Route Overview
A 3-day Glacier plan focused on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Logan Pass, and the Many Glacier area with time for short hikes and iconic viewpoints.
Itinerary
Lake McDonald Lodge
Lake McDonald Lodge sits on the shore of Lake McDonald and has been welcoming guests since 1914. Built in a Swiss style of architecture it retains a "hunting lodge" feel as guests enter the lobby surrounded by animal mounts and rustic log banisters. It remains the primary lodging facility on the west side of the park.
Start at the lakeshore with calm morning reflections.
Great light early in the day.
Going-to-the-Sun Road scenic drive
A drive across this engineering marvel has been a quintessential part of any trip to Glacier since the 1930s.
Drive the park's most iconic route with frequent pullouts.
Plan for slow traffic and short stops.
Logan Pass Visitor Center
Logan Pass is the highest elevation point on the road, and the place where it crosses the continental divide. Home to the Logan Pass Visitor Center, the area offers restrooms, shuttle service to both sides of the park, and hiking opportunities to Hidden Lake Overlook and the Highline.
High-elevation stop and trail access.
Parking fills early; arrive before noon.
Hidden Lake Overlook Trail
The Avalanche Lake Trail begins in the same place as the Trail of the Cedars and the Avalanche Campground. The trail climbs steadily through an old growth forest to an alpine like with outstanding waterfalls. Avalanche Lake 2.3 mi (3.7 km), one way Elevation gain: 500 ft (152 m) Trailhead: Avalanche Picnic Area
Classic alpine overlook with possible mountain goat sightings.
Stay on trails; snowfields can linger.
Many Glacier Hotel area
Lake views with dramatic peaks.
Early light is best on the lake.
Grinnell Lake Trail
The Avalanche Lake Trail begins in the same place as the Trail of the Cedars and the Avalanche Campground. The trail climbs steadily through an old growth forest to an alpine like with outstanding waterfalls. Avalanche Lake 2.3 mi (3.7 km), one way Elevation gain: 500 ft (152 m) Trailhead: Avalanche Picnic Area
Signature hike to an emerald lake.
Bring bear spray and plenty of water.
Swiftcurrent Lake shoreline
Relaxed lakeside stroll with peak reflections.
Great late-afternoon light.
St. Mary Lake shoreline
Wide lake views with classic Glacier scenery.
Look for Wild Goose Island in morning light.
Two Medicine Lake
Quieter lake with short trails and big peaks.
Good option to avoid crowds.
Running Eagle Falls
Explore native plants and their traditional uses along this trail. People have lived in this area for centuries, long before it became a park. Understanding how to use native plants made life more enjoyable; plants served as food, fuel, and other valuable resources.
Short walk to a unique double waterfall.
Great quick stop before leaving the park.
Creates a copy you can customize
3
Days
10
Stops
moderate
Difficulty
Best Season
July-September when Going-to-the-Sun Road is fully open
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