Swiftcurrent Falls
Montana • Glacier National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Swiftcurrent Falls
Swiftcurrent Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Glacier National Park, Montana. It is part of the Swiftcurrent Creek and offers stunning views of cascading water against a backdrop of rugged mountains. The falls are a popular spot for photography and nature observation.
The Setting
Swiftcurrent Falls sits at 4,839 feet within Glacier National Park, fed by the Swiftcurrent Creek, in the mountains of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Swiftcurrent Falls is short and easy, making it accessible for most visitors. It offers scenic views of the falls and surrounding mountains. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for families.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding alpine scenery. Wildlife sightings, such as bears and moose, are common in the area, so caution is advised. The falls are particularly impressive during spring and early summer when snowmelt increases water flow.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Swiftcurrent Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
Permit required
A reservation or entry permit is required to access Glacier National Park during peak season (May through September). Check the National Park Service website for details.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Swiftcurrent Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Swiftcurrent Falls is during late spring and early summer when the water flow is at its peak due to snowmelt. Fall also offers beautiful foliage and fewer crowds.
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
Be cautious of wildlife and carry bear spray. Stay on designated trails and avoid getting too close to the water, as the currents are strong. Weather can change rapidly, so dress in layers and be prepared for rain or wind.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Swiftcurrent Creek at Many Glacier MT (0 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
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 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 95 feet of drop through Swiftcurrent Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 4,841 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 91 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 124 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing north, the falls 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
- 4,841 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 95 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
Swiftcurrent Falls is located near the Many Glacier area of Glacier National Park. Visitors can access the falls via the Many Glacier Road, which is typically open during the summer and early fall months. The falls are visible from the road, and there are nearby trails for closer views.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Many Glacier Hotel or nearby trailheads. However, parking can be limited during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
4,839 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.800114° N, -113.655162° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking, especially during the summer months. Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the area can be windy and cool even in summer.
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
1 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
Many Glacier Hotel, Grinnell Glacier Trail, Iceberg Lake Trail, and Swiftcurrent Lake.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, moose, mountain goats, and birds. Visitors should carry bear spray and follow park guidelines for wildlife safety.
Cities near Swiftcurrent Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Swiftcurrent Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.