Otokomi Lake, Glacier NP: Cirque Lake & Belt rocks

Q: Is it worth the 10-mile roundtrip just to see Otokomi Lake?

Yes. The lake sits in a glacial cirque with Precambrian rocks, wildflowers, and dramatic red cliffs—every step reveals geology in action.

Q: Will my 65-year-old mother be able to do the hike?

The trail is strenuous with long ascents and uneven sections; it may be challenging for some but could be manageable with breaks and conditioning; consider alternate viewpoints if accessibility is a concern.

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

The water often appears a steel-blue from glacial meltwater carrying rock flour, especially when the light hits the lake.

Q: Is bear spray really needed?

Yes. Bears are common in the area; carry bear spray and know how to use it, and make periodic noise to avoid surprising wildlife.

Q: Is there a visitor center at Otokomi Lake?

No dedicated visitor center at Otokomi Lake; interpretive signs may be present along the trail to provide context on glaciation, wildlife, and park history.

Q: Can I bring my dog on the Otokomi Lake trail?

Dog access on this backcountry-style trail isn’t specified here; plan for a hike without pets or check park service guidelines before you go.

+2 more

Overview

About This Attraction

Otokomi Lake sits in Glacier National Park’s St. Mary Valley, north of Goat Mountain. It’s a cirque lake carved by glaciers into the iron‑rich argillite of the Grinnell Formation, part of the Belt Supergroup, with red cliffs that rise more than 500 feet around the basin. Elevation is about 6,590 feet. The hike is roughly 10.4 to 11 miles round trip, starting near Rising Sun; parking fills during peak season, so a park shuttle helps. The best light is late spring through early fall, with...

Best Time to Visit

Late June to September; golden hour on the red cliffs at sunset; morning light illuminates any trail waterfalls.

Visitor Tips

Park at Rising Sun area; parking fills during peak season.
Bear spray is essential; make noise to avoid surprising wildlife.
Water sources are limited along the trail; carry sufficient water or a filter.
Cross Rose Creek for dramatic south-side views.
Wear sturdy footwear; the trail is strenuous and uneven.

Details

Location & Features

GPS: 48.69481° N, 113.51932° W

Nearby

Nearby Attractions:

Goat Mountain, Rose Basin, Grinnell Formation, Belt Supergroup, Rising Sun area

Insider Tips

Cross Rose Creek for south-side vantage
Carry bear spray; make noise
Leave no trace; stay on trail
The lake water stays very cold; plan accordingly
Watch for seasonal drift and be prepared for weather shifts

Visitor Information

Accessibility:

Strenuous hike; not wheelchair accessible

Family Friendly:

Steep, uneven terrain; hold hands for kids; wildlife caution; bear spray

Nearby Facilities:

Rising Sun Motor Inn; Rising Sun restrooms; Otokomi Lake Campground vault toilets

Reviews

★★★★★

5.0 /5

Based on 5 Google reviews

Reviews from Google

It’s an out and back trail and the total hike is about 11 mile long with 2500 feet elevation gain. The trail is very popular for bear spotting so do not forget to take a can of bear spray along with you. The trail is a bit challenging but it’s beautiful. You get an amazing view of St. Mary lake, waterfalls, some switchbacks and nearby mountains. The last one mile of the trail is pretty different (view wise) and way too beautiful. Since the elevation gain is high I’d recommend taking those walking sticks along for those who might have issues with their knees. I liked the trail more than the lake so if you’re only taking this trail for the lake I’d recommend other lake trails as there are far better lakes in Glacier than the Otokomi lake.

Just a beautiful gem in East Glacier. This hike is totally worth it. You see so many different landscapes on your way to the lake. Once you get there, the lake is full of lively fish and the water is refreshing on a hot summers day. If you can handle an 11 mile day, this hike is worth every step!

Beautiful place to camp and scenic trail.

Showing 3 of 5 reviews

FAQs

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

Yes. Parking at Rising Sun fills early in peak season; plan to arrive by dawn or at least before 7–8am, then use the trail to Otokomi Lake.

Is it worth the 10-mile roundtrip just to see Otokomi Lake?

Will my 65-year-old mother be able to do the hike?

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

Is bear spray really needed?

Is there a visitor center at Otokomi Lake?

Can I bring my dog on the Otokomi Lake trail?

📖 enjoyyourparks.com 📖 roamingbearmedia.com 📖 researchgate.net 📖 usgs.gov 📖 npshistory.com 📖 hikinginglacier.com 📖 wikipedia.org 📖 champagneescapades.com 📖 glacierguides.com 📖 getinspiredeveryday.com 📖 travanietravels.com 📖 youtube.com 📖 aspiringwild.com 📖 glacierparkcollection.com 📖 nps.gov 📖 glacier.org ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →