Mile 16.2 · Stop 8 of 32 · Going-to-the-Sun Road

Trail of the Cedars Nature Trailhead

Flat loop through ancient cedars with creek views; dodge crowds with smart timing.

You are here · Going-to-the-Sun Road

← Sacred Dancing Cascade · mile 13.2 Avalanche Lake · mile 16.3 →
Insider tip

Pair this hike with the Avalanche Lake Trail for a longer outing

Insider tip

Arrive very early (before 8:00 AM) or later (after 3:30 PM) to dodge the worst crowds

When to come

Arrive before 8:00 AM or after 3:30 PM to dodge crowds. The Glacier NP shuttle can help you skip parking.

Trail

TrailOPERATIONAL★ 4.8

YOUR VISIT, YOUR WAY

What would you love to do here?

Trade a mountain climb for an old-growth forest walk at Avalanche. Trail of the Cedars is a way to enjoy Glacier at a gentler pace, either as a focused walk or a slower nature stop. NPS describes a 0.7-mile accessible trail with boardwalk and paved surfaces; check current trail conditions before your visit.

A gentle forest walk

Keep the outing focused on Trail of the Cedars rather than adding a longer hike. Follow the signed accessible route and leave time for the boardwalk and forest views.

Avalanche Campground / Trail of the Cedars · Low effort

With children

Walk at the slowest person’s pace. NPS describes an accessible surface, but check current conditions and your stroller or mobility needs before relying on it.

A slow nature stop

Use the same trail as a place to pause, observe the trees and enjoy the forest together. Leave more breathing room in your day instead of treating this as a quick stop between drives.

Trail of the Cedars loop · Low effort

With children

Let children set a few observation stops along the way. Keep the group together and turn the walk into a shared activity rather than a distance target.

Saved choices are ideas, not reservations. Check current access, conditions and opening times before travel.

Planning sources · checked September 7, 2026

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

CHOOSE YOUR NEXT WALK

Is this the right hike for your day?

Why choose this hike?

Trail Highlights
Flat loop through old-growth forest with creek views; family-friendly and shaded
Best For
  • Families with kids
  • Accessibility seekers
  • Casual walkers

What the outing demands

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.
Estimated Time
30 minutes

Where and when it fits the day

Trailhead Location
Avalanche Picnic Area, off Going-to-the-Sun Road, about 15.6 miles east of Glacier National Park's west entrance
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.

Explore your choices Choose your visit options.

Trail profile

Distance Miles
0.8
Route Type
Loop
Difficulty Level
Easy Stroll
Elevation Gain Feet
70
Trail Surface
Paved and boardwalk sections
Trail Features
  • Ancient cedar and hemlock trees
  • Views of Avalanche Creek and Avalanche Gorge
  • Footbridge over Avalanche Creek

Trailhead & access

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
Yes
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)
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.
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
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
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.

Continue the drive

← Previous stop · mile 13.2 Sacred Dancing Cascade Next stop → · mile 16.3 Avalanche Lake

See every stop on the drive →

Location

Trail of the Cedars GTSRGTSR by Trail of the Cedars TrailheadTrail 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.

Avalanche Lake Trailhead

5.65 miles round-trip, 757 ft gain. Pack water, bear spray, and start before dawn to beat crowds.

Apikuni Falls Trail

Steep waterfall crusher: 0.8 miles, 651ft elevation gain. Short burst, big payoff.

Swiftcurrent Lake Trail

Flat 2.6-mile loop. Lake views, historic buildings, accessibility options. Start early to dodge crowds.

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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 December 2025. Report an issue.