Twin Falls
Montana • Glacier National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
3.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Twin Falls
Twin Falls is a picturesque waterfall located within Glacier National Park, Montana. It is accessible via a hiking trail and is known for its serene setting and dual cascades, which make it a popular destination for visitors exploring the park.
The Setting
Twin Falls sits at 5,338 feet within Glacier National Park, in the high mountains of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 3.6-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Twin Falls is a relatively easy hike that follows the South Shore Trail along Two Medicine Lake. The path is well-maintained and offers scenic views of the lake, surrounding mountains, and lush forest. The final approach to the falls is a short spur trail leading to the base of the cascades.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful hike with stunning views of Two Medicine Lake and the surrounding wilderness. Twin Falls features two distinct cascades flowing side by side, creating a tranquil and photogenic setting. Wildlife sightings, such as deer and birds, are common along the trail.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Twin Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Pets aren't allowed on trails, lakeshores or in the backcountry in Glacier National Park; leashed pets may stay in developed areas like roads and campgrounds.
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 Twin Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Twin Falls is during late spring through early fall when the trail is free of snow and the waterfalls are flowing at their fullest. Summer offers the most accessible conditions.
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, as storms can develop quickly in the mountains. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Stay on designated trails to avoid damaging the environment and for your safety.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Two Medicine River bl South Fork nr Browning MT (33 km away).
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.
Is Twin Falls Frozen?
Updated about 7 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Twin Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 42°F to 33°F.
- Days below freezing
- 1 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- no gauge
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Montana.
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 ground through the falls loses about 186 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 5,362 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 93 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 90 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 5,362 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 186 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Twin Falls is located near East Glacier Park Village, approximately 10.1 miles away. The trailhead is accessible from the Two Medicine area of Glacier National Park. Visitors typically start their hike from the Two Medicine Campground or the South Shore Trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Two Medicine Campground or nearby trailhead parking areas. Arrive early during peak seasons as parking can fill up quickly.
Elevation
5,338 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.476502° N, -113.426804° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early in the day to avoid crowds and secure parking. Bring insect repellent during summer months as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Wear sturdy footwear as some sections of the trail may be uneven.
This trail sits at 5,338 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 21% 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.
This easy 3.6 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. 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.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The backcountry standard — filters 99.9% of bacteria and weighs just 3 oz.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
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
3.1 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
Nearby attractions include Two Medicine Lake, Running Eagle Falls, and the scenic Two Medicine Valley. The Two Medicine Campground is also a popular spot for visitors.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, and birds. Visitors should practice bear safety and carry bear spray.
Cities near Twin Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Twin Falls
21 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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