Running Eagle Falls Trail: An Easy Hike in Two Medicine

24 Sep Running Eagle Falls Trail: An Easy Hike in Two Medicine

Posted at 13:43h in Montana, U.S.A., West by Alaina Thomas 0 Comments

 *This post may contain affiliate links from Amazon or other publishers. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases (at no extra cost to you).

Are you looking for an easy and short hike in the Two Medicine area of Glacier National Park? Let me help you out – add the Running Eagle Falls Trail to your itinerary. You need less than 30 minutes to hike to the waterfall and back. It does not get more convenient or easier than that. Glacier National Park is home to a bunch of challenging hiking trails with beautiful payouts. However, you do not always have to complete a challenging hike for a beautiful view. Running Eagle Falls is proof of that.

Moreover, Running Eagle Falls (also known as Trick Falls) changes shape based on the time of year you visit. If you visit in June or July, you might see two layers to the falls – one upper section at the top of the rock wall and one lower section in the middle. If you visit in August or September, you are likely to only see the lower section in the middle of the rock wall. However, the lower portion of the falls is the more unique part. It is not every day that you see a waterfall protruding from a hole in the middle of a rock wall.

Glacier National Park is home to so many other hikes, including a lot of hikes that lead to lakes. For example, there is the Iceberg Lake Trail and Fishercap Lake Trail in Many Glacier, Hidden Lake Overlook Trail at Logan Pass, and Avalanche Lake Trail in West Glacier.

1) General Glacier National Park Information

I could go on and on about all of the beauty within Glacier National Park. Before I visited for the first time, I saw so many blog posts, pictures, videos, social media posts, etc. that essentially hyped up the park. I thought to myself, will Glacier actually live up to the hype? Everyone who visits says the park is beyond beautiful, and many claim it as their new favorite national park. However, what if I visit and it lets me down? Should I control my expectations?

Let me put it simply – Glacier National Park will not let you down. If you think it is beautiful just by looking through pictures and videos on your phone and laptop, then you will think it is even more beautiful in person. (Just keep in mind that most of what you see online has filters or heavy editing). It is one thing to look at Glacier through a screen but it is another to walk through the park with your own two feet and to see moose wading in a nearby lake, for example.

Nevertheless, everyone’s experience at Glacier is going to be different. Try not to have strict expectations in your head. For example, we heard so many people talk about seeing bears in Glacier. Some saw bears from their car while others saw them walking across the trail right in front of them. However, we saw a total of zero bears. On the other hand, we did see three moose. Like I said, everyone’s experience is different! I cannot guarantee that you will see any wildlife at all.

Location of Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is not a national park that you just stumble upon, for it is located in northwestern Montana. What most people do not realize is that it is also only 30 minutes from the Canadian border. You can thus combine a trip to Glacier with a trip to Canada pretty easily.

However, arriving at Glacier is a trip in and of itself, for the closest airport is two hours away. Some people might be used to this, but I have always lived somewhere within 30 minutes or less of an airport. The closest airport at two hours southwest is the Kalispell City Airport. The next closest airport of Great Falls International Airport is a bit further out at two and a half hours southeast. Lastly, you can choose an even further airport at three and a half hours southwest with the Missoula Montana Airport.

(Please keep in mind that I used the Two Medicine Entrance Station as the destination to calculate the driving times from the airport. The park is a bit spread out, so your driving time can vary drastically if you have a different destination).

View of Iceberg Lake from the trail

Different Sections of the Park – Most Visited

You can do a quick Google search to see how many sections exist in Glacier National Park, but you might see that there is not an exact consensus. Honestly, it does not really matter how you look at the park in terms of the exact number of sections. Instead, it is more important that you understand the park’s general layout. Nevertheless, I will offer some information concerning the park split into five sections: (1) Going to the Sun Road (2) Many Glacier (3) Two Medicine (4) North Fork (5) Goat Haunt.

First, Going to the Sun Road is arguably Glacier’s most popular section. It holds an array of hiking trails, viewpoints, lakes, waterfalls, and more. For example, some of the most popular trails are the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail and Highline Trail at Logan Pass as well as Avalanche Lake Trail near West Glacier. Additionally, the road is an attraction in and of itself due to the fact it runs through the mountains and valleys and thus offers panoramic views. The road runs from the eastern side of the park all the way to the western side of the park.

Second, Many Glacier is another one of the park’s most popular sections. It is located in the northeastern section of the park, only about 30 minutes north from the town of St. Mary. It is home to one of the park’s most popular trails – Grinnell Glacier. Another challenging but rewarding hike that leads to a lake is Iceberg Lake Trail. If you want to hike an easier trail (that also offers one of the best chances to see moose), then head to Fishercap Lake.

Different Sections of the Park – Least Visited

Third, Two Medicine is located in the southeastern corner of Glacier and tends to be less crowded compared to the two sections mentioned above. If people only have one to three days in the national park, then they might choose to skip Two Medicine in order to prioritize Many Glacier and/or Going to the Sun Road. Why is that? While Two Medicine has some beautiful attractions, it does not hold any of the park’s most popular trails and also holds a smaller quantity of attractions overall. Nevertheless, I recommend you stop here for at least an evening if possible. You can find the trail highlighted in this article here – Running Eagle Falls.

Fourth, North Fork is located on the opposite side of Glacier as Two Medicine since it is in the northwestern corner. The majority of people skip this area because it is a further drive out from the nearby airports (aka closer to Canada) and also has less popular attractions. If you can commit to the longer drive, then I recommend you hike to Bowman Lake as well as through Hidden Meadow.

Fifth, Goat Haunt (arguably) holds the title of the least-visited section of Glacier. It is located in the northern section of the park, and it is not easy to access. You either have to book a scenic cruise from Canada or embark on an overnight backpacking trip from a more accessible section of Glacier to even arrive at Goat Haunt. Once you arrive, there are very few services at your disposal. Nevertheless, this is the perfect section of the park if you want to enjoy backpacking with some privacy.

This map was created with Wanderlog, the best trip planner app on iOS and Android

Opening Hours of Glacier National Park

If you know anything about Montana, then you might know that it gets very cold and receives a lot of snow from the late fall through the late spring. Winter is not the only season that experiences winter weather when you are located this far north in the United States. Nevertheless, Glacier National Park is open all day, every day of the year.

Even though the park is always open, that does not mean you can always access it. Cue the cold weather and snow I was talking about earlier. Most roads within the park close in the fall, specifically around October or November. They then reopen in the late spring, specifically around May or June. However, there is one road that (usually) remains open all year round. Only a small portion and not the entire road remains open, though. It is the portion of the Going to the Sun Road from West Glacier to Lake McDonald Lodge.

All of that being said, you cannot access the trail for Running Eagle Falls for the majority of the year. The Two Medicine Road that leads to the trailhead usually closes in the early or mid-fall and then reopens in early summer. I cannot give you an exact timeline though, for the road closes when the weather requires it (aka when it snows a lot). It then reopens when the weather permits (aka when it stops snowing and the snow starts to melt).

Entrance Pass for Glacier National Park

If you pay attention to only a few things in this post, let this be one of them. You need an entrance pass to enter Glacier National Park. The fee for the entrance pass differs mainly based on your vehicle type. For example, the fee is $35 per private vehicle. Visit the nps.gov Glacier webpage to see the fee amount for other vehicle types as well as any additional information you might need.

View from the shore at Iceberg Lake

It does not matter whether you enter the park at 3am or 3pm; you still need an entrance pass. The only difference between those times is that there might not be any staff on duty at 3am. If that is the case, then you can follow the posted instructions concerning how to obtain an entrance pass if you do not already have one. For example, Glacier now offers the option of a digital entrance pass that can be purchased online.

If you plan to visit other national parks besides Glacier within the year, then I recommend you buy the national park annual pass. It has a large upfront cost of $80. However, it then covers the entrance fee for all national parks in the US for one year. You can thus easily make the pass worth its cost after a visit to only three parks. Might I recommend a trip to Arches National Park to hike the Skyline Arch Trail? How about a trip to the Great Sand Dunes for some sandboarding? Buying an annual pass can definitely help you maintain a budget as you plan trips to national parks.

Vehicle Reservations for Glacier National Park

Okay, time for another important logistical aspect of your trip. You need a vehicle reservation to access four sections of Glacier: (1) Many Glacier (2) Going to the Sun Road (3) Two Medicine (4) North Fork. The only section mentioned above for which you do not need a vehicle reservation is Goat Haunt. That makes sense because there are not even roads leading into Goat Haunt.

The reservation system runs from mid May through the end of September. Moreover, you only need a reservation if you enter the park from 6am to 3pm. You can thus enter the park without a reservation if you enter before 6am or after 3pm. That is the only way to get around the vehicle reservation requirement.

Moreover, keep in mind that the vehicle reservations are separate for each section of the park. For example, you need to purchase a Two Medicine vehicle reservation to access Running Eagle Falls. You would then need to purchase a separate vehicle reservation for Many Glacier to access Fishercap Lake. Visit the nps.gov Glacier webpage for any additional information you might need.

You might not be too excited about the vehicle reservation system as it is one more logistical aspect you have to worry about. However, the priority of park officials is to protect and preserve the park. Honestly, that should be all of our priorities. Be respectful of all posted signs and leave no trace.

Hiking back along the trail from Iceberg Lake

2) Location of Running Eagle Falls Trail

Where is Running Eagle Falls located? In what section of Glacier National Park is the Running Eagle Falls Trail?

The trailhead for Running Eagle Falls is located in the Two Medicine section of Glacier National Park. This means you need an entrance pass as well as a vehicle reservation (if you enter Two Medicine between 6am and 3pm) to access the trailhead.

As mentioned in the section above, the area of Two Medicine is located in the southeastern section of Glacier National Park. For reference, it is 45 minutes from the town of St. Mary at the eastern edge of the Going to the Sun Road. Additionally, it is one hour and 15 minutes from Logan Pass, where you can find the trailhead for one of the park’s most popular hikes: Hidden Lake Overlook Trail.

Please keep in mind that the Two Medicine Road can be a bit rough at times. It is a paved road, but we experienced a fair amount of bumps and potholes. Moreover, we saw a group of cattle on the road when we visited. When I say they were on the road, I mean that they were walking around in the middle of the road. We had to come to a full stop and wait for them to move to the side. They were not the wildlife we were expecting to see. All of that being said, be careful while driving and be prepared for any kind of wildlife on the roads.

Parking at the Trailhead

There is a parking lot specifically for the trail to the falls. It holds approximately 20 to 25 cars. While the lot can fill up at peak times (around mid-morning and the afternoon on weekends), it is easier to find a spot here compared to other locations. Why is that? The Two Medicine area of Glacier is less crowded compared to some of the other sections, for example Many Glacier or the Going to the Sun Road. You are thus more likely to be able to find a parking spot, even at peak times.

We arrived in the late afternoon / early evening on a Friday in early August and had no issues finding a parking spot. There were a few open spots available when we arrived, so we did not have to wait at all. If there is no parking available when you arrive, then I recommend you wait until a spot opens up. The trail to the falls is fairly short, so people should be coming and going from the parking lot fairly often.

There are a few informational signs at the parking lot that detail the history of Running Eagle Falls, how it received its name, etc. I highly recommend you take just a couple of minutes to read them, for the waterfall’s history is quite unique as well as interesting. Section seven below includes a few key highlights if you want a quick summary before visiting.

Additionally, the parking area has a pit toilet available.

One of the informational signs along the Running Eagle Falls Nature Trail

Limited to No Cell Service

You are not likely to have any cell service in Two Medicine or at Running Eagle Falls specifically. Moreover, cell service is not reliable anywhere in Glacier National Park. Google now offers the option of downloading offline maps of national parks. I highly recommend you take advantage of this feature and download an offline map of Glacier. I did before my visit, and it was a lifesaver.

Camping and Lodging Near Running Eagle Falls Trail

Unfortunately you cannot camp on the trail to Running Eagle Falls or at the falls themselves. However, there are numerous campgrounds within Glacier National Park as well as one campground within Two Medicine.

The closest campground to the trailhead is the Two Medicine Campground. The campground is just a five-minute drive down the road from the falls. How convenient is that! Campsites become available six months in advance. I recommend you book as soon as possible because campsites can sell out in minutes. Trust me, I know from experience.

The second closest campground to the trailhead is the St. Mary Campground at 45 minutes north. I stayed at this campground for three nights during a trip to Glacier, and overall it was a good experience. Our campsite had plenty of space, and we were within just a minute or two walk of a bear box as well as restrooms. However, I do want to give you a piece of advice on the showers. Plan to shower early if you want hot water. If you wait until 8pm or later, all the hot water will be gone. You will then be left with only cold water to wash away the day.

The third closest campground is the Rising Sun Campground at 45 minutes southeast. While the other two campgrounds mentioned above are available to reserve six months in advance, this campground is first-come, first-served.

Maybe you prefer an actual bed with four walls and a private bathroom? No shame in that! Check out room options at the Cozy Duck Lake Cabin or St. Mary Village.

View of Running Eagle Falls from the viewing platform

3) Best Time to Hike

When is the best time to hike to Running Eagle Falls in Glacier National Park? When is the best season to hike the Running Eagle Falls Trail?

The best time to begin hiking the Running Eagle Falls Trail is before 8am or after 4pm.

Parking is often easier in the early morning or later afternoon due to the fact there are less crowds at that time. Nevertheless, you still might be able to find parking at peak times due to the fact that the Two Medicine area (and thus also Running Eagle Falls) is not as crowded as other areas of Glacier.

Second, you can experience the beauty of the falls magnified at sunrise or sunset. Since the trail is fairly short, it is pretty easy to visit for sunset and then head back out down the trail before it gets dark. On the other hand, you can fast-walk down the trail in the early morning once light starts to break in order to arrive before the sun officially rises.

Third, you are more likely to see wildlife, including moose, around dawn and dusk. However, please note that the majority of people do not see moose or any other wildlife along this trail. Nevertheless, moose have been spotted walking around the creek downstream from Running Eagle Falls in the past. Why not take a chance and visit at dawn or dusk to see if you get lucky?

When is the Best Season to Hike the Running Eagle Falls Trail?

I mentioned above in section one that the road through Two Medicine closes in the fall as soon as inclement weather makes the road impassable. The road then reopens sometime in the early summer season when conditions allow. You therefore cannot hike to Running Eagle Falls for most of the year.

That being said, the best seasons to hike to Running Eagle Falls are the late summer and early fall. More specifically, the best months are from July through September. If you visit in June or even early July, you might find a bit of snow leftover on the trail. If you visit anytime from late July through September, you will most likely find a snow-free trail. For example, we hiked to Running Eagle Falls in early August and saw no snow.

View of Dry Fork Creek from along the Running Eagle Falls Trail

4) Trail Directions and Scenery

How do I reach the trailhead for Running Eagle Falls in Glacier National Park?

As mentioned previously, the trailhead for Running Eagle Falls is located in the Two Medicine section of Glacier National Park.

It is important to note that it is not in the main section of Two Medicine. Instead, you will first come across the trail to Running Eagle Falls on your right two minutes after passing the entrance station for Two Medicine. Drive another five minutes down the road, and you will then reach the main section of Two Medicine. This main section includes access to the campground, general store, ranger station, South Shore Trailhead, and more.

Trail Directions

Take a look at the picture below to get an idea of what the trail looks like. As you can see, the trail is half a loop trail and half an out-and-back trail. You can decide to hike either portion of the loop on the way there. Then just hike the other portion of the loop on the way back to get the full experience.

Moreover, the trail crosses a small creek called Dry Fork near the end. It then continues on towards the falls and ends in a viewing platform.

Additional Trail Option

Instead of hiking the loop portion of the trail, you can decide to hike out and back along only one portion of the loop. For example, you can hike out and back along the eastern side of the loop. The western side of the loop is slightly longer, but only by about a minute or so.

What Scenery is on the Trail to Running Eagle Falls?

The trail runs through a forest before heading over a creek and then arriving at the waterfall. The trail is thus about half in the shade and half in the sun (if it is a clear day).

Additionally, one side of the loop trail is considered to be an interpretive trail. That is why the trail is also referred to as the Running Eagle Falls Nature Trail. There are informative signs on nearby berries, trees, etc.

The trail itself is mostly made up of gravel and dirt with a few larger rocks here and there as well as a bridge over the creek. Moreover, it is an accessible trail. The trail has minimal elevation gain and thus is fairly flat. Additionally, the trail is around four feet (~1.2 meters) wide for its entirety. There are two accessible parking spaces at the trailhead.

Map of Running Eagle Falls Trail from Google Maps

5) Trail Length, Distance, and Difficulty

How challenging is the Running Eagle Falls Trail? Is the Running Eagle Falls Trail family friendly? How long is the trail to Running Eagle Falls?

The Running Eagle Falls Trail in Glacier National Park is a 0.7 mile (~1.1 kilometer) loop trail with approximately 30 feet (~nine meters) in elevation gain. An average hiker can complete the trail in 15 minutes.

It is considered to be an easy trail. Moreover, I would say that it is one of (if not the) most family-friendly trails in all of Glacier National Park due to the fact it is less than one mile (~1.6 kilometers) long and has almost no elevation gain. If you are looking for an easy hike and/or a short hike in Glacier, then add Running Eagle Falls to your list!

For another stunning waterfall trail in the park, check out St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail along the Going to the Sun Road.

How Long is the Trail to Running Eagle Falls?

I recommend you plan for 30 minutes in your itinerary to visit Running Eagle Falls. The hike to the falls only takes around 15 minutes to complete. However, I recommend you sit down on a rock by the falls for at least a couple of minutes. Stop, take a breath, and appreciate the view. It is not every day that you find yourself in Glacier National Park.

Walking through the forest along the Running Eagle Falls Trail

6) When You Reach Running Eagle Falls

What are the views like at Running Eagle Falls? Is hiking to Running Eagle Falls worth it?

Let me keep it short and sweet. Yes, hiking to Running Eagle Falls is worth it! The hike is incredibly short and easy, and it leads to a unique waterfall at the end. What more could you want?

At the very end of the trail is a viewing platform of the falls. The platform is not too large, though, for only a couple of people can comfortably stand on it at a time.

Exploring Around Running Eagle Falls

You can also see where people walked past the viewing platform and down to the water’s edge in front of the waterfall by all of the worn-down paths. You can follow along one of these paths and then sit down on a rock by the water to have a great view of the falls. Moreover, you can enjoy a bit more peace while sitting on a rock compared to standing on the viewing platform.

It might be difficult to get too up close and personal with the falls due to fallen rocks and unstable ground. Please remember to obey all posted signs if they ask you to not continue beyond a certain point. While we might not always like them, they exist for our safety.

If you need to cool down, dip your toes in the creek or even go for a swim near the base of the falls. Fair warning – the water is probably very chilly.

View of Running Eagle Falls from along the shore

7) Background of Running Eagle Falls

Running Eagle Falls is also known as Trick Falls. The waterfall received its name because it flows from a hole in the rock wall. Normally you would expect for a waterfall to flow over the top of a rock wall, not from the middle of it. Additionally, the waterfall flows along the stream between Two Medicine Lake and Lower Two Medicine Lake.

For another fun fact, you can sometimes see two waterfall streams here. However, this unique feature only occurs in the spring due to the snow melting and creating runoff. When the runoff is heavy enough, a second stream appears at the top of the rock wall. This is known as the upper falls while the waterfall that always exists is known as the lower falls.

The upper falls stand around 40 feet (~12 meters) tall. The lower falls stand around 20 feet (~six meters) tall. When both falls exist at the same time, it can look as though the upper one is falling into the lower one.

Behind Running Eagle Falls is Rising Wolf Mountain. You will need to look up to take in this mountain, for it is approximately 9,500 feet (~2,900 meters) tall.

What is the Story Behind Running Eagle Falls?

Running Eagle Falls received its name from a female warrior of the Blackfeet Nation known as Running Eagle (or Pitamakan). To receive such a name was a great honor. She even completed a vision quest that lasted multiple days in the mountains behind the falls.

In my opinion, learning a bit of the history behind the attractions you visit makes them all the better once you actually arrive. Then you can share some fun facts with your hiking group or even with some strangers you meet along the trail.

View of Running Eagle Falls from along the shore

8) Bear Safety on the Running Eagle Falls Trail

Do I need to carry bear spray in Two Medicine in Glacier National Park?

First and foremost, be aware that Glacier National Park is located in bear territory. The two main types of bears within the borders of Glacier are black bears and grizzly bears. The vast majority of people do not see bears while hiking along the Running Eagle Falls Trail. Nevertheless, it is always best to be prepared, for bears generally go wherever they please.

While we did not see any bears as we hiked along the trail, it is always a possibility. Moreover, we did not see any bears at all during our time in Glacier National Park. Nevertheless, we did hear of people who saw bears just before or after us along hiking trails.

How Do I Avoid a Bear Encounter?

The National Park Service offers various and detailed tips on what to do to avoid bear encounters on their webpage on bear safety. I will offer a brief summary of them here for you as well.

First, always carry bear spray with you while hiking in bear territory. Bear territory encompasses all of Glacier National Park, including the trail to Running Eagle Falls. Bear spray is known to be one of the absolute best deterrents against bears and their attacks. Second, do not walk towards a bear. It does not matter if they see you, do not see you, are eating berries, etc. Do not forget that bears are wild animals. Third, keep bears at a distance of at least 100 yards (~90 meters).

Fourth, avoid running on trails or hiking in the dark so that you do not surprise a bear. Bears can become aggressive when they feel frightened or surprised. Fifth, make noise while hiking. This helps to alert a bear of your presence. Bears will generally walk in the opposite direction once they hear you – they do not really want to be friends. Sixth, either travel with a group of friends or make friends during your travels so that you do not hike alone.

What Should I Do if I See a Bear Along the Trail?

Sometimes you can hike with a group and make all kinds of noise yet still encounter a bear. Here are some tips for what to do if you encounter a bear on the trail – keep calm and follow the NPS’ advice below.

A good rule of thumb is to stay out of a bear’s way. If they are ahead on the trail, do not walk towards them. Instead, turn back around and return from the way you came. This might mean you do not get to complete the trail you were looking forward to. Hopefully the bear just continues to mind its business and goes on its way. However, please watch for any signs of aggression or curiosity demonstrated by the bear.

Light rays from sunrise just starting to hit the valley behind Hidden Lake

Signs of curiosity can include a bear standing on their hind legs or walking towards you. Signs of aggression can include a bear huffing, laying back their ears, swaying or lowering their head, and clacking their teeth. If you notice one or more of these signs of aggression, then slowly back away and talk in a quiet and calm voice. You also should not look the bear directly in the eyes.

Hopefully the bear recognizes you are not a threat and then turns away. If the bear continues to approach you in an aggressive manner, then stop moving, continue to talk in a quiet and calm voice, and get ready to use your bear spray.

On the other hand, huddle together with your group and make noise if the bear is only showing signs of curiosity. Have your bear spray handy in case you need to use it.

What Should I Do During a Bear Attack Without Bear Spray?

As mentioned previously, you should always carry bear spray. The following advice applies if you do not have bear spray on your person when a bear attacks.

Fall to the ground on your stomach and fold your hands behind your neck to protect the vital parts of your body. If the bear tries to roll you over onto your back, do not allow them to do so. There is a chance the bear will stop attacking once they determine you are not a threat. However, the bear also might continue to attack. At that point, you need to fight back.

View from Hidden Lake Overlook as the sun starts to hit the mountain

9) Recommended Items to Bring

What do I need to pack for a hike to Running Eagle Falls? What should be on a packing list for Glacier National Park?

1. Water bottle: The trail to Running Eagle Falls is quite short, so you should not need that much water. However, I always recommend you pack a full reusable water bottle just in case. For example, maybe you spend more time at the falls than you anticipated.

2. Bathing suit + travel towel: If you hike to Running Eagle Falls, then you might want to cool down in the falls themselves. While the water will be chilly, the views will be stunning.

Hygiene

3. Sunscreen: While the Running Eagle Falls Trail is partially shaded, the immediate area around the waterfall offers no protection from the sun. My recommendation is to put on some sunscreen before you even start the trail so that you are all set and do not have to worry about it later.

4. Bug spray: Either spray on some bug spray or put on a mosquito repellent bracelet before you begin the trail. Your attention should be on the views at the waterfall and not on the bugs flying all around your face.

Hiking Items for the Running Eagle Falls Trail

5. Bear spray: Glacier National Park, including Running Eagle Falls, is in grizzly territory. One of the best methods to practice bear safety is to always carry bear spray. Bear Spray is known to be one of the best deterrents for bears as well as bear attacks.

6. Hiking shoes: Investing in a good pair of hiking shoes is a great idea if you plan to hike to Running Eagle Falls as well as other trails in the park. Hiking shoes offer grip and traction as you hike, which helps you reach your destination safely.

7. Hiking poles: Since the trail is pretty short, hiking poles are not a necessity. However, they can still offer crucial assistance, especially if you deal with chronic knee problems like me.

Amflip Pop-Up Camping Tent set up in Glacier National Park

8. Binoculars: No more having to stand and squint to see wildlife. Instead, open up your pair of binoculars so that you can see if there is any wildlife in the distance. You never know if a moose is hiding just beyond the treeline.

9. Optional – crampons: Crampons are spikes that attach to the bottom of shoes and help you traverse trails with snow and/or ice on them. You might encounter snow along the Running Eagle Falls Trail in June or early July. I recommend that you research trail conditions to prepare yourself for snow if necessary.

Camping Items

10. Amflip Pop-Up Camping Tent: I cannot recommend this tent enough. It is incredibly easy and quick to set up, and it also protects you from the rain. Trust me, we had this tent set up in a few different national parks where it poured for hours, every single day. No rain ever entered the tent from the top. For an easy and convenient camping experience, choose the Ampflip pop-up tent.

11. AmazonBasics Waterproof Camping Tarp: Tarps can be used in a couple of different ways. For example, we have used a tarp to add an extra layer between our tent and the ground. You can also hang up a tarp so that it acts as an additional layer of protection from the rain.

12. Elegear Double Sleeping Pad: Not only was the sleeping pad comfortable, but it was large enough for two people, had a built-in pillow section at the top, and had a foot pump. We thus did not have to worry about buying an extra air pump and could visit Glacier National Park on a budget.

13. Sleepingo Double Sleeping Bag: One of the most essential camping accessories is a sleeping bag. This sleeping bag fits two people and even comes with two small pillows.

Elegear Double Sleeping Pad set up in our tent

10) Nearby Attractions to Running Eagle Falls

Please keep in mind that all trails within Glacier National Park, including the Running Eagle Falls Trail, can be closed at any time due to bear activity. Nevertheless, the trail to Running Eagle Falls is not often closed due to the fact that bears do not wander around here as much compared to other sections of Two Medicine. Chat with park rangers if you are worried about this or any other trail being closed due to bear or other wildlife activity.

All of the below attractions are located in the Two Medicine area. They are thus within a short walk or drive of the Running Eagle Falls Trailhead. You can even do one or more of the attractions listed below before or after your hike to the falls.

Moreover, I do want to emphasize again that the Two Medicine section of Glacier is not as popular as the sections of Many Glacier or Going to the Sun Road. Two Medicine is a bit south of those areas and holds less attractions. Nevertheless, I recommend you plan to visit Two Medicine (and of course Running Eagle Falls) if you have at least a couple of days within the park.

Additional Two Medicine Attractions

First, head out on the Twin Falls Trail if you have a bit more time and are looking for a moderately-challenging route. The trail is 8.5 miles (~13.7 kilometers) long with approximately 650 feet (~198 meters) in elevation gain. It loops around the shore of Two Medicine Lake and passes by Twin Falls.

Second, hike along the South Shore Trail to Paradise Point if you are looking for a short hike with a big payout. The trail is 1.4 miles (~2.3 kilometers) long with approximately 155 feet (~47 meters) in elevation gain. It leads to a viewpoint along Two Medicine Lake. Trust me, the views are quite spectacular.

Third, book a scenic boat tour of Two Medicine Lake for a more relaxing activity. Boat tours operate from around the beginning of June through the middle of September. The tour includes a ride across Two Medicine Lake as well as an optional guided hike to Twin Falls from the boat dock.

PIN IT to save it for later!

After your time in Glacier, head west to North Cascades: Day Trip from Seattle to North Cascades National Park.

Need some more convincing to plan a visit?: Reasons to Visit North Cascades National Park.

Spread the love

Tags:

National Parks, Road Trip, U.S.A