Bring plenty of water! This was a hot, sunny day and I made the mistake of not bringing a water filter with us so we were very dry by the time we got back to artist point. It was late enough that everything was closed so we had to wait to drink up at the ranger station in Glacier on the way home and I highly recommend either bringing extra water bottles or a water filter to use at Goat Lake for the return trip.
It was quite busy, as expected for a Sunday, but we found rockstar parking and made good time on the trail, although most people seem unaware of trail etiquette for allowing the uphill hiker to pass. We were pleased to find the blueberries in peak condition and just plunked down in the blueberry fields to reach out our hands and harvest the goodness, leaving our lips and fingertips blue for the rest of the hike. Blueberries have to be one of the best inventions ever.
This is a very rocky and dry trail although there are several little streams crossing it here and there deep enough to get hands into to splash cold water on a hot head or dunk a hat into. Below the ridges the heat was oppressive but up above there was a refreshing breeze that was very welcome.
There were only a couple of minor snow patches to cross near the end and we had no problem although there were some parties that were experiencing difficulties with less experienced members needing assistance. The trail down to Goat Lake was, true to form, loose and slippery scree and sand for the first 500 feet or so before leveling off across the plateau to the lake, where we enjoyed a delightful and refreshing swim before huffing and puffing back up to the main trail for the return trip. The swim is worth the extra effort.
This was our first time doing it as a day hike, having spent the night out there a few times prior. It's a big hike, although the fact that you start high means there aren't many sections where you gain or lose much elevation quickly so it's a pleasure as the miles disappear beneath your feet. Bring your sunscreen as there is very little shade along the entire trail.
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