Atlantic Falls
Montana • Glacier National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
6.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
800 ft
About Atlantic Falls
Atlantic Falls is a quietly scenic cascade tucked inside Glacier National Park, managed by the National Park Service. Reaching the falls rewards hikers with a sense of remoteness amid the park’s spruce and fir forests and mountain backdrops; the route is a solid half‑day outing for those looking to escape the busier corridors of the park. Because the waterfall lies within NPS-managed lands, visitors should plan their visit with Glacier National Park regulations and conditions in mind. The hike to Atlantic Falls is an out-and-back route of moderate difficulty that climbs through varied terrain to a tranquil waterfall setting. The path offers classic Glacier National Park scenery—tree-lined stretches punctuated by open views—and is popular with day hikers seeking a rewarding destination without technical scrambling.
The Setting
Atlantic Falls sits at 5,364 feet within Glacier National Park, fed by the St. Mary River, in the high mountains of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 6.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 800 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
6.0-mile out-and-back trail with approximately 800 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. The trail is within Glacier National Park (managed by the National Park Service) and does not carry a USFS trail number. Surface is natural tread and the route can include rocky or uneven sections; specific grade/class information is not provided by the managing agency. Expect a maintained park trail that requires steady footing and basic trail-navigation skills.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Atlantic Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Atlantic Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is late spring through early fall, when the trails are most accessible and the waterfall flow is typically strongest.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Glacier National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
This is a remote wilderness area. Visitors should be prepared for limited cell service, carry a map or GPS, and inform someone of their plans. Be aware of wildlife, including bears, and carry bear spray. Weather can change rapidly, so pack accordingly.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge St. Mary River near Babb MT (29 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
380 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
393 cfs
2/10Sun
Barely Flowing
381 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
355 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
370 cfs
3/10Wed
Low
378 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
378 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early May to early August, peaking in June.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Saint Mary hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
1-meter lidar measures about 90 feet of descent through Atlantic Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 5,377 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 47 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 41 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 5,377 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 90 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Atlantic Falls is located within the Bob Marshall Wilderness in Montana. Access typically requires a hike along trails starting from trailheads such as Benchmark Trailhead or other nearby access points. The area is remote, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at nearby trailheads, such as the Benchmark Trailhead. Availability may vary depending on the season and visitor volume.
Elevation
5,364 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.573582° N, -113.450950° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate hiking gear. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the area is remote and weather can shift quickly. Carry bear spray and know how to use it, as this is bear country.
This trail sits at 5,364 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 21% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
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Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 6.0 miles and 800 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
St. Mary Village
Circle R Motel
Glacier Park Lodge
Lodgepole Gallery
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Two Medicine Campground
6.9 miles away · 105 sites
Overview Two Medicine is a 100 site campground located in the Two Medicine Valley of Glacier National Park. There is a ranger station and campstore in close proximity, but no other services or accommodations are located in the valley. There is no cell service or wifi. Generators are allowed only in Loops B & C. Generators are prohibited in Loop A. All sites require a reservation. Most sites have a 6-month booking window with a good handful having a 4-day booking window. For information on nearb
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Bob Marshall Wilderness offers numerous hiking trails, scenic vistas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Nearby landmarks include the Chinese Wall and other waterfalls in the area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, bears, and birds of prey. Visitors should be cautious and follow wildlife safety guidelines.
Cities near Atlantic Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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