Hidden Lake: glacial cirque lake at Logan Pass, Glacier NP

Q: Is the 2.6 mile roundtrip to the overlook worth it, or should I go all the way to the lake?

The overlook provides expansive panoramas of the cirque and peaks, and the lakeshore adds closer lake experiences; many visitors consider the overlook sufficient for a rewarding alpine view.

Q: Can someone with limited mobility reach the overlook safely?

The overlook path includes a boardwalk and a few steps, offering accessibility to the platform; the lakeshore section is steeper and not designed for wheelchairs.

Q: Will I see bears on the Hidden Lake Trail?

Bear activity is common. Carry bear spray, keep a safe distance, talk and make noise while hiking, and stay on designated paths.

Q: Is the water actually blue, or is that just in photos?

The article does not specify water color; expect glacier-fed water to reflect light with a cool tone, depending on light and viewing angle.

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Overview

About This Attraction

Snow-dusted peaks frame a bowl-shaped lake in a high-alpine basin. Hidden Lake Overlook sits above the water, offering panoramic views of the cirque and surrounding ridges. This lake was sculpted by glaciers during the Pleistocene Ice Age.

Best Time to Visit

July–September, when Going-to-the-Sun Road is open. Arrive by 6:30–7:10 a.m. for parking; morning light and calm water enhance views.

Visitor Tips

Arrive early (6:30–7:10 a.m.) at Logan Pass to snag parking; shuttle from St. Mary is an alternative.
Bear spray is highly recommended; keep a safe distance from wildlife.
Dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes; boardwalk to overlook and steeper lakeside path.
Bring water; snow can linger into July.

Details

Location & Features

GPS: Not available

Nearby

Nearby Attractions:

Logan Pass area; other trails from Logan Pass; Going-to-the-Sun Road viewpoints

Insider Tips

Arrive early for parking
Bear spray is recommended
Check Going-to-the-Sun Road status and pack warm layers

Visitor Information

Accessibility:

Boardwalk to overlook; hillside trail to lake is steep with few barriers

Family Friendly:

Exposed edges; hold kids' hands on steeper sections; bear awareness

Nearby Facilities:

Vault toilets at Logan Pass; interpretive signs; no guaranteed water at trailhead

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.9 /5

Based on 72 Google reviews

Reviews from Google

Beautiful turquoise lake, definitely hike all the way down to the lake. Definitely one of the top hikes in the park

Like all the hikes in Glacier National Park, this one is amazing and unforgettable, but has the bonus of being a very easy hike compared to most in Glacier.Also arrived at the parking lot around 9 a.m. on a Saturday and there were plenty of spots.

Hidden Lake in Montana is worth the hike! The view is amazing, with a beautiful lake and the stunning Bearhat Mountain in the background. The hike is not too hard, and when you reach the lake, the peaceful scenery and wildflowers along the way makes it all worth it. If you enjoy nature and great views, this place is a must-see!

Showing 3 of 72 reviews

FAQs

Do I really need to arrive before 7am to get parking?

Yes. Logan Pass parking fills very early in the busy season. Plan to arrive around 6:30–7am; a shuttle from St. Mary is available if parking is full.

Is the 2.6 mile roundtrip to the overlook worth it, or should I go all the way to the lake?

Can someone with limited mobility reach the overlook safely?

Will I see bears on the Hidden Lake Trail?

Is the water actually blue, or is that just in photos?

📖 hikinginglacier.com 📖 usgs.gov 📖 wikipedia.org 📖 countrywalkers.com 📖 youtube.com 📖 nps.gov 📖 glacierinstitute.org 📖 twodaysjourney.com 📖 noahlangphotography.com 📖 hikingwalking.com 📖 thetravelingtraveler.com 📖 utahsadventurefamily.com 📖 travelwithwes.com 📖 hike734.com 📖 workingfamilytravels.com 📖 glacier.org 📖 outdoorguide.com 📖 yellowstonepark.com 📖 parkchasers.com 📖 quora.com 📖 astheyare.org 📖 wanderlog.com 📖 erinexploring.com 📖 mmrvpark.com 📖 npshistory.com 📖 trip.com 📖 discoverkalispell.com 📖 explorewhitefish.com 📖 reddit.com ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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