Hidden Lake within Glacier National Park has revealed to be an unparalleled beauty, completely protected from industrial activities. For that reason, this serene lake is perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike. So if you’re ready to explore this gem, read on for all you need to know about Hidden Lake. From the Hidden Lake trail leading to the best view on Earth, to the neighboring lakes and mountains in Glacier National Park! And don’t miss out on the latest information on the best things to do in Glacier National Park during the winter!
The Complete Map Of Hidden Lake Trail In Glacier National Park
Overview
Total Distance
Difficulty
Duration
Elevation Gain
4.5 miles (7.2 km)
Easy to Moderate
Approx. 2 Hours and 58 Minutes
540 feet (164.6 m)
Starting From Logan Pass Visitor Center
Your hike starts on the west side of Logan Pass on Going to-the-Sun Road, the highest elevation reachable by car in the park. To begin your trek, go to the back of the Logan Pass Visitor Center where you will find the start of the Hidden Nature Trail. In order to access this trail, you will have to climb a set of stairs and stay to the right.
Hiking Through The Hidden Lake Nature Trail
The route will transform into an elevated boardwalk shortly after leaving the back of Logan Pass, which you will follow for the duration of the journey. You will walk on this boardwalk for the most part of the hike. This is where you’ll find an abundance of beautiful wildflowers in meadow, as well as an array of gorgeous wildlife like marmots, mountain goats and even grizzly bears.
Making Your Way Up The Hidden Lake Overlook
After 1.35 miles of hiking, you will reach the Hidden Lake Overlook where you will be able to see the lake and mountains from a stunning vantage point. The Bearhat Mountain will be the most prominent feature that you see from this spot.
Descending Your Way To The Glacier National Park’s Hidden Lake
Get a good shot with your camera out here! This is where you can get up close and personal to the serene Hidden Lake. However, please remember to stay on the path—if you wandered off into the meadow, you might damage the delicate ecosystem.
4 Mountains That Can Be Viewed From Glacier National Park’s Hidden Lake
Now that you’ve reached the Hidden Lake, take your time to appreciate the beauty of these 4 beautiful mountains in Glacier National Park:
Bearhat Mountain
The Hidden Lake Overlook platform is the best place to see the summit. However, if you can afford to climb the mountain, the East Face Route takes you to an even better view. From there, you’ll be able to see Hidden Lake in all its glory. The lake is a deep, peaceful blue with a large, perfectly calm pool at the base of the cliff.
Clements Mountain
This summit is visible from the back of Logan Pass Visitor Center. As it’s located in the Lewis Range, this peak would overlook the McDonald Valley, the whole Lewis Range, and most of the Livingston Range. Visitors can trek up close to this peak at Logan Pass.
Mount Cannon
Mount Cannon is a gigantic mountain situated between Lake McDonald and Logan Pass in Glacier National Park. You can see this behemoth of a mountain as you’re driving on the Going-to-the-Sun Road after you leave the Walk of the Cedars area and start driving up towards Logan Pass. From Cannon Mountain, you have a panoramic view of almost every peak in both the Lewis and Livingston ranges.
Reynolds Mountain
J. Gordon Edwards, an American entomologist, explained that the best vantage point to overlook Lewis and Livingston ranges would be from the top of this peak. He also noted that, based on his mountaineering experience with the peak, the entirety of Hidden Lake would be revealed from the top of Reynolds Mountain.
More Famous Lakes To Visit After Hidden Lake In Glacier National Park
Aside from Hidden Lake, there are other lakes that are just as spectacular in Glacier National Park, if not more. Much like the Hidden Lake, many of these lakes can be accessible via their own hiking trails so you can also enjoy the beautiful views while getting some exercise. Make some extra stops at these lakes to take in the beauty this park has to offer!
Saint Mary Lake
Saint Mary Lake is the second-largest lake in Glacier National Park and is a beautiful sight to see. You can start your hike from the Saint Mary Falls Trailhead—just be aware that this trail is considered moderately challenging. The scenery is definitely worth it though and you’ll be able to take in some of the most photographers views in the area.
Iceberg Lake
This is another moderately challenging trail for experienced trekkers which follows the 19 Mile Creek route. The advantage of this trail is that you are most likely to see black bears. And because of its difficulties, there aren’t many people around here, making your hike all the more pleasurable and ideal for photographs.
Bowman Lake
Dip your toes into this clear body of water since Bowman Lake’s warm water would allow swimming. It’s easily accessible via Bowman Lake Road, and you can drive right up to it. Plus, it offers an incredible view of both the sunrise and sunset.
Lake McDonald
This popular body of water is surrounded by rugged peaks, towering evergreens and rock on the west side of Glacier National Park. Aside from its beauty, Lake McDonald is also where you can find some of the most beautiful stones on the coast. Kayaking is a must-do activity in this area.
Avalanche Lake
This turquoise blue body of water is simply breathtaking, particularly during spring. You may get to this lake by hiking the Trail of the Cedars. Your trip to this lake will be surrounded by cedar trees, as the name implies, making the route quite pleasant to stroll through.
5 Awesome Things To Do In Glacier National Park During Winter
While Glacier National Park is gorgeous all-year round, the magnificence of this park during winter simply can’t go unnoticed. Here are some things to do if you find yourself in Glacier during the winter:
- Go Camping
- Go Skiing Cross-country
- Observe Wildlife
- Join Winter Sports Tour
- Try Dog Sledding