If the idea of hiking at Glacier National Park intimidates you, don’t worry — there are plenty of trails easy enough for beginners. The beautiful St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail is just under 3 miles in length, and it takes you straight to two stunning waterfalls you’ll love.
The trailhead for the 2.9 mile trek is located near East Glacier Park Village.
Whitney Watson / alltrails.com The trail begins from a turnout on the south side of Going-to-the-Sun Road, and there are plenty of signs to help guide you.
First, you’ll pass through a forest of firs, spruces, and cedars.
Grace Nguyen / alltrails.com Then, you’ll take a right at the junction and cross a wooden bridge spanning a rocky gorge…
… and before you know it, you’ll be at St. Mary Falls.
Jacob Jones / alltrails.com St. Mary Falls drops about 50 feet over two tiers, and it has become a Glacier National Park icon.
St. Mary Falls can be viewed from a bridge that crosses the creek.
Lauren Morris / alltrails.com Slow down and take some time to take it all in.
Continue south on the trail and you’ll soon spot the stunning Virginia Falls.
Keith Schwebel / alltrails.com This is the taller of the two falls, although St. Mary Falls is a bit more powerful.
There’s more room to hang out near Virginia Falls, so this is the perfect place to stop and have a picnic or just relax and take in the views.
Amanda Kimsey / alltrails.com Virginal Falls tumbles 100 feet down a string of tiers, and the sound will completely relax you.
If you only have time for one hike at Glacier National Park, make it this one.
Tomas Hoste / alltrails.com Not only is it beginner-friendly, but every step is beautiful.
Whitney Watson / alltrails.com
The trail begins from a turnout on the south side of Going-to-the-Sun Road, and there are plenty of signs to help guide you.
Grace Nguyen / alltrails.com
Then, you’ll take a right at the junction and cross a wooden bridge spanning a rocky gorge…
Jacob Jones / alltrails.com
St. Mary Falls drops about 50 feet over two tiers, and it has become a Glacier National Park icon.
Lauren Morris / alltrails.com
Slow down and take some time to take it all in.
Keith Schwebel / alltrails.com
This is the taller of the two falls, although St. Mary Falls is a bit more powerful.
Amanda Kimsey / alltrails.com
Virginal Falls tumbles 100 feet down a string of tiers, and the sound will completely relax you.
Tomas Hoste / alltrails.com
Not only is it beginner-friendly, but every step is beautiful.
If you love Montana waterfalls, we’ve created the perfect bucket list for you.
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