Apikuni Falls Trail

Q: How steep is it really?

Very. 651 feet in 0.8 miles is about 814 feet per mile—one of the steepest gradients in the park for day hikes. If you struggle on stairs, this will hurt.

Q: Can I do this trail alone?

Yes, but not recommended. The trail is popular and well-marked, but solo hikers are riskier in bear country and on steep terrain. Hike in pairs or groups.

Q: What about the scramble at the end?

It's not technical Class 3 scrambling—just steep, loose rock. Use your hands, move deliberately, and test rocks before weight-bearing. Takes 10-15 minutes from the forest line.

Q: Is the elevation gain worth it?

Objectively yes. The waterfall and creek views are dramatic. But if you're looking for an easy stroll, this isn't it. The payoff demands the pain.

Q: Do I need special gear?

Good boots are mandatory—the terrain is loose and steep. Trekking poles help on descent. Carry 2L water, sun protection, and a map. No technical climbing gear needed.

Distance

0.8 mi

Elevation Gain

651 ft

Est. Time

1-1.5 hours up if you're fit, 45 minutes down. Add time if you're acclimatizing to elevation or stopping for photos at the falls.

Route Type

Out-and-back

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Late June through September. Road to Many Glacier opens late June; verify Going-to-the-Sun Road status before traveling.

Overview

About This Trail

This short but vicious waterfall hike climbs 651 feet in just 0.8 miles through dense forest and across exposed rocky terrain. You'll earn views of Mount Altyn looming overhead and Lake Sherburne to the south, but the relentless elevation gain is the real test. The payoff—crashing Apikuni Falls and the creek it feeds—justifies the lung-buster, but you'll feel every foot gained on the descent.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Lung buster. Steep elevation gain in a short burst tests your fitness hard.

Trail Highlights

The crowning view—Apikuni Falls thundering into Apikuni Creek. From the base, Mount Altyn towers overhead to the west and Lake Sherburne spreads below to the south. The waterfall is the objective; don't settle for photos from the approach trail.

Insider Tips

• Don't stop at the initial overlook—the best view of the falls is at the very end where the trail reaches the base. • The scramble near the top looks harder than it is; use your hands. • Sunrise hikes catch the falls backlit in mist—dramatic photography angle. • If the trail is muddy, you'll slide on descent; consider skipping after heavy rain.

Best Season to Hike

Late June through September. Road to Many Glacier opens late June; verify Going-to-the-Sun Road status before traveling.

Hiking Tips

Bring 2L water minimum—the elevation gain burns hydration fast.
Tighten your boots; rooty terrain and steep descents punish loose ankles.
Make noise constantly for bears—the forest is dense.
Start before sunrise to avoid afternoon thunderstorms on exposed ridges.
Sunscreen on your ears—the rocky section reflects hard.
The descent is steeper psychologically than physically; take your time.

Family Info

0.8 miles is short, but the elevation gain is punishing. Realistic for fit children 10+, but younger kids will struggle. Supervise closely on the rocky sections—steep dropoffs require constant hand-holding. This is not a family stroll.

What Hikers Say

Hikers consistently report the elevation gain is relentless but the waterfall payoff justifies the lung-buster. Most praise the short distance and high reward ratio. Some note the crowds in peak season can dampen the experience.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.8 miles

Elevation Gain: 651 ft

Duration: 1-1.5 hours up if you're fit, 45 minutes down. Add time if you're acclimatizing to elevation or stopping for photos at the falls.

Difficulty: Lung buster. Steep elevation gain in a short burst tests your fitness hard.

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Rocky and rooted. Forest floor transitions to exposed scree and loose stone on the upper mountainside.

Getting There

Trailhead: Apikuni parking area, 1.1 miles east of Many Glacier Hotel. Limited parking; arrive early.

Parking: Small lot, fills quickly in peak season.

Fills Up: Full by 8 AM on summer weekends. By 9 AM most weekdays in July-August.

Requirements

Permit Required

No permits required for day hiking in Glacier National Park.

Fees: $35 per private vehicle (7-day pass) for Glacier National Park entrance. Winter rate (November 1 – April 30) is $25.

Shuttle Available

Not required. Trailhead is accessible by private vehicle. No shuttle service to Apikuni trailhead; park shuttle system serves Logan Pass only (July 1 – September 7).

Trail Rules

Dogs: false

Biking: false

Trail Markers: Well-marked with cairns and worn path. Trail is easy to follow.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Filter from Apikuni Creek along the trail. Do not rely on untreated water. Bring your own source or purification method.

Shade: Mostly shaded through the forest section. Fully exposed on the rocky mountainside—no cover for the final 0.3 miles. Sun exposure is real.

Cell Service: Spotty to nonexistent in the canyon. Do not plan on cell service for emergencies.

Hazards:

Steep dropoffs near the falls—the terrain is unstable and unforgiving. Wet rocks turn into ice rinks. Creek crossings can be tricky after snowmelt or rain. Wildlife (bears, mountain lions, bighorn sheep) is present—make noise and keep distance. Afternoon thunderstorms develop fast; lightning is a real threat on exposed ridges.

Emergency: Call 911 if you have cell service. Nearest ranger station: Many Glacier Ranger Station (contact via trailhead signage). Carry a personal locator beacon or satellite communicator if hiking solo in poor conditions.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Popular. Many Glacier is the busiest corridor in the park. Expect hikers on the trail most days June through September.

Peak Times: Summer weekends (July-August) before 9 AM, holiday weeks. Weekday mornings (before 10 AM) are quieter but still moderately busy.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Rooty and steep. The forest floor is uneven with roots and rocks; the open section features scrambling over loose stone. Not suitable for young children, people with knee problems, or those unaccustomed to steep terrain.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Many Glacier Hotel (1.1 miles west of trailhead) has restaurants, lodging, and ranger services. Apgar Village (larger services, fuel, groceries) is 10+ miles south. Plan water and restroom stops before arriving at the trailhead.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Are there bears on this trail?

Yes. The dense forest is good bear habitat. Make constant noise, hike in groups if possible, and carry bear spray. Never approach wildlife.

How steep is it really?

Can I do this trail alone?

What about the scramble at the end?

Is the elevation gain worth it?

Do I need special gear?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

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