Hidden Lake Trail
See Glacier National Park, Montana family vacationHidden Lake Trail
Central Glacier National Park
view websiteTrailhead starts at the Logan's Pass Visitor Center
West Glacier, MT 59936
406-888-7800
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Good-for-Kids Rating
Hidden Lake Trail Description
You won't find solitude on the Hidden Lake Trail -- it's one of the most popular hikes in Glacier National Park -- but you will find alpine meadows filled with wildflowers, mountain goats and bighorn sheep grazing within a few feet of the trail, and adorable pikas. The landscape is filled with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, deep-cut glacier valleys, slender waterfalls, and, of course, Hidden Lake. It's only three miles round trip, and with the wildlife beckoning all the way, it's a trail both kids and scenery-besotted adults love.
Hiking
Kid Tips
Babies: Bring a frontpack and a full diaper bag.
Toddlers & Pre-K: The first 1.5 miles are uphill, and though some of this route is on boardwalk, it may be too long for toddlers (unless you're planning to carry them). Go up as far as you can, then return; you'll see some great views,wildflowers, ground squirrels, and pika directly behind the center.
School-Age Kids: If your kids aren't used to hiking, they'll be dragging a bit just before the Hidden Lake overlook. It's well worth a little prodding, though; the views are incredible. If you're really facing resistance one idea is to stay 100 feet ahead on the trail and exclaiming "Look! A mountain goat! And a baby bighorn sheep!" The proximity to the wildlife keeps most kids cruising up the trail to see more, and the second half is all downhill.
Planning Notes
- Beat the crowds. In July and August, the parking lot at Logan Pass Visitor Center fills to capacity by 10:30 a.m. or so. Try to visit early in the day or late in the afternoon.
- Bring snacks and water. There is no food sold at the Visitors Center.
Just the Facts
Hours: Open only in summer when the Going-to-the Sun-Road is open.
Recommended Time: 1 to 2 hours
What's Nearby?
- Sun Point Hike Glacier National Park
West Glacier, MT 59936
406-888-7800 48.678738333333335 -113.57935833333333 - The Trail of Cedars Glacier National Park
West Glacier, MT 59936
406-888-7800 48.68031444444444 -113.81902444444444
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