HIDDEN LAKE OVERLOOK

WESTERN MONTANA

Summary

Located at the top of Logan Pass in Glacier National Park, the Hidden Lake Overlook is a popular route offering iconic views of the park.

Trail Stats

Mileage: 2.77 miles RT

Elevation Gain: 574 feet

Toilet at trailhead: Yes

Sandwich Spots: Yes

Parking: Designated Lot

Mileage/EG from Garmin watch

Trail Details

After battling to find parking at the exceptionally popular Logan Pass parking area, our group was ready to see some sights. It really is a battle for parking. A parking lot holding somewhere around 250-300 vehicles that fills by 6:30 am. Those of us arriving later must do the circling vulture routine. And use some aggression to claim a vacated space. Non wonder there are so many grumpy people in Glacier. Parking is a complete nightmare.

On our most recent visit, we joined one of my friends and her adorable family. My friends have the cutest babies, you’ll just have to take my word on this one. We looked like a clown car as all 7 of us piled out of that car (yes, we were all appropriately buckled in). With these kiddos in mind (one infant and one active toddler), we desired a relatively short hike. The overlook was selected as it offers lovely scenery, is relatively easy and brief.

The trail begins just to the side of the Logan Pass visitor center. A significant portion of the trail is a well maintained and heavily trafficked boardwalk. There are steps along the way, so strollers and wheelchairs are not advised.

The boardwalk climbs up a surprisingly marshy alpine meadow. There are panoramic views for the entirety of the walk. One can’t complain about the beauty of the surrounding peaks. After a while the boardwalk ends and you’ll be strolling along a typical dirt path for the remainder of your walk in.

Keep your eyes open for wildlife. Mountain goats and sheep frequent this area. It’s as close to a sure thing as you can get for wildlife sightings. I’ve never been disappointed. This last time we even saw a marmot and loads of ground squirrels in addition to goats.

My friend took this photo of the Logan Pass mountain goats

At the crest of the pass is the overlook. A well built platform offers ample space for the hoards of people that visit each year. Below is the glittering Hidden Lake. It’s a relatively large lake and makes for a worthy photo.

Middle of summer is not necessarily warm in Glacier

For those who feel inclined, the trail continues down to the lake. Just remember you have to come back up the trail to get out. Most people seem content to turn around after the lookout. We joined the latter crowd and after adequately feasting our eyes upon the lake, turned around and headed back to that angst ridden parking lot where vehicular vultures continued to circle.