7 Easy-To-Reach Lakes in Glacier National Park
Table of Contents [Show]
Glacier National Park is a majestic, mountainous location that millions of travelers visit each year. The area comprises more than 700 miles of hiking trails that transport you to some of the most pristine locations in the country. Many of these areas include icy blue alpine lakes offering breathtaking views that will instantly shift your perspective to the present moment. With fresh air, abundant wildlife, gorgeous wildflowers, and over 700 lakes, there are plenty of reasons to visit this National Park in Montana. Here are 7 easy-to-reach lakes in Glacier National Park:
1. Avalanche Lake
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 5.9 miles
Elevation gain: 757 ft
Route type: There and back
The route to Avalanche Lake begins at the Trail of Cedars trailhead, a wheelchair-accessible trail that’s great for the whole family. As you travel along the trail of Cedars, you’ll pass through an ancient forest of western hemlocks and giant red cedars that quickly turn into a vibrant forest full of green moss and lush ferns; almost resembling the Pacific Coast. Over a mile in you’ll reach the flowing Avalanche Creek with an incredible view of the lower Avalanche Gorge. As you keep traveling up the trail you’ll eventually end up at the foot of Avalanche Lake. The lake offers outstanding views of the towering Bearhat Mountain, a couple of ice-cold waterfalls to admire, and an opportunity for some fishing.
2. Hidden Lake
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 5.3 miles
Elevation gain: 1,374 ft
Route type: There and back
Hidden Lake is a popular destination among hikers, and for good reason. The trail begins on pavement and travels through a vast, wide-open valley known as the “Hanging Gardens.” All along the way, you’ll have a stunning view of the 8,760-foot- high Clements Mountain. A little over a mile into your hike you’ll arrive at the Hidden Lake Overlook and be rewarded with a panoramic view of the gleaming lake and surrounding mountains kissing the clouds.
After taking a moment to appreciate the view, continue over 700 feet downwards, through a series of switchbacks, towards the glacial lake. This is a wonderful area to explore with chances to see bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and even grizzlies. There are usually a lot of people on this trail, so begin your journey early in the morning if you want a quieter hike.
3. Redrock Lake
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 3.6 miles
Elevation gain: 236 feet
Route type: There and back
The hike to Redrock Lake may be one of the easiest hikes on this list. The average time to complete this day hike is about one hour and thirty minutes, depending on how long you stay near the lakes of course. The hike begins at the Swiftcurrent Pass Trailhead, which is found at the end of Many Glacier Road. Less than 100 yards from the trailhead sits Fishercap Lake, an added scenic bonus to your hike. As you continue on toward Redrock Lake, you’ll be greeted by a forest of giant aspens and patches of huckleberries, which make an excellent snack for hikers. Soon enough you’ll make your way to the lake where you can experience the magic of the mountains, maybe get a glimpse of a moose, and observe the impressive Redrock Falls just below Mount Grinnell.
4. Iceberg Lake
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 9.3 miles
Elevation gain: 1,450 feet
Route type: There and back
Beginning at the parking lot of Swiftcurrent Motorhome Inn is the trailhead to Iceberg Lake. The hike instantly begins uphill with a steep incline of over 185 feet, but soon becomes much more tolerable. Along your hike, you’ll be able to enjoy the fantastic scenery of a forested valley below with snow-topped mountains as a backdrop. About 4.5 miles along the trail you’ll be hiking through a colorful alpine valley full of wildflowers. The lake itself displays a stunning turquoise complexion with floating icebergs that seem almost hypnotic. One thing to keep in mind is that this trail is a well-known grizzly zone. Make sure to travel in groups, make plenty of noise and possibly carry bear spray with you.
5. Cracker Lake
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 12 miles
Elevation gain: 1,650 feet
Route type: There and back
Cracker Lake is one of the longer hikes on this list and will take about 5 hours to complete, but it’s worth it! The trailhead is located near Many Glacier Hotel and almost instantly begins with a fork. To get to Cracker Lake you’ll want to take a left turn. For the first few miles, you’ll travel through a thick forest with patches of wild berries. Soon enough you’ll encounter Canyon Creek flowing through the valley with the sounds of a rushing waterfall in the distance. After about 6 miles from the trailhead, you’ll reach the surreal looking icy blue Cracker Lake hidden among the multi-colored mountains and green valleys. The beauty of this location is impossible to ignore. There’s also an old copper mine on the opposite side of the lake that can be explored. This is a wonderful area for a day trip or even an overnight backpacking journey. Expect to encounter many horses along the trail and possibly grizzlies.
6. Grinnell Lake
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 7.1 miles
Elevation gain: 351 feet
Route Type: Loop
The trail to Grinnell Lake begins at the upper parking lot of the Many Glacier Hotel. You’ll start by hiking along the magnificent Swiftcurrent Lake and through a dense forest of pines where you’ll eventually be met with a bouncy bridge over Cataract Creek. As you arrive at Grinnell Lake you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of flowing waterfalls, giant mountains, and a brilliant blue glacial lake. This is a well-maintained trail that is perfect for anybody who’s looking to immerse themselves in the nature of Glacier National Park. Make sure to bring your camera too, as there will be plenty of wildlife to appreciate.
7. Upper Two Medicine Lake
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 11.2 miles
Elevation gain: 977 feet
Route type: There and back
The trailhead to Upper Two Medicine Lake begins either at the North Shore or the South Shore at the Two Medicine Lake campground. You can shave off about half your distance by taking a shuttle boat across the lake for a small fee. The trail itself is packed full of ferns and huckleberries, eventually leading you to a flower-filled valley and glacier-carved peaks surrounding the lake. Upper Two Medicine Lake is a fantastic location for trout fishing and spotting moose. If you're wondering what camping options are available, make sure to check out our guide on the top Glacier National Park camping spots.
The alpine lakes of Glacier National Park are begging to be explored, and the seven mentioned above are just the beginning. Hiking these trails will bring inspiration to anyone looking for an easy-access glacial lake in an area full of multi-colored mountains and vast green valleys. If you’re interested in taking an overnight backpacking journey be sure to acquire a wilderness permit. It’s also a wise idea to keep your distance from any wildlife and educate yourself on local edible plants and berries. Make sure to also have a look at our guide on the best things to do at Glacier National Park when planning your visit.
Enjoy the lakes!
Featured image by: Brett.
