Trail of the Cedars in Glacier National Park

Trail of the Cedars in Glacier National Park is a very easy, short walk, mostly on boardwalk or paved walkway. The park lists it as wheelchair accessible. There are also several benches along the way to stop and enjoy the forest. This walk, unlike many others in the park, is heavily shaded and a nice break from the hot sun.

There are two trailheads, both of which can be accessed from the Going-to-the-Sun Road. There is more parking available here than in other places as the Avalanche picnic area and campground is also close by.

The walk goes up along Avalanche Creek and features a small waterfall. There are also some educational exhibits along the way. If you are looking for a longer, more difficult hike, add in the hike up to Avalanche Lake which is about 4 miles out and back with about 750ft elevation gain. We didn’t do this, but we heard it’s a nice hike and offers gorgeous views of Avalanche Lake.

This hike pairs nicely with Johns Lake Loop Trail as they are in the same area of the park and both are short hikes.

Hike Details

• Distance: 0.9 miles*
• Type: Loop
• Elevation Gain: 83 ft*
• Elevation Loss: 83 ft*
• Restrooms: Yes
• Parking: Yes, but limited
• Distance From Park Entrance: 15.6 miles from the west park entrance

*Source: Glacier National Park Visitor Guide

What To Bring

This walk is heavily shaded and since it is short, you really don’t need much. I always recommend water and a camera for any hike regardless of distance.

• Water
• Camera
  • Wide angle lens in the 16-35mm range to capture river and waterfall views
  • Zoom lens in the 50-100mm range for forest views and possible animal sightings

Photos

Coming Soon!