Avalanche Lake: The Glacier Hike That Starts in a Cedar-Scented Tunnel

I got back from Avalanche Lake with damp boots, a camera full of useless squirrel pictures, and the strong opinion that this is one of the best family hikes in Glacier National Park. It’s 5.9 miles round trip, with about 730 feet of climbing—enough to make your legs aware of the outing, but not enough to require a heroic soundtrack.

The trailhead smells like wet cedar, cold creek water, and the faint dusty odor of a well-used parking lot. The route begins beside the Trail of the Cedars boardwalk, then ducks into thick forest. The first mile feels cool and enclosed, almost hushed except for Avalanche Creek rushing below. You’ll cross a couple of sturdy bridges, step over roots, and pass trees so large they seem to have opinions about your footwear.

Don’t expect a big mountain reveal right away. The first stretch is mostly a green tunnel, which is exactly why the sudden opening near Avalanche Lake feels so satisfying. After the final climb, the trees part and the lake appears, blue-green and backed by steep cliffs streaked with waterfalls. Sit down. Eat something. Let the people charging toward the shoreline discover that the view does not improve when you are out of breath.

Here’s what most visitors miss: the trail continues along the lake’s western shore beyond the first beach. You don’t need to walk the whole shoreline, but go a little farther and you’ll leave the main crowd behind. The perspective changes, and the cliffs seem to close around the water. Also look carefully at the creek mouths and muddy edges for tiny tracks; this is a busy wildlife neighborhood, even when the residents are offstage.

Parking is the practical wrinkle. The lot fills early in summer, and roadside parking may be restricted. Use the park shuttle when it’s operating, or arrive very early—think breakfast-before-breakfast early. Bring water, lunch, a light rain shell, and layers; mountain weather can switch moods while you’re still deciding between trail mix flavors. Hiking poles are helpful for the uneven descent.

Late spring through early fall is the easiest window, though snow and ice can linger near the lake well into the season. Watch out for slick roots, fast-moving water, and bears. Make noise in thick brush, keep food packed away, and give wildlife plenty of room. The lake is beautiful. It is not worth becoming a memorable wildlife story.