Running Eagle Falls
Montana • Glacier National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Drive Up
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
50 ft
About Running Eagle Falls
Running Eagle Falls, also known as Trick Falls, is a unique double waterfall located in Glacier National Park, Montana. During high water in spring and early summer, water flows over the top of the falls, while in late summer and fall, the water flows through a natural tunnel in the rock, creating a 'trick' effect.
The Setting
Running Eagle Falls sits at 5,013 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
No hiking required. Running Eagle Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
The trail to Running Eagle Falls is a short, flat, and well-maintained path suitable for all ages and abilities. It is wheelchair accessible and offers interpretive signs along the way, providing information about the area's history and geology.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene and picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush forest and mountain views. Depending on the season, the waterfall may appear as a single or double cascade due to the unique rock formation.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Running Eagle Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Running Eagle Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit for the most dramatic waterfall flow. Late summer and fall offer a unique view of the water flowing through the rock tunnel.
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 of wildlife and carry bear spray. Stay on designated trails to protect the environment and avoid hazards. Weather can change rapidly in Glacier National Park, so be prepared for varying conditions.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 17.3 miles away
103 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 48 years of record
2.19 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Two Medicine River bl South Fork nr Browning MT (28 km away).
Today
Moderate
103 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Strong
109 cfs
8/10Sun
Strong
103 cfs
10/10Mon
Moderate
98 cfs
9/10Tue
Strong
97 cfs
8/10Wed
Strong
113 cfs
8/10Thu
Strong
136 cfs
8/10Best window: Sun — strong flow, partly sunny (trip score 10/10).
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.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 161 feet through Running Eagle Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 5,016 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 68 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 82 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing northeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 5,016 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 161 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Catches soft morning light.
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
Running Eagle Falls is located in the Two Medicine area of Glacier National Park. From East Glacier Park Village, drive approximately 12 miles to the Two Medicine entrance. The falls are a short walk from the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area near the trailhead, which is typically sufficient but may fill up during peak seasons.
Elevation
5,013 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.498046° N, -113.352558° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit in spring or early summer to see the full double waterfall effect. Arrive early in the day during peak season to secure parking. Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
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For this easy 0.1 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. 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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
OR Sombriolet Sun Hat
UPF 50+ sun protection with vents so your head doesn't cook on exposed trail sections.
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
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Nearby Campground
Two Medicine Campground
0.7 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, Scenic boat tours, Aster Falls, and various hiking trails in the Two Medicine area.
Wildlife
The area is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, bears, and various bird species. Always carry bear spray and follow park guidelines for wildlife safety.
Cities near Running Eagle Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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