Lincoln Lake Trail

Overview

If you like your rewards earned, this one’s for you. Lincoln Lake Trail is a strenuous out-and-back that clocks roughly 16.4 miles total with about 3,000–3,400 feet of cumulative gain. It’s a tough climb up and over Snyder Ridge, a drop to Lincoln Creek, then a mellow run to a spectacular lake backed by sheer cliffs and a towering waterfall pouring down from Lake Ellen Wilson above. Crowds thin out fast—expect real quiet once you’re past the ridge.

Route and What to Expect

From a trailhead along Going-to-the-Sun Road near Sprague Creek Campground, you’ll grind steeply for the first couple miles to the crest of Snyder Ridge—this section is the crux, both up and (on the way back) up again. Parts of the ridge burned in 2006, so you’ll trade shade for open views, birds, and big wildflower displays. After dropping roughly 700 feet to Lincoln Creek, the character changes: a gentler, often brushy path follows the creek for a few miles to Lincoln Lake and its backcountry campground. At the lake’s west shore, the headwall and the massive falls make the whole effort feel worth it.

Conditions, Gear, and Safety

This hike can be hot—exposed stretches on the burned ridge offer little shade. Carry more water than you think you need and bring sun protection. Overgrown sections along the creek are common, and ticks are reported; long pants and repellent help. Snow can linger into summer on shaded stretches, and early season hikers may want traction like microspikes; this is not a winter hike. Cell service is unreliable—download maps and tell someone your plan.

Camping and Amenities

Lincoln Lake has a designated backcountry campground with a pit toilet and food-hanging setup. It’s a great overnight if you want to split the mileage and savor the scenery. You’ll need an overnight backcountry permit; day hiking does not require a permit. Treat all water.

Geology and Why It Looks Like This

Lincoln Lake sits beneath a classic glacial headwall, with a “lake-above-a-lake” scene: Lake Ellen Wilson empties over the cliffs into Lincoln Lake via one of Glacier’s tallest waterfalls. Repeated glaciations carved the U-shaped valley, cirque walls, and that dramatic hanging valley you’re staring at from the shore—textbook Glacier National Park scenery.

Best Time to Hike

Late June through September is your window, with the best balance of melt-out, flowers, and long daylight. Start early to climb Snyder Ridge in cooler temps and to leave time to linger at the lake. Midweek hikes see notably fewer people. For photos, morning light is kinder on the climb; late afternoon/early evening light can paint the headwall and falls beautifully—just budget time and energy for the climb back over the ridge.

Bottom Line

This is a demanding day by Glacier standards, with heat, brush, and a punishing return climb. But if you’re fit, prepared, and craving solitude and a giant waterfall finale, Lincoln Lake delivers.