Two Medicine

Two Medicine lies in the southeast corner of the park, on the edge of the Blackfeet Reservation, and it has a very different feel from the crowded west side. Two Medicine Lake stretches for miles below Sinopah Mountain, the water a deep blue against red and green rock, and the valley holds some of the best day hikes in the park without the parking battles of Logan Pass. The Blackfeet, whose name for these lands carries deep cultural meaning, have lived here for centuries, and the audio tour tells that story along with the geology, the railroad era and the creation of the park. Highlights include Running Eagle Falls, a waterfall that splits into two streams, an easy walk of under a mile; the shore trail along Two Medicine Lake; and a boat tour on the lake in summer that shortens the hike to Twin Falls. For a bigger day, Scenic Point climbs to a ridge with a panoramic view over the prairie, which is a distinctive sight: the mountains rise directly from the plains.

Plan a visit as a half or full day from East Glacier Park or St. Mary, or as one stop on a loop around the park. The valley is a short drive off US 2, and the road in is paved, but facilities are more limited than in Apgar or Many Glacier.

There is a campground and a camp store near the lake, but no large lodge, which is part of the appeal. In summer the boat tour is a gentle way to see the head of the lake, and many hikers combine it with the trail to Twin Falls and Upper Two Medicine Lake.

Wildlife is plentiful. Bears use the valley, moose are common near the ponds and bighorn sheep can be seen on the slopes, so bear spray and awareness are standard. Winds can be strong, especially on the open ridges, and weather on the eastern side tends to be drier but windier than the west, so bring a windproof layer.

The lake is also popular with photographers for sunrise, when the first light hits the peaks across the water. If you are driving the park from west to east, Two Medicine makes a calm epilogue to the crowds on the Sun Road; if you are coming from East Glacier Park, it is the nearest part of the park and a good first taste before heading to Many Glacier.

Several simple choices will improve your visit. Arrive early to get a parking spot near the lake and to see the water at its calmest. If you plan to take the boat, check the first departure and reserve ahead for summer weekends. Pack a picnic, because the area has few places to buy food beyond a small camp store. For photography, the classic view is from the shore near the boat dock, with Sinopah Mountain reflected in the water.

If you want a longer hike, ask rangers about conditions on Scenic Point and the trail to Upper Two Medicine Lake, as wind and snow can affect them. The valley is a fine place for families because the main walks are short and the scenery is easy to appreciate. Plan to pair the stop with a meal in East Glacier Park, where small restaurants and a historic lodge serve travelers.