Hidden Lake Overlook Trail
The Hidden Lake Overlook Trail starts right behind the Logan Pass Visitor Center located along the Going To The Sun Road in Glacier National Park. It’s 2.4km’s/1.5 miles one way with an approximate elevation gain of 152 meters/500 feet. It’s one of two popular trails starting in this area, the other being the Garden Wall Trail. It can be quite crowded in the summer months so it’s best to hike it early in the morning or late afternoon/early evening.
The entire hike is open and exposed as you go through alpine meadows so be prepared for full sun exposure during the day and possibly wind. The first section is along a wooden boardwalk to keep hikers out of the slushy snow, mud and meltwater that can still be present in the early summer.
Every direction you look there is beautiful scenery.
The amount of wildlife we saw on this one hike was incredible.
Along with the other frequently spotted wildlife keep in mind that this is bear territory. Check with the visitor center or a park ranger to get the latest update on bear activity in the area.
The vast open spaces and surrounding mountains make you feel so small. We did the hike in the last few hours of daylight and shared the trail with only a handful of other people.
The Hidden Lake Overlook did not disappoint with the panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding mountains. This is where the majority of people end the hike and turn back. To leave the crowds behind you can continue further down to the lake. The trail continues for another 2.25 km’s/ 1.4 miles down to the northeastern shore of Hidden Lake.
Mountain goats are fairly common in the area surrounding the overlook.
We shared the viewing platform with a mountain goat. He was standing on his hind legs licking salt off the railings left behind from sweaty hikers hands during the day. Don’t under estimate the danger of these animals, we made sure to stay well back and give him space.
We also witnessed goats navigating along a rock ledge below the viewing platform that was no more than a few inches wide.
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