Things To Do at Two Medicine Lake
Along the shores of Lake McDonald, around Big Bend and over Logan Pass we go! The venture over to East Glacier is definitely worth it while you are here. You will venture over here at least a little bit but I would advise you to make sure you also plan some East side adventures on your Glacier National Park Agenda. One of those ones I feel should be on your list is Two Medicine Lake. This blog will just hit the tip of the iceberg on what the East side has to offer but open some ideas for you to plan the best family vacation to date!
Why Families Visit Two Medicine Lake?
The hustle and bustle of Summer in Glacier is one to be reckoned with, but on the East side that hustle looks much different. The terrain offers multiple hiking trailheads, wildlife is abundant and the scenery will continue to knock your socks off. Take a day and make the most of the East side of Glacier. I feel you will get the most out of your time in Glacier setting up your home base on the West side but the East side deserves some of your quality family vacation time too.
Top Things To Do At Two Medicine Lake
Embrace the whole experience of Two Medicine Lake and take advantage of a once in a lifetime tour of this lake on board of Sinopah, the oldest wooden boat still in the Glacier waters, built back in 1926. Sit back and relax while learning about the Two Med area and the rich Blackfeet Tribal history that surrounds the area. When you book your seat on this tour be mindful a few of their tour options also included a guided hike to Twin Falls, I mean when in Rome … .am I right?
Cast a line while you are visiting. Rainbow and Brook trout are commonly found here in Two Medicine Lake. The world is your oyster around here, keep your eyes peeled for moose, beavers, bighorn sheep, mountain goats.. Don’t forget to have your cameras ready!
Kid-Friendly Hikes Around Two Medicine Lake
Take a hike or two while you are here:
1. Running Eagle Falls
Running Eagle Falls also known as “trick falls” which is a quick loop a round trail just taking about 15 minutes of your day. Nice way for the kids to stretch their legs. It is a well traveled trail although parking may be tricky. Speaking of tricky, this trail gets its nickname “trick falls” as it is actually two waterfalls, during spring run off the top falls totally takes over the view of the lower falls but during the Summer months you will hopefully see both falls still active while looking at Rising Wolf Mountain in the background.
2. Appsitoki Falls
Appistoki Falls is another great one to hit while you are in the Two Medicine area. This trail is a total of 1.3 miles out and back. You will stick with the Mt. Henry trail for most of your route until you reach the side trail about 0.6 mi in that will take you off to the falls. This trail was created by Great Northern Railway to help make transportation easier between Glacier Park Lodge and Two Medicine Chalets. While you are on Mt. Henry part of this trail, note you are on a small stretch of much bigger trail. This portion is part of the Continental Divide Trail that starts in Waterton National Park in Canada and ends at the Mexico border in New Mexico. You may run into someone embarking that journey while you are headed to the falls. HOW COOL! Find more Easy Kid-Friendly Hikes in Glacier National Park here.
Nearby Attractions
While you are on this side of the Continental Divide you may as well get the most of it. Explore St. Mary Village or enjoy the East side via horseback. Our friends at Glacier Park Boat Company can help you set sail in East Glacier as well as the Two Medicine area. These are tours you don’t want to miss! A few good mentionable hikes here are Aster Falls or Sun Point Nature Trail. Wild Goose Island is a great spot to stop as well. This is the most photographed spot in Glacier. Even take advantage of a bus tour on the East side if you want someone else to do the driving!
Ok, I’m going to be fully transparent for a minute. As a Flathead Valley local I always spent most of my free time growing up and recreating on the West side of Glacier. When my parents would plan something for the East side I was not impressed to say the least. Not only did I think the car ride took 482 minutes (definitely not true but a kid’s concept of time is a bit outlandish) but it was “so ugly and boring”. Now as an adult I can tell you PLAN. THE. ADVENTURES. ON. THE. EAST. SIDE. No matter which route you decide to take to get there. Check out our guide to Planning a Glacier National Park Drive for inspiration. Going To The Sun Road is clearly a great way to go but even the trek around on Hwy 2 it is beautiful as well. You will not be disappointed. Your day may start earlier to hit a trailhead on time or make it all the way to where you want to start for the day, but rest assured the views will be worth it. If you have already been floored by the mountains, wait till the prairies meet the mountains, they seem 3x as big. Trust me.
Don’t Forget To Visit Glacier Highline
After soaking in the serene beauty and adventure of Two Medicine Lake, there’s no better way to keep the excitement going than with a visit to Glacier Highline.Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself on our aerial adventure course, unwind with a delicious meal at the Tower Grill, or simply enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere surrounded by Montana’s breathtaking scenery, Glacier Highline offers the perfect blend of thrill and relaxation. Make the most of your Glacier National Park experience—cap off your day with unforgettable memories at Glacier Highline!