Trail of the Cedars

The Trail of the Cedars is located off the Going-to-the-Sun Road, about 5.5 miles east of Lake McDonald Lodge. Parking is extremely limited and fills up very early, often by 9 AM. Consider using the park's shuttle system to access the trailhead, especially during peak season.

Yes, the trailhead is accessible by car via the Going-to-the-Sun Road. However, parking is a major challenge. Many visitors opt for the park shuttle to avoid parking hassles.

Yes, the Trail of the Cedars is directly accessible from the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Keep in mind that this road often requires a vehicle reservation during peak season, so check NPS guidelines.

If the parking lot is full, your best bet is to utilize the Glacier National Park shuttle system. This will allow you to reach the trailhead without the stress of finding a parking spot.

Absolutely! The Trail of the Cedars is often included in popular Glacier National Park itineraries, frequently paired with the hike to Avalanche Lake.

While the trail itself is free to access, you will need to pay the standard entrance fee for Glacier National Park. Additionally, during peak season, a vehicle reservation may be required for the Going-to-the-Sun Road.

The Trail of the Cedars is open year-round, but access can be affected by weather and snow conditions, especially outside of the main summer season. The Going-to-the-Sun Road has seasonal closures.

There is no separate fee for the Trail of the Cedars itself. However, you must pay the general entrance fee for Glacier National Park to access the area.

The parking lot is notoriously small and fills up extremely quickly, often by 9 AM, and sometimes even earlier. Arriving very early is highly recommended.

Yes, a valid Glacier National Park entrance pass will cover your entry fee to the park, which includes access to the Trail of the Cedars.

It's a relatively easy, mostly flat 1-mile loop trail. A significant portion is a raised boardwalk, making it very accessible. +1 You'll walk through an ancient forest of towering cedars and hemlocks, with a highlight being the stunning Avalanche Gorge.

Yes, it's an excellent choice for families! The boardwalk is stroller-friendly, and the short loop is manageable for little legs. Just be mindful of the drop-offs near the gorge.

No, pets are generally not allowed on hiking trails within Glacier National Park, including the Trail of the Cedars, to protect wildlife and preserve the natural environment.

The loop itself is about 1 mile and typically takes 30-60 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how long you stop to admire the scenery. If you continue to Avalanche Lake, that adds significant time.

The trail is named for the magnificent ancient western red cedars and western hemlocks that dominate the forest. You'll also find lush ferns and other undergrowth.

The vibrant teal water of Avalanche Gorge is a must-capture. +1 Also, look for dramatic shots of the towering ancient cedars and the moss-covered forest floor. +1

Absolutely! Rainy days can lend a mystical, moody atmosphere to the ancient forest, creating unique photographic opportunities.

Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light. However, the forest canopy creates a diffused light throughout much of the day, making it generally good for photos.

Drone usage is restricted in all National Parks, including Glacier. Flying drones is prohibited to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the ancient trees and the gorge. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water.