On Day 12 of our RV trip to Cannon Beach, Oregon, we stayed at Apgar Campground while we explored more of Glacier National Park. We enjoyed a morning hike to Avalanche Lake and an afternoon kayak across Lake McDonald.
Hiking to Avalanche Lake
The ladies in our group rose bright and early (actually it was dark and early) in the morning to hike the trail to Avalanche Lake. Tom and Dennis stayed back at camp to entertain the dogs because, like many national parks, dogs are not allowed on the hiking trails.
Wendy, Val and I arrived at the Avalanche Lake Trailhead, along Going to the Sun Road, at the crack of dawn. As the sun rose and we started up the trail, we realized it wasn't just dark, it was foggy. I had hiked this trail a few years ago with Tom. But, early in the morning, with the fog, made it feel like a different hike. it was just as beautiful but cooler and a little spooky... especially when deer jumped out from the bushes right next to us!
We hiked over 7 miles from the trailhead parking lot to the south end of Avalanche Lake then back down along Trail of the Cedars. Our elevation gain was barely over 800 feet and the hike took us about 3.5 hours. We had plenty of time to enjoy the many beautiful views at the lake and all along the way.
Kayaking on Lake McDonald
After returning from our ladies' hike to Avalanche Lake and a quick lunch at camp, we headed to Lake McDonald with our kayaks. Our campsite was at the south end of Apgar Campground, the opposite end from Lake McDonald. It was a bit too far to carry our kayaks to the shore. Plus, we had to first bring them to the inspection station in Apgar Village to ensure they were free of anything that might contaminate the pristine water of Lake McDonald.
Our home-on-wheels is easy enough to move and, after passing inspection for our kayaks, we found a perfect place to park near the shore. Aly was able to rest in our shaded camper while we enjoyed a peddle across the south end of Lake McDonald from Apgar to Fish Creek. The weather was perfect and the water was crystal clear. We spotted a bald eagle along the shore and even captured some fuzzy pictures of it in flight.
One of the best things about taking your home wherever you go, is you have everything you want within reach. For example, camping chairs, beach towels and cold drinks. We enjoyed a beautiful sunset and spontaneous happy hour on the beach before returning to our campsite.
Slideshow - Day 12
Here are photos from Day 12 of our RV trip to Cannon Beach, Oregon.
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