Glacier National Park Montana Day 2

I am already wondering if I booked enough time here.  It is such a beautiful time of year to be here with so much to do and see.  Today's goal was to drive early along the Going-To-The-Sun Road to make sure I get an early start at hiking up to Avalanche Lake.  After that the plan was to head further west than I have ever been and check out Lake McDonald.  By then, it would be a slow long drive back to my home away from home.  

First it was coffee time with a view from my veranda....

.....then time to hit that road.

I only stopped a couple of times along the way which took discipline.  If I had more time, I would stop at every pull off, every view point, every look out.  Along the way early on,  I saw folks standing on top of boulders, I was curious!  This was their sunrise photo op spot.  

Working my way up to Logan Pass, the views were outstanding.  I shared the Road with only a few others and I savoured that because I knew that would not be the case upon my return.

I was surprised at the number of cars at the Avalanche Lake trail head already.  I did realize later though, it would be a wonderful place to be as the sun came up.  I geared up and hit the Trail of the Cedars path that leads to the junction to start the climb to the Lake.

                                       

Avalanche Creek near the junction

                                        

 just before Avalanche Lake

                                         

Many folks were descending as I was ascending. It was very quiet by the time I arrived.  This was my first view of Avalanche Lake. It was so peaceful here and calm.  I was here once before and remembered the best part was at the very back side.

I followed the wet, roots, rocky shore for the first section then got back up on the main trail which took me to the end.  Most people stay at the beginning of the Lake.  They don't realize the treasure back here.

Just a bit further with a small creek crossing and it is the best spot of all.  I opted for this spot to get my destination shot.

view looking at the full length of Avalanche Lake

As I made my descent, loads and loads of hikers were on their way up.  Whew, good timing. This is still early season for Glacier National Park, not even prime time yet.  As I made my way back to The Trail of the Cedars, this guy was coming towards me. He made me nervous so I retreated and retreated and retreated to a small meadow and then let him go on by.

Lake McDonald and the Lodge was a 30 minute drive west.  I had never been before and seeing as it was so close and I had lots of time, I paid it a visit.  For a split second I thought about doing the Lake cruise, then came to my senses, because those cruises are really not my thing.

My thing was to be in the water, which on the edge, was not cold.  It felt so good on my feet.

Then I just sat for a little while and enjoyed the beauty.

The drive back from West Glacier to East Glacier was as I expected so was OK with it.  Now being on the outside lane of the Going-To-The-Sun-Road, it was hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.  The speed was slow enough though  I could still enjoy views.  Back at my home away for home, I enjoyed the local scenery.

I bought treats at the Camp Store then sat on the veranda for a little while to relax.

Glacier National Park is a treasure in a very small part of Montana.  It is packed solid with scenery in every corner and even in between every corner.  It is a photographer's and hiker's dream!  That's why I love it so much!