Normally overrun with visitors, this is the perfect time of year to explore the Trail of the Cedars and Avalanche Lake hikes in Glacier National Park.
The half-boardwalk and half-paved trail meanders through massive cottonwoods and western red cedars adjacent to the Avalanche Creek campground to the north of Lake McDonald. More than just a walk in the woods, the trail is accessible to just about every age and ability.
Some cottonwoods grow so large they are mistaken for the huge cedars. Closer examination of the bark and the leaves distinguish the two. If visiting the park in late September or early October, the cottonwoods paint the normally lush, vibrant green growth with splashes of color.
Bear and deer find refuge in the habitat of the old growth, and keep an eye and ear out for a variety of birds, including pileated woodpeckers and barred owls.
The trail comes to a point at Avalanche Gorge.
The round trip distance is 0.8 miles, or take the two-mile hike to Avalanche Lake. With towering mountains in every direction and water from Sperry Glacier cascading down rocky cliffs, the lake is a sight to behold and worth the extra time it takes to get there.
How to Get There: From downtown Kalispell, take East Idaho Street (U.S. Highway 2) east. Turn north on LaSalle Road (still Highway 2). Drive through Columbia Falls and Hungry Horse. Entrance to the park is on the left. Continue on Going-to-the-Sun Road around Lake McDonald to Avalanche Creek campground.