Two Medicine Glacier National Park
A serene gem in Glacier NP, Two Medicine offers stunning lake views, accessible hikes, and fewer crowds. Perfect for a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Two Medicine Glacier National Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene gem in Glacier NP, Two Medicine offers stunning lake views, accessible hikes, and fewer crowds. Perfect for a peaceful escape.
"Two Medicine was by far our favourite site. Beautiful campground in a great location."
🚗 Skip the Reservation Hassle
Two Medicine doesn't require a vehicle reservation, making it an easier area to access!
🛶 Boat Tour & Hike Combo
Combine a scenic boat tour with a hike for a memorable experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Two Medicine Lake
Two Medicine Area
A picturesque glacial lake offering boat tours and access to stunning hikes.
Upper Two Medicine Lake Hike
Trailhead from Two Medicine Lake
Relatively easy hike to a beautiful lake, a popular choice for its scenic reward.
Running Eagle Falls
Two Medicine Area
A unique waterfall that flows from a cave, offering a magical sight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity: Two Medicine's Charm
Wildlife Encounters & Essential Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Skip the Reservation Hassle
Two Medicine doesn't require a vehicle reservation, making it an easier area to access!
🛶 Boat Tour & Hike Combo
Combine a scenic boat tour with a hike for a memorable experience. 
🐻 Bear Safety First
Communal bear lockers are available; store food securely.
🥾 Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Essential for exploring the many trails around the lakes and falls.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Skip the Reservation Hassle
Two Medicine doesn't require a vehicle reservation, making it an easier area to access!
🛶 Boat Tour & Hike Combo
Combine a scenic boat tour with a hike for a memorable experience.
🐻 Bear Safety First
Communal bear lockers are available; store food securely.
🥾 Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Essential for exploring the many trails around the lakes and falls.
📸 Capture the Colors
Don't miss the wildflowers in summer or fall foliage.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Two Medicine's stunning beauty and more relaxed atmosphere compared to other park areas. The campground is praised for its location by a clean lake and the chance to see wildlife up close. Some note that campsites can be tight and advise caution for larger RVs due to a low bridge.
"Beautiful campground in a great location of the park.
Just got back from a Montana Wyoming trip. Stayed 2 nights at glacier, first at fish creek and second at two medicine. Two medicine was by far our favourite site.
There’s a pretty lake right beside the campground with clean swimming water and a great view.
We preferred staying on east side of the park because driving on going to the sun road from east to west is prettier.
Sites don’t have individual bear lockers. There are communal bear lockers around the campground. We stored food in our car for this reason."
Will Malisch
"Fantastic campground!
Everything in Glacier is beautiful and wonderful. Two Medicine has its own charm as it's less busy and a little more laid back than other campgrounds like Many Glacier.
Sheep with their babies come down into the campground from the mountain to eat daily, they walk right by you very comfortably."
Jonathan Jett
"Nice campground and base for a couple days of exploring and hiking in eastern Glacier National Park. Clean bathrooms. Some of the campsites can be a little tight so pay attention to descriptions when booking. Good hiking right out of campsites. Short hike up to store/cafe on lakeshore. Options for boat tours."
The East Coast Yeti
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Two Medicine is located on the east side of Glacier National Park, near East Glacier Park Village. It's accessible by car and does not require a vehicle reservation, unlike some other popular areas of the park.
Two Medicine is generally less busy than areas like Many Glacier or the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor, offering a more laid-back experience.
Be aware of a low bridge with a clearance of 12.8 feet on the road leading to Two Medicine, which may not be suitable for larger RVs.
The primary access is via the Two Medicine Road, which leads to the lake and campground. It's a scenic drive offering beautiful views.
The Two Medicine Road is typically open seasonally, usually from late May or early June through mid-October, depending on snow conditions. Always check park road status before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, unlike some other popular areas of Glacier National Park, Two Medicine does not require a vehicle reservation for entry.
The Two Medicine area, including the campground and store, generally operates seasonally. The park itself is open year-round, but services and road access are limited outside of the summer season. Check the official NPS website for specific dates.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Glacier National Park. You can purchase a pass at one of the park's entrance stations or online in advance.
It is highly recommended to book boat tours in advance, especially during peak season, as they can sell out. You can usually book through the Glacier Park Boat Company.
Camping fees vary by season and site type. It's best to check the official Glacier National Park website or Recreation.gov for current pricing and availability.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular hikes include the trail to Upper Two Medicine Lake, Running Eagle Falls, and the scenic Two Medicine Lake Loop. Many trails offer stunning lake and mountain views.
Yes, swimming is permitted in Two Medicine Lake. The water is clean and refreshing, and the lake's shore is covered in smooth, flat skipping rocks.
Yes, the Glacier Park Boat Company offers boat tours across Two Medicine Lake, which often include opportunities for guided hikes.
You might spot moose, bighorn sheep (sometimes coming right into the campground!), deer, and various bird species. Always maintain a safe distance.
Absolutely! The dramatic mountain scenery, clear lake waters, and potential for wildlife sightings make it a photographer's paradise, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a general store near the boat ramp that offers some ready-made food items, snacks, and souvenirs. It also has a small coffee shop with breakfast options.
Yes, if you are camping, you can cook at your campsite. Make sure to store all food properly in bear-resistant containers or your vehicle.
The store typically carries basic groceries, snacks, drinks, and some pre-packaged meals. It's convenient for quick bites or forgotten essentials.
The closest town with more extensive dining options is East Glacier Park Village, a short drive away.
It's highly recommended to bring a good portion of your own food, especially if you plan to camp or hike extensively, as options within Two Medicine are limited.
📸 📸 Photography
The shores of Two Medicine Lake, the views from the boat tours, Running Eagle Falls, and the trails leading to Upper Two Medicine Lake all offer incredible photo opportunities.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Mid-day can be harsh, but still beautiful for capturing the vibrant turquoise of the lake.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain and lake scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Look for reflections on the lake, the unique flow of Running Eagle Falls, wildflowers in bloom, and any wildlife that might make an appearance.
Drone usage is restricted in Glacier National Park to protect wildlife and the visitor experience. Always check the latest NPS regulations regarding drones before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The boat tours provide an engaging way to see the lake and access short hikes, keeping younger ones entertained. Wildlife sightings, like sheep in the campground, can be a highlight for children.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
The Two Medicine Lake Loop provides a more extensive trek for those seeking a longer day hike. Beyond the main trails, the area is dotted with smaller paths and opportunities for exploration. The chance to see wildflowers in summer
and fall foliage in autumn adds to the allure for nature lovers. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks for your adventures.📸 Photographers
Don't miss the chance to capture the unique flow of Running Eagle Falls. Keep your camera ready for wildlife encounters, from the majestic bighorn sheep to potential moose sightings.
and the golden hues of fall larches provide excellent opportunities for landscape and nature photography.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Two Medicine Lake: Hikes and Boat Tours
+1For a different perspective, consider the boat tours offered by the Glacier Park Boat Company. These tours not only provide stunning views from the water but often include stops for guided hikes to waterfalls like Running Eagle Falls, a unique cascade that flows from a cave.
+1Alternatively, you can circumnavigate the lake on the Two Medicine Lake Loop, a longer trail that offers a more immersive experience of the surrounding landscape.
Wildlife Encounters in Two Medicine
Remember that these are wild animals, and it's crucial to maintain a safe and respectful distance. Always carry bear spray and know how to use it, as black bears and grizzly bears inhabit the park.
Beyond larger mammals, keep an eye out for various bird species and smaller critters. The natural setting of Two Medicine provides ample habitat for a diverse range of wildlife.
The Appeal of Two Medicine: A Less-Traveled Gem
One significant advantage is that Two Medicine does not require a vehicle reservation for entry, making it a more accessible option for spontaneous visits or for those who prefer to avoid the reservation system.
+1This area is also rich in Blackfeet heritage, adding a cultural dimension to its natural beauty. Exploring Two Medicine allows visitors to immerse themselves in the serene landscapes and connect with the history of the land.
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