Morning Eagle Falls
Montana • Glacier National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
7.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Morning Eagle Falls
Morning Eagle Falls is a stunning waterfall located in Glacier National Park, Montana. It is part of the Many Glacier area and is known for its picturesque setting amidst rugged mountain landscapes. The falls are fed by snowmelt and glacial runoff, making them particularly impressive in late spring and early summer.
The Setting
Morning Eagle Falls sits at 5,584 feet within Glacier National Park, fed by the Swiftcurrent Creek, in the high mountains of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Morning Eagle Falls is part of the Grinnell Glacier Trail, which offers breathtaking views of alpine scenery, glacial lakes, and wildlife. The trail is well-maintained but includes some steep sections and rocky terrain. The falls are located near the midpoint of the trail, making it a rewarding stop for hikers.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a moderately challenging hike with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Morning Eagle Falls is a cascading waterfall that flows into a serene alpine setting, making it a popular spot for photography and relaxation.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Morning Eagle Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
Permit required
A reservation is required to access the Many Glacier area during peak season. Additionally, a Glacier National Park entrance fee or pass is required.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Morning Eagle Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Morning Eagle Falls is late spring through early fall, when the trail is accessible and the waterfall is at its fullest due to snowmelt.
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 prepared for changing weather conditions and carry bear spray. Stay on marked trails and avoid getting too close to the waterfall, as rocks may be slippery. Check trail conditions before your visit, as snow or ice may make the trail hazardous.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Swiftcurrent Creek at Many Glacier MT (8 km away).
Today
Low
57 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
57 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
Barely Flowing
55 cfs
2/10Best window: Sun — barely flowing flow, partly 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 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.
The laser survey finds one clean step here: roughly 352 feet of drop concentrated at the brink. Elevation at the pin is about 5,683 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 201 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 158 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face north 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
- 5,683 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 352 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- 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 north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Morning Eagle Falls is accessed via the Grinnell Glacier Trail in the Many Glacier area of Glacier National Park. The trailhead is located near the Many Glacier Hotel. Visitors should follow the trail towards Grinnell Glacier, and the falls can be seen along the way.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Many Glacier Hotel or nearby trailhead parking lots. Arrive early during peak season as parking fills up quickly.
Elevation
5,584 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.736043° N, -113.698433° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds and ensure parking availability. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and layers, as weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains. Be prepared for wildlife encounters, including bears, and carry bear spray.
This trail sits at 5,584 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 22% 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.
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
MANY GLACIER CAMPGROUND
4.3 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
Grinnell Glacier, Many Glacier Hotel, Swiftcurrent Lake, Iceberg Lake Trail
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, mountain goats, and marmots. Visitors should exercise caution and follow park guidelines for wildlife encounters.
Cities near Morning Eagle Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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