Dawn Mist 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
500 ft
About Dawn Mist Falls
Dawn Mist Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Many Glacier region of Glacier National Park, Montana. It is known for its picturesque setting along the Swiftcurrent Creek and is a popular destination for hikers exploring the park.
The Setting
Dawn Mist Falls sits at 4,738 feet within Glacier National Park, fed by the Swiftcurrent Creek, in the mountains of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 6.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Dawn Mist Falls is a scenic hike through Glacier National Park, featuring views of alpine meadows, dense forests, and the Swiftcurrent Creek. The falls are located along the trail, offering a serene and picturesque spot for visitors to enjoy.
What to Expect
Expect a moderately challenging hike with some elevation gain. The trail is well-maintained but may have muddy or slippery sections, especially after rain. Wildlife sightings, including bears and moose, are common in the area.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Dawn Mist Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Dawn Mist Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is during late spring through early fall when the trail is accessible, and the waterfall flow is at its peak due to snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Glacier National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Carry bear spray and be aware of wildlife. Check trail conditions before starting your hike, as weather can change rapidly in the mountains. Wear appropriate footwear to avoid slips and falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Swiftcurrent Creek at Many Glacier MT (13 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
54 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
55 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
52 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
48 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
50 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
56 cfs
3/10Thu
Low
57 cfs
4/10Best window: Sun — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to late July, 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 Babb 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 184 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 4,772 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 34 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 50 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 4,772 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 184 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Dawn Mist Falls is accessed via the Grinnell Glacier Trail or the Swiftcurrent Pass Trail in Glacier National Park. Visitors typically start from the Many Glacier area, which is accessible by car.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Many Glacier Hotel or the Grinnell Glacier Trailhead, but it can fill up quickly during peak season. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
4,738 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.908089° N, -113.722834° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Bring bear spray and know how to use it, as this is bear country. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and pack plenty of water and snacks.
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With 6.0 miles and 500 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
Aspen Village
Waterton Lakes Lodge Resort
St. Mary Village
Prince of Wales Hotel
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
MANY GLACIER CAMPGROUND
8 miles away · 110 sites
Overview The Many Glacier Campground is located on the east side of Glacier National Park, at an elevation of approximately 4,500 feet. The campground is located about 22 miles from the town of St. Mary and the east entrance to Glacier National Park. Babb, Montana, is the closest community to the Many Glacier Campground and is located approximately 12 miles east of the campground. Babb has a general store, gas station, several restaurants and an U.S. Post Office. Cell phone coverage is not availa
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Grinnell Glacier, Many Glacier Hotel, and Swiftcurrent Lake.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, moose, mountain goats, and marmots. Always maintain a safe distance and follow park guidelines.
Cities near Dawn Mist Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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