Running Eagle Falls: Spring Waterfall in Glacier National Park

Q: Is it worth the 0.3–0.7 mile stroll to see a waterfall with underground flow?

Yes. The loop is short and gentle, and you’ll witness surface water reemerging from underground channels, a tangible karst-like process with cultural resonance.

Q: Can I bring bear spray?

Bear spray is recommended due to possible grizzly activity; carry it and know how to use it before you hike.

Q: Is the main viewing area accessible for wheelchairs?

Yes—the first 0.3 miles are paved and accessible; the main viewing platform is reachable, but some loop segments are uneven.

Q: Is cell service reliable there?

No—cell signal is unreliable in the Two Medicine area; download maps and trail info beforehand.

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Overview

About This Attraction

Water pours over a limestone cliff, with a second flow sometimes springing from the rock above and vanishing behind the stone. A footbridge offers a direct view of the surface cascade while the lower flow reemerges from underground channels. This is Running Eagle Falls—a karst-like waterfall born from erosion of soluble limestone in the Altyn Formation and its hidden underground drainage.

Best Time to Visit

Two Medicine Road is open from late May/early June through mid-October. For lighting, aim for sunrise alpenglow on the eastern faces or spring evenings; avoid midday glare.

Visitor Tips

Arrive early or late; the paved lot (~20 spaces) fills quickly in peak season.
The main viewing platform is reached via a short, mostly paved approach (about 0.3 miles) with additional vantage points along the loop.
Bear spray is recommended; expect occasional grizzly activity and slippery, wet rocks near the water.
The trail can be slick when wet; wear sturdy footwear and stay on designated paths.
Cell service is unreliable; download maps offline before you go.

Details

Location & Features

GPS: Not publicly listed; located in the Two Medicine area of Glacier NP

Nearby

Nearby Attractions:

Two Medicine Lake, Lower Two Medicine Lake, Two Medicine Campground; East Glacier Park Village

Insider Tips

Beat crowds by visiting at dawn or dusk
Bear spray recommended
Check Two Medicine Road conditions; weather can close access
Stay on marked paths; keep distance from wildlife

Visitor Information

Accessibility:

Trail largely paved for the first 0.3 miles; remainder includes loop with uneven sections; some accessible segments exist

Family Friendly:

Short, easy hike; beware slick rocks and exposed edges near water; supervise children at stream crossings

Nearby Facilities:

Two Medicine Campground; East Glacier Park Village (nearby services)

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.9 /5

Based on 34 Google reviews

Reviews from Google

Very easy trail. It is a quick walk to the waterfall. Pretty spectacular waterfall coming out of the hillside, good swimming hole for hot days. Not a lot of people there.

It's a nice and quiet place to enjoy the nature. The eagle falls itself is probably the top attraction but I also liked the nature trail.

Easy, flat trail that is partially paved. The waterfall is gorgeous and the creek is a great place to cool your feet off on a hot day. We went early and it wasn’t crowded.

Showing 3 of 34 reviews

FAQs

Do I really need to arrive before 7am to get parking?

The paved lot holds about 20 vehicles and tends to fill quickly during peak season; arriving early or late gives you a better chance at a nearby spot.

Is it worth the 0.3–0.7 mile stroll to see a waterfall with underground flow?

Can I bring bear spray?

Is the main viewing area accessible for wheelchairs?

Is cell service reliable there?

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