Apgar Visitor Center – McDonald Creek loop from Apgar Transit Center

If you're looking for an easy, high-reward hiking experience in Glacier National Park, the Apgar Visitor Center – McDonald Creek loop from Apgar Transit Center is an excellent choice. This easy 2.7-mile (4.4 km) hiking route features a minimal 44 feet (13 metres) of elevation gain and takes just over an hour to complete, making it perfect for families, beginners, or anyone seeking a relaxing stroll with stunning scenery. It's a fantastic way to experience the park's natural beauty without a strenuous climb.

What to expect on Apgar Visitor Center – McDonald Creek loop from Apgar Transit Center

This trail offers a delightful journey through diverse landscapes, bordering both burned and unburned forest, with significant stretches alongside the clear, slow-moving waters of McDonald Creek. You'll wander through lush vegetation, spotting ferns and moss-covered forest floors beneath towering cedar and hemlock trees. The terrain is notably level, ensuring an accessible experience for most, and the opportunity to observe the creek's stony bottom and potential cascades is a highlight. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as the area is known for birding and larger mammals, including bears.

Planning your visit

The trailhead for this loop is conveniently located on the west side of the bridge over McDonald Creek, accessible via Camas Road, near the Apgar Visitor Center. While the Apgar Transit Center serves as your starting point, offering amenities and shuttle connections to other parts of the park, parking is readily available. Spring and early summer are particularly scenic, as snowmelt can transform McDonald Creek into a spectacular, raging torrent. Always be aware of wildlife, especially bears, and carry bear spray.

Trail details

• Distance: 2.7 miles (4.4 km)
• Elevation gain: 44 feet (13 metres)
• Difficulty: easy
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 7 minutes