avalanche lake

924candym

This groomed trail is a MUST for travelers in the area. The information on identifying trees, the color of the glacial waters cascading over the falls, the moss dangling from the tree branches as we had never before seen, and the feeling that you are the only person in the world---though others were not far away--made this a memory for life.

American_Cobra

I'm not a seasoned hiker at all so I was a little worried about which trails would be accessible to an amateur like me. The trail to Avalanche lake was excellent! Beautiful and serene, the trail followed a river all the way to Avalanche lake. The lake was absolutely breathtaking with cascades flowing from the melting glaciers. Definitely worth the uphill hike!

jclebec

For me, this stands as one of the most powerful experiences I have had while hiking. I strongly recommend getting on the trail late in the evening, I think we started around 5pm in July, so we had the light and a tiny crowd. When you come off the trail, the scenery is like nothing else. This is definitely one of those top 100 things you have to do in life!

Plague4

The uphill hike to the lake can be crowded so get there early as parking can be difficult. The hike is great for most ages as kids and older folks can do it. The lake is a beautiful reward for your efforts. Bring your fly rod. I caught 7 fish in less than hour. Overall a must hike if you go to the park. You won't be disappointed.

Fyrestorm82

The hike is moderate as it goes mostly uphill on your way out and then down as you return. Pack a nice lunch and enjoy it next to the lake.

Mikeramsey1968

This trail is very crowded but as with most attractions at Glacier National Park, completely worth the trip.

DMC312

This trail is moderately strenuous and about 5 miles round trip. It is a beautiful hike and totally worth the effort. Lots of photo opportunities along the hike.

AndrewA953

Our visit was characterized by a large Elk(?) followed our party very closely. The wife was a bit concerned but I told her not to worry, it was just a deer. When she pointed out the animal was quite a bit larger than a deer, I then determined it must be an Elk. The elk was literally following at a distance of about 5 -10 feet. It was very calm and in retrospect I wonder if had become accustomed to being fed by visitors.The hike is very easy and follows a beautiful steam. The lake is nearly encircled by mountains each sporting a waterfall due to melting snow and ice.I would recommend to any visitor that has a hour or two to take in some unique and beautiful scenery.

alerf

took this trail since the go to the sun road was partially closed. My wife was afraid about a potential bear encounter or to be alone on the trail. None of the above. No bears and plenty of people on the trail. It took us 75 minutes to get to the lake (uphill) and 55min to go back. My wife is not too mucho in to sports so you can feel confident that you will make it.There is a pit type restroom near the lake. It can be very useful.Make sure you get to the lake after 12pm. Otherwise the scenery will be in complete shade.

W6181ELjohns

It was our first time visiting Glacier National Park and this was our first hike. We actually stumbled upon it after following the Trail of the Cedars and seeing a trail marker up a hill. On a whim, I convinced my girlfriend to join me on the Avalanche Lake hike.A lot of ups and downs, a beautiful stream/waterfall system on your left, and 2 miles lead you to a massive lake with an unprecedented view. It is incredibly quiet there as a dozen or so fellow hikers find a spot to relax and take in the sight.As with anything in Glacier National Park, pictures really don't do it justice. Make your way out here and make sure to do this hike. The hike isn't too difficult and the payoff is well worth it.

ImaFarmer

Parking and trails are best early in the day- take a snack and enjoy a picnic dub do take the trail to the "far end" of the lake. Is nice to have a pit toilet handy- the lake is a lovely spot and the hike pretty darn easy.

cljensen

Definitely a must see! There is a boardwalk trail leading up to Avalanche Falls so anyone can do it. If you do chose to go on to the lake just know that this is quite a little hike. It is an additional 2 miles from the falls and is up hill a lot of the way. But definitely go see the falls they are beautiful.

lbes

We took Ranger led hike as our first hike in GNP. Not crowded first thing in the morning. The Lake isn't too scenic, but it was a nice walk to get there, with nice forrest scenery.

ChicagoBeechbum

We hiked the trail to get to Avalanche Lake. We went early in the a.m. so by the time we arrived at the lake, the wall was in complete shade! No pictures were to be had!! We did not even think of that. You may need to wait to later in the afternoon to illuminate the wall.

luv4phood

We were not planning to do this hike but we came across it as we walked along the Trail of the Cedars. It was a quick and easy hike for 2 adults and three teenagers. It has a gentle grade up to the lake, about two miles off the Trail of the Cedars. There is a pit toilet available at the end of the trail near the lake. This is a nice hike but if you have limited time and energy, save it for the Highline Trail or the Iceberg Lake Trail.