Salamander Falls
Montana • Glacier National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Salamander Falls
Salamander Falls is a peaceful, lesser-known cascade tucked into Glacier National Park, managed by the National Park Service. The falls sit amid lush forest and rugged terrain, offering a quiet mountain escape for hikers who want a bit of solitude away from the park’s busiest corridors. Because it lies within the national park, visitors should observe NPS regulations and Leave No Trace principles while exploring the area. The hike to the falls is an inviting out-and-back route of about 2.0 miles round-trip with roughly 300 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. Many Glacier Campground is the closest developed camping option, about 6.26 km away, making Salamander Falls a great day trip for campers based in that area. The trail’s moderate grade and natural surface reward hikers with forest scenery and the tranquil sound of falling water at the turnaround.
The Setting
Salamander Falls sits at 6,791 feet within Glacier National Park, fed by the Swiftcurrent Creek, in the high mountains of Montana.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Bird Woman Falls, the tallest waterfall in Montana at 492 feet, lies 3.3 miles to the south.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Out-and-back trail, approximately 2.0 miles round-trip with ~300 feet elevation gain; difficulty: moderate. The route follows natural tread through dense forest with some uneven footing and short creek crossings; expect moderate grades rather than steep sustained climbs. Recommended for hikers with some experience and sturdy footwear; no official USFS trail number is listed for this NPS-managed route.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil setting with the sound of cascading water and opportunities for photography. The area may be slippery near the falls, so caution is advised.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Salamander Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Salamander Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring through early fall is the best time to visit, as the trail may be more accessible and the waterfall flow is typically stronger during these seasons.
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
The trail may be slippery near the falls, and weather conditions can change rapidly. Carry bear spray and be prepared for limited cell service.
Current Water Conditions
255 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 114 years of record
2.36 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Swiftcurrent Creek at Many Glacier MT (8 km away).
Today
Moderate
275 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Moderate
294 cfs
6/10Mon
Moderate
294 cfs
6/10Tue
Moderate
282 cfs
6/10Wed
Moderate
269 cfs
6/10Thu
Moderate
238 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
251 cfs
6/10Best window: Thu — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 8/10).
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
Location & Access
Getting There
The exact location of Salamander Falls is not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local hiking guides or park services for directions. It may require navigating forest roads and a short hike.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or no designated parking areas near the trailhead.
Elevation
6,791 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.755624° N, -113.735783° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking boots, bring plenty of water, and check weather conditions before your visit. Cell service may be limited in the area.
This trail sits at 6,791 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 27% 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 2.0 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
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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
MANY GLACIER CAMPGROUND
3.9 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
Other hiking trails and natural attractions in the surrounding Montana wilderness.
Wildlife
The area may be home to deer, birds, and other forest wildlife. Be aware of potential encounters with bears or other large animals.
Cities near Salamander Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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