Pros & cons
PROS
- Mirrored, crystal-clear alpine tarn in a dramatic cirque
- Quieter than lower sections once you’ve passed The Loch
CONS
- Requires a short, slick scramble beside Timberline Falls
- Snow/ice and strong winds are common in shoulder seasons
Overview
Lake of Glass sits above Timberline Falls in the Loch Vale basin, a classic high-alpine cirque carved by glaciers. True to its name, the water often reflects the surrounding spires like a mirror on calm days. Many hikers treat it as a rewarding destination on its own or a brief pause before continuing to Sky Pond just beyond.
Getting There
Most hikers start from Glacier Gorge or Bear Lake trailheads, following the well-traveled route past Alberta Falls, The Loch, and up to Timberline Falls before the final push to the lake. Expect a full-day outing thanks to distance, altitude, and the short but attention-demanding scramble near the falls. In peak season, a Bear Lake Road timed-entry reservation is required, and lots fill early; the in-park shuttles along Bear Lake Road are a reliable fallback.
The Timberline Falls Scramble
The crux is the steep, wet rock scramble beside Timberline Falls. Traffic can bottleneck here; let one direction pass at a time, use hands, and test footholds. Many hikers find the descent spicier than the ascent—unhurried and deliberate wins the day.
What Makes It Special
Perched just above treeline, Lake of Glass feeds Timberline Falls and rests in a pristine cirque of rugged peaks. On calm days you’ll get beautiful, mirror-like reflections. It’s also a touch quieter than the lower trail sections, which makes the shoreline a peaceful spot to break and soak it in.
Conditions and Seasonality
Early and late season often means lingering snow and ice near and above The Loch, with the last mile steep and slick. Wind and cold are common above treeline even in summer. In shoulder seasons, traction and trekking poles can be game changers; in summer, start early for cooler temps and to avoid typical afternoon storms.
Facilities
Do not expect restrooms or amenities at the lake. Use facilities at Glacier Gorge or Bear Lake before you start and follow Leave No Trace practices along the trail.
Continuing to Sky Pond
From Lake of Glass, Sky Pond is roughly a short half-mile farther on a rocky, less-defined path. Stay close to the lakeshore and avoid heading straight up steep slopes. If conditions and energy are good, most hikers consider the extension absolutely worth it.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer for clear trails and easier travel; start early to beat crowds and storms.
- Shoulder seasons can be gorgeous but icy—bring traction and be flexible with turnaround plans.
- Calm days maximize those signature glassy reflections.
Where it is
40.2816, -105.6656Tips for Lake of Glass
- 01Start at Glacier Gorge for the shortest route; Bear Lake is a solid backup if parking is tight.
- 02Secure a Bear Lake Road timed-entry reservation in peak season or plan to use the shuttle.
- 03Be patient and take turns on the Timberline Falls scramble; the downclimb is trickier.
- 04In spring and fall, pack microspikes and trekking poles for the steep, icy sections.
- 05If conditions allow, continue from Lake of Glass to Sky Pond for even bigger views.
Amenities
Near Lake of Glass
All places →All trails →
0.2 mi awayTimberline FallsWaterfall gateway to Sky Pond with a spicy, wet scrambleScenic Viewpoint
0.3 mi awaySky PondHigh-alpine cirque lake after a wet waterfall scramble
0.5 mi awayThe SharkstoothClassic granite tooth for climbers above Sky Pond
0.9 mi awayAndrews TarnGlacier-fed alpine tarn tucked beneath towering cliffsScenic Viewpoint
2.3 mi awayEmerald Lake TrailThree alpine lakes and dramatic peaks in a short, rewarding climbModerate · 3.6 mi · 1.6 hr
2.3 mi awayFlattop Mountain TrailSteady climb to the Continental Divide with huge alpine viewsChallenging · 8.8 mi · 5.5 hr
2.3 mi awayDream LakeShort, scenic climb to a glassy alpine lake with big payoffEasy · 2.2 mi · 1.1 hr
2.3 mi awayLake Haiyaha TrailMilky‑turquoise alpine lake with a short boulder scramble finaleModerate · 4.2 mi · 0 min
