Hidden Lake Overlook

2.7–3 miles out-and-back, ~600 ft gain; overlook delivers alpine panorama and wildlife sightings.

Insider tip

Arrive before 7 AM or late in the day to avoid crowds and parking issues

Insider tip

Consider using the park shuttle

When to come

Start by 6:00 AM to beat crowds and heat; parking fills by 7:00–8:00 AM in peak season; use the free park shuttle if parking is full.

Trail

TrailOPERATIONAL★ 4.9

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.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
3
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Easy to moderate
Elevation Gain Feet
600

CHOOSE YOUR NEXT WALK

Is this the right hike for your day?

Why choose this hike?

Trail Highlights
Panoramic alpine meadows, Hidden Lake, and peaks Bearhat Mountain, Clements Mountain, Reynolds Mountain.
Trail Features
  • Boardwalk sections
  • Wildlife sightings (goats, marmots, pikas)
  • Alpine meadow views
  • Bear activity can close the lake trail

What the outing demands

Estimated Time
1.5-2 hours

Where and when it fits the day

Trailhead Location
Logan Pass Visitor Center, on the backside of the building
Best Time To Visit
Start by 6:00 AM to beat crowds and heat; parking fills by 7:00–8:00 AM in peak season; use the free park shuttle if parking is full.

Trail profile

Distance Miles
3
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Easy to moderate
Elevation Gain Feet
600
Trail Surface
Mix of paved path, boardwalk, and dirt/gravel

Trailhead & access

Parking Lot Size
250 spaces
Parking Fill Time
Full by 7:00-8:00 AM during peak season
Shuttle Required
No
Shuttle Details
Free park shuttle; use if parking fills; can reduce wait time

Permits & conditions

Permits Required
Yes
Permit Details
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
Trail Status
Open
Seasonal Closures
Snow can linger into July; microspikes may be necessary in early season; bear closures possible

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
Yes
Water Sources
Carry 2-3 liters per person; no reliable water sources on the trail
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible; uneven surfaces and exposed sections

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Bear country
  • Lightning exposure
  • Rapid weather changes
  • Crowded conditions
Cell Service
Unknown; generally unreliable; emergency calls only
Crowd Level
Very high
Peak Crowd Times
July–August
Best Season
July through September
Tips Advice
  • 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.

More details

Park Area
Glacier National Park
Trail Markers
Well-marked with cairns; stay on the established route
Dogs Allowed
false
Biking Allowed
false
Shade Level
Full sun exposure; no shade
Emergency Contacts
Call 911 for emergencies; Glacier National Park rangers
Map Recommended
No
Snow Dates
Snow can linger into July; microspikes may be necessary in early season
Mud Season
Trails can be wet and muddy during snowmelt
Wildflower Peak
July–August
Fall Colors Peak
Late September to early October
Bug Season
Insect repellent recommended in warmer summer months
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
Family Friendly 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
Review Summary
Hikers praise the alpine meadow views and wildlife; crowds and parking are persistent issues, but the overlook payoff justifies the effort.

Location

Hidden Lake Overlook boardwalk trail winding toward jagged peaks in Glacier National ParkA mountain goat walks along the trail at Hidden Lake Overlook in Glacier National Park.Bright wildflowers blanket Hidden Lake Overlook in Glacier National Park with a rugged mountain peak in the distance.Hidden Lake Overlook trail beside a turquoise alpine lake with surrounding evergreens and a misty mountain in Glacier National Park.

Frequently asked questions

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?

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

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.

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.

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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Sources

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated January 2026. Report an issue.