Few hikes pack as much punch-per-mile as the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail in Glacier National Park. This beginner-friendly trail serves up alpine meadows, jaw-dropping views, and a decent chance of spotting a mountain goat—without demanding an all-day slog. Whether you’re brand new to hiking or just looking for a scenic warm-up before tackling Glacier’s bigger treks, this overlook hike delivers peak (literally) satisfaction.
The Trail at a Glance
- Trailhead: Logan Pass Visitor Center
- Round-Trip Distance: 2.7 miles
- Elevation Gain: ~540 feet
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Trail Type: Out-and-back
- Time Needed: About 1.5–2 hours
This well-maintained trail begins on a mix of gravel and boardwalk, winding through open alpine terrain. Even before you reach the overlook, the sweeping views of Clements Mountain and Bearhat Mountain will have you stopping every 20 feet to take pictures (and catch your breath—elevation is real!).
When to Go
July through September is your best bet for snow-free hiking. Logan Pass sits at over 6,600 feet, so snow can linger late into the season. Come in early July and you might still be trekking through snowfields; wait until mid-July, and you’ll get meadows bursting with wildflowers.
- Mid-July to early Sept: Prime conditions, dry trails, and wildflowers galore
- Late Sept: Cooler temps, fewer crowds, golden larches (and a higher chance of sudden snow)
Getting There & Parking Tips
Logan Pass is a popular spot—for good reason—and parking fills fast. Plan to arrive before 7:00 a.m. or after 4:00 p.m. for the best chance at a spot. Alternatively, take advantage of the free park shuttle that stops at Logan Pass.
- Entrance Fee: $35/vehicle (7-day pass)
- Vehicle Reservation: Required for Going-to-the-Sun Road access in summer
What to Expect on the Trail
The trail climbs steadily but gently across open alpine tundra. Expect panoramic views, frequent wildlife sightings (especially mountain goats and marmots), and plenty of jaw-dropping vistas. The final overlook reveals a glacier-fed, turquoise Hidden Lake nestled beneath Bearhat Mountain—one of the most photogenic scenes in the entire park.
Note: The trail continues from the overlook down to the lake itself, but this portion is often closed mid-summer due to bear activity. Check trail status reports here: https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/trailstatusreports.htm
What to Bring
- Layers (temps swing wildly at elevation)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Water and light snacks
- Sturdy footwear (especially in early season snow)
- Binoculars or zoom lens (wildlife central!)
Pro Tips
- Start early for golden light and a quieter trail
- Wildflower season peaks mid- to late July
- Snow can linger into July—check trail status
- Be prepared for wind; it’s Glacier, after all
Make a Day of It
Already at Logan Pass? There’s more to explore:
- Highline Trail: For the more adventurous, this epic trail also begins at Logan Pass and follows the Continental Divide. Try a short out-and-back to experience it without committing to the full route.
- Scenic Drive: Continue east or west along the Going-to-the-Sun Road for unforgettable viewpoints like Jackson Glacier and Wild Goose Island.
- Kayak Lake McDonald: After your hike, head west to Apgar Village and rent a kayak for a serene paddle on Glacier’s largest lake.
The Perfect Glacier Warm-Up
If you’re looking to ease into hiking in Glacier without skimping on scenery, Hidden Lake Overlook is your trail. With approachable distance, unforgettable views, and bonus wildlife sightings, it’s a highlight you can knock out before lunch—and still have time for a huckleberry ice cream back in West Glacier.
Pack your camera, lace up your boots, and get above the treeline. Hidden Lake is calling—and yes, it’s worth answering.
