Two Medicine Lake
A tranquil, less-traveled gem in Glacier National Park, offering stunning mountain reflections, serene hikes, and boat tours.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Two Medicine Lake
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil, less-traveled gem in Glacier National Park, offering stunning mountain reflections, serene hikes, and boat tours.
"The most beautiful place in Glacier National Park. So serene and beautiful hard to leave."
Skip the Vehicle Reservation
Enjoy Two Medicine without needing a vehicle reservation – a major perk!
Pack Hiking Boots
Early season can be muddy; sturdy boots are recommended for hikes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Two Medicine Lake Reflection
Two Medicine Lake
Witness the breathtaking mirror-like reflections of surrounding mountains on the tranquil lake waters.
Boat Tour to Upper Two Medicine Lake
Glacier Park Boat Company dock
Take a scenic boat ride and hike to Upper Two Medicine Lake for stunning waterfalls and serene beauty.
Two Medicine Lake Loop Trail
Circumnavigating Two Medicine Lake
Embark on a scenic 9.7-mile loop offering diverse views and a deeper exploration of the area.
Wildlife Sightings
Various locations around the lake
Keep your eyes peeled for moose and other incredible wildlife in this less-crowded section of the park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity: Two Medicine's Quieter Charm
+1Plan for the Elements: Footwear & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Skip the Vehicle Reservation
Enjoy Two Medicine without needing a vehicle reservation – a major perk!
Pack Hiking Boots
Early season can be muddy; sturdy boots are recommended for hikes.
Embrace the Peace
This area is known for its tranquility and fewer visitors. Soak it in!
Wildlife Encounters
Be aware of your surroundings; moose have been spotted here!
Tips
from all over the internet
Skip the Vehicle Reservation
Enjoy Two Medicine without needing a vehicle reservation – a major perk!
Pack Hiking Boots
Early season can be muddy; sturdy boots are recommended for hikes.
Embrace the Peace
This area is known for its tranquility and fewer visitors. Soak it in!
Wildlife Encounters
Be aware of your surroundings; moose have been spotted here!
Boat Shuttle Option
Use the boat shuttle for easier access to hikes like Upper Two Medicine Lake.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Two Medicine Lake's serene beauty and peaceful atmosphere, often calling it a 'hidden gem' compared to busier park areas. The boat tours and hiking opportunities, particularly to Upper Two Medicine Lake, are highlights, offering stunning scenery and waterfalls. Some note that early season trails can be muddy, and while generally less crowded, it can still get busy.
"We had the best time at Two Medicine Lake. It was definitely more slower paced, peaceful and not nearly as overcrowded when compared to the other side of the park."
Esmeralda Montoya
"We took the boat tour and stepped off to hike back. It was one of the highlights of our trip. Beautiful waterfalls and scenery along the way. The hike had a few challenging parts to it but nothing too difficult. We went in early June and it was a little muddy so I would recommend hiking boots."
Alison Wolf
"Two Medicine Lake, nestled in the southeastern corner of Glacier National Park, offers a serene and less-traveled alternative to the park’s more frequented areas. With its tranquil waters, stunning mountain backdrops, and a variety of outdoor activities, it provides a quintessential Glacier experience.
Canoeing & Kayaking: For those seeking a more tranquil experience, canoeing or kayaking on the lake allows for close encounters with nature in a peaceful setting.
Recommended!
Boat Tours: The Glacier Park Boat Company operates tours across the lake, providing informative rides that offer unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Two Medicine Lake is located in the southeastern part of Glacier National Park, accessible via the Two Medicine entrance near East Glacier Park Village. Unlike some other popular areas, you do not need a vehicle reservation to enter the Two Medicine area, making it a convenient choice.
Yes, Two Medicine Lake is generally considered less crowded than areas like Lake McDonald or Logan Pass. It's often described as a 'hidden gem' that gets overlooked by many visitors, offering a more peaceful experience.
Yes, you can drive to Two Medicine Lake. The Two Medicine Road leads directly to the lake and its facilities. It's a scenic drive that offers beautiful views as you approach the lake.
From East Glacier Park Village, head north on Highway 49 for about 10 miles, then turn west onto the well-marked Two Medicine Road. The road leads directly to the lake.
Yes, like all of Glacier National Park, there is an entrance fee. However, you do not need a separate vehicle reservation for the Two Medicine area itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need a vehicle reservation to access the Two Medicine area of Glacier National Park. This is a significant advantage for visitors looking to avoid the timed entry system.
Two Medicine Lake is accessible during park operating hours. The Glacier Park Boat Company tours and the General Store have specific seasonal hours, typically from late May or early June through September. It's best to check the official NPS website for the most current information.
The cost of the boat tours varies depending on the tour length and whether it includes a shuttle to a hiking destination. You can find current pricing and schedules on the Glacier Park Boat Company website, which partners with the park.
Yes, personal kayaks and canoes are allowed on Two Medicine Lake, offering a peaceful way to explore the water at your own pace.
Parking is generally included with your Glacier National Park entrance fee. However, parking lots can fill up, especially during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular hikes include the Two Medicine Lake Loop (9.7 miles), the hike to Upper Two Medicine Lake (accessible via boat shuttle or a longer trail), and the short, family-friendly Paradise Point trail. +1
Yes, fishing is permitted at Two Medicine Lake with a valid Montana fishing license. Be sure to check park regulations for any specific restrictions.
Yes, the Two Medicine Campground is located nearby and offers a beautiful setting for camping. It's a popular spot, so reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Visitors have reported seeing moose, mountain goats, and various bird species. Remember to maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
Absolutely! The lake offers stunning reflections, mountain vistas, and opportunities for wildlife photography. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a General Store near the boat dock that offers souvenirs, snacks, and some basic supplies. For more extensive dining options, you'll need to travel to nearby East Glacier Park Village.
Yes, picnicking is a great way to enjoy the scenery. There are designated picnic areas, or you can find a scenic spot along the lake shore.
The General Store typically offers grab-and-go items, snacks, drinks, and some basic groceries. It's convenient for a quick bite or supplies for a picnic.
The closest town with a variety of restaurants is East Glacier Park Village, located about 10 miles away. Here you'll find lodges and local eateries.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy at Two Medicine Lake, especially if you plan on hiking or picnicking.
📸 📸 Photography
The eastern shores of the lake often provide excellent vantage points for sunrise, with the mountains catching the early light. For sunset, the western side can offer beautiful colors reflecting on the water.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery and lake. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for those stunning reflections, especially during sunrise/sunset.
Look for reflections on calm mornings, experiment with different angles from the shore, and consider hiking to higher viewpoints for panoramic shots. The area around the boat dock offers classic postcard views.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful light. However, midday can also be stunning, especially with clear blue skies reflecting in the water.
Yes, Two Medicine Lake is a great place for wildlife photography. Keep an eye out for moose, mountain goats, and various birds. Always maintain a safe distance and use a telephoto lens.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider taking the boat shuttle across the lake; kids often love boat rides, and it makes accessing hikes like the one to Upper Two Medicine Lake much more manageable. Remember to pack snacks and plenty of water, and keep an eye out for wildlife like mountain goats, which can be exciting for children to spot. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Alternatively, using the boat shuttle to access shorter segments of trails, like the hike to Upper Two Medicine Lake, provides rewarding views without committing to the entire loop. The peaceful atmosphere and fewer crowds make it a great place for introspection and enjoying the grandeur of Glacier National Park at your own pace. 📸 Photographers
Bring a wide-angle lens to encompass the vast landscapes and a telephoto lens for potential wildlife shots. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Two Medicine Lake by Water
+1 This is a fantastic option for those who want to cover more ground without a strenuous hike back. Visitors can also bring their own canoes and kayaks to paddle across the serene waters, enjoying a more intimate connection with the landscape and potentially spotting wildlife from a unique perspective. For those who prefer to skip the boat tour and hike the entire perimeter, the Two Medicine Lake Loop is a challenging but rewarding 9.7-mile trail that circles the lake, offering diverse views and a true sense of immersion in the park's wilderness.
Whether you opt for a guided tour, a personal paddle, or a full-day hike, exploring Two Medicine Lake by water is an unforgettable experience.Hiking Trails Around Two Medicine
For a more accessible adventure, consider the boat shuttle to Upper Two Medicine Lake. From the shuttle drop-off, it's a relatively short hike to the lake, which features beautiful waterfalls and stunning scenery. This combination of boat and hike is highly recommended by visitors for its efficiency and rewarding views.For a shorter, family-friendly option, the trail to Paradise Point is a good choice, offering lovely lake views without a significant time commitment.
Regardless of your chosen trail, remember to check trail conditions, carry bear spray, and be prepared for changing mountain weather. The Unique Appeal of Two Medicine
This tranquility is part of its allure, allowing visitors to connect more deeply with the natural beauty. The lake itself is renowned for its stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains, creating postcard-perfect scenes, especially during the calm morning hours. Beyond its visual beauty, the area holds a spiritual significance, with indigenous peoples naming it 'Two Medicine' for reasons that evoke a sense of healing and profound connection to nature.
This deeper meaning adds another layer to the visitor experience, making Two Medicine more than just a scenic spot, but a place that can inspire reflection and well-being. +1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit