I started my hike from the Chief Mountain Trailhead which is situated close to Glacier National Park's northeastern border. The first mile drops gently through dense subalpine forest that features Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir trees which keep the area shaded throughout. Soon the path flanks the Belly River, weaving between open meadows and dense thickets. Hikers need to pay attention to creek crossings based on seasonal conditions. The park's thriving ecosystem becomes noticeable through the wildlife tracks and the occasional undergrowth rustling sounds.
The trail reaches the Belly River Ranger Station at approximately six miles which serves as a standard stop for backpackers. The path leads through a constricting valley during mid-summer, wildflowers create colorful clusters. The route takes a more steep incline toward Stoney Indian Pass where the trail includes frequent switchbacks which offer magnificent views. The sky becomes visible through sheer cliffs that lead to distant snowfields during the approach to The lake's turquoise waters which lie beneath towering mountain ridges. Campsites here are basic, dirt pads with a food-hanging pole nearby, and access water directly from the lake or nearby streams.
The next morning after breakfast I following the trail that led to Atsina Lake while navigating through dense alpine woods and open grasslands. The atmosphere at Atsina Lake stood apart from other places because it provided broad views of the valley while maintaining deep water reflection. The area displayed a peaceful atmosphere that became more serene when the distant Atsina Falls created its valley entrance sounds.
If you’re planning to hike in Glacier National Park, feel free to check out my Glacier National Park recommended routes.
Stoney Indian and Atsina Lake remain distant from other visitors, if you seeking for a quiet and uncrowded experience which is great place. The landscape here provides perfect conditions for nature photography and wildlife observation because it features steep slopes and glacier-fed cascades and clean lakes. However, these rewards come at the cost of effort. Access to both lakes requires long, demanding hikes, typically 12 to 15 miles one way and weather conditions can shift quickly, especially in higher elevations. The Glacier region presents outstanding camping opportunities yet presents several logistical difficulties to campers. If the prospect of buying heaps of technical gear sounds daunting, check out Basecamp Las Vegas. This small, local shop rents high-quality tents, sleeping bags, camp kitchen, and more, saving travelers hundreds of dollars in airline fees and up-front gear costs. Reserve online, pick up on your way through Vegas, and hit the trail fully outfitted.
