What You Need to Know About Logan Pass in Glacier National Park + Tips & FAQs

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Want information for your time at Logan Pass in Glacier National Park?

Whether you plan on embarking on the Highline Trail or you want the best views along Going-to-the-Sun Road, you’re eventually going to end up at Logan Pass. Growing up right near Glacier meant that my family spent a lot of time strolling the boardwalks to the Hidden Lake Overlook and searching for Bighorn Sheep — a spotting scope was super helpful for this!

One thing that has been a lot more difficult since then? Getting parking. And I mean, a lot more difficult. So difficult that I recommend getting to the parking lot at the latest at 6:30 am. There have been so many times that I’ve had to give up and attempt another hike because the Logan Pass parking lot is full.

However, if you do know how to prepare a bit, you can plan your Glacier National Park itinerary to include the highlights of Logan Pass. Much of it takes knowing when the busiest hours are and how to avoid them.

In summary: This article will cover some basic information on Logan Pass, including how to get there, tips for visiting and parking, hikes you can access via Logan, and common FAQs I get about the pass.

Quick tip: Make sure to stop at the visitor’s center before you head out–it often has information on wildlife and ranger-led hikes you might want to join.

How to get to Logan Pass and Logan Pass Visitor Center

To get to Logan Pass, you will want to take the Going-to-the-Sun Road to the highest point of Glacier National Park. You can enter from the West Side of the park near West Glacier, or the East Side of the park near St. Mary.

Do keep in mind that Glacier National Park has reservations for 2024 and this includes Going-to-the-Sun Road. Glacier National Park reservations are difficult to obtain and are required for visiting Glacier during the summer season.

I highly recommend familiarizing yourself with the reservation system in advance so you can confidently navigate the park.

Another way to reach Logan that I personally use myself is the Glacier National Park shuttle system. It frequently stops at Logan Pass and you don’t have to worry about finding parking in the overly-crowded parking lot. The shuttle leaves from Apgar Transit Center and stops at several spots, including Lake McDonald Lodge and the Avalanche Lake hike, before reaching Logan.

Parking at Logan Pass

Navigating the parking situation at Logan Pass Visitor Center can feel a bit like a strategic game, especially during the busy summer months. Picture this: you’ve arrived, pumped for your hike, only to find the parking lot teeming with cars and hopeful hikers circling for a spot.

It’s a common scene here, given the popularity of the area’s trails. My advice? Aim to arrive as early as you can, ideally before 6:30 am, to snag a spot. This early bird strategy has been my saving grace on numerous occasions.

However, a word to the wise and a plea from a frequent park visitor: please don’t be that person who blocks others or saves spots in the parking lot by standing in them. It’s all about respect and courtesy here.

If you find the lot full, consider using the park’s free shuttle service. It’s an efficient, stress-free alternative to the parking dance, and my favorite part is that it’s eco-friendly too! The shuttle drops you off right at Logan Pass, ensuring you start your hike in good spirits.

The park also keeps a webcam running during the peak season so you can get an idea of how busy it is a day or two before you attempt to enter the bloodbath for yourself.

Top trails from Logan Pass

The hiking in Glacier National Park is some of the best in the world, and you can find many trailheads available at Logan Pass. Whether you want to see Hidden Lake or challenge yourself to the full Highline Trail, this is likely where you’re going to be starting your hike.

Quick tip: Don’t forget to use the bathroom at the visitor center before you head out on your adventure!

1. The Highline Trail

Distance: 11.4 miles — or as much as you would like!

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation gain: 2,621 feet

The Highline Trail from Logan Pass is a true gem in Glacier National Park! If you’re up for an 11.4-mile trek that’s more about the journey than just reaching the end, this is your trail. It hugs the Continental Divide, so you’re in for some jaw-dropping vistas of mountains and valleys that’ll make you stop in your tracks – I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve paused just to soak it all in.

Starting near the Logan Pass Visitor Center, you’ll be tracing the edge of the Garden Wall. It’s a narrow path with some heart-pounding sheer drops. And don’t worry about climbing steep hills; it’s surprisingly flat for the most part.

Not ready for the whole thing? No problem. A lot of hikers, myself included, love doing a shorter jaunt along the Garden Wall. You still get those incredible views and a sea of wildflowers without committing to the full distance.

Quick tip: The Highline can get super hot during the summer and you’re very exposed at a high elevation, so make sure you have sunscreen and sun protection!

2. The Hidden Lake Overlook Trail

Distance: 2.7 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation gain: 551 feet

For a family-friendly adventure that’s both accessible and rewarding, the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail is a top pick. This 2.7-mile round trip starts at the Logan Pass Visitor Center and weaves through an enchanting landscape of vibrant wildflower meadows. Your destination? The spectacular Hidden Lake Overlook, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Reynolds Mountain and beyond.

Wildlife enthusiasts, take note: this trail is a hotspot for mountain goats and bighorn sheep sightings. They’re often seen grazing or wandering in the area, so have your camera ready. It’s a fantastic opportunity for kids and adults alike to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

As you embark on this trail, remember it’s in bear country. Carrying bear spray is a must, and hiking in groups is always recommended for safety.

3. The Highline Trail to Granite Park Chalet — Best for Avid Hikers

Distance: 7.6 miles (11.4 round trip)

Difficulty: Hard

Elevation again: 1,400 feet

The Highline Trail to Granite Park Chalet is a hike that’s close to my heart and a must-do for any Glacier National Park enthusiast. This point-to-point hike, stretching about 7.6 miles, starts from Logan Pass.

As you set off on this trail, prepare to be enveloped by dense forests that gradually open up to reveal some of the most stunning views you can imagine. You’ll be greeted by the majesty of Heavens Peak and the Livingston Range – scenes so beautiful, they almost seem unreal.

And let’s not forget about the historic Granite Park Chalet, standing since 1914 and the main attraction of the hike. It’s a rustic yet charming haven for hikers, offering basic accommodations for those who plan ahead (and yes, you definitely need to reserve in advance). Daniel and I actually stayed here and nothing was more magical than seeing the sunset over the mountains.

Remember that you will have to either turn back or continue on until you reach the Loop to get off the trail.

Quick tip: Remember to give wildlife their space since you will definitely see some on the trail! Daniel and I also ran into a grizzly, so know how to use your bear spray!

4. Hidden Lake — Best Intermediate Hike

Distance: 5.1 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation gain: 1,338 feet

The Hidden Lake Trail in Glacier National Park, a path I’ve walked multiple times including just after my wedding, is a journey of natural splendor. This 5.1-mile roundtrip starts at Logan Pass Visitor Center, weaving through meadows rich with wildflowers and panoramic mountain views. The trail transitions from paved paths to a wooden boardwalk, leading towards Bearhat Mountain.

About 1.2 miles in, you’ll reach the Continental Divide and soon after, the Hidden Lake Overlook. Here, the landscape opens up to a stunning view of the alpine lake below, surrounded by majestic peaks.

The descent to Hidden Lake is more challenging, dropping 800 feet with switchbacks over rocky terrain. The lakeside rewards hikers with serene beauty and a chance to cool off in its chilly waters. This hike, best for older children and experienced hikers, requires an early start for parking.

Quick tip: Watch out for gusts of wind–I’ve hiked this a few times where the wind was super strong.

5. Grinnell Glacier Overlook — Most Epic Views

Distance: 11.4 miles

Difficulty: Hard

Elevation gain: 3,750 feet

If you are planning on hiking to Granite Park Chalet, then you might as well head on up to the Grinnell Glacier Overlook. This hike has become increasingly popular due to its epic views and having done it for the first time last summer, it did not disappoint!

Basically, you hike the Highline Trail just like you would to Granite Park Chalet, but once you reach the sign about half a mile from there, you head up a very steep trail until you get to the top of the Garden Wall.

From this point, you can see deep into the Many Glacier Valley and down onto Grinnell Glacier itself. I loved seeing the tiny people take on the Grinnell Glacier hike below. Do be warned that it is a sheer drop-off, and do not to climb the nearby summits without rope and harness (we saw a lot of people doing this and almost falling).

From there, you can continue on to the Loop, or return to Logan Pass to your car or the shuttle.

Additional trails near Logan Pass

There are some other hikes right by Logan Pass that offer amazing views. Here are some other recommended options if you have the time or you have trouble finding a space at the parking lot.

• Siyeh Pass Trail: The Siyeh Pass Trail in Glacier National Park is a spectacular 10.3-mile loop hike, traversing lush forests, vibrant wildflower meadows, and showcasing jaw-dropping panoramic views of the park’s rugged mountain landscape. You can find the trailhead at the Siyeh Bend parking area.
• Piegan Pass: The Piegan Pass Trail in Glacier National Park is a stunning 9-mile out-and-back hike that offers hikers diverse terrain, abundant wildlife, and awe-inspiring vistas of open meadows, glaciers, valleys, and towering mountain peaks. One of my absolute favorite trails!

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Tips for your visit to Logan Pass

Here are some of my tips so you can handle Logan Pass like a pro on your trip!

• Parking at Logan Pass is limited. It fills up quickly, especially during peak season (late July and August). Plan to arrive early in the morning to secure a parking spot for your car and enjoy the trails before the crowds.
• Weather at Logan Pass can be unpredictable. There’s the potential for sudden temperature drops, rain, or even snow. Dress in layers and bring waterproof gear to ensure your comfort throughout the day.
• The high elevation at Logan Pass may cause some visitors to experience altitude sickness. Stay hydrated, take breaks as needed, and consider spending a day or two acclimating to the altitude before attempting more strenuous hikes
• Stay close to the park or inside the park if you can. Lodges like the Many Glacier Lodge and Lake McDonald Lodge are booked up fast, but if you can stay there, you don’t have to worry about Glacier National Park reservations and you can get to the Logan Pass parking lot fast. These are often the best places to stay near Glacier National Park if you can get them!

Logan Pass FAQs

Here are some questions I often get from readers about Logan Pass on how to navigate parking and choose hikes.

Conclusion

Logan Pass is a hub for your Glacier National Park trip, and being prepared for parking and crowds can go a long way toward making sure that you have the best possible experience.

I’ve tried to give you a comprehensive guide on how to navigate the parking lot situation, as well as alternatives like the shuttle so you are guaranteed to enjoy this area of the park. I’ve also suggested some of my favorite hikes in the area and included some tips I’ve found helpful after a lifetime of visiting.

Have any questions about Logan Pass? Let me know in the comments!