Howe Lake Trail

Overview

A mellow, lesser-traveled out-and-back, Howe Lake Trail is the antidote to Glacier’s marquee crowds. Expect a peaceful walk through a forest recovering from wildfire to a two-part lake system linked by wetlands—prime habitat for beavers and birdlife. Most hikers do roughly 3.2 miles round trip to the lower lake outlet; continuing a bit farther along the shore and wetlands brings it closer to 3.8 miles total. Elevation gain is modest (roughly 240–430 feet), and the grades are gentle, making this a solid easy-day option.

What You’ll See

This is a study in quiet beauty: young lodgepole stands, some stately larch that dodged the flames, and open sightlines courtesy of past fires. The wetlands are the star—scan for active beaver structures and listen for the yodel of common loons. Wildflowers can be great in the open, sunny stretches. Views toward the Livingston Range appear through burn-sculpted snags; they’re pretty, but this isn’t a big-mountain vista hike—and that’s part of the charm.

Trail Experience

The singletrack is narrow in places with limited shade, especially near the lake. Expect buggy conditions around the marshy sections—bring strong repellent and consider sleeves/pants. Parts of the path can feel lightly maintained or a bit overgrown near the water. It’s quiet out here; carry bear spray, make noise in brushy sections, and stay alert.

Getting There

The trailhead sits off the Inside North Fork Road between Fish Creek and Camas Creek. From the West Entrance/Apgar area, many drive Camas Road, turn onto Fish Creek Campground Road, then bear left onto the Inside North Fork Road for about 5.4 miles to the signed trailhead. The road is narrow and primitive gravel—take it slow. Parking is limited to small roadside pullouts (including two on the left near an interpretive sign for the Matejka Homestead). There are no facilities.

Best Time to Hike

Late spring through fall is the sweet spot. Mornings are best for cooler temps, calmer air on the lake, fewer bugs, and soft light across the burn. Summer afternoons can be hot and mosquito-heavy due to limited shade and wetlands. This is the park’s wetter west side—weather turns quickly; pack a light rain layer. Always check current road and trail status before heading out.

Tips and Safety

• Wildlife and loons: Give all wildlife space. The upper lake often has seasonal protections for nesting loons; obey posted restrictions (fishing closures commonly extend into summer).
• Bears: Both grizzly and black bears use this area—carry bear spray and know how to use it; hike in a group if you can.
• Logistics: No trail-specific permit is needed for day hiking, but vehicle reservations may be required for certain park corridors in peak season—verify current rules before you go.

Bottom Line

If you want solitude, birds, and a look at Glacier’s burn-regrowth story without a big effort, this is a good pick. If you’re chasing dramatic peaks and waterfalls, look elsewhere or treat this as a low-key half-day warmup. For a longer day, you can continue past the lakes toward the Howe Ridge area.