Hidden Lake Trail

Overview

This is Glacier’s crowd-pleaser from Logan Pass: a high-alpine ramble that turns into a stout workout if you drop to the water. It starts at the west side of the Logan Pass Visitor Center and quickly rises on a mix of paved path and raised boardwalk across fragile meadows. The classic stop is the Hidden Lake Overlook, about 2.7 miles round trip total. If you continue, the trail plunges from the overlook to the lakeshore, making it roughly 5.1 miles round trip with a serious climb back.

Route Options

• Overlook only (out-and-back): 2.7 miles total, easy to moderate, mostly boardwalk and packed dirt with stairs in places. Great if you want big scenery without a full send.
• Lakeshore (out-and-back): 5.1 miles total. From the overlook you’ll descend about 700–800 feet via a series of tight switchbacks to the shore—beautiful, but the return climb is no joke.

What You’ll See

You’ll walk through the park’s “Hanging Gardens,” a sweep of alpine meadows that burst with wildflowers once the snow finally gives up. Clements Mountain towers straight ahead early, with Mt. Oberlin and the Garden Wall off to the north. From the overlook, Bearhat Mountain steals the show above sapphire-blue Hidden Lake; on clear days you’ll also spot Mount Cannon, Fusillade Mountain, and far-off glacial terrain. If you head to the shore, Bearhat and Reynolds frame the water, and short spurs lead to quiet rocks perfect for a snack.

Wildlife

Mountain goats are famously at home here (often right on the boardwalk). Bighorn sheep and marmots are common, and grizzlies do pass through—give all wildlife plenty of space and carry bear spray.

Best Time to Hike

Logan Pass can hold snow and ice well into summer. Early season, expect slick boardwalks in the morning and slush by afternoon; traction like microspikes can be clutch. By mid- to late July, snowpack usually wanes and the meadows pop. For crowds and parking, earlier is better: sunrise starts beat the rush and give soft light on Bearhat. Late afternoon can be lovely too, but plan your timing to make the climb from the lake before evening winds kick up.

Logistics and Tips

• Parking fills extremely early (often just after 7 a.m.). Arrive by ~6:30 a.m. or use the free park shuttle.
• The entire route is exposed—sun, wind, and sudden mountain weather are all in play. Layers, hat, and sunscreen aren’t optional.
• The descent from the overlook to the lake feels great on the way down and spicy on the way back. Trekking poles help. There’s a pit toilet near the lakeshore.
• Fishing is popular at the lake; some folks take a dip, but the water is very cold.
• You’ll cross the Continental Divide about 1.2 miles from the trailhead—a fun milestone on a short day hike.
• Pets aren’t allowed on this trail. During peak season, vehicle reservations may be required to access Going-to-the-Sun Road—check current park guidance before you go.

Should You Hike It?

Yes—if you can handle the crowds and/or start early. The overlook is a ton of view for modest effort; the full lake hike rewards with shoreline solitude and a workout. If you want an alternate big-day option, note that the Highline Trail departs from the same lot and trades crowds for a longer, committing traverse.