West Lakes Trail

From the trailhead on North Shore Lake McDonald Road, the trail climbs to Howe Ridge, with views back over Lake McDonald as you gain elevation. At the junction, stay right toward Trout Lake; the Howe Ridge branch is unmaintained and overgrown. Switchbacks drop about 1,230 feet into Camas Valley. That descent is a steep climb again on your way out.

Near Trout Lake's foot, the route joins Camas Creek Trail. It passes through dense forest to the lake's log jam, then follows the shore for about two miles. Open avalanche slopes give you occasional views of the peaks across the valley. The trail climbs through Douglas fir to Arrow Lake, where Heavens Peak rises above the water. Arrow Lake is a natural turnaround before the more demanding final section; from its shore, the ridged cliff across the water makes a good reflection shot when the lake is still.

The Arrow Lake outlet is the first of five major stream fords before Camas Lake; four more come after it. These crossings can be cold, swift and difficult early in the season, and the trail often gets brushy later in summer. Camas Lake Campground sits near the trail's end, but the lake itself is enclosed by brushy ridges rather than opening into a broad view. The maintained route ends shortly beyond the lake; Lake Evangeline and Ruger Lake require off-trail bushwhacking and are not part of this hike.

The Trout Lake Trailhead is signed along North Shore Lake McDonald Road, where parking is a narrow roadside area rather than a developed lot. Pets aren't allowed on Glacier's trails or in the backcountry. This route runs through grizzly bear habitat, so follow the park's bear-safety rules.