To Get There
- Trailhead location: Avalanche Trailhead
- Out and back trail: 4.5 miles roundtrip
- Rated: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 730 feet
When to Go
Overall, late June to mid-September is the optimal time to experience the full range of activities and beauty Glacier National Park has to offer. That being said, Spring and Fall are also nice because they’re less crowded and you can see the beautiful snowfall on the higher elevations.
The Hike to Avalanche Lake
Avalanche trail is a well-marked hiking trail that starts alongside the turquoise waters of Avalanche Creek, then continues along the rushing clear rapids through a thickly wooded forest. It’s a moderate climb just over 2 miles to the lake, at one point opening up to view the mountains. On the particular day we went, the mountains had a purplish hue against the vibrant green trees, with glacier waterfalls cascading down. Of course, the final view of the lake itself is stunning, with the brilliance of the crystal clear glacier water reflecting the towering mountains surrounding it.
Tip: Be sure to pack a rain jacket for this hike, the weather can vary by the minute. We had sunshine, rain, and sleet on our hike in June.
