Hiking to Fish Lake in Glacier National Park: A Peaceful Spring Adventure

When you think of Glacier National Park, dramatic peaks, jewel-toned alpine lakes, and sweeping vistas come to mind. While many of the park’s high-country adventures are only accessible in the summer and early fall, springtime offers a quieter side of Glacier—and one of the ways to experience it is with a hike to Fish Lake.

Fish Lake is a 5.7-mile out and back hike with 1,335 feet of elevation gain, and we would rate it as a moderate difficulty trail. It’s a great option for the shoulder seasons when snow still blankets Glacier’s alpine trails. While the lake itself isn’t the most spectacular in the park, the journey to it makes the hike absolutely worth it.

The Hike: A Trail of Contrasts

The adventure begins at the Sperry Trailhead on the west side of Glacier National Park, just before the Going-to-the-Sun Road’s winter closure near Lake McDonald Lodge. This area offers a number of trail options and all of them share a steep start.

The first mile is a bit of a grind, gaining over 700 feet of elevation almost immediately. Fortunately, once you power through this initial climb, the trail becomes much more moderate and allows you to settle into an enjoyable rhythm. Along the way, you’re treated to beautiful views looking back over Lake McDonald, especially once you’ve gained enough elevation.

The trail winds through thick forest, crosses three vibrant mountain creeks, and showcases Glacier’s more serene side. Thanks to the late April spring runoff, those creeks were roaring with fresh, cold water—an energizing sound as you hike deeper into the woods. This combination of sights and sounds makes the journey itself the true highlight of the experience.

Fish Lake: A Quiet Destination

When it comes to hikes in Glacier, often the destination is the reward—a stunning summit, a dazzling alpine lake, or a roaring waterfall. With Fish Lake, however, the journey is the highlight.

Fish Lake itself is peaceful but understated compared to Glacier’s more famous lakes. It has a silty, muddy bottom and features floating islands of grass that give it a wild, marshy feel. While we didn’t spot any large wildlife, the lake was alive with ducks and other waterfowl enjoying the early spring.

If you’re visiting during the peak summer season, when alpine trails open up, you’ll likely want to prioritize hikes to places like Grinnell Glacier or Hidden Lake. But in the late fall, winter, or spring—when much of the higher country remains snowbound—Fish Lake becomes a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in Glacier’s quieter, less traveled beauty.

Getting There and Important Notes

The Sperry Trailhead is easily accessible and offers a fair amount of parking. However, Glacier National Park has become increasingly popular, and parking areas can fill up quickly during peak season. If you’re hiking in the summer, plan to arrive early or later in the day to avoid the crowds.

Also, keep in mind that in recent years, Glacier has implemented vehicle reservation systems in addition to the standard park entry fee, especially at the West Entrance. These policies can change year by year, so it’s a good idea to check the official park website before your trip for the latest information.

National Parks in general are not the most pet friendly. In Glacier National Park dogs are not allowed on hiking trails, so you will want to leave your furry friend at home for this adventure. 

Wildlife Awareness: Bear Country

While our hike only included encounters with waterfowl, it’s important to remember that Glacier National Park is grizzly and black bear country. Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. It’s a simple but essential step to ensure your safety in the backcountry. If you’re not familiar with proper bear deterrents, check out our article: Staying Safe: Tools for Hiking in Grizzly Bear Country.

Final Thoughts

Fish Lake offers a refreshing, quiet adventure when many of Glacier’s iconic hikes are still inaccessible. While it may not feature jaw-dropping scenery at the destination, the blend of forested trails, roaring creeks, and mountain views along the way make this a worthwhile hike during the spring shoulder season. If you’re visiting in peak summer, you might aim higher into the mountains, but in the cooler months, Fish Lake is a perfect way to get outside and experience the magic of Glacier National Park.