Seth A.
Yelp
This is an important review I'm writing because I'd like to inform everyone about the significance of Logan Pass.
I'd say it's the MOST POPULAR ATTRACTION in Glacier National Park. Well, simply, it's only a stop along famous "Going to the Sun Road". Located at Mile 32 going from west to east, this stop is HIGHLY BUSY AND CONGESTED!
I visited in August last month during the peak of visitation season and by 8am, the parking lot had entirely filled up....and this is for multiple days that I came here. If you can't find a parking spot, you're out of luck. There's truly no alternative or roadside parking nearby. You'll just have to wait till later afternoon time when folks start slowly leaving. Good thing though, since sunset here is almost 9pm, there's plenty of afternoon time to explore.
Logan Pass is home to 2 OF THE BEST HIKES IN GLACIER NP. Along with....the views around the area are simply spectacular!
The 1st hike I'll mention is HIDDEN LAKE TRAIL. The trailhead is situated behind the Logan Pass Visitors Center. It's a moderate 1.5 mile hike one way to the overlook.
To hike further, it's 3 miles one way to reach actual Hidden Lake. For myself, I was satisfied with just making it to the overlook and returning. It made for 1.5 trek each way and 3 total miles....good enough for me given that there's so much to see and do here, I didn't want to spend all my day wrapped up in one long 6 mile round trip hike to Hidden Lake.
But....just going to the overlook, I tell ya...the panoramas surrounding you are stunning! I mean, I can't tell ya how many times I stopped, surveyed the mountains all around me and took photos of beautiful scenery. You rarely have to hike much and you're blessed with photo opportunity after opportunity.
Lol....so by the time I made it to the overlook, I was in awe of every incredible majestic moment. These mountains and peaks here hover all around you. It was quite memorable for me.
And when arriving at Hidden lake Overlook, you're confronted with more superb views of a colorful turquoise lake sitting beneath a fantastic mountainous setting.
The 2nd hike here at Logan Pass is the HIGHLINE TRAIL. The trailhead is located across the street from the parking lot. There's clear signs for the start of it. For this hike, it's a perpetual haul going as far along as you'd like. There'll be a posted sign for distances and mileages ranging from 7 mile walks all the way up to 29 miles. It's up to you to choose your journey.
But....from right at the beginning, you are immersed w/ unbelievable scenic vistas, landscaped and jagged mountain carvings, colorful and beautiful scenic terrain. IT'S SO PRETTY...WORDS CANT DESCRIBE!!!!
For myself, I only ventured out about 1 mile before turning around and heading back. Though...it was more than good enough as I had captivating chances of some of the best images in recent memory!
CAUTION - for those w/ fear of heights, this hike traverses along the mountain's edge and there is a chained rope to help guide you along just in case you lose your balance. I simply took my time and stopped countless times for pictures of the lush valley floor and green mountainside.
Also right here at Logan Pass is a unique sign near the Highline Trail mentioning how you're at the Continental Divide and over 6000 feet high....the highest point in Glacier NP. I certainly photographed this monument right by the road's edge.
There is a Visitors Center here for gifts, info from Park Rangers, bathrooms as well.
Btw...for those folks who are unsure....DO NOT TAKE THE PARK SHUTTLE. IT'S A WASTE OF TIME. At the rate they come and go and at the slow pace of driving along Going to the Sun Road, you're best served using your own car, arriving early morning and then navigating at your leisure. I promise...THE PARK SHUTTLES ARE A WASTE OF TIME!
Finally, you'll confront this as well...
Before arriving at Logan Pass, a 1/2 mile from west to east on the road is a tiny 10 car parking lot w/ room to stop on the road's shoulder as well...there's no name for it, but it's a quick pitstop w/ a boardwalk extending a few steps towards a viewing platform.
Here, at the overlook is more indescribable scenery of the immaculate surroundings of Glacier. The aspects and sights cannot be put into words, you'll just have to witness it for yourself.
So...make some time for this quick pullout. It can't be missed and is a must before arriving at Logan Pass or even visiting after exploring Hidden Lake and Highline Trails.
Logan Pass is as good as it gets. It offers so much magnificent scenery and perfect introspective into what Glacier NP is all about. And the best part of it all is that you don't have to journey far to engage yourself in the heart of some of the best scenery in the United States.