Three Short Hikes In Glacier National Park That Are Worth The Hype
Glacier National Park is often known for its epic, full-day backcountry treks, but not every adventure needs to be a 10-mile commitment. Whether you’re short on time, traveling with family, or simply need a recovery day, some of the park’s shorter trails deliver huge rewards with minimal mileage.
In this post, I’ll share three short hikes in Glacier National Park that are absolutely worth the hype. These are trails I’ve personally explored, and they each pack in views, wildlife, or experiences that rival the longer treks.
Need some expert advice on what to pack? Check out my day hiking gear list for visiting Glacier National Park.
*This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase at no extra cost to you.
Hike #1: Avalanche Lake
Distance: 5.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 757 feet
Trailhead: Trail of the Cedars
Avalanche Lake is one of Glacier’s most beloved hikes for good reason. The trail begins under towering cedars, specifically named, the Trail of the Cedars before gradually climbing through a lush forest. The reward is a jaw dropping lake surrounded by sheer cliffs, prominent peaks, multiple waterfalls spilling from snowfields above, and turquoise water.
I hike this trail a minimum of five times each season. It’s one of the first accessible hikes in the spring and the one I take my first time visitors on. That said, it’s also one of the most crowded. Expect packed parking lots, bear bells, and the occasional hiker blasting music from a speaker. Wildlife here is extremely habituated. Last summer, a chipmunk leapt onto my arm swipe at my sandwich. Please refrain from feeding all animals.
Make sure you secure your 2025 Glacier National Park timed entry reservation for Going-to-the-Sun Road through September 28th. The nearest entrance to this hike is by the West Entrance.
Why it’s worth it: Avalanche Lake delivers wilderness magic with relatively low effort. It’s family friendly, beginner-friendly, and accessible for most.
Pro tip: go early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the heaviest crowds. If Going-to-the-Sun Road is closed between Lake McDonald Lodge and the trailhead, bring a bike or cross country skis to get to the trailhead for a more peaceful experience during off seasons.
HIke #2: Hidden Lake Overlook
Distance: 2.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 551 feet
Trailhead: Logan Pass Visitors Center
Perched at the heart of park, Hidden Lake Overlook delivers alpine views without requiring a grueling trek. The trail begins with a boardwalk through wildflower meadows where mountain goats and bighorn sheep frequent. From the overlook, you’ll gaze down at shimmering Hidden Lake framed by the most unique mountain peaks.
I’ve spotted wildlife almost every time I’ve hiked here. This July, I spotted a grizzly bear from the Logan Pass parking lot, a mountain goat at the overlook, and a herd of bighorn sheep crossing the boardwalk just after sunset. Last year, snow rolled through at the end of August making the boardwalk icy enough for a temporary closure. Always have a backup plan in Glacier since conditions change quickly.
Why it’s worth it: This trail is Glacier in a nutshell: alpine scenery, wildlife, wildflowers, and views like you walked into your computer screensaver.
Pro tip: Parking at Logan Pass fills before 630AM during peak season. You’ll need timed entry to the park through the West Entrance - I explain how this works in my 2025 Glacier Entry Guide. Arrive for sunrise or sunset for less hassle! If you’re looking for more, continue hiking down to Hidden Lake for a swim. The trail beyond Hidden Lake Overlook to Hidden Lake is usually closed for fish spawning in early summer and posted for bear frequenting for the rest of the season.
Hike #3: St. Mary & Virginia Falls
Distance: 3.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 472 feet
Trailhead: st. Mary Parking
If waterfalls are on your Glacier bucket list, this trail gives you two with minimal effort. Just a short walk brings you to St. Mary Falls, a powerful cascade tumbling into an aqua-blue pool. Continue a little farther and you’ll reach Virginia Falls, a tall and dramatic cascade to cool off underneath after crossing a short bridge.
On warm days, I like to bring lunch and a swimsuit to cool off at the base of St. Mary Falls. Clipping my sandals to my pack with a carabiner makes it easy to swap them on when I’m ready to swim.
Why it’s worth it: Two classic waterfalls in one short hike. Perfect for families, photographers, and anyone looking to cool down during a hot summer day.
Pro tip: Visit midday when the sun lights up the turquoise water, and bring water shoes if you want to wade near the edges. If you’re looking for more, add on Barring Falls.
Final Thoughts
These short trails are popular and crowded for a reason. They showcase the best of Glacier in just a few miles. Personally, I prefer quieter trails, but when I host visitors, I always make space for at least two of these classics. They’re iconic for good reason and they are the kind of hikes you’ll remember long after leaving Montana.
If you’re heading to Glacier National Park, don’t forget the essentials:
Bear spray for safety on all trails in grizzly bear country
A packable rain jacket for unexpected weather
Which Glacier trail is your favorite? Let me know in the comments, or follow along on Instagram for more Glacier guides, travel tips, and mountain adventures.
*This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase at no extra cost to you.
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Discover Glacier National Park and the surrounding area with an in-depth insider guide. Packed with personal tips, detailed itineraries, customized map for ease of use during your trip, and unique perspectives from months of exploration. This guide is your ultimate companion for planning an unforgettable trip to Montana.
A portion of proceeds from this guide goes directly to preserving and protecting Glacier National Park. For every guide sold, $2 will be donated to Glacier National Park Conservancy & $2 will be donated to the Piikani Lodge Health Institute