
Turquoise water sits in a bowl between sheer walls, with Angel Wing above and Garden Wall looming in the distance. From the North Shore boat dock you glimpse the lake and the rugged backdrop that frames this glacier-fed setting. Lake Josephine is a cirque lake formed by Pleistocene ice that gouged the basin and left meltwater behind.
Optimal: late June to mid-September when snow is cleared and trails are navigable. In peak season (July–August) parking fills early; Many Glacier area stays open roughly June–October.
Swiftcurrent Lake; Grinnell Glacier Trail; Grinnell Lake; Many Glacier Hotel
Boat shuttle cuts distance; parking can be tight in peak season; bear spray recommended; sunrise over Angel Wing is noteworthy
Trails are well-maintained but uneven with roots and rocks; not wheelchair-friendly; supervise children
Trails rough in places; bears present; keep kids close and away from water edges
Many Glacier Hotel; vault toilet near boat dock; water fountain and filling station at St. Mary Visitor Center
Based on 23 Google reviews
Aalok Gautam
Beautiful lake. You can hike from Many Glacier Hotel or take a boat to this lake for further hike.
Kenneth Starr
I think the moose cane up the Lake Josephine Trail and went to Lower Grinnell. Watched him walk down a little. Not sure it was him but on the way back there was a bull moose down on the beach of Lower Grinnell.
Lawton Nickerson
This lake was absolutely stunning. The water was incredibly reflective, and although the weather was gloomy, this lake/trail was the highlight of our trip in glacier.
Showing 3 of 23 reviews
Yes. Parking fills by early morning in peak season; consider using the Many Glacier Hotel lot and allow extra time for shuttle options or busier days.
The shuttle dramatically reduces walking distance; it’s worth using if you want to maximize time at the lake and minimize strenuous sections.
Trails are well‑maintained but uneven with roots and rocks; supervise children closely and plan a shorter route or the boat option to minimize long stretches on rough terrain.
The water appears turquoise due to fine glacier ground rock (rock flour) suspended in the meltwater; it’s a natural color rather than a photo effect.
Bear activity is common in this area; carry bear spray, keep a safe distance, make noise on trails, and store food properly to reduce interactions.
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