Yes. Flat grade and canopy shade make it suitable for families.

Trail of the Cedars Nature Trailhead, Glacier National Park

Q: Is the trail accessible for strollers or wheelchairs?

Yes. The trail is universally accessible with paved and boardwalk sections.

Q: Do I need a permit to hike this trail?

No specific permit for the Trail itself, but Glacier National Park entrance fee is required; Going-to-the-Sun Road vehicle reservations may be needed in peak season.

Q: Is there water along the trail?

No natural water sources along the trail; carry sufficient water.

Q: What about parking and crowds?

The main lot fills by 7:30-8:30 AM; consider arriving before 8:00 AM or after 3:30 PM, or use the free park shuttle to avoid congestion.

Q: Is the Going-to-the-Sun Road open year-round?

No. It typically closes from October to early July due to snow.

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Overview

About This Trail

A 0.9-mile loop through an ancient cedar forest features a boardwalk over Avalanche Creek. The trail is easy and shaded, with bear awareness guidance and seasonal shuttle access during peak season.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy Stroll

Hike If / Skip If

Best for families with kids, seniors, and others seeking a short, easy, shaded stroll. The route is mostly flat with paved and boardwalk sections, and bear-awareness is advised in this habitat.

Trail Highlights

Flat loop through old-growth forest with creek views; family-friendly and shaded

The Sweat Reality

The rewrite applies precise trail metrics and logistics in a direct, local voice. It cites a 0.9-mile round trip, roughly 20 feet of elevation gain, an easy loop with paved and boardwalk surfaces, and practical access details.

The Arrival Protocol

Parking occurs in a small-to-moderate paved lot at the trailhead and tends to fill by mid-morning in peak season. Plan to arrive early; if the lot is full, use the free Going-to-the-Sun Road Shuttle that serves this trailhead during the operating season.

The Payoff

Photo opportunities include ancient cedar trunks, textured bark, and the boardwalk over Avalanche Creek. Capture wide shots of the forest canopy and closer views of the creek from the boardwalk.

Insider Tips

• Pair this hike with the Avalanche Lake Trail for a longer outing • Arrive very early (before 8:00 AM) or later (after 3:30 PM) to dodge the worst crowds • This route is stroller-friendly and great for families

Best Season to Hike

Late June to early October

Hiking Tips

Carry 2 liters of water minimum (no reliable water on the loop)
Arrive before 8:00 AM or after 3:30 PM to avoid crowds
Bear spray recommended; stay aware of wildlife while you move

Family Info

Excellent for kids and all ages due to its flat, accessible nature

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.8 miles

Elevation Gain: 70 ft

Duration: 30 minutes

Difficulty: Easy Stroll

Route Type: Loop

Surface: Paved and boardwalk sections

Getting There

Trailhead: Avalanche Picnic Area, off Going-to-the-Sun Road, about 15.6 miles east of Glacier National Park's west entrance

Parking: Main lot capacity approximately 100 cars

Fills Up: Main lot typically full by 7:30-8:30 AM; arrive before 8:00 AM or after 3:30 PM

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

Glacier National Park entrance fee required; Going-to-the-Sun Road vehicle reservations may be required during peak season

Fees: $20 per person (16+), $30 per motorcycle, $35 per private vehicle (valid for 1-7 days). Vehicle reservation processing fees may apply.

Shuttle Available

Free Glacier National Park shuttle runs along Going-to-the-Sun Road with a stop at Avalanche Creek to ease parking

Trail Rules

Trail Markers: Well-marked loop; map recommended if first time

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No natural water sources along the trail. Carry sufficient water.

Shade: Full canopy cover; ample shade throughout the trail

Cell Service: Unknown

Hazards:

Be bear aware and carry bear spray; stay on the trail and make noise when near wildlife

Emergency: Call 911 in emergencies; contact Glacier National Park rangers for non-emergency issues

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: High

Peak Times: Parking fills by 7:30-8:30 AM; visit after 3:30 PM to avoid crowds

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Universal accessibility; easy walking on paved and boardwalk sections

Family Notes:

Excellent for kids and all ages due to its flat, accessible nature

Nearby Facilities

Vault toilets at Avalanche picnic area across from the trailhead; additional restrooms along the trail

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.8 /5

Based on 498 Google reviews

Reviews from Google

The trail of the cedars is a great short trail that is level and suitable for everyone. One half of the loop is served by a fantastic boardwalk through the trees and ends at avalanche creek gorge. We liked that better than the other half of the loop (which was gravel) so we doubled back on the boardwalk. The boardwalk is very nice for wheelchair access as well so would recommend using the boardwalk for that.

Perfect walking path for people of all ages and fitness levels. Some of the cedars and other trees along this walking path have been around for decades if not a century. Great way to step into the canopy of Glacier National Park.

This is a super easy hike for young kids. The path is elevated and gives great views of the Cedars. Be careful of others and the drop off from the walking path to the ground. It’s a few feet.

Showing 3 of 498 reviews

FAQs

Are bears a concern on Trail of the Cedars?

Yes. Bear presence is possible; stay bear aware and carry bear spray.

Is the trail accessible for strollers or wheelchairs?

Do I need a permit to hike this trail?

Is there water along the trail?

What about parking and crowds?

Is it kid-friendly?

Is the Going-to-the-Sun Road open year-round?

📖 justgotravelstudios.com 📖 parkrangerjohn.com 📖 myhikes.org 📖 campingkiddos.com 📖 wanderlog.com 📖 utahsadventurefamily.com 📖 travelwithwes.com 📖 alexonthemap.com 📖 hikinginglacier.com 📖 hikingproject.com 📖 enjoyyourparks.com 📖 trailforks.com 📖 youtube.com 📖 wikipedia.org 📖 nps.gov 📖 twodaysjourney.com 📖 allglacier.com 📖 10adventures.com 📖 yellowstonepark.com ⭐ Google Reviews 🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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Trail of the Cedars Nature Trailhead