Aster Falls is an easy, flat hike in Glacier National Park that leads to a beautiful little cascade. The trailhead is at the far end of the parking lot in the Two Medicine area. The out-and-back distance for the hike is just under three miles.
Hike Info
- Rating: Easy
- Distance: 2.8 miles RT
- Elevation Gain: 100 feet
- Fees: Glacier National Park Fee
- Tips: This is a great morning or evening hike because moose and beaver frequent the area, so you have a better chance of spotting them early or late.
There is a lot of potential for seeing wildlife on this trip as it runs through a few open meadows and past some nice ponds and shallow water. In fact, the first pond you come to has a nice beaver lodge that is very active. When we passed by, we saw a large beaver climbing on the lodge and later, swimming in the water. Other people on the trail reported seeing a moose, and there are always mergansers and other ducks on the pond. At a tiny creek we stepped over, we even saw two spotted frogs sitting in the shallow water.
The trail is fairly flat the entire way to Aster Falls. There isn’t much shade after the first 1/3 of a mile, but the hike goes through meadows and has beautiful views. Soon the trail forks. Make sure to follow the signs toward Aster Park. Shortly after the fork, there is a small trail leading to the overlook of Aster Falls.
Aster Falls is a narrow cascade that is worth the hike. There is a tiny pool and stream leading away from the waterfall. A small viewing area sits next to the trail, but it isn’t easy to get right next to the falls. There were quite a few mosquitoes, so you might want to bring bug spray.
If you find yourself in the Two Medicine area of Glacier National Park, the hike to Aster Falls is appropriate for all age levels. You can also check our list of Family Friendly Hikes in Glacier National Park.
Directions
The Aster Falls trailhead is located in the parking area near the Two Medicine General Store. The trail starts behind the boat ticket booth at the South Shore Trailhead.
We love Montana and Utah. You are so lucky to live in Utah. We did this Aster Park Trail and went up to the Aster Lookout above. When we went we took the boat, “Sinnopah” (I think built in 1915?) across the lake and hike back the south shore. We like the hike as this area of the park is less travelled.
Utah is our playground we have found in the past few years. We are working our way south to north and haven’t visited anywhere in Utah we did not like. From the Cora Pink Dunes to the Grand Staircase to far. We are returning in may for Canyonlands, Arches, La Sal and whatever else we can squeeze in. You have a great site here and I enjoy reading your adventures.
Thanks so much for your kind comment. Keep adventuring!