Hiking to Upper Two Medicine Lake in Glacier National Park

Upper Two Medicine Lake is a 9.3-mile moderate out-and-back hike in the scenic Two Medicine area of Glacier National Park. This hike offers several route options, allowing you to tailor your adventure based on time and energy level.

Route Options

There are three main ways to reach Upper Two Medicine Lake:

• South Shore Trail: Adds over 2 miles to the hike but offers a different perspective of the lake.
• Boat Shuttle: Cuts roughly 6 miles off the round trip by taking a scenic boat ride across Two Medicine Lake.
• North Shore Trail: The option I chose, this route begins near the Two Medicine Campground by Pray Lake and offers a great balance of solitude and scenery.

The Hike

The North Shore Trail features gentle elevation gain as it hugs the edge of Two Medicine Lake. Most of the trail winds through peaceful forest, but you’ll break into open areas offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. During my hike, I startled a moose that burst out of the woods and sprinted toward the water. Seeing such a massive animal move that fast was unforgettable.

Side Trip to Twin Falls

Just past the end of the lake, you’ll have the option to add on a quick detour to Twin Falls. This side hike is only a tenth of a mile and absolutely worth it. The falls are beautiful and a perfect place for a short break before the final climb.

Upper Two Medicine Lake

After Twin Falls, the trail climbs steadily toward Upper Two Medicine Lake. As you gain elevation, the views become increasingly dramatic. The lake itself is stunning, with crystal-clear turquoise water, red rock shores, and towering mountains surrounding it. A backcountry campground is located at the lake if you’re interested in turning this into an overnight backpacking trip.

Heading Back

After spending time soaking in the views, I retraced my steps back along the North Shore Trail. If you want to mix up the return, you could opt for the South Shore Trail instead. If that’s your plan, consider parking in the Two Medicine Picnic Area Loop. It’s conveniently located between both trailheads.

Final Thoughts

Upper Two Medicine Lake stands out as one of Glacier’s best hikes. With breathtaking alpine scenery, wildlife viewing opportunities, and flexible route options, it’s a fantastic choice for both first-time visitors and seasoned hikers. If you’re looking for a hike that captures the essence of Glacier, this one should be on your list.