Running Eagle Falls Nature Trail

Q: 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.

Q: Is this trail suitable for kids?

Yes. Short, flat, and accessible; ideal for families with young children and mobility challenges.

Q: Is the trail accessible for people with mobility challenges?

Yes. The route is short and mostly flat, with a paved section and gentler grades.

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

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Overview

About This 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.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy Stroll

Trail Highlights

The Trick Falls payoff; forested creekside sections and interpretive displays

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.

Best Season to Hike

Late May through mid-September when Two Medicine Road is open

Hiking Tips

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.

Family Info

Excellent for families with young children and those with mobility challenges; short and safe under supervision

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.7 miles

Elevation Gain: 30 ft

Duration: 15-30 minutes

Difficulty: Easy Stroll

Route Type: Loop (some sources describe it as out-and-back)

Surface: Paved nature trail section, packed dirt with some uneven areas, roots, and rocks

Getting There

Trailhead: West side of Two Medicine Road, 1.1 miles west of the Two Medicine entrance station; GPS 48.49601, -113.34823

Parking: Small lot with approximately 20 spaces

Fills Up: The lot fills quickly on weekends and midday; spots open later in the afternoon

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

Vehicle reservations may be required depending on time of year; standard park entrance fee or America the Beautiful Pass

Fees: Standard park entrance fees apply

Trail Rules

Trail Markers: Well-marked along the main loop with interpretive signage

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Two Medicine Creek runs alongside the trail. Water is clear; filtering is recommended if consuming.

Shade: Canopy cover through forested areas, with some open sections near the creek

Cell Service: Limited or non-existent in this area

Hazards:

Carry bear spray and make noise; store food securely. Cell service may be unreliable—plan navigation and emergencies with offline maps.

Emergency: Park rangers; call 911 in emergencies

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate to busy

Peak Times: Midday during peak season

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Short, mostly flat loop; suitable for mobility challenges

Family 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

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.8 /5

Based on 141 Google reviews

Reviews from Google

Perfect last excursion to our trip. It's a short, easy hike to a wonderful and powerful waterfall. Most of the nature trail is paved. Beautiful flowers we had seen from the car on Going To The Sun Road were here to view at our leisure. The long drive to get here from the Kalispell area was worth every mile! Note that this is part of the national park, too, so bring your park pass to enter the Two Medicine Lake area.

6-8-25, Sunny and warm, bring sandals, the bridge is out but the creek was just above your ankles. Great water flow from the falls, plenty of parking, short, paved trail to the rivers edge.

A must see ! One of the most beautiful waterfalls I’ve ever seen be sure to read the story of Running Eagle before you walk the trail. We walked the nature trail as well which started to the left and came around to go to falls.

Showing 3 of 141 reviews

FAQs

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?

Is parking easy during peak season?

Is this trail suitable for kids?

Is the trail accessible for people with mobility challenges?

What should I bring for safety on this hike?

When is Running Eagle Falls viewable at its best?

📖 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 📖 rome2rio.com 📖 beyondmydoor.com 📖 nationalparkschat.com ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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