One Trail at a Time: Apikuni Falls Trail at Glacier National Park
The incredible Apikuni Falls Trail at Glacier National Park takes you into the high country of the Many Glacier region to get a glimpse of the 300 ft Apikuni Falls!
Apikuni Falls Trail at Glacier National Park
Trailhead and Parking
The Apikuni Falls Trail begins at the Apikuni Falls Trailhead located approximately 1.1 miles east of the Many Glacier Hotel. The parking area is directly off of Many Glacier Road and is quite small, so be sure to arrive early during peak season to secure a parking spot. The Trailhead can also be reached directly from the Many Glacier Hotel by taking the Saddle Horse Corral trail.
The well-marked Apikuni Falls Trailhead at Glacier National Park
Trail Information
The Apikuni Falls Trail is a 2 mile (round trip) out-and-back trail that climbs approximately 700 feet alongside Apikuni Creek to the namesake waterfall. This rugged, rocky trail is rated moderately difficult despite its short distance due to the sustained steep grade and natural terrain along the trail. Also, leave the pets at home, as like most trails within Glacier National Park, dogs are not permitted on the trail. The best time to explore this trail is early summer as the snowmelt from the surrounding areas flow into upper Apikuni Creek leading to an incredibly powerful waterfall!
Pro-Tip: Trekking poles are highly suggested for this trail due to a steep climb up and often unsteady footing on the descent back down.
Getting ready for the climb to Apikuni Falls at Glacier National Park
The Hike
Beginning at the trailhead off of Many Glacier Road, follow the trail sign up the clearly established trail. The initial section of the trail gradually rises through an open meadow before entering the forest adjacent to Apikuni Creek. Once you enter the trees, the grade of the trail begins to sharply increase.
As you continue your climb up the Apikuni Falls Trail, be sure to look back to the South as breathtaking views of the Many Glacier region surround you during this classic hike. At about 0.7 miles up the trail, views of the vertical walls of Mt. Altyn come into view. Sometimes mountain goats, the mascot of Glacier National Park, can be found scurrying along these sheer cliffs.
Mt. Altyn from the Apikuni Falls at Glacier National Park
If you are hiking during the early summer months, the roar of the falls will let you know that you have just about arrived to the top of the trail. Apikuni Falls begins to come into view at about 0.9 miles up the trail. Be sure to spend some time appreciating the power of this hidden gem within Glacier National Park.
Apikuni Falls at Glacier National Park
When ready, simply retrace your steps back down the trail, taking care on the steeper sections through the forest to return to the Apikuni Falls Trailhead!
