Nestled within the stunning Glacier National Park, Two Medicine Lake is one of three interconnected lakes sharing the Two Medicine name. Known for its tranquility and natural beauty, the middle lake, referred to as Two Medicine Lake, is home to a popular campground and a ranger station. Rich in history, the Two Medicine area was once a bustling part of the park, frequented by visitors until the iconic Going To The Sun Road was constructed in 1932. The Two Medicine Store in the main campsite is one of the last remaining pieces of the ancient chalet system that the Great Northern Railway put in place in 1914. This historic structure, which is still in use today as a National Historic Landmark and serves lake visitors, was the site of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 1934 national address. While Two Medicine Lake captivates those exploring Glacier National Park today, its significance predates the arrival of European settlers. Local Native American tribes referred to the lake and its connecting river to Lower Two Medicine Lake as Two Medicine Lodge, having held their sacred Medicine Lodge ceremony along the riverbanks. The Lower Two Medicine Lake, situated mainly outside the park boundaries on Blackfeet Reservation land, remains a place of reverence for the native people. In contrast to the more mainstream attractions near Going To The Sun Road, the Two Medicine area offers a peaceful retreat for avid hikers and nature enthusiasts. Numerous hiking trails commence from Two Medicine Lake, some of which can be conveniently accessed via daily tour boats.
Additionally, visitors can rent canoes and rowboats at the campground to explore the lake. Surrounded by scenic peaks that cast a mesmerizing red hue on the water, the approximately 400-acre Two Medicine Lake is a haven for fishing enthusiasts seeking brook trout and rainbow trout. A hub for outdoor exploration, the Two Medicine region boasts a network of hiking trails, with access points at the North Shore and South Shore Trailheads. Adventure-seekers can embark on challenging treks that offer panoramic views of famous peaks such as Appistoki Peak and Sinopah Mountain. For those seeking a backcountry adventure, the area provides opportunities to traverse the Continental Divide and experience the untamed wilderness surrounding Two Medicine Lake., Whether camping at the main Two Medicine Campground or venturing into the backcountry campsites near Upper Two Medicine Lake and Pumpelly’s Pillar, visitors are surrounded by diverse wildlife and breathtaking scenery. The extended season offers a chance to witness the landscape transform with spring wildflowers and wildlife sightings, making every moment worth capturing through a camera lens. With lodging options ranging from campgrounds within the park to cozy lodges operated by park concessionaires, tourists can enjoy themselves in the natural wonders of Two Medicine Lake. Nearby towns provide additional accommodations, ranging from charming bed-and-breakfasts to modern motels, ensuring a comfortable stay for all who wish to explore the beauty of this picturesque destination. Experience the unparalleled charm of Two Medicine Lake and discover nature’s abundance in this enchanting corner of Glacier National Park.
