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Two Medicine Lake is a hidden gem located in the heart of Montana’s stunning Rocky Mountains. With crystal-clear waters and towering peaks as a backdrop, this peaceful lake offers a variety of activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. A variety of activities awaits you here, including hiking, fishing, boating, and photography, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In this post, we’ll share everything you need to know to plan the ultimate trip to this Montana paradise. We will also cover where to stay, when to visit, and how to get there. Read on to learn all that Two Medicine Lake has to offer!
Table of Contents
About Two Medicine Lake
Two Medicine Lake is a beautiful glacial lake located in Glacier National Park in Montana, USA. The lake gets its name from the Blackfeet tribe, who used the area for spiritual and medicinal purposes. The lake is surrounded by towering peaks, including Sinopah Mountain, Rising Wolf Mountain, and Mount Henry.
The area around Two Medicine Lake is popular for nature lovers and photographers due to the variety of wildlife that inhabits it. Large animals, such as bears, elk, and mountain goats are commonly seen in this area. There are a number of different species of fish in the lake, including rainbow trout and brook trout. It is not as well known for fishing as some other lakes in the region, so anglers who come here may have bettter luck.
One of the reasons why Two Medicine Lake is such a popular destination for photographers is because of the colorful rocks in the water. These rocks consist of different shades of green, red, orange, and other colors due to varying degrees of iron and other substances. When the waters of the lake are still, especially in the mornings, the colorful rocks make it especially picture-worthy.
How to Get to Two Medicine Lake
Depending on where you are located, the most convenient options for getting to Two Medicine Lake are by flying to the nearby airport, or by taking your car there.
Two Medicine Lake by car
The easiest way to get to Two Medicine Lake is by car. The lake is located in the southeastern part of Glacier National Park, about 20 minutes from the town of East Glacier Park. To get to the lake, take U.S. Highway 2 to East Glacier Park and follow the signs to the park. Once you’re inside the park, follow the signs to Two Medicine Lake. There is a fee to enter the park and you’ll need to purchase a pass before entering. There is also a vehicle registration requirement to enter, but if you are staying at a campsite or have booked a tour in the Two Medicine area, that fee will be waived.
Two Medicine Lake by plane
If you are visiting from further away, the nearest airport is the Glacier Park International Airport in Kalispell, Montana. There are a number of other airports in the region as well, including the Missoula International Airport and the Great Falls International Airport. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to the lake. There are a number of shuttle services that operate in the area, including Glacier National Park Lodges and Montana Shuttle. These companies offer shuttle service to and from the lake, as well as other destinations in the region.
What to Do at Two Medicine Lake
While there is plenty to see and do at Two Medicine Lake, here are our recommended top 5!
Hike the surrounding mountains
One of the most popular activities at Two Medicine Lake is hiking. The area is home to a number of trails that offer breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Some of the most popular trails include the Two Medicine Pass Trail, the Upper Two Medicine Lake Trail, and the Dawson Pass Trail. These trails range in difficulty and length, so there’s something for hikers of all abilities.
Go fishing
Fishing is another popular activity at the lake. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, and brook trout. A Montana fishing license is required to fish in the lake, and can be obtained at the park’s visitor centers or online. This lake isn’t as popular of a fishing spot as other lakes in the region, so you may have a better chance of catching something!
Take a kayak around the lake
Boating is also permitted on the lake, and is a great way to take in the scenery and spot wildlife. Canoes and kayaks can be rented at the Two Medicine Boat Dock, and there are also several boat launches around the lake. I highly recommend renting a kayak or canoe and explore the lake. Just make sure not to fall in because the water temperature will be pretty cold!
Photography
Two Medicine Lake is a popular destination for photographers due to its picturesque landscapes and serene atmosphere. The crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding mountains, creating breathtaking reflections that make for stunning compositions. If you are lucky, you may even spot some large wildlife wandering around the lake! Even if you are not a professional, you can still capture remarkable shots with just a smartphone or a basic camera.
Visit nearby attractions
In addition to the activities at the lake, there are also several nearby attractions to explore. Glacier Lake National Park has numerous hiking trails, such as the Avalanche Lake trail, as well as boat tours, and wildlife viewing opportunities. You can also drive up the popular Going-To-The-Sun Mountain, perfect for a day trip from the lake. The town of East Glacier Park is also nearby, and offers restaurants, shopping, and other amenities.
Best Time to Visit Two Medicine Lake
Glacier National Park is busiest in the summer months, from June to September. This is when the weather is warmest and the days are longest, making it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and boating. However, it’s also the peak tourist season, so you can expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations. If you visit in the summer, you should come to the lake in the morning. You will be able to appreciate its serenity before all the crowds come.
Spring and fall are also great times to visit the park. The weather is cooler and the crowds are smaller, making for a more peaceful and less crowded experience. In the spring, you’ll be able to see the park’s many wildflowers in bloom, while in the fall, the trees turn beautiful shades of orange and yellow.
Winter is a less popular time to visit the park, but it can be a great opportunity to experience the park’s snow-covered landscapes. The park is open year-round, but some roads and facilities may be closed due to snow. If you’re planning a winter visit, be sure to check the park’s website for updates on road and facility closures.
Note: While Glacier National Park may be open year-round, Two Medicine Lake is usually only open from May to October.
Where to Stay around Two Medicine Lake
If you’re planning a visit to Two Medicine Lake in Glacier National Park, there are several options for accommodations in the area. Certain options may be more appealing depending on convenience, location, and your budget.
Two Medicine Campground
The Two Medicine Campground is the closest to the lake and offers tent and RV sites. The campground has flush toilets, bear-proof food storage, and a dump station. In the summer, these sites cost $20/night and are first come, first served. There are also several lodges in the area, offering rooms, cabins, and apartments.
Another option is to stay in a nearby town or city and visit the lake as a day trip. The nearest town is East Glacier Park, which is about a 20-minute drive from the lake. East Glacier Park has several hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts to choose from. The Glacier Park Lodge is a popular option for visitors.
Backcountry Campsite
If you’re looking for a more rustic experience, there are also several backcountry campsites in the area. These campsites can only be accessed by hiking or boating, and do not have running water or toilets. A permit is required to stay at a backcountry campsite, and can be obtained from the park’s visitor centers.
Tips for Visiting Two Medicine Lake
Before your trip to Two Medicine Lake, here are 5 tips to ensure your visit goes smoothly.
1. Arrive to the lake early
I was one of the first people to the lake, and I was rewarded with views of the perfectly-still water. I also did not have to wait for a kayak to become available. Those who arrived later in the morning had to wait up to an hour before a kayak became available to them.
2. Stay away from the wildlife
If you are lucky enough to see wildlife, especially large animals such as elk or bears, leave them alone. Every year, there are tourists who get too close to animals in National Parks and are injured or killed. Admire them from a distance and respect their territory.
3. Bring the right clothes
Even if you visit Glacier National Park in the summer, the nights can get very cold. Make sure you always have warm clothes for when the sun goes down, as well as appropriate clothes for the daytime heat.
4. Reserve your entry tickets in advance
Glacier National Park can get very busy during its peak season. If you do not reserve your ticket in advance, you may not be allowed to enter the park! This would definitely ruin your whole trip, so make sure you plan ahead.
5. Visit during the shoulder season
If you come to visit during the spring or fall, there will be much fewer crowds that you will have to deal with. Not only will you enjoy more time to yourself, but there will also be more vacancies at camp sites and nearby hotels. Keep in mind, Two Medicine Lake is usually only open from May to October, so do not plan on visiting outside of those months!
