How to Hike Trail of the Cedars in Glacier National Park + Tips & FAQs

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Considering hiking the Trail of the Cedars in Glacier National Park?

This is one of the hikes I remember most when exploring Glacier National Park as a child. I can still smell the trees and hear the rush of Avalanche Gorge as I strolled the boardwalk with my parents in tow, and I still recommend this hike to almost everyone planning their Glacier itinerary.

However, this is a popular walk and since it is also the starting point to the extremely crowded Avalanche Lake trail, getting a parking spot can be tough. While almost everyone can do it, depending on what you want to see in Glacier, you might be wondering if it is a good fit for you with the time you have.

I’ll walk you through what you need to know about this lovely and iconic stop on Going-to-the-Sun Road and how you can make the most of your time in this very special area of the park.

In summary: This article will break down how to get to Trail of the Cedars and what you should expect while you are there.

Quick tip: Don’t forget to stop and read the signs on the side of the boardwalk–they provide some great information that enhances your walk!

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How to hike Trail of the Cedars

To start your hike, you’ll need to get to the Avalanche Campground parking lot. Keep in mind that over the past few years, Glacier has required a reservation system in order to access Going-to-the-Sun Road, and this has included that area of the park. I highly recommend you check out my guide on this so you can plan accordingly and make sure you have the reservations you need for this activity!

Another thing to consider if you are planning on getting there in the late morning or early afternoon is that the parking lot will be quite crowded. The Glacier National Park shuttle stops right here, so it might be worth hopping onboard so you can guarantee that you’ll get to see it!

Once you have arrived at the parking lot, you will see a sign directing you to the trail. Follow the sign until you reach a paved road. The entire walk is either paved or boardwalk, so it is also wheelchair accessible and there are parking spaces set aside for this purpose.

You will smell the famed cedars as you hike, and the interpretive signs along the side of the boardwalk offer some more information about the species of trees and wildlife that you can find here. You’re also likely to see a number of squirrels and chipmunks scurrying about.

This is a loop, so you can continue either way to get back to your car or the shuttle stop. Along the way, you will get to see Avalanche Gorge with its Gatorade-blue water–there’s a bridge you can walk over so you can get a better look.

You will also see a sign where if you would like, you can continue on to Avalanche Lake. This is a significantly more difficult hike, so just keep that in mind if you do plan on taking it on when it comes to your physical ability and what you plan on bringing with you.

Map of the Trail of the Cedars

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Tips for hiking Trail of the Cedars

Here are some tips I’ve found helpful while hiking Trail of the Cedars that might help you too!

• Wear solid shoes: While it is a boardwalk, sandals or flip-flops aren’t a great idea. Sneakers or any closed-toe shoes are a better option since there are rocks and roots to watch out for.
• Go in the morning or evening: Since this is a popular spot, you’re much more likely to find parking and have more room on the boardwalk if you choose to go during these times.
• Watch your kids near Avalanche Gorge: Make sure they stay on trail and know to keep their distance from rushing water.

Trail of the Cedars FAQs

Here are some commonly-asked questions I get on hiking the Trail of the Cedars from those looking to add it to their Glacier adventure.

Conclusion

Because this is such a magical spot and it is perfect for all members of the family, I absolutely recommend that you make Trail of the Cedars a priority during your time in Glacier. Even if you just make it a quick stop, you can’t go wrong enjoying those old cedar groves. I hope this article has helped you plan your trip there, as well as answered any questions you might have when preparing for a visit.

Have any questions about hiking the Trail of the Cedars? Let me know in the comments!