Avalanche Lake Trail: Scenic Family Hike in Glacier National Park

Go on a memorable journey through lush forests to the breathtaking Avalanche Lake, surrounded by majestic peaks and waterfalls, suitable for all ages.

Last updated: May 2024

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Free access to the trail; park entrance fees apply.
More than 500 Miles from you
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Description

Embark on a memorable journey through lush forests to the breathtaking Avalanche Lake, surrounded by majestic peaks and waterfalls, suitable for all ages. The Avalanche Lake trail offers an accessible adventure through Glacier National Park's stunning landscapes. Starting with the Trail of the Cedars, this hike combines natural beauty with ease, making it ideal for families and those seeking a less strenuous path. The trailhead, located near the Lake McDonald area, leads you through dense cedar forests and alongside roaring streams, culminating at the serene Avalanche Lake. This crystal-clear lake, framed by towering mountains and cascading waterfalls, provides a perfect backdrop for a picnic and relaxation. Despite its popularity, the trail maintains a sense of tranquility, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in nature's splendor without the need for advanced hiking skills.

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For groups

For families with kids

For parents and grownups

Outdoorsy

Challenging

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Itinerary

Start at the Avalanche Lake trailhead near Lake McDonald Lodge.
Follow the Trail of Cedars until you reach the Avalanche Lake junction.
Continue on the Avalanche Lake Trail, enjoying the views of Avalanche Gorge.
Reach Avalanche Lake and explore the shoreline.
Return via the same path or explore further along the lake's edge.

Location

West Glacier, MT 59936

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Packing List

Comfortable walking shoes
Water and snacks
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Rain gear (weather can change quickly)
Bear spray (recommended for safety)

4.9 ● Google reviews

The hike up to Avalanche lake I would rate as an intermediate trail and not a beginner trail due to the raise in elevation when hiking. There were steep parts of the trail if someone was on crutches/walking aid would be difficult. The hike views are amazing and Avalanche Lake is out of this world beautiful. The pictures I took do not do it justice. We got to the park around 5 am and the trail and lake were quiet. As we left to hike back down there was a trail of hikers coming up non stop. I would recommend hiking early.

About 4.6mi round trip. Steady uphill to the lake, downhill on the way back. I’m an inexperienced, unfit hiker, so uphill to the lake was moderate difficulty for me. Coming back was a piece of cake. I agree with what another reviewer said - the views are definitely mediocre, even at the lake. There definitely aren’t “stunning views at every turn” as some other folks describe. Unless you like trees. Most of the hike is through a forest, with occasional views of the stream and mountains.

The trail was quite well traveled when I hiked it in late September. I must have been on a different hike than most people who review the Avalanche Lake trail. I fail to see the appeal of this trail compared to most others at Glacier NP not to mention other NP hikes. One reviewer actually called this the most beautiful hike they'd ever been on. I'd like to have what she's having (yes, a When Harry Met Sally reference). The vast majority of this trail traverses through a forest with no appreciable mountain views. Even the lake destination was pretty underwhelming. It isn't even on the same planet as the destination for Grinnell Glacier trail. In a different park I might feel differently, but frankly, I found this trail to be a waste of time considering the immense beauty of the rest of the park.

Visit 07/22 Easy - moderate hike (depending upon your level). Stunning views the entire hike, end result - avalanche lake - is definitely a must see. I don’t recall a restroom but i do see on the map it says there’s one of some sort. Overall I would highly recommend for anyone to go and enjoy.

Worth it. Between the waterfalls along the trail and the views at the end, it does not disappoint. Even when it's cloudy, it is still stunning. Just make sure to bring water and maybe some snacks. I would also recommend taking bear spray, because there are grizzly bears in that area.

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