Rockwell Falls
Montana • Glacier National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
6.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Rockwell Falls
Rockwell Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Glacier National Park, Montana. It is a multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush forest and mountain scenery, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
Rockwell Falls sits at 5,509 feet within Glacier National Park, fed by the Two Medicine River Bl South Fork, in the high mountains of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 6.6-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Rockwell Falls is a scenic hike through dense forests, open meadows, and along streams. The path is well-maintained and relatively flat, with only a slight elevation gain. The final approach to the falls involves crossing a footbridge and offers stunning views of the cascading water.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene hike with opportunities to see wildlife such as deer, bears, and birds. The falls themselves are a beautiful reward, with multiple tiers and a peaceful setting. The area around the falls is typically quiet and less crowded compared to other parts of the park.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Rockwell Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
Permit required
A Glacier National Park entrance pass is required. Reservations may also be required for entry during peak season.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Rockwell Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Rockwell Falls is late spring through early fall, when the trail is clear of snow and the water flow is at its peak.
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
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Be cautious of wildlife and avoid hiking alone. Check weather conditions before your hike, as storms can develop quickly in the mountains. Bring plenty of water and stay on marked trails.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Two Medicine River bl South Fork nr Browning MT (31 km away).
Today
Moderate
101 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Moderate
93 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
105 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
136 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
127 cfs
9/10Sat
Moderate
126 cfs
9/10Sun
Moderate
142 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to mid July, peaking in May.
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 East Glacier Park Village 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 190 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 5,544 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 139 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 119 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 5,544 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 190 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Rockwell Falls is accessed via the Two Medicine area of Glacier National Park. Visitors typically start at the Two Medicine South Shore Trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Two Medicine area, but it can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
5,509 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.453099° N, -113.404195° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds and ensure parking availability. Bring bear spray and be aware of wildlife. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail may be muddy in spots, especially after rain. Check trail conditions before heading out, as snow or fallen trees can sometimes block the path.
This trail sits at 5,509 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.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 6.6 miles and 300 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
Glacier Haven Inn
Circle R Motel
Summit Mountain Lodge and Steakhouse
Bear Creek Ranch Bed & Breakfast
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
3.3 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
Two Medicine Lake, Running Eagle Falls, and Scenic Point Trail are nearby attractions worth visiting.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, grizzly bears, deer, and numerous bird species. Always stay alert and carry bear spray.
Cities near Rockwell Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Rockwell Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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