Covey Meadow Trail: Easy Hike Near Glacier’s North Fork Entrance

If you’re heading into the remote and rugged North Fork area of Glacier National Park, the Covey Meadow Trail might catch your eye. This 2.3-mile easy hike is located just inside the North Fork entrance, with the trailhead sitting right off the Inner North Fork Road. It’s not one of Glacier’s headline hikes, but it does offer a chance to stretch your legs and take in some quiet meadow scenery especially if you’re on your way to Bowman or Kintla Lake.

What to Expect

The hike starts in a fairly dense forest, and after about a half mile, you’ll break into the namesake meadow. This open area provides distant views of snow-covered peaks and, in late May, is dotted with wildflowers. While I didn’t encounter any wildlife on my visit, meadows like this can often be good spots to watch for grazing animals just be sure to make noise and stay bear aware.

After passing through the meadow, the trail heads back into the forest and eventually leads to another section of the road. Personally, I didn’t find the second half of the trail added much to the experience. If I were to do it again, I’d stop at the meadow, take some time to explore and soak in the views, then head back the same way I came.

Is It Worth Your Time?

If you’re on a tight schedule or visiting Glacier for the first time, Covey Meadow probably shouldn’t be high on your list. Glacier has no shortage of breathtaking hikes with alpine lakes, waterfalls, and panoramic views and this one doesn’t quite measure up.

That said, if your day is focused on driving into the North Fork to reach places like Bowman Lake or Kintla Lake, this trail could make a convenient leg-stretching stop. It’s right off the road, easy to access, and gives you a taste of Glacier’s quieter side without adding much time to your day.

Final Thoughts

Covey Meadow Trail isn’t a must-do, but it has its niche. It’s short, peaceful, and right near the entrance. Just skip the loop and stick with an out-and-back to the meadow you’ll get the best the trail has to offer without the road walk or redundant forest hike.