Distance
up to 3 Miles
Elevation Gain
550 Feet
Difficulty
Easy/Moderate
Cost Per Person
$150
Hike Overview
Daily, July – September: Hidden Lake Overlook is one of the must-see hikes in Glacier National Park. On this educational hiking tour, we will spend time discussing the incredible geology of the area while traveling along the Going-to-the-Sun road corridor. We will also take time to learn about the fire ecology of Glacier National Park and why it’s crucial for the survival of numerous species. Once we arrive at Logan Pass, we will begin our hike of the Hidden Lake Overlook trail. The alpine meadows surrounded by majestic peaks offer the unrivaled scenery to discuss wildlife habitat, Leave No Trace principles, and the importance of land stewardship.
Hidden Lake Overlook Guided Day Hike
Hike Overview Continued
Educational Guided Tour
Daily, July – September: The Hidden Lake Overlook educational guided tour is absolutely stunning. We will spend time discussing the incredible geology of the area while traveling along the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor. We will also take time to learn about the fire ecology of Glacier National Park and why it’s crucial for the survival of numerous species. Once we arrive at Logan Pass, we will begin our hike of the Hidden Lake Overlook trail. The alpine meadows surrounded by majestic peaks offer the unrivaled scenery to discuss wildlife habitat, Leave No Trace principles, and the importance of land stewardship will be discussed. This one of the must-see highlights in the park.
Physical Requirements: Total Distance (roundtrip): up to 3 miles / Total elevation gain: 550 feet
Meeting Place: Glacier Institute, 320 Nucleus Ave, Columbia Falls, MT 59912
Food: Please bring a trail lunch, plenty of water and snacks for the day.
Park Entrance Fees: Participants are responsible for purchasing their park entry passes prior to the course. These can be purchased online at: https://www.recreation.gov/sitepass/74280
Equipment: Most importantly, bring comfortable hiking shoes, at least a 1-2 liter water bottle, backpack, rain gear, hat, and sunscreen. Weather can be varied, especially at the varying elevations of Logan Pass, so please be prepared with appropriate clothing, especially warm layers for potential snow and high winds. Binoculars are very useful, but optional, as well as field guides that interest you.
What to Expect On Your Hidden Lake Overlook Guided Day Hike
Hidden Lake Overlook is one of the must-see hikes in Glacier National Park. The hiking distance covers 3 miles and 550 elevation change.
Hike Details
- This Glacier Institute program meets at 320 Nucleus Ave, Columbia Falls.
- The program will begin 8:00 a.m. and ends at 4:00 p.m. Please arrive 15 minutes early.
- Hiking distance covers up to 3 miles with 550 feet elevation change.
- On-site parking available.
- There is a maximum number of 14 hikers per trip.
- This program has a minimum guest count of 3 people. In the unlikely case we don’t reach that number, you will be notified prior to the event.
What to Bring
Please remember that weather in NW Montana during all seasons can change quickly from warm and sunny to freezing at any time of the year. We recommend checking the weather prior to your trip. Please also check your course information sheet for specific gear requirements in addition to those listed below.
- Lightweight hiking boots or a sturdy pair of hiking shoes
- 2 liter sized water bottle or Camelback
- Day Pack with plastic bag liner or cover
- Waterproof rain jacket and pants
- Sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellant & lip balm
- Camera (optional)
- Trekking poles, if you like to use them for hiking (optional)
- Binoculars (optional)
- Field Notebook notes and sketches