Glacier National Park Two Medicine Self-Guided Audio Tour

A Practical Guide to the Glacier National Park Two Medicine Self-Guided Audio Tour

If you’re heading to Glacier National Park and want to experience one of its lesser-known jewels, the Two Medicine area offers a peaceful escape with breathtaking views, native history, and quiet trails. Priced at only $9.99 per group (up to 15), this self-guided audio tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, making it a flexible and affordable way to explore at your own pace. Download the Shaka Guide app, and you’re set for a personalized journey through Montana’s rugged beauty, without the hassle of large group tours or crowded bus routes.

Our favorite aspects? First, the audio narration is packed with stories about Native American legends and local wildlife, adding layers of context to the stunning scenery. Second, the turn-by-turn GPS guidance makes navigating easy, even if you’re unfamiliar with the area. However, a consideration is that entrance and parking fees aren’t included in the price—something to budget for separately. This tour suits folks who love flexible, intimate experiences, whether you’re traveling with family, solo, or just seeking a peaceful way to connect with nature.

Key Points

• Flexible self-guided experience that allows you to explore at your own pace.
• Rich storytelling about Native American legends and local wildlife.
• Stunning views of lakes, waterfalls, and mountains, with scenic stops along the route.
• Cost-effective at under $10 for a group, with no added tour fees.
• Offline map and GPS ensure you’re never lost, even without wifi.
• Ideal for small groups or families looking for an intimate, unhurried adventure.

Exploring Glacier’s Hidden Gem: Two Medicine

The Two Medicine area of Glacier National Park is often overlooked compared to the more popular Going-to-the-Sun Road, but it’s a treasure trove of serenity and spectacular scenery. This self-guided audio tour — designed for up to 15 people — invites you to take control of your adventure. You’ll enjoy stunning mountain vistas, crystal-clear lakes, and quiet trails that are perfect for escaping crowds and truly soaking in the landscape.

The cost of $9.99 per group is a significant value considering the hours of narration, GPS-guided directions, and the flexibility to stop whenever a view or story captures your attention. You’ll find it particularly handy if you prefer to avoid organized tours or large groups, and the offline map means no stress about data coverage in remote spots.

What’s Included and How It Works

This tour is a mobile ticket, and the app can be downloaded before your trip. Once loaded, the audio narration plays automatically as you drive, providing stories, travel tips, and music to enhance your experience. The turn-by-turn GPS keeps you on route, while offline maps mean you won’t be searching for WiFi in the middle of nowhere. Best of all, the tour never expires, giving you the freedom to explore over multiple days if desired.

It’s a private experience, making it ideal for families or small groups who want to avoid the chatter and crowd of conventional tours. You can start from different locations — Pinnacle, St. Mary, or Browning — and customize your stops.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Experience

Stop 1: Goat Lick Overlook

Your first stop is the Goat Lick Overlook, where you can watch mountain goats climbing and nibbling on salt. These famous park mascots are usually spotted here, and the free observation point offers a great introduction to the park’s wildlife. Expect just about 10 minutes here, but it’s a memorable photo and animal-watching opportunity.

Stop 2: Silver Staircase Falls

Next, the Silver Staircase Waterfall makes its appearance, especially impressive during spring runoff when the waters are at their fullest. It’s a short 5-minute stop—simply pull over and enjoy the spectacle from the road. It’s a reminder of the power of nature, with shimmering cascades that seem to flow directly from the mountains.

Stop 3: Blackfeet Nation Sculpture

The Blackfeet Nation Sculpture marks the entrance to the Blackfoot tribe’s territory. Made from barbed wire, car parts, and stones, it’s a symbolic piece reflecting the resilience and history of the local tribes. A quick 5-minute stop but one that adds depth to your understanding of the land’s original inhabitants.

Stop 4: Kiowa & Local Eats

The Kyiyo Bakery and Mercantile in Kiowa is the perfect spot to grab a bite before heading into the more remote parts of the park. Known for its famous fried chicken, it’s the last chance to eat before entering the wilderness. Allow about 10 minutes here, especially if you’re hungry or want to pick up some snacks.

Stop 5: Looking Glass Hill

This roadway offers a series of overlooks with panoramic views of Two Medicine and the Lewis Mountain Range. A 5-minute stop to admire the scenery from above, perfect for snapping some photos before heading deeper into the park.

Stop 6: East Glacier Park

Before you enter the park’s core, stop in East Glacier—a small town with an Amtrak station, a lodge, and basic amenities. It’s about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to stretch and prepare for the next stage of your journey.

Stop 7: Running Eagle Falls

One of the most iconic sights, Running Eagle Falls is a double waterfall tumbling over 30 feet into a clear pool. The short 1-hour trail is packed with interpretive signs about the traditional uses of local plants and the story of Running Eagle herself. The trail is easy but offers a truly striking sight and cultural insights.

Stop 8: Continental Divide Trail

Here, you can enjoy a 1.5-mile trail leading to Appistoki Waterfall — a scenic slice of the famous Continental Divide Trail. The full trail stretches over 3,100 miles, but this accessible section offers a taste of the grandeur. Expect around 2 hours including time to enjoy the waterfall and views.

Stop 9: Two Medicine Ranger Station

If you’re seeking local advice, rentals, or info on backcountry hikes, the Ranger Station is your go-to. It’s a brief 10-minute stop, but one that can enhance your experience by connecting you with park resources.

Stop 10: Two Medicine Picnic Area

Perfect for a relaxed break, the Picnic Area allows you to enjoy a meal or snack while gazing at rocky shoreline and mountain vistas. Spend around 30 minutes here, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

Optional: Boat Rides and Scenic Hikes

From the South Shore, you can opt for a relaxing boat ride, or take short hikes like Paradise Point or Aster Falls. These additional activities can be tailored to your energy level and interest, making the experience truly customizable.

Authentic Experience in Every Stop

Each stop on this tour offers more than just a view — they tell stories, reveal wildlife behaviors, or connect you to the local tribes’ history. For example, the Running Eagle Falls trail isn’t just a pretty sight; it’s built around a life-changing vision quest of a local heroine, giving the hike a special cultural layer.

The audio narration is where this tour excels, making each stop engaging with stories, music, and travel tips. Travelers have described it as “a fantastic way to explore,” appreciating its easy-to-use format and informative content.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While the tour offers extraordinary value, remember that entrance and parking fees are not included. Budget for these separately, especially during peak seasons when parking can fill up quickly. Also, with most travelers booking 62 days in advance, it’s wise to reserve early if you want to guarantee your spot during busy summer months.

This tour suits those who prefer a flexible, personal experience rather than a scheduled group tour. It’s perfect for families, solo travelers, or anyone wanting to avoid crowds while still enjoying insightful commentary and scenic stops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who loves peaceful landscapes and self-paced exploration, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s especially recommended for those interested in Native American history and local wildlife, as the narration brings these stories vividly to life. Nature enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, or simply soaking in mountain views from their vehicle will find this tour highly rewarding.

The affordable price point and no-expiry policy mean you can enjoy it over multiple days, making it ideal for those on a longer Glacier trip. If you’re comfortable using a smartphone app and GPS, you’ll find the experience seamless and highly customizable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, but you can spend as much or as little time as you like at each stop.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s designed for groups up to 15, making it a good choice for families or small groups seeking flexibility and quiet exploration.

Do I need Wi-Fi or data to use this tour?
No, the offline map and GPS guidance mean you can enjoy the tour without Wi-Fi or data once it’s downloaded.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entrance fees and parking fees are not included in the $9.99 fee but should be considered in your budget.

What makes this tour different from other Glacier tours?
It’s self-guided, private, and flexible, with engaging storytelling that adds depth to your visit, all at a very reasonable price.

Can I start the tour from different locations?
Yes, you can choose to begin at Pinnacle, St. Mary, or Browning, depending on your itinerary.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, the tour operates from November 28, 2024, through June 18, 2026, daily from 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM.

To sum it up, this Glacier National Park Two Medicine Self-Guided Audio Tour offers an excellent way for travelers to explore Montana’s stunning landscapes on their own terms. It combines atmospheric storytelling with scenic stops and practical guidance, perfect for those seeking a peaceful, authentic experience away from the crowds. With its affordable price, flexibility, and rich content, it’s especially suited for independent travelers, families, or anyone eager to connect more deeply with Glacier’s natural and cultural story.