Running Eagle Falls, Glacier National Park - Image 1
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Running Eagle Falls Glacier National Park

4.9
·29 reviews·, United States

Discover the magical 'trick fall' where water emerges from a cave, on an easy, accessible trail in Glacier's Two Medicine area.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
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Running Eagle Falls, Glacier National Park - Image 1

Running Eagle Falls Glacier National Park

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the magical 'trick fall' where water emerges from a cave, on an easy, accessible trail in Glacier's Two Medicine area.

4.9
(29 reviews)

"A beautiful and short hike with a wonderful payoff, a classic image of Glacier Park."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Two-Tiered Wonder

See water flow from the top and out of the mountain – a unique '2 for 1' waterfall experience!

👟 Easy Trail Access

The path is mostly paved and flat, great for families and those seeking an accessible hike.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Running Eagle Falls

Running Eagle Falls

Two Medicine area

A unique 'trick fall' where water cascades from a cave opening, offering a magical, two-tiered spectacle.

Cave Waterfall

Cave Waterfall

Running Eagle Falls

Witness water emerging directly from a rock face, a truly fascinating natural phenomenon.

Easy, Scenic Stroll

Easy, Scenic Stroll

Trail to Running Eagle Falls

A short, flat, and often paved path perfect for families and a quick, rewarding nature experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Running Eagle Falls is a popular spot, so aim for early mornings or late evenings to avoid crowds. The Two Medicine area can get busy, especially during peak season. Check the park's official website for any seasonal closures or alerts before you go.

Accessibility & Trail Tips

The trail to Running Eagle Falls is generally easy and partially paved, making it accessible for many. However, some reviews mention a stream crossing, so wear appropriate footwear. Consider bringing water and snacks, especially if combining this with other activities.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late evenings
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Cool off in creek
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#glaciernationalpark #glacier
@julieesaw
1.6M likes • 7.2M views

🎯 Two-Tiered Wonder

See water flow from the top and out of the mountain – a unique '2 for 1' waterfall experience! Instagram

👟 Easy Trail Access

The path is mostly paved and flat, great for families and those seeking an accessible hike. Reddit

rainbow rocks and colorful clouds #glaciernationalpark #sunset #granolaboy
@codymayer22
1M likes • 4.7M views
Early morning views at the spectacular Running Eagle Falls in Glacier Park National Park #waterfall #runningeaglefalls #nature #hiking #glaciernationalpark #nationalparks #beautiful #relaxing #peaceful #morningview #optoutside #travel #scenic #views #waterfallview
justin_hikes
199 likes • 4.4K views

💧 Cool Off Spot

The creek near the falls is perfect for dipping your feet on a warm day. Reddit

📸 Capture the Magic

Visit early or late for fewer people and better light for photos. Instagram

Add this waterfall to your Glacier NP list 🙌🏽 📍Running Eagle Falls is a quick & easy hike in the Two Medicine area of the park • • • • • #solotravel #roadtrip #nps #findyourpark #nationalpark #nationalparkspartnership #nationalparkgeek #glacier #glaciernationalpark #glaciernps #nationalparks #montana #rockymountains #mountains #twomedicine #landscape #landscapephotography #lake #montanamoment #mon...
_likeabirdinflight
159 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Two-Tiered Wonder

See water flow from the top and out of the mountain – a unique '2 for 1' waterfall experience! Instagram

👟 Easy Trail Access

The path is mostly paved and flat, great for families and those seeking an accessible hike. Reddit

💧 Cool Off Spot

The creek near the falls is perfect for dipping your feet on a warm day. Reddit

📸 Capture the Magic

Visit early or late for fewer people and better light for photos. Instagram

🗺️ Two Medicine Area

Located in the Two Medicine entrance, plan your visit accordingly with park maps. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.9
(29 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the unique 'trick fall' and the easy, accessible trail to Running Eagle Falls. It's praised as a quick, rewarding stop in the beautiful Two Medicine area, perfect for families and those seeking a gentle nature experience. Some note that crowds can be an issue during peak hours.

"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."

Shana Durdin

"Truly incredible cave waterfall. The half mile walk in is paved if you take the right hand path and very accessible for those with mobility problems."

Lindsay Milligan

"A beautiful and short hike to do with friends or family. Trail is very flat and easy. The view of Running Eagle Falls at the end is wonderful, and a classic image of Glacier Park. Would definitely recommend if looking for something quick to do with a nice payoff."

Gabriella

What People Like

Unique cave waterfall
Easy, flat trail
Great for families

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Running Eagle Falls is located in the Two Medicine area of Glacier National Park. Access is typically via the Going-to-the-Sun Road or other park entrances depending on your starting point. The Two Medicine entrance is a popular gateway to this area. Instagram+1

The Two Medicine area, including the road leading to Running Eagle Falls, is generally open seasonally. It typically opens in late May or early June and closes in the fall due to snow. Always check the official Glacier National Park website for current road status and opening dates. TikTok

There is a parking area near the trailhead for Running Eagle Falls. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early in the morning or later in the evening is recommended. TikTokInstagram

Glacier National Park offers a free shuttle system during the summer months that can help you navigate between popular areas. Check the park's shuttle schedule for routes that may serve the Two Medicine area. TikTok

While the main park roads are generally suitable for RVs, some smaller access roads within specific areas like Two Medicine might have restrictions. It's best to check the park's guidelines for vehicle size limitations in the Two Medicine area. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, a valid entrance pass for Glacier National Park is required for all visitors. You can purchase passes at park entrance stations or online in advance. TikTok

While Running Eagle Falls itself doesn't typically require a separate timed entry, access to certain popular areas of Glacier National Park, like the Going-to-the-Sun Road, may require a vehicle reservation during peak season. Check the park's official website for the most up-to-date reservation requirements. TikTok

Running Eagle Falls is accessible during park operating hours, which are generally from dawn until dusk. The Two Medicine area road has seasonal opening and closing dates. TikTok

No, there is no separate admission fee for Running Eagle Falls. Your Glacier National Park entrance pass covers access to all areas of the park, including this waterfall. Reddit

Yes, an America the Beautiful Pass is accepted for entry into Glacier National Park, which includes access to Running Eagle Falls. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The hike to Running Eagle Falls is very short, typically around half a mile roundtrip. It's considered an easy and accessible trail. InstagramReddit

The trail is rated as easy. It's mostly flat and partially paved, making it suitable for most visitors, including families with young children. InstagramReddit

Running Eagle Falls is known as a 'trick fall' because water emerges from a cave opening in the rock face, creating a unique two-tiered waterfall effect. Instagram+1

Restroom facilities are typically available in the Two Medicine area, often near the main parking lot or visitor center. It's advisable to check the park map for exact locations. Instagram

Swimming directly at the falls is generally not recommended due to the rocky terrain and water flow. However, the nearby creek can be a refreshing spot to cool your feet on a hot day. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning or late evening offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and fewer crowds. The 'golden hour' before sunset can create beautiful, warm tones. TikTokInstagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire waterfall and its surroundings. A tripod can be helpful for longer exposures, especially in lower light conditions. TikTok

The main trail leads directly to the falls, offering excellent viewpoints. You can also explore slightly off the main path (safely) for different perspectives. Instagram

Drone usage is restricted in most National Parks, including Glacier. It's crucial to check the official Glacier National Park website for current drone regulations before flying. TikTok

The unique 'trick fall' aspect, with water emerging from the cave, is the primary photo opportunity. The surrounding forest and creek also offer scenic shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Running Eagle Falls is an excellent choice for families with children. The trail is short, flat, and mostly paved, making it easy for little legs to manage. InstagramReddit The unique 'trick fall' is captivating for kids, and the nearby creek offers a fun spot to splash and cool off on a warm day. Reddit It's a perfect addition to a day of exploring the Two Medicine area without requiring a strenuous hike. Consider bringing snacks and water, and be prepared for potential crowds during peak times. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Accessible Travelers

The trail to Running Eagle Falls is noted for its accessibility. A significant portion of the path is paved and the elevation gain is minimal, making it suitable for individuals with mobility challenges. Reddit While there might be a small stream crossing, the overall ease of the walk allows many to enjoy the unique waterfall without significant effort. It's a great option for those who want to experience a natural wonder in Glacier National Park with minimal physical exertion. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find Running Eagle Falls a rewarding subject, especially for its unique 'trick fall' nature. Instagram Visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late evening will provide the best lighting conditions and fewer distractions from other visitors. TikTokInstagram A wide-angle lens is recommended to capture the full scope of the falls and its surroundings. While the main trail offers good views, exploring safely for alternative angles can yield stunning shots of the water emerging from the cave. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Geology of Running Eagle Falls

Running Eagle Falls, also known as 'Trick Falls,' is a geological marvel that sets it apart from many other waterfalls. Its distinctive feature is the water emerging from a cave opening in the rock face, creating a unique two-tiered cascade. At certain times of the year, particularly during lower water levels, the upper portion of the falls may have little to no flow, making the lower cave emergence even more prominent. This natural phenomenon is a testament to the fascinating geological processes at play in Glacier National Park. Instagram+1

This unique characteristic makes it a must-see for visitors interested in natural wonders. The accessibility of the falls, combined with its unusual formation, draws many photographers and nature enthusiasts. The surrounding environment in the Two Medicine area also adds to the scenic beauty, with forests and streams complementing the falls. InstagramReddit

Exploring the Two Medicine Area

Running Eagle Falls is nestled within the picturesque Two Medicine area of Glacier National Park. This region is known for its stunning lakes, dramatic mountain backdrops, and a network of hiking trails catering to various skill levels. Beyond the falls, visitors can enjoy boat tours on Two Medicine Lake, explore other nearby trails like the hike to Aster Park Overlook, or simply relax by the water and soak in the breathtaking scenery. Instagram+1

The Two Medicine area offers a more serene experience compared to some of the busier sections of the park, making it ideal for those seeking a bit more tranquility. It's a fantastic place to spend a day, combining a visit to Running Eagle Falls with other activities like picnicking, wildlife viewing, or a leisurely stroll along the lake. Remember to check the park's seasonal opening and closing dates for the Two Medicine road, as it is not accessible year-round. TikTokInstagram