Bird Woman Falls
Montana • Glacier National Park • 492 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Bird Woman Falls
Bird Woman Falls is a stunning waterfall located in Glacier National Park, Montana. It cascades down the western slopes of Mount Oberlin and is visible from the Going-to-the-Sun Road. The waterfall is fed by glacial melt and is most prominent during the spring and early summer months when snowmelt is at its peak.
The Setting
Bird Woman Falls sits at 5,751 feet within Glacier National Park, fed by the Swiftcurrent Creek, in the high mountains of Montana. At 492 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in Montana.
Height: 492 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Bird Woman Falls does not require a hike to view, as it is visible from the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Visitors can enjoy the view from designated pullouts along the road.
What to Expect
The falls plunge a dramatic 492 feet.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Bird Woman Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
Permit required
A vehicle reservation is required to access the Going-to-the-Sun Road during peak season (May through September). Additionally, a park entrance fee is required.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Bird Woman Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Bird Woman Falls is in late spring or early summer when the snowmelt is at its peak, making the waterfall more dramatic.
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
Be cautious when stopping along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, as traffic can be heavy during peak season. Always stay on designated pullouts and avoid walking on the road. Weather can change rapidly in Glacier National Park, so be prepared for sudden rain or wind.
Current Water Conditions
524 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 111 years of record
2.94 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Bird Woman Falls can be viewed from the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic drive through Glacier National Park. The falls are best seen from the area near Logan Pass or from designated viewpoints along the road.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at various pullouts along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. However, parking can be limited during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
5751 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.708030° N, -113.747616° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to secure parking and avoid crowds. Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens for a closer view of the falls. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the area can be windy and cool even in summer.
This trail sits at 5,751 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 23% 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.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 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
Chief Mountain Cabins
Glacier Borealis - 27’ Glamping Trailer by Glacier
Walsh Cottage on the shores of Lake McDonald
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Avalanche Campground
3.9 miles away · 91 sites
Overview Avalanche campground is located in one of the most popular sections of Glacier National Park west of the Continental Divide. The campground accommodates tent and RV campers. However, only 50 sites will accommodate vehicle lengths up to 26 feet. All sites require a reservation. Most sites have a 6-month booking window with a good handful having a 4-day booking window. Recreation Avalanche is in one of the most popular sections of Glacier National Park west of the Continental Divide. Two p
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Logan Pass, Hidden Lake Trail, and the Weeping Wall along the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Wildlife
Visitors may spot wildlife such as mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and marmots in the area. Bears are also present in Glacier National Park, so visitors should exercise caution.
Cities near Bird Woman Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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