The Lunch Creek Accessible Lookout at
Glacier National Park near Saint Mary, Montana is an easy 0.1-mile out-and-back walk that leads down a paved and universally-accessible trail to reach a view from Lunch Creek that peers into Logan Pass and its surrounding alpine mountains.
Exploring Lunch Creek's Lookout
This very short trail is not considered a hike but rather a short and pleasant roadside stop along the
Going-to-the-Sun Road located on the east side of Logan Pass. Lunch Creek was named during the early years of the park as visitors would often stop here for lunch and to take-in the scenic alpine views. During Summer, Lunch Creek is surrounded by wildflowers as the creek flows down a series of rock steps, but no matter when you visit (excluding the inaccessible Winters), you'll find stunning views into Logan Pass from this lookout. In the distance sits Reynolds Mountain as it towers over the lush alpine landscape of Logan Pass and in the foreground is Lunch Creek as it flows down the mountain's bedrock surrounded by an evergreen forest. If you wish to explore more of Lunch Creek, located across the street is an off-trail hike that you can take up to
Lunch Creek Falls; however, this unofficial off-trail exploration follows mostly slick and wet bedrock which can be dangerous for inexperienced hikers.
Vehicle Reservations
Depending on what time of year you visit, you may need to
reserve a vehicle entrance pass
to get into the park, in addition to a park entry fee (or annual
National Parks pass). Before planning this hike, ensure you've checked
the
NPS website for when and where Glacier NP vehicle reservations are required.
Universal Access
As of September 2024, this trail follows a smooth and paved universally-accessible path that leads from the parking lot down to the official lookout, hence this trail should be considered universally-accessible.
Parking
Visitors will find a large parking turnout along the southwest side of the
Going-to-the-Sun Road on the east side of Logan Pass, at the coordinates provided. The turnout is large enough to fit over a dozen vehicles as of September 2024.
Pets
Dogs are not allowed on any trails at Glacier National Park.