Running Eagle Falls Nature Trail
0.7-mile loop to Running Eagle Falls—easy, family-friendly with a double waterfall payoff.
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An idea to explore—not a must-do.
The full road crossing depends on seasonal access—even in summer.
An idea to explore—not a must-do.
An idea to explore—not a must-do.
Explore both the direct route to the falls and the nature trail loop for a fuller experience.
Arrive early or later in the day to avoid the midday crowds.
Arrive early or late in the day to dodge crowds. Best season is late May through mid-September when Two Medicine Road is open.
Trail
Mission Brief: Elevation gain 30 ft on an easy, 0.3-mile path to a double waterfall. Great for the head; keep a steady pace and hydrate—carry 2 liters. High reward for the effort.
Easy, 0.3-mile accessible trail with interpretive signage, leading to a unique double waterfall.
Quick facts
- Distance Miles
- 0.7
- Route Type
- Loop (some sources describe it as out-and-back)
- Difficulty
- easy
- Difficulty Level
- Easy Stroll
CHOOSE YOUR NEXT WALK
Is this the right hike for your day?
Why choose this hike?
- Trail Highlights
- The Trick Falls payoff; forested creekside sections and interpretive displays
- Best For
- Families with young children
- Individuals with mobility challenges
- Photographers seeking unique water features
What the outing demands
- Estimated Time
- 15-30 minutes
- Elevation Gain Feet
- 30
Where and when it fits the day
- Trailhead Location
- West side of Two Medicine Road, 1.1 miles west of the Two Medicine entrance station; GPS 48.49601, -113.34823
- Best Time To Visit
- Arrive early or late in the day to dodge crowds. Best season is late May through mid-September when Two Medicine Road is open.
Trail profile
- Distance Miles
- 0.7
- Route Type
- Loop (some sources describe it as out-and-back)
- Difficulty
- easy
- Difficulty Level
- Easy Stroll
- Trail Surface
- Paved nature trail section, packed dirt with some uneven areas, roots, and rocks
- Trail Features
- Trick Falls (Running Eagle Falls)
- Interpretive signage about local flora and Native American significance of the falls
Trailhead & access
- Parking Lot Size
- Small lot with approximately 20 spaces
- Parking Fill Time
- The lot fills quickly on weekends and midday; spots open later in the afternoon
Permits & conditions
- Permits Required
- Yes
- Permit Details
- Vehicle reservations not required in 2026; standard park entrance fee or America the Beautiful Pass
- Fees
- Standard park entrance fees apply
- Trail Status
- Open
- Seasonal Closures
- Two Medicine Road typically closes by mid-October and reopens in late May
Facilities & rules
- Restrooms At Trailhead
- Yes
- Water Sources
- Two Medicine Creek runs alongside the trail. Water is clear; filtering is recommended if consuming.
- Accessibility
- Short, mostly flat loop; suitable for mobility challenges
Safety & strategy
- Hazards
- Bear activity (Grizzly bears frequent area)
- Unreliable cell service
- Cell Service
- Limited or non-existent in this area
- Crowd Level
- Moderate to busy
- Peak Crowd Times
- Midday during peak season
- Best Season
- Late May through mid-September when Two Medicine Road is open
- Tips Advice
- Carry 2L water minimum.
- Bear spray is highly recommended; make noise and store food securely.
- Tighten boots and start steady; this is a short hike but you’ll thank yourself for the prep.
More details
- Trail Markers
- Well-marked along the main loop with interpretive signage
- Shade Level
- Canopy cover through forested areas, with some open sections near the creek
- Emergency Contacts
- Park rangers; call 911 in emergencies
- Snow Dates
- Two Medicine Road typically closes by mid-October and reopens in late May
- Mud Season
- Likely during spring thaw
- Bug Season
- Mosquitoes can be present, especially in early summer
- Insider Tips
- Explore both the direct route to the falls and the nature trail loop for a fuller experience.
- Arrive early or later in the day to avoid the midday crowds.
- Bear spray is prudent; keep food secured and stay on trail.
- Recent Updates
- Trail remains open; parking continues to be the main constraint during peak season
- Family Friendly Notes
- Excellent for families with young children and those with mobility challenges; short and safe under supervision
- Nearby Facilities
- Vault toilet at the parking area
- Review Summary
- Hikers praise the easy accessibility and the unique double waterfall payoff. Parking can be challenging at peak times, but the hike remains a family-friendly, well-maintained option with a memorable payoff.
Location
Photos
Frequently asked questions
Are bears a concern on this trail?
Yes. It is bear country; make noise, carry bear spray, and store food securely.
Do I need a permit or reservation?
Vehicle reservations not required in 2026; standard park entrance fee or America the Beautiful Pass is required.
Is parking easy during peak season?
Parking can fill quickly on weekends; arrive early or later in the afternoon and be prepared to circle for openings.
Is this trail suitable for kids?
Yes. Short, flat, and accessible; ideal for families with young children and mobility challenges.
Is the trail accessible for people with mobility challenges?
Yes. The route is short and mostly flat, with a paved section and gentler grades.
What should I bring for safety on this hike?
Water, bear spray, sturdy shoes, and a basic map or offline navigation; cell service may be unreliable.
When is Running Eagle Falls viewable at its best?
Late spring to early summer offers dramatic water flow; overall the falls are visible from late May through September when the road is open.
More at Glacier National Park
Iceberg Ptarmigan Trailhead
Iceberg Ptarmigan Trail: 9.6 mi RT, 1,210 ft gain to Iceberg Lake. Tough but rewarding.
Avalanche Lake Trailhead
2.3 miles one way, 741 ft gain. Carry water and bear spray; allow enough daylight for the return hike.
Trail of the Cedars Nature Trailhead
Flat loop through ancient cedars with creek views; dodge crowds with smart timing.
Apikuni Falls Trail
Steep waterfall crusher: 0.8 miles, 651ft elevation gain. Short burst, big payoff.
Forest and Fire Nature Trail
Short fire-ecology loop with exhibits. Easy terrain but exposed drop-offs—stay sharp.
Redrock Falls Trail
Flat waterfall walk with moose risk. Slippery rocks demand respect.
Sources
- myhikes.org
- chasingtrailblog.com
- trekkingwild.com
- hikinginglacier.com
- roamingbearmedia.com
- trailforks.com
- utahsadventurefamily.com
- campingkiddos.com
- wanderlog.com
- advcollective.com
- hikingproject.com
- genuinemontana.com
- nps.gov
- northwestwaterfalls.com
- allglacier.com
- beyondmydoor.com
- Google Reviews
- YourNPGuide Editorial
Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.
Last updated December 2025. Report an issue.