Hidden Lake

Glacier National Park, Montana

Decided to hike with just day packs and go to the far end of Hidden Lake from the Logan Pass trailhead. The first mile and a half of uphill on the boardwalk had some folks, but nothing like the throngs during the height of the tourist season. Once over Hidden Pass and on the way down to the lake only a few folks were still on the trail. Views of the lake and the backside of Reynolds Mountain were spectacular. Such beauty is accessible to most but still relatively few make it down past the lookout platform on the top of the pass.

Always mountain goats in the area, only now most are wearing a transmitter as part of a multi year study tracking them. I think Alex was happy to see some wildlife that came right up to us. Something they don't have in Australia anyhow.

Of course Matt found some company as he departed the outhouse down near the lake. This goat just stayed with us for a bit. Had to be after the salt on our packs.

After crossing the outlet of the lake at the end of the official trail we followed what is a good climbers and fisherman's trail towards the far end of the lake. You can't see the far end of the lake from up on the pass as it wraps around the base of Bearhat Mountain. Looking back towards the way we had come made for some good scenery. This view of Clements Mountain and Hidden Pass is one of my favorites.

I would venture a guess that Alex was enjoying the sunshine and clear water after all the rain of the last few days. It really was nice to hike without the big packs.

As we neared the far end of the lake a unique view of Reynolds Mountain presents itself. Sure can see just how the glaciers of bygone eras have shaped it. Takes a bit of work but it is a fun climb.

After we hiked back out we had dinner at Luna's in East Glacier then spent the night at Two Medicine so we could get an early start into the backcountry again tomorrow.