Avalanche Lake Guided Day Hike In Glacier National Park

Discover one of the most popular and beloved lakes of Glacier National Park with an family-friendly and educational day hike to Avalanche Lake.

Embark on an in-depth journey with this moderately challenging hike, stretching up to 5 miles with an elevation gain of 730 feet, one of the most sought-after adventures in all of Glacier National Park.

After arriving in Glacier National Park your trip begins with a scenic drive past the stunning Lake McDonald, leading to the Trail of the Cedars trailhead. Here, you'll delve into an educational hike through a boardwalk that meanders through an ancient forest, densely populated with western red cedars and western hemlocks. As you ascend along the Avalanche Lake trail, you'll be enchanted by the sights of avalanche blowdowns, massive glacial erratics, and a spectacular glacier-fed cirque basin that is sure to leave an indelible impression.

As you continue along the trail, your knowledgeable and experienced guide from the Glacier Institute will provide you with a deep education on wildlife, geology, and history, enriching your hiking experience with fascinating insights into the park's natural wonders.

Avalanche Lake Highlights

• Moderate Difficulty - One of the most popular and family-friendly trails in the park, this trip makes for a great day hike for most active families and those who prefer to keep hikes under 5 miles roundtrip.
• Iconic Views - Avalanche Lake is one of the many picturesque lakes throughout Glacier National Park. Be sure to pack your camera!
• Expert Guides - Knowledgeable guides from Glacier Institute will share information about the wildlife, geology, and history of the area along the way.

Ready for Another Hike?

Glacier National Park is a hikers paradise with over 700 miles of trails to explore. If you're looking for more hiking experiences check out our guide to The Best Hikes in Glacier National Park.

Important Information

• All participants must be able to hike ~5 miles and 750 ft of elevation gain.
• Meeting Point - This tour meets in Columbia Falls, MT about 20 minutes from the entrance to West Glacier. Open in Google Maps.
• Participants are responsible for purchasing their park entry passes online prior to the hike. A Vehicle Reservation is NOT required. Participation in this hike with the Glacier Institute acts as your Vehicle Reservation.