Hiking Paradise Point in Glacier National Park: A Family-Friendly Lakeside Trail in Two Medicine

If you’re looking for an easy, family-friendly trail in Glacier National Park that still delivers beautiful lake views, the short hike to Paradise Point in the Two Medicine area is a perfect option. At just 1.4 miles round trip, this out-and-back trail is an excellent choice for visitors short on time or traveling with young kids.

Trail Overview

The Paradise Point Trail starts from the South Shore Trailhead in the Two Medicine region of the park. You’ll follow the Two Medicine South Shore Trail for about 0.2 miles before veering right toward the lake. Paradise Point is a scenic spot that juts slightly into Two Medicine Lake, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains and water. It’s a peaceful place to relax, take photos, or enjoy a quick picnic before heading back.

Since this is an out-and-back trail, you’ll retrace your steps to return to the trailhead, making the total hike approximately 1.4 miles.

When to Visit

Two Medicine is one of the more serene regions of Glacier National Park, but during the peak summer season, it can still get quite busy. Although this area is currently excluded from the park’s vehicle reservation system, the National Park Service may temporarily restrict vehicle access late in the morning or early afternoon once parking fills up. To avoid this, try arriving early in the morning or visiting in the late afternoon or early evening, when the light on the lake is particularly beautiful.

Note: The vehicle reservation system rules can change annually. Always check the official Glacier National Park website for up-to-date information before your trip.

Trail Extensions and Nearby Hikes

If you’re feeling up for more than just a short stroll, there are several additional hikes that begin from the same South Shore Trailhead. Some of the nearby options include:

• Upper Two Medicine Lake
• Cobalt Lake
• Aster Park Overlook
• Rockwell Falls
• Twin Falls

On my hike, I chose to combine Paradise Point with the Aster Park Overlook trail for a bit more elevation gain and an expanded view over the Two Medicine area. It made for a satisfying half-day adventure without being too strenuous.

Final Thoughts

Paradise Point is a great introduction to hiking in Glacier National Park, especially if you’re looking for something short, scenic, and accessible. Whether you’re warming up for a longer day on the trail or just want to soak in the views with minimal effort, this quick jaunt to the lake’s edge is well worth your time.