Apgar Lookout Trailhead

Q: Is water available on the trail?

No reliable water sources; carry at least 3 liters per person.

Q: Do I need a day-use permit?

No day-use permit is required; a Glacier National Park entrance pass is needed to enter the park.

Q: When is the best time to hike Apgar Lookout Trailhead?

Late spring through early fall is best; generally snow-free by July, with possible mud on the gravel road in late spring.

Q: Can I use the Glacier National Park Shuttle to access the trailhead?

Yes. The shuttle runs west side from 7 AM–7 PM; use Apgar Visitor Center stop if parking is tight.

Q: What should I pack for sun exposure?

Hat, sunscreen, light layer, and plenty of water; expect little shade along exposed burn scar.

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Overview

About This Trail

The ascent demands grit with 1850 ft of gain and exposed sections. Hydration is non-negotiable; weather can flip from blue skies to hail in minutes. The payoff is a high reward for the effort, not a casual stroll.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate Workout

Trail Highlights

Summit fire lookout with broad views over Lake McDonald and the Flathead River Valley

Insider Tips

• Hike in the afternoon for lighting, but expect intense heat from full sun exposure • Start very early to beat heat and crowds • Trekking poles recommended for the steep descent • The burn scar offers little shade—sunscreen and a hat are non-negotiable

Best Season to Hike

Late spring through early fall (July–September)

Hiking Tips

Carry at least 3 liters of water per person
Tighten your boots and use trekking poles for the descent
Wear sun protection (hat and sunscreen) and bring a light layer
Start early or push to the afternoon to balance heat and lighting

Family Info

Moderate to strenuous; may be too challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 7.2 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,880 ft

Duration: 4 hours for fit hikers; 6+ hours for casual hikers.

Difficulty: Moderate Workout

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Primarily packed dirt and gravel; some sections are old dirt road; largely exposed due to burn scar

Getting There

Trailhead: 1.9-mile single-lane gravel road off Going-to-the-Sun Road, ~0.5 miles north of West Glacier Entrance Station; turn toward the Glacier Institute, then right at junction, then left before the horse corral

Parking: Limited parking; arrive early

Fills Up: Full by 7:00 AM; arrive by 6:30-6:45 if possible

Requirements

Permit Required

Standard Glacier National Park entrance pass required to enter the park; no day-use permit needed

Fees: Standard Glacier National Park entrance fee applies

Shuttle Available

Glacier National Park Shuttle (west side) runs from 7 AM–7 PM; Apgar Visitor Center stop for access when parking is tight

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No reliable water sources; carry at least 3 liters

Shade: Full sun exposure for most of the hike due to burn scar

Cell Service: Likely spotty to non-existent

Hazards:

Open slopes with a wide burn scar reduce shade; weather can change quickly; carry sun protection and bear spray

Emergency: Glacier National Park rangers; call 911 for emergencies

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Crowded during peak season

Peak Times: Peak season; mornings and weekends busiest

Accessibility & Family

Family Notes:

Moderate to strenuous; may be too challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues

Nearby Facilities

Apgar Visitor Center; Glacier Institute; West Glacier Entrance Station

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.8 /5

Based on 35 Google reviews

Reviews from Google

Nice trail somewhat off the beaten path. First mile or two aren't very eventful, but it opens up to some nice views. Almost 2000ft of elevation gain so a decent workout. Only a few other people there when I went. No wildlife besides lots of deers.

6-12-25, started at 2:10pm and back at the car at 5:10pm. 3.6 miles one way. overcast and 66 and the sun appeared on the hike up. About 15 cars in the lot, the trail was damp from rain the previous evening. All uphill and mostly open with limited shade. No bear scat or activity, saw a deer on the lower area. Great views from the summit! Only a few hikers at the top.

This 7.2 mile roundtrip hike was right inside the gate. The steep hike ended at an old fire tower that would have great views of Lake MacDonald, if we didn't have low lying clouds the day we were there.

Showing 3 of 35 reviews

FAQs

Are bears a concern on this trail?

Yes—bear country. Make noise, carry bear spray, and store food properly.

Is water available on the trail?

Do I need a day-use permit?

When is the best time to hike Apgar Lookout Trailhead?

Is this trail kid-friendly?

Can I use the Glacier National Park Shuttle to access the trailhead?

What should I pack for sun exposure?

📖 hikingwalking.com 📖 wanderlog.com 📖 tranquiltrekker.com 📖 trailforks.com 📖 hikinginglacier.com 📖 bigskyfishing.com 📖 glacier.org 📖 nps.gov 📖 reddit.com 📖 discovercolumbiafallsmt.com 📖 hikingproject.com 📖 glacierparkcollection.com 📖 emerginghorizons.com 📖 enjoyyourparks.com 📖 rome2rio.com 📖 glaciermt.com 📖 glaciernationalparklodges.com ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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Apgar Lookout Trailhead