Hey adventure parents! I’m Cait, and let me tell you, few things make my heart happier than seeing my kids explore Glacier’s wonders. But finding trails the whole family enjoys? That can be tricky. Finding that perfect vacation basecamp to relax in after a day of adventures can be even trickier! That’s where River Haus comes in, known as the perfect vacation rental for families visiting Glacier. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with my favorite trails – guaranteed to deliver happy kids and minimal meltdowns!

Trail of the Cedars: Stroller-Friendly and Waterfall Views

Okay, this one’s a classic for a reason. It’s boardwalked, mostly shaded, and those turquoise pools by Avalanche Creek are the perfect spot for a water bottle refill and rock-skipping session. Even toddlers will be mesmerized by the waterfalls. Best part? It starts near Apgar Village, so ice cream afterwards is a must!

Hidden Lake Overlook: Mountain Goats and Epic Views

This one’s a bit steeper, but I promise the views are worth every little whine (trust me, I’ve heard them!). At the top, wide paths make managing kiddos easy. We saw playful mountain goats which totally blew their minds. My tip: start early – parking here gets crazy and a sunrise hike here is magical.

McDonald Falls: Short, Sweet and a Big Payoff

Short legs tire quickly, so this one’s a winner. It’s a quick walk from the Going-to-the-Sun road to a powerful waterfall perfect for splashing around. We found it less crowded after dinnertime. Pack a picnic for an easy meal overlooking the lake – beats any crowded restaurant after a long day exploring!

Apgar Nature Trail: Scavenger Hunt Adventures

A short paved loop near Apgar Village, this is perfect for tiny explorers. Make a scavenger hunt out of it – search for pinecones, huckleberry bushes, and the hum of hummingbirds. Afterwards, let them loose at the epic playground next door – you’ve earned a bit of a breather!

The Best Reward: Post-Hike Treats for the Win!

You guys earned it! Nothing beats post-hike refueling, Glacier-style. Here’s my family’s top “must-do” sweet treats and tasty eats – the perfect motivation for those tired little legs:

• Eddie’s in Apgar: A Glacier tradition – giant waffle cones filled to the brim are practically mandatory. We love that it’s an easy stroll just off the Trail of the Cedars loop.
• Lake McDonald Lodge Cafeteria: Sometimes you just need a classic burger and fries after a long day. Their cafeteria has killer lake views and is the perfect spot to refuel, rest, and relive the day’s adventures.
• Pack an Epic Picnic: For hidden lake hikes, I always pack a surprise picnic of snacks, fruit, and maybe even sparkling lemonade for a special celebration at the top. The views always taste better with a fun treat!

Level Up: Adventures for Experienced Young Hikers

Got hikers who crave a bit more adventure? These trails offer amazing rewards while still being totally doable for families:

• The Highline Trail: Epic views are the name of the game! This one starts at Logan Pass and follows along the Garden Wall – definitely for hikers comfortable with heights and longer distances. The wildflowers in July can’t be beat, and bighorn sheep sightings are common. (Tip: Get to Logan Pass EARLY before the parking lot fills up!)
• Ptarmigan Tunnel: Talk about a unique experience! This hike includes scrambling through a 240-foot tunnel in the mountainside, but that payoff view overlooking Ptarmigan Lake is unforgettable. My teens felt like true adventurers on this one.

Important Notes

• Know your limits: Check mileage and elevation gain before hitting the trail. These are definitely a step up in difficulty for the whole crew.
• Check Trail Conditions: The NPS site lists any closures or warnings. Snow lingers well into summer at higher elevations.
• Bear Aware: These trails go into wilder territory. Proper bear safety is even more crucial and carrying bear spray is a smart idea.