Place · 1.4 mi away
Overview
Scenic Point is a wind-polished summit above the Two Medicine area, delivering a rare 360-degree view that sweeps from the Montana plains to the serrated Lewis Range. Sitting in the mid‑7,000‑foot range and rising more than 2,600 feet above Lower Two Medicine Lake, it feels big and wide-open—beautiful, but also brutally exposed when the east-side winds kick up.
What You'll See
- Two Medicine Lake and Lower Two Medicine Lake spread out far below.
- To the east, the Great Plains; to the west, a skyline of Rocky Mountain peaks.
- Wind-twisted trees, alpine tundra, and occasional ledgy, open slopes near the top.
Trail & Difficulty
Most hikers reach the summit via the Mount Henry Trail from Two Medicine. Expect about 7.9–8 miles round trip with roughly 2,300–2,400 feet of climbing. The path is well-maintained but relentlessly uphill and exposed for long stretches. Don’t get duped near the top—some hikers stop short; continue to the small summit sign for the true viewpoint. A few people extend this into a one-way walk toward East Glacier, but that requires transportation logistics (and a tribal permit) beyond a standard out-and-back.
Wildlife
Bighorn sheep are commonly reported near the saddle, and marmots are frequent summit neighbors. Keep your distance and let them own the place. Birds of prey sometimes patrol the ridgelines.
Amenities & Logistics
This is a trail-for-the-views, not a facilities stop. There’s a gravel parking lot at the trailhead, but no restrooms, no water, and no food services—use facilities in the Two Medicine area before you start. Parking is usually manageable but can fill during peak times or group hikes. No WiFi, gas, or picnic tables.
History & Geology
The route traces a historic path built in 1913 by the Great Northern Railway to connect early tourist hubs; the summit once even hosted a locomotive bell. Geologically, Scenic Point sits in the Lewis Range—layered sedimentary rocks uplifted along the Lewis Overthrust and carved by ice into today’s steep relief and open alpine benches.
Best Time to Visit
Start early to beat heat on this shadeless climb and to hedge against the infamous winds. Clear mornings offer crisp views; afternoons can be gusty and hot. Early summer can still leave snow patches high on the route, so bring traction and poles if needed. Weekdays see lighter traffic than weekends.
Pros
- Huge plains-to-peaks panorama with Two Medicine far below
- Regular bighorn sheep and marmot sightings near the saddle and summit
Cons
- Exposed and often very windy with little to no shade
- Steep, sustained climb of roughly 8 miles round trip
Tips
- Start early to avoid heat, wind, and parking crunches.
- Pack plenty of water, sun protection, and a wind layer—there’s no shade.
- Bring trekking poles to ease the steep ascent and descent.
- Continue to the small summit sign—many people stop short of the true top.
- Early summer can hold lingering snow patches; microspikes and caution help.
