The best walks and hikes around East Glacier Park Village

The Pitamakan - Dawson Loop is a difficult hike that covers 32.0 miles (51.6 km) and climbs 6783 feet (2067 metres) in elevation, typically requiring about 16 hours and 26 minutes to complete. You will traverse constantly changing landscapes, moving from lush forests to open meadows and rugged mountain terrain. The route takes you over Pitamakan Pass and Dawson Pass, providing expansive views of valleys, lakes, and distant glacial peaks. A memorable section is the three-mile ridgeline connecting the two passes, where you can look down on Oldman Lake and Pitamakan Lake.

Plan your trip for the Pitamakan - Dawson Loop between July and early September, as snowpack can make the passes impassable earlier in the season. Be ready for exposed and windy conditions, especially when you are high up on the passes. If you want to shorten the route, you can use a boat ferry across Two Medicine Lake, particularly if you hike counter-clockwise and take the ferry at the end of your journey.

This challenging loop is known as one of Glacier National Park's most spectacular day hikes, offering a diverse experience. As you hike, keep an eye out for wildlife such as bighorn sheep and mountain goats, which are often seen around the passes. The continuous vistas along the ridgeline make this trail a standout for its scenic beauty and demanding nature.

The Running Eagle Falls Nature Trail offers an easy hike through a peaceful forest alongside Two Medicine Creek. You'll cover a short 0.9 miles (1.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 32 feet (10 metres), making it an accessible route for almost anyone. The highlight is the unique Running Eagle Falls, where water emerges dramatically from a cave-like opening. This easy trail takes about 23 minutes to complete, providing a quick and rewarding outdoor experience.

This trail is known for being flat and well-maintained, suitable for families with young children and even those using wheelchairs. You'll find ample parking available right at the trailhead, located in the Two Medicine area of Glacier National Park. It's one of only two handicap-accessible trails in the entire park, ensuring a welcoming experience for a wide range of visitors. Consider visiting during off-peak times for a quieter experience, though its short duration makes it a good option even when busy.

The unique geology of Running Eagle Falls, also known as 'Trick Falls,' is what makes it so special; water appears to flow directly from a cave. Towering prominently above the falls, 9,513-foot Rising Wolf Mountain provides a stunning backdrop, adding to the scenic beauty of this memorable hike. This trail stands out as a truly distinctive natural feature within Glacier National Park.

The Twin Falls trail in Glacier National Park is an easy hike, perfect for a relaxing outdoor experience. You will journey through a beautiful, lush forest, surrounded by old-growth trees and ferns. The highlight of this 3.7 miles (6.0 km) route is reaching the Twin Falls themselves, where you can enjoy views of both the lower and upper sections of the cascading water. With only 207 feet (63 metres) of elevation gain, you can expect to complete this scenic walk in about 1 hour and 34 minutes.

Before you head out, remember that this trail is located within Glacier National Park. You should always check park regulations, potential entrance fees, and any permit requirements. Parking is generally available at trailheads inside the park, but it can fill up quickly during peak season, so plan to arrive early if you can. Being prepared will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

What makes this route special is the chance to immerse yourself in the park's natural beauty, culminating in the impressive Twin Falls. As you hike, you will also cross a charming wooden bridge over a stream, offering another picturesque spot to pause and take in the surroundings. While other trails might share the name, this specific Twin Falls route provides a unique and accessible experience within the park's boundaries.

Discover Aster Falls, an easy hike spanning 1.3 miles (2.1 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 165 feet (50 metres), typically completed in about 34 minutes. As you walk, you will experience a varied landscape, moving from dense montane forests into open meadows that burst with wildflowers during the summer months. Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially moose and beavers, near the several beaver ponds you will pass. The trail also offers pleasant views of the mountains surrounding Two Medicine Lake before you reach the beautiful, multi-tiered Aster Falls itself.

To plan your visit, you can park at the South Shore Trailhead, which provides straightforward access to the route. The path is generally well-defined and wide, making for an enjoyable experience, though you might encounter some uneven terrain with tree roots in certain sections. This area of Glacier National Park tends to be less crowded compared to other popular spots, offering a more tranquil hiking experience. Consider starting your hike earlier in the day to fully enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

This trail is particularly notable for its rich natural environment, providing a habitat for various wildlife species. The presence of beaver ponds along the way highlights the active ecosystem you are exploring. You will find that the route offers a quick yet rewarding outdoor experience, perfect for families or anyone looking for a refreshing walk. The diverse scenery, from forests to meadows and the final waterfall, makes it a memorable part of your visit to the park.

Hike the moderate Mount Henry Trail and Scenic Point via East Glacier Park Village, covering 6.4 miles with panoramic views.