Paradise Point (Two Medicine Lake)

Paradise Point at Glacier National Park near East Glacier Park, Montana is an easy 1.3-mile out-and-back hike that leads to Paradise Point and features views of Two Medicine Lake and its surrounding mountains.

Trails

This hike follows two named trails: Two Medicine South Shore Trail, Paradise Point Trail.

Hiking to Paradise Point

This hike begins at the South Shore Trailhead located at Two Medicine Lake where hikers will hop on the Two Medicine South Shore Trail. The Two Medicine South Shore Trail doesn't have much to report on before hikers reach the junction with the Paradise Point Trail; however, the trail leads uphill on its way through the forest -- passing through evergreen groves along the way. During our hike here in mid-to-late September 2024, we found plenty of foliage along the low-growing plants near the trail which added to the scenery. Around mile 0.25, hikers will find a junction with the Paradise Point Trail -- take a right-hand turn here to head toward Two Medicine Lake. Once on the Paradise Point Trail, hikers will follow this path for the majority of the hike as it leads downhill to reach the water's edge. Along the way are a couple of views of Rising Wolf Mountain as it towers overhead. Eventually, you'll reach a junction in the trail where the split in the trail leads to two different viewpoints at Paradise Point. This track leads right at the junction to reach the edge of Two Medicine Lake and a view from Paradise Point. The route then leads back into the woods to follow the other trail, leading to a similar view that peers further down the lake and features more towering mountains in the distance. The trail then leads back around to reach the initial junction (in a mini loop) to head back out. The hike back to parking is fairly simple -- just follow the same route back; however, note that a good portion of the hike back is mostly all uphill from here. Take a left-hand turn at the Two Medicine South Shore Trail to head back to parking for a short an easy 1.3-mile out-and-back hike.

Vehicle Reservations

Depending on what time of year you visit, you may need to reserve a vehicle entrance pass to get into the park, in addition to a park entry fee (or annual National Parks pass). Before planning this hike, ensure you've checked the NPS website for when and where Glacier NP vehicle reservations are required.

Parking

Hikers will find a very large parking lot at the coordinates provided, located at the very end of Two Medicine Road. The lot is large enough to fit several dozen vehicles as of September 2024.

Pets

Dogs are not allowed on any trails at Glacier National Park.

Warning

Grizzly bears: This trail is frequented often by grizzly bears, especially in late Summer and early Fall as they scrounge for 20 hours/day bulking for the winter. Always give wild animals plenty of space, including several hundred feet for grizzlies. It's best to bring bear spray on this hike as a last defense just in case a grizzly were to charge at you. Always make plenty of noise while hiking to alert animals to your presence long before you see them. It's also smart to hike with another person.