Hidden Lake Overlook

Q: Do I need a permit to access Going-to-the-Sun Road?

Vehicle reservations are required during peak hours (6 AM–3 PM) from late May through early September, and an entrance pass is required.

Q: Is this trail kid-friendly?

The overlook is family-friendly due to gentle drop-offs, but distance and elevation may challenge very young children; the lake extension is steeper and not suitable for all families.

Q: Can I hike to Hidden Lake Overlook with a dog?

Dogs are not allowed on many Glacier NP trails beyond the parking area; check current park regulations before you go.

Q: What should I bring for a summer hike here?

Water (2–3 L), sun protection, insulating layers, rain shell, bear spray, map or GPS, sturdy boots, and a small first-aid kit.

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Overview

About This Trail

2.7–3 miles round-trip to Hidden Lake Overlook with 529–600 ft of gain. The surface is a mix of paved path, boardwalk, and dirt. It’s easy to moderate to reach the overlook; the lake extension adds more effort and risk. High reward for the effort: alpine meadow views, frequent wildlife, and a vantage on Bearhat, Clements, Reynolds.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy to moderate

Trail Highlights

Panoramic alpine meadows, Hidden Lake, and peaks Bearhat Mountain, Clements Mountain, Reynolds Mountain.

Insider Tips

• Arrive before 7 AM or late in the day to avoid crowds and parking issues • Consider using the park shuttle • Check parking status via park alerts

Best Season to Hike

July through September

Hiking Tips

Carry 2–3 liters of water per person.
Wear layers, sun hat, sunscreen; shade is limited.
Bear spray and loud approach; stay alert and make noise on approach.
Check weather; wind and lightning risk; the lake extension adds distance and exertion.

Family Info

Family-friendly for overlook due to lack of steep drop-offs; extension to the lake is steeper and may be challenging for very young children

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 3 miles

Elevation Gain: 600 ft

Duration: 1.5-2 hours

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Mix of paved path, boardwalk, and dirt/gravel

Getting There

Trailhead: Logan Pass Visitor Center, on the backside of the building

Parking: 250 spaces

Fills Up: Full by 7:00-8:00 AM during peak season

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

Vehicle reservations required to access Going-to-the-Sun Road during peak hours (6 AM–3 PM) from late May through early September. Entrance pass required. Reservations via Recreation.gov; entrance passes online or at park entrances.

Fees: $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass

Shuttle Available

Free park shuttle; use if parking fills; can reduce wait time

Trail Rules

Dogs: false

Biking: false

Trail Markers: Well-marked with cairns; stay on the established route

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Carry 2-3 liters per person; no reliable water sources on the trail

Shade: Full sun exposure; no shade

Cell Service: Unknown; generally unreliable; emergency calls only

Hazards:

Trail is above treeline with sun and wind exposure. Bears frequent the area; parking and trail access can close during bear activity.

Emergency: Call 911 for emergencies; Glacier National Park rangers

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Very high

Peak Times: July–August

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Not wheelchair accessible; uneven surfaces and exposed sections

Family Notes:

Family-friendly for overlook due to lack of steep drop-offs; extension to the lake is steeper and may be challenging for very young children

Nearby Facilities

Logan Pass Visitor Center; restrooms there

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.9 /5

Based on 81 Google reviews

Reviews from Google

This is one of the best spots in Glacier National Park (although there are a lot). The park says 1.4 miles each way, Google Fit says closer to 2 miles. A little over 600 feet of elevation gain. Beautiful wildflower bloom on the way up in mid August. Mountain Goat and Marmots at the overlook.

This place deserves 10 stars! Beautiful overlook of Hidden lake! The walk up to it does have a bit of elevation change, but it's not a bad walk. The chances are very high that you'll see some kind of wildlife on the way too. Definitely worth it if you can get a parking spot at Logan pass or take the shuttle.

Absolutely stunning views! The trail to Hidden Lake offers panoramic alpine scenery, wildflowers, and chances to spot mountain goats. The lake itself is crystal clear and perfectly nestled beneath dramatic peaks. A Glacier National Park gem! But finding parking there on the weekends is so hard.

Showing 3 of 81 reviews

FAQs

Are there bears on this trail?

Yes. You are in bear country; carry bear spray and stay alert; closures can occur during bear activity.

Do I need a permit to access Going-to-the-Sun Road?

Is this trail kid-friendly?

Can I hike to Hidden Lake Overlook with a dog?

What should I bring for a summer hike here?

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Hidden Lake Overlook