10 Best Waterfalls in Glacier National Park

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Want to know the best waterfalls to visit in Glacier National Park?

Did you know that there are over 200 different waterfalls in Glacier? While growing up near the park, I explored a lot of them as a kid, and I assumed every place I would visit would have waterfalls right in their backyard. It wasn’t until I had visited quite a few places that I realized that having them around wasn’t exactly a given.

Now that Daniel and I visit Glacier every summer, we almost always try to chase a waterfall or two while hiking. Some of these are extremely accessible, which means that you only have a short walk on a boardwalk or pavement to reach them. Others, like Ptarmigan Falls, require that you hike to them to get the full effect.

If seeing waterfalls is on your list of things to do in Glacier, then you might want to check out this list so you can plan which falls make sense for you with how you’ve planned your trip. I’ve included some information about each one so you’ll have an easier time determining whether it’s worth a stop on your trip.

In summary: This guide goes over some of my favorite waterfalls in Glacier, as well as how to get to them and what you should expect.

Quick tip: Waterfall geek? The east side of the park is where you will want to be for the most dramatic water displays!

1. Virginia Falls

Hike to see?: Yes

One of my favorite hikes in Glacier that doesn’t require a lot of work for some great payoff is the St. Mary and Virginia Falls hike. You get two for the price of one on this hike, but I definitely prefer Virginia Falls, which is the more impressive of the two. You’ll have to do the full 3.2 miles to enjoy it, but you have very little elevation gain and it’s well-worth it in my opinion!

2. Apikuni Falls

Hike to see?: Yes

One of Glacier’s most famous waterfalls is also one of its most accessible. This 1.8-mile hike in the Many Glacier area leads to a two-tiered waterfall that is perfect for photography, along with some great views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a fairly popular hike and there is limited parking available, so recommend getting there early if this is high on your list.

3. Running Eagle Falls

Hike to see?: No

Two Medicine is a paradise for those who love waterfalls, and I love how Running Eagle Falls is the perfect cascade for the whole family. While you do have a short, .7-mile stroll to get to the waterfall, the way there has a path that is wheelchair accessible and it is almost completely flat. Running Eagle Falls is consider a “trick” waterfall, since it is actually two waterfalls that looks like one.

Quick tip: Early summer is the best time to visit Running Eagle Falls since it often dries up later in the year as water levels drop.

4. Baring Falls

Hike to see?: Yes

While you do have to hike to see Baring Falls, at .8 miles, it’s pretty doable for almost everyone. You’ll catch this one at Sunrift Gorge, and it’s definitely one of the stops I recommend on Going-to-the-Sun Road for a chance to stretch your legs and to see some gorgeous falls. If you would like, you can keep going to see St. Mary and Virginia Falls too, making it a triple waterfall hit of an afternoon.

5. Bird Woman Falls

Hike to see?: Cannot access by foot

You might not be able to get up close and personal to Bird Woman Falls, but you can definitely see it on Going-to-the-Sun Road. It can be more difficult to spot in the heat of the summer months when the water levels are low, but during the spring and June it contrasts beautifully with the mountains. There are several turnouts along the road where you can snap some photos!

6. St. Mary Falls

Hike to see?: Yes

The perfect swimming hole does exist in Glacier! You’ll hit up this waterfall first on the St. Mary and Virginia Falls hike. This is a fantastic spot to dip your toes in the water and cool off on a hot day, and you can’t beat the turquoise color. If you are looking for an ideal picnic spot after getting up early and driving Going-to-the-Sun, then this is an ideal option.

Quick tip: If you do plan on swimming, this is one hike I recommend taking on in the late afternoon so you can dry off from the cold water quickly!

7. Redrock Falls

Hike to see?: Yes

Don’t sleep on this lovely hike in the Many Glacier area! Daniel and I were looking for a nice stroll before our night at the Many Glacier Hotel, and we were surprised at how stunning this series of falls is. Not to mention, it doesn’t take much to get there at 3.7 miles with very little elevation gain. Another great hike for kids if you have them in tow!

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8. Rockwell Falls

Hike to see?: Yes

The summer we hiked to Rockwell Falls was brutally hot, and it turned out to be the perfect spot to take a dip. Even if you choose to admire them instead of swimming in them, I would highly recommend this hike when the weather gets toasty. Not only that, but I think these falls are some of the most underrated in the park and there’s a good chance you’ll have them to yourself.

9. Florence Falls

Hike to see?: Yes

If you are looking for a bit more of a challenge, then the 10-mile hike to Florence Falls might be the right choice. You’ll find the falls along the Gunsight Pass trail, which is a favorite among backpackers–but you don’t have to have Glacier’s backpacking permits to get there as a day hike. Photographer? I personally think this is one of the most photogenic spots in the park.

10. Ptarmigan Falls

Hike to see?: Yes

If you are planning on taking on the Iceberg Lake Trail, then you should absolutely take on a little side quest and check out Ptarmigan Falls nearby. You start at the same trailhead, but you will then choose the Ptarmigan Trail, which will add about 5 miles to your trek. While you can’t get great views of the falls, I find that it’s worth it to be in the cool forest and explore a less-popular spot in the park.

Conclusion

If you wanted, you could based your entire Glacier National Park itinerary around waterfalls! I’ve listed my favorite options in the park in the article, and I’ve tried to include a variety of options for every level of hiker. Whether you are looking to snap a picture or have your picnic beside some rushing falls, you might want to add these to your list!

Have any questions about the waterfalls in Glacier National Park? Let me know in the comments!