Enjoy it while visiting Glacier National Park in Montana
The Trail of the Cedars is a wheelchair and stroller accessible trail in the park. It’s a short loop hike, less than a mile long, that you can start and finish on Going-to-the-Sun Road. You have the flexibility to hike it in either direction. The hike takes you through an aromatic, ancient red cedar forest on a raised boardwalk. However, the highlight of the trail is when you reach the middle point. There, you’ll come across a footbridge over Avalanche Creek, offering magnificent views of the gorge and a breathtaking waterfall. The only drawback is that parking can be challenging to find during the peak season (July to Labor Day) since this easy hike attracts visitors of all skill levels.
Trail enthusiasts rave about this beautiful path, considering it the highlight of the park. They praise its simplicity and accessibility, as well as the awe-inspiring views of the gorge. To avoid crowded parking areas, it’s recommended to arrive early morning or late afternoon. At lunch or dinner time, visitors can enjoy a delightful break at the scenic picnic grounds near McDonald Creek. The enchanting scent of cedar permeates the air in this ancient forest, adding to the trail’s appeal. Access to the trail is included with park admission. Located approximately 5 miles northeast of Lake McDonald Lodge, you can easily reach the trail by taking the park’s complimentary shuttle to the Avalanche Creek stop. For more detailed hiking information, please refer to the NPS website.