the park's entrance stations or online in advance. The pass is valid for 7 days.
Vehicle reservations for the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor are often required during peak season (typically May through September). These reservations are released in advance and can be booked on Recreation.gov. They sell out quickly, so book as soon as they become available.
While the trail is accessible, hiking at sunset is not recommended due to potential wildlife activity and diminishing light. Parking may be slightly easier in the late afternoon, but safety should be your priority.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The trail to the Hidden Lake Overlook is approximately 2.7 miles roundtrip with about 550 feet of elevation gain. If you choose to continue down to the lake itself, the total roundtrip distance is about 5.2 miles with 1,300 feet of elevation gain.
The hike to the overlook is considered moderate, with a well-maintained boardwalk and trail. The descent to the lake is steep and more challenging. Most visitors find the overlook portion achievable.
You have a good chance of seeing mountain goats and bighorn sheep. Bears, including grizzlies, also inhabit the area, so always be bear aware.
Yes, restrooms are available at the Logan Pass Visitor Center. There are no facilities along the trail itself.
No, pets are not allowed on the Hidden Lake Trail or any other trails within Glacier National Park, except for service animals. This is to protect wildlife and sensitive vegetation.
📸 📸 Photography
The Hidden Lake Overlook itself offers breathtaking panoramic views. The entire trail provides stunning mountain vistas, alpine meadows, and opportunities to photograph wildlife like mountain goats.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The 'golden hour' around sunrise and sunset can be magical, though be mindful of safety and wildlife.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A telephoto lens is useful for wildlife photography. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and a polarizing filter to enhance the blue of the sky and lake.
No, drones are prohibited in all National Parks, including Glacier National Park, for safety and environmental reasons.
Experiment with different angles, focus on the scale of the mountains, and capture the details of wildflowers or wildlife. Consider including yourself in the frame to show the grandeur of the landscape. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families:
Arrive very* early to secure parking at Logan Pass. The shuttle is also a good option.
* Carry plenty of snacks and water. There are no services on the trail.
* Be prepared for changing mountain weather. Dress in layers.
* Educate children about wildlife safety and maintaining a safe distance from animals like mountain goats.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Budget-friendly tips:
* Pack your own food and snacks to avoid expensive park concessions.
* Utilize the park's free shuttle system to save on gas and parking hassles.
* Consider camping in or near the park for more affordable accommodation options.
* Visit during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) for potentially lower lodging rates.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Photography tips:
* Aim for the 'golden hours' of sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic lighting.
* Bring a telephoto lens for capturing mountain goats and other wildlife from a safe distance.
* A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the sky and water.
* Be patient; the best shots often come with waiting for the right moment and light.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Logan Pass and Parking
+2To increase your chances of securing a spot, aim to arrive before sunrise. If you miss out on parking, the park's shuttle system is your best alternative. The shuttle stops at Logan Pass and can be a stress-free way to access the trailhead. Be sure to check the shuttle schedule and routes in advance, as they can change.
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (late June or early September) when crowds might be slightly thinner, though parking will still be a challenge. The experience of reaching Logan Pass and starting the hike is a significant part of the adventure, so planning ahead is key to a smooth visit.
Wildlife Encounters on the Trail
+1However, the park is also home to grizzly bears. While bear sightings on this specific trail are less common than on some others, they do occur. Visitors have shared videos of bear encounters, sometimes quite close to the trail.
Remember that you are in their habitat. Following park guidelines for wildlife safety ensures a better experience for both you and the animals. Staying on marked trails and keeping a safe distance are paramount for everyone's well-being.
The Hike to Hidden Lake: Overlook vs. Lake
+2For those seeking a more challenging adventure, continuing down to Hidden Lake adds another 2.5 miles (roundtrip) and a significant 1,300 feet of elevation gain. This descent is steep and can be strenuous, especially on the return climb. While the views at the lake are rewarding, many visitors opt to turn around at the overlook to conserve energy and time, especially given the popularity and potential for crowds.
Deciding whether to go to the overlook or the lake depends on your fitness level, time constraints, and desired experience. The overlook offers the iconic views that most people come for, while the full hike provides a more immersive and strenuous experience for the adventurous.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit