Length: 1 mi (1.6 km)
Elevation Gain: 50 ft (15.24 m)
Route Type: Out and Back
Starting Location: Avalanche Picnic Area
I loved visiting the Avalanche Creek area of Glacier National Park. It is heavily shaded which makes hiking more pleasant during the hot summer months. Avalanche Creek has a campground, picnic area, and restrooms. This stop provides access to both the Trail of the Cedars and Avalanche Lake Trails.
Accessing Avalanche Creek
The Avalanche Creek parking lot is located on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, 5.5 miles east of Lake McDonald Lodge. It fills up quickly between 8:30 am and 4 pm. Because of this, you can access Avalanche Creek via the free park shuttle during the summer months. There are public restrooms (aka vault toilets) near the shuttle drop off point. In addition to these, if you want a flush toilet, the best restrooms are located on the western portion of the Trail of the Cedars loop. Please note that due to heavy snowfall, the alpine section of the Going-to-the-Sun Road is closed over the winter months, usually from mid October until late June. This makes Avalanche Creek inaccessible during that time. Be sure to check the park website for current road conditions as these closures vary from year to year.
Avalanche Gorge
Undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful parts of Avalanche Creek is located along the Trail of the Cedars. This is a short, accessible loop trail (approximately 0.7 mi (1.1 km)) that winds through a lush forest of cedar and hemlock trees. It’s a great introduction to the natural beauty of the area and leads to a viewing area for Avalanche Gorge. Avalanche Gorge is where Avalanche Creek flows through a narrow, rocky canyon, creating a picturesque and powerful scene. Dappled light is common in this area and so if you want to avoid harsh lighting conditions plan on arriving in the early morning hours or late afternoon/evening. A tri-pod is essential if you want to get a soft water shot.
Avalanche Lake Trail
If you are up for a more challenging hike, you can continue on to Avalanche Lake. The Avalanche Lake Trail branches off from the Trail of the Cedars just past the gorge. It’s a moderately challenging hike of roughly 3.9 additional miles (6.3 km) out and back, leading to the stunning Avalanche Lake. The trail takes you through forests, crosses a suspension bridge, and offers plenty of views of Avalanche Creek. Hikers will pass by waterfalls, follow Avalanche Creek, and ultimately reach the stunning Avalanche Lake, which is surrounded by mountains and distant waterfalls.
Avalanche Creek Wildlife
The Avalanche Creek area is also known for its wildlife viewing opportunities. It’s not uncommon to spot various bird species, small mammals, and sometimes larger wildlife like deer and bears in the vicinity. Be sure to use proper safety precautions and keep your distance from the wildlife. It should be noted that Avalanche Creek is bear country. Bear bells and/or bear spray are recommended in this section of the park.
Before making your trip, consider checking the official Glacier National Park website or contacting the park’s visitor center for the most up-to-date information on trail conditions, accessibility, and any recent changes. As with any visit to a national park, it’s important to follow park regulations, practice “Leave No Trace” principles, and prioritize safety while exploring this beautiful area. Enjoy your time exploring the natural wonders of Avalanche Creek!
Happy Travels!
Juventa, Co-Owner, National Park Photographer
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