Highlight (Segment) • Trail
West Glacier Trail
Hiking
5.0
(10)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tongass National Forest
Tips
Lisa
April 23, 2023
Hiking
You can tell how recently Mendenhall Glacier occupied this land by observing the type of vegetation around you.
In the "younger" areas — where the ice most recently sat — you'll pass through forests of willow, cottonwood and alder trees, amidst other smaller plants just making a home in the (relatively) recently exposed rock.
In "older" parts of the trail, you'll pass larger Sitka spruce and western hemlock trees that have had more time to establish themselves since the massive sheet of glacier ice passed through.
In the "younger" areas — where the ice most recently sat — you'll pass through forests of willow, cottonwood and alder trees, amidst other smaller plants just making a home in the (relatively) recently exposed rock.
In "older" parts of the trail, you'll pass larger Sitka spruce and western hemlock trees that have had more time to establish themselves since the massive sheet of glacier ice passed through.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near West Glacier Trail
11.3km
04:31
850m
850m
Hike the 7.0-mile West Glacier and Mount McGinnis Trail for a challenging journey through rainforest to alpine views of Mendenhall Glacier.
Moderate
4.7
(3)
32
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
Easy
Details
Informations
Distance 663 m
Uphill 10 m
Downhill 10 m
Weather
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Friday 6 November
5°C
1°C
83 %
Additional weather tips
There’s a fairly high chance of rain. Consider packing a waterproof jacket.
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