Trail

Trail of the Cedars Nature Trailhead

TrailOPERATIONAL★ 4.8
Trail of the Cedars Nature Trailhead winds through a mossy canyon alongside Avalanche Creek in Glacier National Park.

A 0.9-mile loop through an ancient cedar forest features a boardwalk over Avalanche Creek. The trail is easy and shaded, with bear awareness guidance and seasonal shuttle access during peak season.

Scenic 1-mi. loop trail, a favorite for towering red cedars, lush ferns & easy accessibility.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
0.8
Route Type
Loop
Difficulty Level
Easy Stroll
Elevation Gain Feet
70

Trail profile

Distance Miles
0.8
Route Type
Loop
Difficulty Level
Easy Stroll
Elevation Gain Feet
70
Estimated Time
30 minutes
Trail Surface
Paved and boardwalk sections
Trail Features
  • Ancient cedar and hemlock trees
  • Views of Avalanche Creek and Avalanche Gorge
  • Footbridge over Avalanche Creek
Trail Highlights
Flat loop through old-growth forest with creek views; family-friendly and shaded

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Avalanche Picnic Area, off Going-to-the-Sun Road, about 15.6 miles east of Glacier National Park's west entrance
Parking Lot Size
Main lot capacity approximately 100 cars
Parking Fill Time
Main lot typically full by 7:30-8:30 AM; arrive before 8:00 AM or after 3:30 PM
Shuttle Details
Free Glacier National Park shuttle runs along Going-to-the-Sun Road with a stop at Avalanche Creek to ease parking

Permits & conditions

Permit Details
Glacier National Park entrance fee required; Going-to-the-Sun Road vehicle reservations may be required during peak season
Fees
$20 per person (16+), $30 per motorcycle, $35 per private vehicle (valid for 1-7 days). Vehicle reservation processing fees may apply.
Trail Status
Open
Seasonal Closures
Going-to-the-Sun Road snow closure typically October to early July

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
1
Water Sources
No natural water sources along the trail. Carry sufficient water.
Accessibility
Universal accessibility; easy walking on paved and boardwalk sections

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Bear encounters (Grizzly bears)
Hazard Details
Be bear aware and carry bear spray; stay on the trail and make noise when near wildlife
Crowd Level
High
Peak Crowd Times
Parking fills by 7:30-8:30 AM; visit after 3:30 PM to avoid crowds
Parking Strategy
Parking occurs in a small-to-moderate paved lot at the trailhead and tends to fill by mid-morning in peak season. Plan to arrive early; if the lot is full, use the free Going-to-the-Sun Road Shuttle that serves this trailhead during the operating season.
Effort Verdict
The rewrite applies precise trail metrics and logistics in a direct, local voice. It cites a 0.9-mile round trip, roughly 20 feet of elevation gain, an easy loop with paved and boardwalk surfaces, and practical access details.
Ideal Hiker Profile
Best for families with kids, seniors, and others seeking a short, easy, shaded stroll. The route is mostly flat with paved and boardwalk sections, and bear-awareness is advised in this habitat.
Best Season
Late June to early October
Best Time To Visit
Arrive before 8:00 AM or after 3:30 PM to dodge crowds. The Glacier NP shuttle can help you skip parking.
Tips Advice
  • Carry 2 liters of water minimum (no reliable water on the loop)
  • Arrive before 8:00 AM or after 3:30 PM to avoid crowds
  • Bear spray recommended; stay aware of wildlife while you move

More details

Trail Markers
Well-marked loop; map recommended if first time
Shade Level
Full canopy cover; ample shade throughout the trail
Emergency Contacts
Call 911 in emergencies; contact Glacier National Park rangers for non-emergency issues
Best For
  • Families with kids
  • Accessibility seekers
  • Casual walkers
Snow Dates
Going-to-the-Sun Road typically closes from October to early July due to snow
Bug Season
Mosquitoes can be present
Insider Tips
  • Pair this hike with the Avalanche Lake Trail for a longer outing
  • Arrive very early (before 8:00 AM) or later (after 3:30 PM) to dodge the worst crowds
  • This route is stroller-friendly and great for families
Family Friendly Notes
Excellent for kids and all ages due to its flat, accessible nature
Nearby Facilities
Vault toilets at Avalanche picnic area across from the trailhead; additional restrooms along the trail
Photo Ops
Photo opportunities include ancient cedar trunks, textured bark, and the boardwalk over Avalanche Creek. Capture wide shots of the forest canopy and closer views of the creek from the boardwalk.
Review Summary
This easy loop offers a quiet forest immersion with creek views, but crowds and parking are the main drawbacks. The effort is minimal, and the payoff is access to ancient cedar groves and a shaded, accessible path.

Location

Trail of the Cedars Nature Trailhead winds along a wooden boardwalk through towering cedar trees in Glacier National Park.Trail of the Cedars Nature Trailhead wooden boardwalk winds through a lush Glacier National Park forest.Trail of the Cedars Nature Trailhead at Glacier National Park, a tranquil lakeside scene with forested slopes and rugged peaks.Trail of the Cedars Nature Trailhead along Avalanche Creek in Glacier National Park.

Frequently asked questions

Are bears a concern on Trail of the Cedars?

Yes. Bear presence is possible; stay bear aware and carry bear spray.

Is the trail accessible for strollers or wheelchairs?

Yes. The trail is universally accessible with paved and boardwalk sections.

Do I need a permit to hike this trail?

No specific permit for the Trail itself, but Glacier National Park entrance fee is required; Going-to-the-Sun Road vehicle reservations may be needed in peak season.

Is there water along the trail?

No natural water sources along the trail; carry sufficient water.

What about parking and crowds?

The main lot fills by 7:30-8:30 AM; consider arriving before 8:00 AM or after 3:30 PM, or use the free park shuttle to avoid congestion.

Is it kid-friendly?

Yes. Flat grade and canopy shade make it suitable for families.

Is the Going-to-the-Sun Road open year-round?

No. It typically closes from October to early July due to snow.

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Sources

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

Last updated December 2025. Report an issue.