Running Eagle Falls, Glacier National Park

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Running Eagle Falls

Named after a female Blackfeet warrior, Running Eagle Falls is a beautiful yet deceptive natural feature, famous for “tricking” visitors with a seeming change in water flow, located in east Glacier.

  • Running Eagle Falls is located in east Glacier’s Two Medicine area.
  • Experience the falls’ apparent “trickery,” and surrounding alpine forests filled with native birds, lush undergrowth, and protruding mountain peaks.
  • Nearby accommodations, amenities and activities in the Two Medicine area, including boat tours, bus tours, camp ground and hiking trails.

Overview

Situated in the Two Medicine area, Running Eagle Falls holds religious significance for the Blackfeet Nation. Here Weasel Woman, later known as Running Eagle because of her bravery and warrior status, reportedly experienced her vision quest. Due to its short, wheelchair accessible trail, Running Eagle Falls is a perfect site for the entire family. Also known as Trick Falls, this feature is actually two falls in one – during run-off, water rushes over the upper falls, obscuring the lower falls. By late summer, the upper falls slows to a trickle while water rushes through the lower falls.

Location/Directions

Running Eagle Falls is located in east Glacier. From Highway 49, take Two Medicine Road 4.5 miles west until you arrive at the parking area. From here, it is an easy .3 mile stroll.

Season

See water charging over the upper falls during late spring through mid summer. Lower falls visibility is best mid summer to mid autumn.

Activities

Camping: Pitch a tent and enjoy the natural beauty of Glacier Park's Two Medicine area.

  • Two Medicine Campground
  • Location: 13 miles from East Glacier. (Few miles west of Running Eagle Falls.)
  • Sites: 99
  • Fees: $20/night (peak), $10/night (primitive)
  • Season: Peak - late May through mid September; Primitive - late September through late October. 
  • Flush toilets/running water

Picnicking: Running Eagle Falls is a great place to enjoy a packed lunch. Soak your toes in the cool water and snap a family photo amidst gorgeous Glacier scenery.

Tours: Head over to Two Medicine Lake for a boat tour, or experience Glacier Park landscapes aboard a bus.

Additional Information

For ornithologists, keep watch for Horned Grebes, Buffleheads, American Wigeons, and more.

In the Spotlight

Other Running Eagle Falls Resources

Multnomah Falls

Spectacular waterfall in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge.