Lakes and Waterfalls

On the Avalanche Lake Trail

Our first two days in the park have been exploring and getting the lay of the land.  We've driven most of the Going to the Sun Road, and will drive the entire length on Tuesday when we switch over to the eastern side of the park.  The weather has been up and down.  We ended up driving through thick fog for a couple of miles around Logan Pass and you couldn't see past the edge of the road.  So much for the scenery.

Avalanche Lake

We've hiked about 8 miles so far -- up to Avalanche Lake and to see St. Mary's and Virginia waterfalls.  These are two very popular hikes in the park.  The Avalanche Lake trail takes you through  the woods with lots of western red cedars.  The final part of the trail almost seemed tropical with large leafy plants,  a narrow trail, and fewer trees.  However, the reveal was worth it.  Unfortunately, the rain caught us for the entire two miles back to the trailhead.

St. Mary's Falls

We had great weather for our waterfall hikes.  The trail is posted as a common area for grizzly bears.  Considering all of the huckleberry bushes along the trail, I can see why.  We didn't encounter any bears which is not surprising considering the number of people hiking the trails.  St. Mary's Falls is a cascades fall, while Virginia Falls is more of a typical waterfall.  Both were very nice, with crystal clear water and picturesque views.  

Virginia Falls

We're gearing up for our big 13.5 mile hike tomorrow on the Highline Trail and the Garden Wall Trail up to the Continental Divide.  Hopefully the weather will cooperate and we'll have another great hike.